I pray for a friend and ask our Lord to set him free, God speaks to me and my tears gush forth.
Jan sends me a text from out of town that the car is having issues and I see my bank account getting ready to disappear. My flesh boils but my heart is reminded that God provides; He always has.
I'm heading out to attend a family funeral and to see a dear friend that is in physical pain; I need to walk in His glory that I may be strength for others and put my mind off myself.
The following message speaks to me and I pray it speaks to you as well. My mind and heart need a new flush and fluid replacement; new blood for old, revitalized thinking for worn behavior.
Meet Jesus : Soul's Physician
Monday, December 27, 2010
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Merry Christmas?
Was Jesus born on December 25th? No, probably sometime in September.
"That night in the fields near Bethlehem some shepherds were guarding their sheep. All at once an angel came down to them from the Lord, and the brightness of the Lord's glory flashed around them. The shepherds were frightened. But the angel said, "Don't be afraid! I have good news for you, which will make everyone happy. This very day in King David's hometown a Savior was born for you. He is Christ the Lord. You will know who he is, because you will find him dressed in baby clothes and lying on a bed of hay." ~ Luke 2:8-12
Was Jesus visited in a manger by three wise men? No; the Bible tells us they visited sometime after his birth, and that Herod had reason to believe he might be as old as two years.
"When Jesus was born in the village of Bethlehem in Judea, Herod was king. During this time some wise men from the east came to Jerusalem and said, "Where is the child born to be king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." When King Herod heard about this, he was worried, and so was everyone else in Jerusalem. Herod brought together the chief priests and the teachers of the Law of Moses and asked them, "Where will the Messiah be born?" They told him, "He will be born in Bethlehem, just as the prophet wrote, 'Bethlehem in the land of Judea, you are very important among the towns of Judea. From your town will come a leader, who will be like a shepherd for my people Israel.' " Herod secretly called in the wise men and asked them when they had first seen the star. He told them, "Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, let me know. I want to go and worship him too." The wise men listened to what the king said and then left. And the star they had seen in the east went on ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. They were thrilled and excited to see the star. When the men went into the house and saw the child with Mary, his mother, they knelt down and worshiped him. They took out their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh and gave them to him. Later they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod, and they went back home by another road. After the wise men had gone, an angel from the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up! Hurry and take the child and his mother to Egypt! Stay there until I tell you to return, because Herod is looking for the child and wants to kill him." That night, Joseph got up and took his wife and the child to Egypt, where they stayed until Herod died. So the Lord's promise came true, just as the prophet had said, "I called my son out of Egypt." When Herod found out that the wise men from the east had tricked him, he was very angry. He gave orders for his men to kill all the boys who lived in or near Bethlehem and were two years old and younger. This was based on what he had learned from the wise men." ~ Matthew 2:1-16
Does exchanging gifts honor Jesus? I think He would be more honored by giving the money we spend on the season to the poor and to those in need.
Do the trees, garlands, bright colors, tinsel, etc., have anything at all to do with the birth of our Lord? No; these are just trappings of the tradition of the holiday; some even curse the Christmas holiday because of the pagan origin of all these things.
Should a Christian participate in all these traditions "in the name of Jesus"? Not in His name, in my opinion, but I have no problem with the holiday tradition, the exchanging of gifts, Santa Claus, the tree and all the rest either. I'm just not going to do it as a false tribute to Jesus. I'm going to do it because it's fun!
So is it really a crime to say "Seasons Greetings" instead of "Merry Christmas"? That's up to you. I'm going to say "Merry Christmas" because it's fun, it's tradition and because December 25th is "Christmas", not "Season".
Is there any real Jesus in the holiday at all? I think that all believers and followers of Jesus' teachings should take every opportunity to proclaim the name of our Lord whenever and wherever possible. I think we can come together as fellow believers and join in song, praise and worship and celebrate His birth with a sincere heart and honor Him in this way. I think that it's wonderful that so many come together on this one time of the year and that we have an opportunity to share Jesus with those who remain in the dark. Let us shine in our smile, in our greeting at the church door, in the warmth of our homes (decorated or not) and in the generosity of our giving. I think we can take this annual opportunity to promote Him to the world as best we can.
So, let's make room in the pew for the "once a year church-goers" and greet them with a warm and inviting smile! Let's drop those coins in the Salvation Army buckets! Take a picture of your children with Santa and be as goofy as you can during this holiday! Give richly and with a cheerful heart, forgetting NOT those outside the walls of your home!
And let's all enjoy a giddy and merry Christmas season and holiday!
"That night in the fields near Bethlehem some shepherds were guarding their sheep. All at once an angel came down to them from the Lord, and the brightness of the Lord's glory flashed around them. The shepherds were frightened. But the angel said, "Don't be afraid! I have good news for you, which will make everyone happy. This very day in King David's hometown a Savior was born for you. He is Christ the Lord. You will know who he is, because you will find him dressed in baby clothes and lying on a bed of hay." ~ Luke 2:8-12
Was Jesus visited in a manger by three wise men? No; the Bible tells us they visited sometime after his birth, and that Herod had reason to believe he might be as old as two years.
"When Jesus was born in the village of Bethlehem in Judea, Herod was king. During this time some wise men from the east came to Jerusalem and said, "Where is the child born to be king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." When King Herod heard about this, he was worried, and so was everyone else in Jerusalem. Herod brought together the chief priests and the teachers of the Law of Moses and asked them, "Where will the Messiah be born?" They told him, "He will be born in Bethlehem, just as the prophet wrote, 'Bethlehem in the land of Judea, you are very important among the towns of Judea. From your town will come a leader, who will be like a shepherd for my people Israel.' " Herod secretly called in the wise men and asked them when they had first seen the star. He told them, "Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, let me know. I want to go and worship him too." The wise men listened to what the king said and then left. And the star they had seen in the east went on ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. They were thrilled and excited to see the star. When the men went into the house and saw the child with Mary, his mother, they knelt down and worshiped him. They took out their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh and gave them to him. Later they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod, and they went back home by another road. After the wise men had gone, an angel from the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up! Hurry and take the child and his mother to Egypt! Stay there until I tell you to return, because Herod is looking for the child and wants to kill him." That night, Joseph got up and took his wife and the child to Egypt, where they stayed until Herod died. So the Lord's promise came true, just as the prophet had said, "I called my son out of Egypt." When Herod found out that the wise men from the east had tricked him, he was very angry. He gave orders for his men to kill all the boys who lived in or near Bethlehem and were two years old and younger. This was based on what he had learned from the wise men." ~ Matthew 2:1-16
Does exchanging gifts honor Jesus? I think He would be more honored by giving the money we spend on the season to the poor and to those in need.
Do the trees, garlands, bright colors, tinsel, etc., have anything at all to do with the birth of our Lord? No; these are just trappings of the tradition of the holiday; some even curse the Christmas holiday because of the pagan origin of all these things.
Should a Christian participate in all these traditions "in the name of Jesus"? Not in His name, in my opinion, but I have no problem with the holiday tradition, the exchanging of gifts, Santa Claus, the tree and all the rest either. I'm just not going to do it as a false tribute to Jesus. I'm going to do it because it's fun!
So is it really a crime to say "Seasons Greetings" instead of "Merry Christmas"? That's up to you. I'm going to say "Merry Christmas" because it's fun, it's tradition and because December 25th is "Christmas", not "Season".
Is there any real Jesus in the holiday at all? I think that all believers and followers of Jesus' teachings should take every opportunity to proclaim the name of our Lord whenever and wherever possible. I think we can come together as fellow believers and join in song, praise and worship and celebrate His birth with a sincere heart and honor Him in this way. I think that it's wonderful that so many come together on this one time of the year and that we have an opportunity to share Jesus with those who remain in the dark. Let us shine in our smile, in our greeting at the church door, in the warmth of our homes (decorated or not) and in the generosity of our giving. I think we can take this annual opportunity to promote Him to the world as best we can.
So, let's make room in the pew for the "once a year church-goers" and greet them with a warm and inviting smile! Let's drop those coins in the Salvation Army buckets! Take a picture of your children with Santa and be as goofy as you can during this holiday! Give richly and with a cheerful heart, forgetting NOT those outside the walls of your home!
And let's all enjoy a giddy and merry Christmas season and holiday!
Monday, November 08, 2010
Samaritan's Purse
Where there is a need, a disaster, an epidemic, a catastrophe of unusual magnitude, you'll find Samaritan's Purse to be one of the first on the scene.
Shelter, food, water, medicine, life.
Samaritan's Purse
Shelter, food, water, medicine, life.
Samaritan's Purse
The Liberty Institute
"Liberty Institute was founded as Free Market Foundation in 1972 as a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization dedicated to protecting freedoms and strengthening families."
"Guided by principles that limit government and promote Judeo-Christian values, Liberty Institute was founded in 1972 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to protect freedoms and strengthen families by impacting the legislature, media, grassroots, and the courts with the truth."
"Specifically, Liberty Institute works to educate, advocate, and, when necessary, litigate for freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution including:
* Freedom of Speech
* Religious Freedom
* Parental rights
* Student's Rights
* Responsible and limited Government"
The Liberty Institute
"Guided by principles that limit government and promote Judeo-Christian values, Liberty Institute was founded in 1972 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to protect freedoms and strengthen families by impacting the legislature, media, grassroots, and the courts with the truth."
"Specifically, Liberty Institute works to educate, advocate, and, when necessary, litigate for freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution including:
* Freedom of Speech
* Religious Freedom
* Parental rights
* Student's Rights
* Responsible and limited Government"
The Liberty Institute
Christmas in your Heart
I just reviewed a gospel tract from the Fellowship Tract League that delivered a pretty good message about the greatest Christmas gift ever given, the Gift of Life. The following link will enable you to read the flash version of the message, either for yourself or possibly to share with others.
The Fellowship Tract League has been supplying gospel tracts free of charge to missions and individual around the world since 1978.
Christmas in your Heart
The Fellowship Tract League has been supplying gospel tracts free of charge to missions and individual around the world since 1978.
Christmas in your Heart
Monday, November 01, 2010
Pride for America
I just watched Charlie Pride sing the National Anthem for game five of the World Series. He sang it with respect, with dignity, with a seeming reverence for the song, the flag and the nation. No "stylings", screeches, raps, performance or warbles; just the song as it was meant to be sung, with pride and respect.
Respect. Dignity. Pride. Charlie Pride.
May God bless America today.
Respect. Dignity. Pride. Charlie Pride.
May God bless America today.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness."
Vote.
Photo by Those Shirts
ushistory.org Declaration of Independence
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Whose Fault Is It?
author unknown
A preacher and an atheist barber were once walking through the city slums. Said the atheist barber to the preacher: "This is why I cannot believe in a God of love. If God was as kind as you say, He would not permit all this poverty, disease, and squalor. He would not allow these poor bums to be addicted to dope and other character-destroying habits. No, I cannot believe in a God who permits these things."
The minister was silent until they met a man who was especially unkempt and filthy. His hair was hanging down his neck and he had a half-inch of stubble on his face. Said the minister, "You cannot be a very good barber or you would not permit a man like that to continue living in this neighborhood without a haircut or a shave."
Indignantly the barber answered: "Why blame me for that man's condition. I cannot help it that he is like that. He has never come in my shop; I could fix him up and make him look like a gentleman!"
Giving the barber a penetrating look, the minister said: "Then do not blame God for allowing these people to continue in their evil ways, when He is constantly inviting them to come and be saved. The reason these people are slaves to sin and evil habits is that they refuse the One who died to save and deliver them."
A preacher and an atheist barber were once walking through the city slums. Said the atheist barber to the preacher: "This is why I cannot believe in a God of love. If God was as kind as you say, He would not permit all this poverty, disease, and squalor. He would not allow these poor bums to be addicted to dope and other character-destroying habits. No, I cannot believe in a God who permits these things."
The minister was silent until they met a man who was especially unkempt and filthy. His hair was hanging down his neck and he had a half-inch of stubble on his face. Said the minister, "You cannot be a very good barber or you would not permit a man like that to continue living in this neighborhood without a haircut or a shave."
Indignantly the barber answered: "Why blame me for that man's condition. I cannot help it that he is like that. He has never come in my shop; I could fix him up and make him look like a gentleman!"
Giving the barber a penetrating look, the minister said: "Then do not blame God for allowing these people to continue in their evil ways, when He is constantly inviting them to come and be saved. The reason these people are slaves to sin and evil habits is that they refuse the One who died to save and deliver them."
Who do you feed?
author unknown
One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, "My son, the battle is between 2 "wolves" inside us all.
One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf wins?"
The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."
One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, "My son, the battle is between 2 "wolves" inside us all.
One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf wins?"
The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
interesting misquote
"a government big enough to give us everything we want is a government big enough to take from us everything we have.".
This quotation, usually attributed to Thomas Jefferson, is actually by President Gerald R. Ford.
"Let me reaffirm to you today my deep personal conviction that the best way to begin in our efforts is to improve the government we have, not to enlarge it. I do not believe a bigger government is necessarily a better government. May I add this: Please never forget, a government big enough to give us everything we want is a government big enough to take from us everything we have." ~ President Gerald R. Ford's Remarks at the Annual Meeting of the Chamber of Commerce of the United States, April 28, 1975
This quotation is sometimes followed by a variation of an actual Jefferson quotation, "The natural progress of things is for liberty to yeild, and government to gain ground.", Thomas Jefferson to Edward Carrington, Paris, May 27, 1788.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
The Jefferson Encyclopedia
This quotation, usually attributed to Thomas Jefferson, is actually by President Gerald R. Ford.
"Let me reaffirm to you today my deep personal conviction that the best way to begin in our efforts is to improve the government we have, not to enlarge it. I do not believe a bigger government is necessarily a better government. May I add this: Please never forget, a government big enough to give us everything we want is a government big enough to take from us everything we have." ~ President Gerald R. Ford's Remarks at the Annual Meeting of the Chamber of Commerce of the United States, April 28, 1975
This quotation is sometimes followed by a variation of an actual Jefferson quotation, "The natural progress of things is for liberty to yeild, and government to gain ground.", Thomas Jefferson to Edward Carrington, Paris, May 27, 1788.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
The Jefferson Encyclopedia
Monday, September 13, 2010
and we all need to stop "giving power" ...
Islam must turn other cheek
"“But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you."
“If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ do that. And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ lend to ‘sinners,’ expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
He also told them this parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye." " ~ Luke 6:27-42
I wonder ...
My youngest daughter and I watched an interesting show yesterday, "30 Days". The premise of the show is that one person will live someone else's life, walk in their shoes, for 30 days. The episodes watched yesterday from the first season, concerned a Christan man from Virginia living with a Muslim family in Dearborn, Michigan and a young couple living on minimum wage.
I recommend both episodes, available on Netflix, if you have it.
The episode concerning living as a Muslim was eye opening, to say the least, and should lead to some thoughtful discussion; the episode of living on minimum wage took me back to my first year in Texas and the eerily similar struggles to survive.
Netflix
30 Days
I was intrigued in watching my 11 year old daughter's face as she watched these two episodes and look forward to the dialogue as we get opportunity to compare the "virtual" display with real time examples of life in America, not always pleasant, not always as black and white as we sometimes paint it to be, and for a great many Americans, a struggle just to survive from day to day..
I recommend both episodes, available on Netflix, if you have it.
The episode concerning living as a Muslim was eye opening, to say the least, and should lead to some thoughtful discussion; the episode of living on minimum wage took me back to my first year in Texas and the eerily similar struggles to survive.
Netflix
30 Days
I was intrigued in watching my 11 year old daughter's face as she watched these two episodes and look forward to the dialogue as we get opportunity to compare the "virtual" display with real time examples of life in America, not always pleasant, not always as black and white as we sometimes paint it to be, and for a great many Americans, a struggle just to survive from day to day..
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
always another piece of the pie
Muslims toning down Eid festivities in honor of Sept. 11
Thanks to Kathleen McKinley for pointing out this story on her blog, Texas Sparkle.
Friday, September 03, 2010
"little pitchers (still) have big ears"
Racy Talk: Kids Are Listening (and Learning)
The following was originally posted on 05/02/09; seems to bear repeating today.
I'm sorry for some of the movies I have let my children watch. I have spent a lifetime becoming anesthetized to violence and profanity in movies; I can't allow that numbness, however, to color my judgement of the movies I allow my minor children to watch.
But I have.
While condemning others for allowing their children to view movies I don't think are appropriate, I have been guilty of the same behavior; different movies, same lapse in judgment.
Girls, I'm sorry for allowing your minds to take on a perverse edge. I'm sorry that you have witnessed events on the screen that no child, and few adults, should "enjoy". I'm sorry for the bad dreams that so often accompanied your sleep. I'm sorry for disturbing your precious minds.
Rom 1:28-32 "And because they did not think it worthwhile to have God in their knowledge, God delivered them over to a worthless mind to do what is morally wrong. They are filled with all unrighteousness, evil, greed, and wickedness. They are full of envy, murder, disputes, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, arrogant, proud, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, and unmerciful. Although they know full well God's just sentence--that those who practice such things deserve to die--they not only do them, but even applaud others who practice them."
All of these things I have allowed my children to watch from time to time. All of these things, I have allowed my children to "applaud others who practice them.".
I ask God to forgive me for my sin of accepting a "worthless mind" that does not belong with a follower of the Lord Jesus. I ask my children for forgiveness in allowing them to be corrupted at my hand. I ask my wife for forgiveness in leading her astray and in not standing against evil in my home.
I have just read the review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine, a movie I was looking forward to watching, a sequel to the X-Men movies I have enjoyed. I had heard a reviewer on the radio the other day compare this movie to the recent Dark Knight, a movie I rented for my daughter, and was stunned at his comparison of violence and language. Upon reading his review, I'm no longer ready to watch this new film and am disgusted that I allowed my baby girl to watch the other. It was not so long ago that I never allowed my girls to watch anything without my wife or I pre-viewing it for them and making a judgement based upon biblical standards. I can not lay claim to that standard in the recent past. I have reviewed in my mind some of the movies and shows I have allowed the girls, myself and my wife to watch, and I am ashamed.
I can't erase the scenes played out before my children's eyes or the words spoken into their ears, but I can ask God for His mercy on them and make sure that I do not engage in such unrighteous stupidity in the future.
The following was originally posted on 05/02/09; seems to bear repeating today.
I'm sorry for some of the movies I have let my children watch. I have spent a lifetime becoming anesthetized to violence and profanity in movies; I can't allow that numbness, however, to color my judgement of the movies I allow my minor children to watch.
But I have.
While condemning others for allowing their children to view movies I don't think are appropriate, I have been guilty of the same behavior; different movies, same lapse in judgment.
Girls, I'm sorry for allowing your minds to take on a perverse edge. I'm sorry that you have witnessed events on the screen that no child, and few adults, should "enjoy". I'm sorry for the bad dreams that so often accompanied your sleep. I'm sorry for disturbing your precious minds.
Rom 1:28-32 "And because they did not think it worthwhile to have God in their knowledge, God delivered them over to a worthless mind to do what is morally wrong. They are filled with all unrighteousness, evil, greed, and wickedness. They are full of envy, murder, disputes, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, arrogant, proud, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, and unmerciful. Although they know full well God's just sentence--that those who practice such things deserve to die--they not only do them, but even applaud others who practice them."
All of these things I have allowed my children to watch from time to time. All of these things, I have allowed my children to "applaud others who practice them.".
I ask God to forgive me for my sin of accepting a "worthless mind" that does not belong with a follower of the Lord Jesus. I ask my children for forgiveness in allowing them to be corrupted at my hand. I ask my wife for forgiveness in leading her astray and in not standing against evil in my home.
I have just read the review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine, a movie I was looking forward to watching, a sequel to the X-Men movies I have enjoyed. I had heard a reviewer on the radio the other day compare this movie to the recent Dark Knight, a movie I rented for my daughter, and was stunned at his comparison of violence and language. Upon reading his review, I'm no longer ready to watch this new film and am disgusted that I allowed my baby girl to watch the other. It was not so long ago that I never allowed my girls to watch anything without my wife or I pre-viewing it for them and making a judgement based upon biblical standards. I can not lay claim to that standard in the recent past. I have reviewed in my mind some of the movies and shows I have allowed the girls, myself and my wife to watch, and I am ashamed.
I can't erase the scenes played out before my children's eyes or the words spoken into their ears, but I can ask God for His mercy on them and make sure that I do not engage in such unrighteous stupidity in the future.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
dodge, duck, parry and heal
I'm reminded of a scene from The Matrix; Neo is being fired upon by his enemy and has learned that he can move at super speed to dodge the bullets as they whiz in his direction. Most miss him, but one brings him down; just one. That bullet reminds Neo, that, while he can resist, he is not invulnerable.
Many of us are wrestle with a variety of difficult and challenging areas of our lives, while enjoying freedom and victory in others. We have learned to deflect, parry, dodge and absorb many of the "bullets" flung in our direction, but occasionally one will bring us down, for a time, "for a season". Depending on the proximity of that wounding to our "heart", the recovery time may be short or lengthy, and, if we allow it, it can be permanently crippling or even deadly to us.
"Trust in Jehovah, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on his faithfulness. Delight thyself also in Jehovah; And he will give thee the desires of thy heart. Commit thy way unto Jehovah; Trust also in him, and he will bring it to pass. And he will make thy righteousness to go forth as the light, And thy justice as the noon-day. Rest in Jehovah, and wait patiently for him: Fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, Because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath:" ~ Psalm 37:3-8a
I have wounded people in my days; some have forgiven me, others have not, some use it as a bludgeon against me. I can not undo my actions, only repent, attempt to reconcile and seek forgiveness.
I have allowed wounds to embitter me and to withhold that same forgiveness for others. That's the crippling and deadly wound; the wound that alters the course of my demeanor, my heart. That's the wound that not only hardens me against the person who "flung the bullet", but grows skeptical hardness against innocent bystanders.
And that's the wound that most needs to heal.
"And when they came unto the place which is called The skull, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand and the other on the left. And Jesus said, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do" ~ Luke 23:33-34a
Father, help me to forgive with the same heart that Jesus called upon, Yours.
Heal my wounded heart, Lord, and bring healing to the hearts of those I have wounded.
In Jesus name, I bring this prayer to you.
Amen
Many of us are wrestle with a variety of difficult and challenging areas of our lives, while enjoying freedom and victory in others. We have learned to deflect, parry, dodge and absorb many of the "bullets" flung in our direction, but occasionally one will bring us down, for a time, "for a season". Depending on the proximity of that wounding to our "heart", the recovery time may be short or lengthy, and, if we allow it, it can be permanently crippling or even deadly to us.
"Trust in Jehovah, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on his faithfulness. Delight thyself also in Jehovah; And he will give thee the desires of thy heart. Commit thy way unto Jehovah; Trust also in him, and he will bring it to pass. And he will make thy righteousness to go forth as the light, And thy justice as the noon-day. Rest in Jehovah, and wait patiently for him: Fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, Because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath:" ~ Psalm 37:3-8a
I have wounded people in my days; some have forgiven me, others have not, some use it as a bludgeon against me. I can not undo my actions, only repent, attempt to reconcile and seek forgiveness.
I have allowed wounds to embitter me and to withhold that same forgiveness for others. That's the crippling and deadly wound; the wound that alters the course of my demeanor, my heart. That's the wound that not only hardens me against the person who "flung the bullet", but grows skeptical hardness against innocent bystanders.
And that's the wound that most needs to heal.
"And when they came unto the place which is called The skull, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand and the other on the left. And Jesus said, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do" ~ Luke 23:33-34a
Father, help me to forgive with the same heart that Jesus called upon, Yours.
Heal my wounded heart, Lord, and bring healing to the hearts of those I have wounded.
In Jesus name, I bring this prayer to you.
Amen
Thursday, August 26, 2010
let the trouble simmer and die
"For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer contention quiets down." ~ Proverbs 26:20
Strife and contention pass our way constantly; wisdom demands that we allow it to pass harmlessly by.
Contention, gossip, the inevitable human conditional need to be "right", all cause harm, both to those engaged and to those in casual attendance. A "glancing' blow" wounds innocent ears.
Proverbs 26 highlights the heart of a contentious fool and gives us a remedy for avoiding the conflict.
Avoid the fool; let the fire die alone.
And if you see yourself in the verses? Prayer always helps.
"I said, "I will guard my ways that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle while the wicked are in my presence."" ~ Psalm 39:1
"Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips." ~ Psalm 141:3
Strife and contention pass our way constantly; wisdom demands that we allow it to pass harmlessly by.
Contention, gossip, the inevitable human conditional need to be "right", all cause harm, both to those engaged and to those in casual attendance. A "glancing' blow" wounds innocent ears.
Proverbs 26 highlights the heart of a contentious fool and gives us a remedy for avoiding the conflict.
Avoid the fool; let the fire die alone.
And if you see yourself in the verses? Prayer always helps.
"I said, "I will guard my ways that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle while the wicked are in my presence."" ~ Psalm 39:1
"Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips." ~ Psalm 141:3
Monday, August 16, 2010
submission
If I desire all the blessings our Lord has for me, I must submit to His input into my life. In submission I open my life to be filled by Him, for His purposes and His glory. My lack of submission to Him, my submission only to self, limits blessings to only those I can provide, not the best, to be sure.
I've been thinking about the act of submission and the results of that, whether to God, or to each other. When my wife and children are submitting to my desires, I am inclined to pour blessings onto them. When I am submitted to my wife's desires, she is inclined to bless me, and my children, when I am open the their personal needs and desires, are more loving and respectful to me.
Our submissions, one to another, opens doors and inclines us to each other; as in a team building exercise, when all are open, when all are trusting, when all are committed and submitted, we all win.
and isn't that a better way?
Wives, {be subject} to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself {being} the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives {ought to be} to their husbands in everything.
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also {does} the church, because we are members of His body. ~ Ephesians 5:22-30
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER (which is the first commandment with a promise), SO THAT IT MAY BE WELL WITH YOU, AND THAT YOU MAY LIVE LONG ON THE EARTH. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4
Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. ~ James 4:7
I've been thinking about the act of submission and the results of that, whether to God, or to each other. When my wife and children are submitting to my desires, I am inclined to pour blessings onto them. When I am submitted to my wife's desires, she is inclined to bless me, and my children, when I am open the their personal needs and desires, are more loving and respectful to me.
Our submissions, one to another, opens doors and inclines us to each other; as in a team building exercise, when all are open, when all are trusting, when all are committed and submitted, we all win.
and isn't that a better way?
Wives, {be subject} to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself {being} the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives {ought to be} to their husbands in everything.
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also {does} the church, because we are members of His body. ~ Ephesians 5:22-30
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER (which is the first commandment with a promise), SO THAT IT MAY BE WELL WITH YOU, AND THAT YOU MAY LIVE LONG ON THE EARTH. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4
Saturday, August 14, 2010
ground zero mosque
Should they or shouldn't they?
If we look at it from the perspective of "Land of the Free", "Equal Opportunity" and "All men are created equal", then we must not even blink.
When I consider the "freedom of religion" aspect of this great nation, I think we must stand back and not begrudge them the same freedom we all enjoy as Americans.
When I look at it from the perspective of these Muslims, who are showing incredibly poor taste, a divisive "stick it in your eye" mentality and a "we could not care less what you think" attitude, then I start to simmer a bit.
When I consider that so many of our "Let's give America away" politicians are in support of it, my simmer starts to bubble.
When I come to the inevitable conclusion that there will not be one thing good to come of it and that the sidewalk in front of it will be populated by protesters for years to come, I start to settle a bit.
If they think they will be able to peaceably enjoy their new building, I think they will be in for an unwelcome welcome by the people of New York City and visitors to the area.
America, we thrive in adverse times and the bond of freedom brings us together when needed.
I believe there are millions of "paper" Americans who want this country destroyed, to look like all the other countries, to lose it's unique individualism, "for the good of mankind", and I know there are millions more off our shores who are wringing their hands in gleeful anticipation of the potential signing of treaties that will make their laws our laws. This too will come, so long as talking-sticks like President Obama, Michael Bloomberg, Oprah Winfrey, nancy pelosi, Harry Reid,, and countless other anti-patriots are in positions of power and influence, preaching one sided messages of "tolerance" for their one-sided views only.
I'm not going to lose any sleep over it, however, I'm going to help my country by maintaining awareness, voting my positions and helping in any way I can to enlighten others to the blessings of One Nation, under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for ALL!.
If we look at it from the perspective of "Land of the Free", "Equal Opportunity" and "All men are created equal", then we must not even blink.
When I consider the "freedom of religion" aspect of this great nation, I think we must stand back and not begrudge them the same freedom we all enjoy as Americans.
When I look at it from the perspective of these Muslims, who are showing incredibly poor taste, a divisive "stick it in your eye" mentality and a "we could not care less what you think" attitude, then I start to simmer a bit.
When I consider that so many of our "Let's give America away" politicians are in support of it, my simmer starts to bubble.
When I come to the inevitable conclusion that there will not be one thing good to come of it and that the sidewalk in front of it will be populated by protesters for years to come, I start to settle a bit.
If they think they will be able to peaceably enjoy their new building, I think they will be in for an unwelcome welcome by the people of New York City and visitors to the area.
America, we thrive in adverse times and the bond of freedom brings us together when needed.
I believe there are millions of "paper" Americans who want this country destroyed, to look like all the other countries, to lose it's unique individualism, "for the good of mankind", and I know there are millions more off our shores who are wringing their hands in gleeful anticipation of the potential signing of treaties that will make their laws our laws. This too will come, so long as talking-sticks like President Obama, Michael Bloomberg, Oprah Winfrey, nancy pelosi, Harry Reid,, and countless other anti-patriots are in positions of power and influence, preaching one sided messages of "tolerance" for their one-sided views only.
I'm not going to lose any sleep over it, however, I'm going to help my country by maintaining awareness, voting my positions and helping in any way I can to enlighten others to the blessings of One Nation, under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for ALL!.
Friday, August 13, 2010
My wife sent me this, and the timing, for a variety of reasons, is impeccable. We, as believers, have to stand watch over ourselves and keep our spiritual eyes and ears peaked. The least of us makes a huge target for the enemy. We have to stand, we just have to; the only alternative is to live a defeated life. Mel's not alone.
Mel's Meltdown
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. " ~ Ephesians 6:10-20
Mel's Meltdown
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. " ~ Ephesians 6:10-20
Monday, August 02, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
re-education education
"A counseling student has filed suit against a university in Georgia because she claims the school is forcing her to abandon her Christian beliefs in order to receive a degree.
Jennifer Keeton, 24, is pursuing her master's degree in counseling at Augusta State University. But after her professors learned of her biblical beliefs -- specifically her views on homosexual conduct -- from both classroom discussions and private conversations with other students, the school imposed a "remediation plan.""Christian student fights for her beliefs
Those who stand against First Amendment rights for all Americans, damage us all. A government that allows this behavior, may soon be knocking on my door and yours.
For too many years we have allowed a liberal public agenda to dumb down our Constitution and whittle away at common sense and moral behavior in our society. Our judicial system, instead of protecting the rights of the innocent, has become a beacon of hope to the most vocal, the most outrageous and litigious elements of our citizenry, and has made a mockery of the dreams of countless Patriots who have given all for this country.
I once held a hope for the future of my country and for prosperous lives for my grandchildren. I now see that as a shimmering dream, misty and fleeting; no longer an American dream, but a nightmare born, insanity and lunacy prevailing.
I will continue to follow God and I will continue to hold dear the sacrifice that Jesus made for me on that wooden altar. I will continue to read my Bible and I will continue to teach my children that the words given to us by our Almighty are true and are the way of Life.
I'll continue to work on my posture as a follower of Jesus' teachings and as the man God designed me to be.
Along the way, I'll stay aware, send an email or two, fax my stand and vote my convictions. I encourage you to do likewise.
Action Link
Monday, July 26, 2010
to veil or not to veil
Recently a friend asked for an explanation of these verses.
"(3) Now I want you to know that Christ is the head over all men, and a man is the head over a woman. But God is the head over Christ. (4) This means that any man who prays or prophesies with something on his head brings shame to his head. (5) But any woman who prays or prophesies without something on her head brings shame to her head. In fact, she may as well shave her head. (6) A woman should wear something on her head. It is a disgrace for a woman to shave her head or cut her hair. But if she refuses to wear something on her head, let her cut off her hair. (7) Men were created to be like God and to bring honor to God. This means that a man should not wear anything on his head. Women were created to bring honor to men.
(8) It was the woman who was made from a man, and not the man who was made from a woman. (9) He wasn't created for her. She was created for him. (10) And so, because of this, and also because of the angels, a woman ought to wear something on her head, as a sign of her authority.
(11) As far as the Lord is concerned, men and women need each other. (12) It is true that the first woman came from a man, but all other men have been given birth by women. Yet God is the one who created everything.
(13) Ask yourselves if it is proper for a woman to pray without something on her head. (14) Isn't it unnatural and disgraceful for men to have long hair? (15) But long hair is a beautiful way for a woman to cover her head. (16) This is how things are done in all of God's churches, and that's why none of you should argue about what I have said." ~ 1 Corinthians 11:3-16
God created man in His order, for His purposes. He created man first and then woman, to be a partner, a mate, a counterpart.
"(18) And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. (19) And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. (20) And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him. (21) And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; (22) And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. (23) And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. (24) Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. " ~ Genesis 2:18-24
In 1 Cornthins 11:4-7, Paul tells us that man was created to "be like God"; the head covering is a customary sign of authority. God has no authority over Him and man, by this custom, should stand like God, uncovered. Woman, under man's authority, wears the customary covering as a sign of man's authority over her.
Should a modern woman cling to verse five as a requirement that she should keep her head covered while praying? In my opinion, no; I believe this is a reflection of the customs of the Jewish peoples and is not a mandate for today. That being said, I could be wrong, and, as in all things, it must be decided between each person and God.
Our focus of these verses, in my opinion, should be on 11 & 12. "(11) As far as the Lord is concerned, men and women need each other. (12) It is true that the first woman came from a man, but all other men have been given birth by women. Yet God is the one who created everything."
On another note, verse 14 seems to debunk all modern depictions of Jesus.
vs 1-2 actually are an ending to chapter 10.
vs 3 God's order
vs 4 & 7 man not to let anything come between him and God, stand uncovered
vs 5,6,10 head covering is a customary sign of man's authority over woman
vs 8-10 God's order
vs 11-12 key verses for all of us
vs 13-16 customs of the time
vs 14 debunks all modern paintings of Jesus with long hair
Summation: God created a natural order of man in authority over woman; the head covering of a woman is a customary sign of respect to man, in that time. Our focus of these verses, in my opinion, should be on 11 & 12.
Also read Ephesians 5
Enjoy the Word!
"(3) Now I want you to know that Christ is the head over all men, and a man is the head over a woman. But God is the head over Christ. (4) This means that any man who prays or prophesies with something on his head brings shame to his head. (5) But any woman who prays or prophesies without something on her head brings shame to her head. In fact, she may as well shave her head. (6) A woman should wear something on her head. It is a disgrace for a woman to shave her head or cut her hair. But if she refuses to wear something on her head, let her cut off her hair. (7) Men were created to be like God and to bring honor to God. This means that a man should not wear anything on his head. Women were created to bring honor to men.
(8) It was the woman who was made from a man, and not the man who was made from a woman. (9) He wasn't created for her. She was created for him. (10) And so, because of this, and also because of the angels, a woman ought to wear something on her head, as a sign of her authority.
(11) As far as the Lord is concerned, men and women need each other. (12) It is true that the first woman came from a man, but all other men have been given birth by women. Yet God is the one who created everything.
(13) Ask yourselves if it is proper for a woman to pray without something on her head. (14) Isn't it unnatural and disgraceful for men to have long hair? (15) But long hair is a beautiful way for a woman to cover her head. (16) This is how things are done in all of God's churches, and that's why none of you should argue about what I have said." ~ 1 Corinthians 11:3-16
God created man in His order, for His purposes. He created man first and then woman, to be a partner, a mate, a counterpart.
"(18) And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. (19) And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. (20) And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him. (21) And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; (22) And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. (23) And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. (24) Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. " ~ Genesis 2:18-24
In 1 Cornthins 11:4-7, Paul tells us that man was created to "be like God"; the head covering is a customary sign of authority. God has no authority over Him and man, by this custom, should stand like God, uncovered. Woman, under man's authority, wears the customary covering as a sign of man's authority over her.
Should a modern woman cling to verse five as a requirement that she should keep her head covered while praying? In my opinion, no; I believe this is a reflection of the customs of the Jewish peoples and is not a mandate for today. That being said, I could be wrong, and, as in all things, it must be decided between each person and God.
Our focus of these verses, in my opinion, should be on 11 & 12. "(11) As far as the Lord is concerned, men and women need each other. (12) It is true that the first woman came from a man, but all other men have been given birth by women. Yet God is the one who created everything."
On another note, verse 14 seems to debunk all modern depictions of Jesus.
vs 1-2 actually are an ending to chapter 10.
vs 3 God's order
vs 4 & 7 man not to let anything come between him and God, stand uncovered
vs 5,6,10 head covering is a customary sign of man's authority over woman
vs 8-10 God's order
vs 11-12 key verses for all of us
vs 13-16 customs of the time
vs 14 debunks all modern paintings of Jesus with long hair
Summation: God created a natural order of man in authority over woman; the head covering of a woman is a customary sign of respect to man, in that time. Our focus of these verses, in my opinion, should be on 11 & 12.
Also read Ephesians 5
Enjoy the Word!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
get in line
1 Corinthians 15:34a
[HCSB] Become right-minded and stop sinning
[ASV] Awake to soberness righteously, and sin not
[CEV] Be sensible and stop sinning
[DRB] Awake, ye just, and sin not
[ESV] Wake up from your drunken stupor, as is right, and do not go on sinning
[GNB] Come back to your right senses and stop your sinful ways
[GW] Come back to the right point of view, and stop sinning
[ISV] Come back to your senses as you should, and stop sinning
[KJV] Awake to righteousness, and sin not
[YLT] awake up, as is right, and sin not
[MKJV] Be righteously awake, and sin not
"For I know the plans I have for you"--this is the LORD's declaration-- plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." ~ Jeremiah 29:11 (HCSB)
Saturday, July 24, 2010
headlines of the morning online
ABC News: "I Saw Lance Armstrong Using Drugs."
CBS News, NPR Veteran Daniel Schorr Dies at 93
CNN: Pilot Alive After Last Second Ejection
FOX News: Weakened Bonnie May Gain Steam Over Oil Spill, Gulf Coast
NBC News: Christmas in July Gets Early Start
USA Today: Mental Illness Costing Military Soldiers
MSNBC: North Korea Vows Nuclear Response to U.S.-South drills
CBN: Fout Decades of Great TV Moments!
Dallas Morning News: Dallas ISD taking lead role in making school lunches more nutritious
Houston Chronicle: Lohan goes to jail
And you thought all news media were the same!
CBS News, NPR Veteran Daniel Schorr Dies at 93
CNN: Pilot Alive After Last Second Ejection
FOX News: Weakened Bonnie May Gain Steam Over Oil Spill, Gulf Coast
NBC News: Christmas in July Gets Early Start
USA Today: Mental Illness Costing Military Soldiers
MSNBC: North Korea Vows Nuclear Response to U.S.-South drills
CBN: Fout Decades of Great TV Moments!
Dallas Morning News: Dallas ISD taking lead role in making school lunches more nutritious
Houston Chronicle: Lohan goes to jail
And you thought all news media were the same!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
get up and go
"Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go forth from your country, And from your relatives And from your father's house, To the land which I will show you; And I will make you a great nation, And I will bless you, And make your name great; And so you shall be a blessing; And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed." So Abram went forth as the LORD had spoken to him; and Lot went with him. Now Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. Abram took Sarai his wife and Lot his nephew, and all their possessions which they had accumulated, and the persons which they had acquired in Haran, and they set out for the land of Canaan; thus they came to the land of Canaan.." ~ Genesis 12:1-5
God was asking a lot of Abram; asking him to give up all he knew and blindly, obediently, follow God's leading into the unknown. Abram packed it up and left and the rest is history. A nobody became a somebody and the world was blessed through Abrams obedience.
"The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham: Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez was the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram. Ram was the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon. Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz was the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of David the king. ¶ David was the father of Solomon by Bathsheba who had been the wife of Uriah. Solomon was the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa. Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah. Uzziah was the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jeconiah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. After the deportation to Babylon: Jeconiah became the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel. Zerubbabel was the father of Abihud, Abihud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor. Azor was the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud. Eliud was the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob. Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom Jesus was born, who is called the Messiah." ~ Matthew 1:1-16
Bayless Conley, in his weekly devotion, The Place of Blessing, makes this case and this point, "Pursue your purpose. That is the place of God’s blessing.".
We won't find our purpose sitting on the sideline or moving in a direction of our own making. We must listen, submit, obey and follow God. That's not always easy, but it does always end up in God's blessing.
Be blessed.
Scripture references:
Genesis 12:1-3
Matthew 1:1-16
God was asking a lot of Abram; asking him to give up all he knew and blindly, obediently, follow God's leading into the unknown. Abram packed it up and left and the rest is history. A nobody became a somebody and the world was blessed through Abrams obedience.
"The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham: Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez was the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram. Ram was the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon. Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz was the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of David the king. ¶ David was the father of Solomon by Bathsheba who had been the wife of Uriah. Solomon was the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa. Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah. Uzziah was the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jeconiah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. After the deportation to Babylon: Jeconiah became the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel. Zerubbabel was the father of Abihud, Abihud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor. Azor was the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud. Eliud was the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob. Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom Jesus was born, who is called the Messiah." ~ Matthew 1:1-16
Bayless Conley, in his weekly devotion, The Place of Blessing, makes this case and this point, "Pursue your purpose. That is the place of God’s blessing.".
We won't find our purpose sitting on the sideline or moving in a direction of our own making. We must listen, submit, obey and follow God. That's not always easy, but it does always end up in God's blessing.
Be blessed.
Scripture references:
Genesis 12:1-3
Matthew 1:1-16
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
"be imitators of me"
I sometimes have to cringe when I consider that my wife and children are observing and noting my "dad" behavior, my "husband" behavior and especially my "man of God" behavior. There are many times when I am not the best example and I certainly hear from them or see in them when my example falls short of what God intends for me.
The scariest part though, is when I see them imitating my failures, picking up my "bads" and walking in my crooked steps. Leading by example, we all lead, even when we are not aware and even when we don't intend.
I want to be a better example and I'm working hard to straighten my steps, for God and for family. I want to be imitated, for Him and to Him, in Jesus' name.
Check out this lesson from Mark Roberts, Be Imitators of Me?
Scripture references:
1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
1 Thessalonians 1:5-6
The scariest part though, is when I see them imitating my failures, picking up my "bads" and walking in my crooked steps. Leading by example, we all lead, even when we are not aware and even when we don't intend.
I want to be a better example and I'm working hard to straighten my steps, for God and for family. I want to be imitated, for Him and to Him, in Jesus' name.
Check out this lesson from Mark Roberts, Be Imitators of Me?
Scripture references:
1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
1 Thessalonians 1:5-6
Monday, July 19, 2010
Standing In The Gap
Derek Prince provides a quick and decisive lesson on intercession.
Lesson link: The Teaching Legacy of Derek Prince: Standing in the Gap.
Excerpt:
"Ezekiel 22:23–31 records a different scene - similar to the last one in that it portrays the sins of God’s people, yet it is different in that no intercessor was found to stand between the sin of the people and God’s judgement.
And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, “Son of man, say to her [the land of Israel]: ‘You are a land that is not cleansed or rained on in the day of indignation.’ The conspiracy of her prophets in her midst... Her priests have violated My law... Her princes in her midst are like wolves... The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy... So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found no one. Therefore I have poured out My indignation on them.”
All sections of the population had utterly failed— prophets, priests, princes, people. Each of these stands for a certain element in society. The “prophets” are those responsible to bring a message direct from God. The “priests” are the leaders of institutional religion. The “princes” are the secular rulers. The “people” are the rest of the population, the common people. The order in which these four
elements are listed is significant. The process of decay began with the spiritual leadership; then the secular government was corrupted; finally the whole nation was affected. (This has been the order in modern America and many other nations.) Even though every part of society was corrupted, the situation was not yet hopeless. God looked for one man, an intercessor, to stand in the gap and make up the hedge so that He could spare the whole nation. But because He could find none, He poured out
upon them His indignation and “consumed them with the fire of [His] wrath.” One man—one intercessor— could have saved an entire nation from judgement!"
Scripture References:
1 Timothy 2:1
Isaiah 53:12
Luke 23:34
Hebrews 7:25
Genesis 18:20-33
Exodus 32:7-14, 32-35
Psalms 106:19-23
Numbers 16:41-47
Ezekiel 22:23-31
Lesson link: The Teaching Legacy of Derek Prince: Standing in the Gap.
Excerpt:
"Ezekiel 22:23–31 records a different scene - similar to the last one in that it portrays the sins of God’s people, yet it is different in that no intercessor was found to stand between the sin of the people and God’s judgement.
And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, “Son of man, say to her [the land of Israel]: ‘You are a land that is not cleansed or rained on in the day of indignation.’ The conspiracy of her prophets in her midst... Her priests have violated My law... Her princes in her midst are like wolves... The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy... So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found no one. Therefore I have poured out My indignation on them.”
All sections of the population had utterly failed— prophets, priests, princes, people. Each of these stands for a certain element in society. The “prophets” are those responsible to bring a message direct from God. The “priests” are the leaders of institutional religion. The “princes” are the secular rulers. The “people” are the rest of the population, the common people. The order in which these four
elements are listed is significant. The process of decay began with the spiritual leadership; then the secular government was corrupted; finally the whole nation was affected. (This has been the order in modern America and many other nations.) Even though every part of society was corrupted, the situation was not yet hopeless. God looked for one man, an intercessor, to stand in the gap and make up the hedge so that He could spare the whole nation. But because He could find none, He poured out
upon them His indignation and “consumed them with the fire of [His] wrath.” One man—one intercessor— could have saved an entire nation from judgement!"
Scripture References:
1 Timothy 2:1
Isaiah 53:12
Luke 23:34
Hebrews 7:25
Genesis 18:20-33
Exodus 32:7-14, 32-35
Psalms 106:19-23
Numbers 16:41-47
Ezekiel 22:23-31
Sunday, July 18, 2010
God knows what He's doing.
I don't like Mr. Obama, but he is the President of my country. I disagree with pretty much everything he publicly states, but he is the authority over us.
"Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for {rulers} are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax {is due;} custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor." ~ Romans 13:1-7
I look forward to his absence, but in the meantime, I need to remember him in my prayers.
"First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God. This kind of prayer is good, and it pleases God our Savior." ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-3
"Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for {rulers} are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax {is due;} custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor." ~ Romans 13:1-7
I look forward to his absence, but in the meantime, I need to remember him in my prayers.
"First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God. This kind of prayer is good, and it pleases God our Savior." ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-3
Friday, July 16, 2010
little sin? big sin? greater sin?
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and Exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures.
Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them. For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
For this reason God gave them over to degrading passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural, and in the same way also the men abandoned the natural function of the woman and burned in their desire toward one another, men with men committing indecent acts and receiving in their own persons the due penalty of their error. And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper, being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malice; {they are} gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, without understanding, untrustworthy, unloving, unmerciful; and although they know the ordinance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who practice them.
Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things." ~ Romans 1:20 - 2:2
According to the passage above, who is more wicked; the homosexual or the liar? Who is more deserving of God's wrath; the glutton or the murderer? Who is more shameful; the gossip or the prideful? Are they not held in the same regard of failing HIM WHO IS?
Shall the disobedient child escape God's just reward any quicker than he who shows no mercy to others? Will God let the troublemaker walk while caging the closed minded? Are not each of these worthy of the same punishment?
Will she who berates her children be held in esteem instead of him who does not keep his word. Will the lesbian be punished more sternly than the greedy woman who fails to help her fellow man in need? Does not each of these warrant God's promise of judgment in equal portions?
Each of us has a struggle and none of us is any "better" in the eyes of God for the type of sin we are given to. Lest any of us attempt to hold a prideful or scornful demeanor against another, let each of us remember that ALL sin is sin and there are NO greater or lesser sins before God.
I ask you, the next time you encounter an adulterer, confront a liar, discover a disobedient child, catch a thief or see my fat, gluttonous body waddling toward you, that you show each of them (us) mercy and that you show that same mercy to the rest of the sinners who surround us and return our gaze in the mirror.
"Godly" people railing against the sin of "ungodly" people; like that pot and the kettle, are avoiding the fact that we are all in the same boat, the human condition.
"For God so loved (all) the world, that He Gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him (anyone, anywhere, any time)shall not perish, but have eternal life." ~ John 3:16
Those of us who have found forgiveness in Jesus should be about the Father's business, sharing that treasure with others.
"and He answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself." ~ Luke 10:27 KJV
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and Exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures.
Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them. For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
For this reason God gave them over to degrading passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural, and in the same way also the men abandoned the natural function of the woman and burned in their desire toward one another, men with men committing indecent acts and receiving in their own persons the due penalty of their error. And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper, being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malice; {they are} gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, without understanding, untrustworthy, unloving, unmerciful; and although they know the ordinance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who practice them.
Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things." ~ Romans 1:20 - 2:2
According to the passage above, who is more wicked; the homosexual or the liar? Who is more deserving of God's wrath; the glutton or the murderer? Who is more shameful; the gossip or the prideful? Are they not held in the same regard of failing HIM WHO IS?
Shall the disobedient child escape God's just reward any quicker than he who shows no mercy to others? Will God let the troublemaker walk while caging the closed minded? Are not each of these worthy of the same punishment?
Will she who berates her children be held in esteem instead of him who does not keep his word. Will the lesbian be punished more sternly than the greedy woman who fails to help her fellow man in need? Does not each of these warrant God's promise of judgment in equal portions?
Each of us has a struggle and none of us is any "better" in the eyes of God for the type of sin we are given to. Lest any of us attempt to hold a prideful or scornful demeanor against another, let each of us remember that ALL sin is sin and there are NO greater or lesser sins before God.
I ask you, the next time you encounter an adulterer, confront a liar, discover a disobedient child, catch a thief or see my fat, gluttonous body waddling toward you, that you show each of them (us) mercy and that you show that same mercy to the rest of the sinners who surround us and return our gaze in the mirror.
"Godly" people railing against the sin of "ungodly" people; like that pot and the kettle, are avoiding the fact that we are all in the same boat, the human condition.
"For God so loved (all) the world, that He Gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him (anyone, anywhere, any time)shall not perish, but have eternal life." ~ John 3:16
Those of us who have found forgiveness in Jesus should be about the Father's business, sharing that treasure with others.
"and He answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself." ~ Luke 10:27 KJV
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Firing follows anonymous 'hate speech' complaint
Firing follows anonymous "hate" speech complaint (OneNewsNow.com)
"A professor in Illinois has been relieved of his duties for telling students in his Catholicism class that he agrees with the Catholic Church's teaching on homosexuality. The University of Illinois has fired adjunct professor Dr. Ken Howell, who taught courses on Catholicism, after a student anonymously accused the instructor of engaging in "hate speech" by saying he agrees with the church's teaching that homosexuality is immoral. Howell, who has taught at the university for nine years, says his firing violates his academic freedom."
This Professor, teaching a course in Roman Catholicism, espouses his agreement with a basic, Biblical Roman Catholic teaching and is fired for "hate speech".
I have no doubt that this ruling against the 1st Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America will eventually be tossed but much damage will be done along the way.
Hundreds of thousands of dollars will be wasted in the ensuing legal battle. The battle to protect religious freedom and free speech must be waged however, to prevent ground from being gained in the spiritual war against righteousness and to push back against the slippery slope of tolerance. It's ironic that all these rulings to protect homosexuals from "hate speech" violate the fundamental principals set forth in the Constitution protecting the right of our citizens to speak their mind without fear of prosecution or practice religion of choice without persecution.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." ~ First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, submitted to the states for ratification on September 25, 1789 and adopted on December 15, 1791.
"A professor in Illinois has been relieved of his duties for telling students in his Catholicism class that he agrees with the Catholic Church's teaching on homosexuality. The University of Illinois has fired adjunct professor Dr. Ken Howell, who taught courses on Catholicism, after a student anonymously accused the instructor of engaging in "hate speech" by saying he agrees with the church's teaching that homosexuality is immoral. Howell, who has taught at the university for nine years, says his firing violates his academic freedom."
This Professor, teaching a course in Roman Catholicism, espouses his agreement with a basic, Biblical Roman Catholic teaching and is fired for "hate speech".
I have no doubt that this ruling against the 1st Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America will eventually be tossed but much damage will be done along the way.
Hundreds of thousands of dollars will be wasted in the ensuing legal battle. The battle to protect religious freedom and free speech must be waged however, to prevent ground from being gained in the spiritual war against righteousness and to push back against the slippery slope of tolerance. It's ironic that all these rulings to protect homosexuals from "hate speech" violate the fundamental principals set forth in the Constitution protecting the right of our citizens to speak their mind without fear of prosecution or practice religion of choice without persecution.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." ~ First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, submitted to the states for ratification on September 25, 1789 and adopted on December 15, 1791.
heads up!
"Early the next morning, Gideon and his army got up and moved their camp to Fear Spring. The Midianite camp was to the north, in the valley at the foot of Moreh Hill. The LORD said, "Gideon, your army is too big. I can't let you win with this many soldiers. The Israelites would think that they had won the battle all by themselves and that I didn't have anything to do with it. So call your troops together and tell them that anyone who is really afraid can leave Mount Gilead and go home." Twenty-two thousand men returned home, leaving Gideon with only ten thousand soldiers.
"Gideon," the LORD said, "you still have too many soldiers. Take them down to the spring and I'll test them. I'll tell you which ones can go along with you and which ones must go back home."
When Gideon led his army down to the spring, the LORD told him, "Watch how each man gets a drink of water. Then divide them into two groups--those who lap the water like a dog and those who kneel down to drink."
Three hundred men scooped up water in their hands and lapped it, and the rest knelt to get a drink.
The LORD said, "Gideon, your army will be made up of everyone who lapped the water from their hands. Send the others home. I'm going to rescue Israel by helping you and your army of three hundred defeat the Midianites."" Judges 7:1-7
Out of 22000 men, 300 were wise to keep their heads up in preparation for battle. 300 lapped water from their hands while keeping their heads up and their eyes open. 300 were prepared and our Lord had a might victory using 300 prepared men out of 22000.
Keep your head up, be prepared, be watchful, be ready, be aware. The enemy has many snares and traps ready to spring upon us, every step, every day of our lives.
Keep your head up and be watchful that you may enjoy have the victory God has prepared for you; giving God the glory for His work in you.
Thanks Robert, for the lesson.
"Gideon," the LORD said, "you still have too many soldiers. Take them down to the spring and I'll test them. I'll tell you which ones can go along with you and which ones must go back home."
When Gideon led his army down to the spring, the LORD told him, "Watch how each man gets a drink of water. Then divide them into two groups--those who lap the water like a dog and those who kneel down to drink."
Three hundred men scooped up water in their hands and lapped it, and the rest knelt to get a drink.
The LORD said, "Gideon, your army will be made up of everyone who lapped the water from their hands. Send the others home. I'm going to rescue Israel by helping you and your army of three hundred defeat the Midianites."" Judges 7:1-7
Out of 22000 men, 300 were wise to keep their heads up in preparation for battle. 300 lapped water from their hands while keeping their heads up and their eyes open. 300 were prepared and our Lord had a might victory using 300 prepared men out of 22000.
Keep your head up, be prepared, be watchful, be ready, be aware. The enemy has many snares and traps ready to spring upon us, every step, every day of our lives.
Keep your head up and be watchful that you may enjoy have the victory God has prepared for you; giving God the glory for His work in you.
Thanks Robert, for the lesson.
quick insight from my Brother brother, Phil
~ Phil Larson
Evotions
Interdeniminational Thoughts
PrayerMetro
Ephesians 6:12-14
We wrestle much in this life. It is not a wrestling with other people that consumes us but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness that inhabit and influence this world in many forms, against strong forces of continually spiritually wicked nature in the heavens. Against such we take and place on the whole armor of God, that we would have the ability and endurance to resist and withstand in the days that are evilly normal, and having done all we know to do, sometimes failing and sometimes succeeding, we continue to stand righteous and accepted before our Heavenly Father
Ability and endurance to resist and withstand for Steve.
Wrestling
How many evenings have I been thrashing while sleeping over some small matter best left at the foot of the cross? How often have I lost sleep over an inability to balance out the pressures presented that day? Have you? Of course you have. The drug companies make a fortune over our wrestling mentally and emotionally with issues unresolveable before the sun goes down.
Settling
Putting those issues to bed is tough when we have no ready answers. Putting ourselves to bed is tough. Bed is a place of rest. Our promise in trusting God tells us we should be able to lay down in rest. Do we do it? We can. Issues can be settled. They are not settled by being resolved. They are settled by putting them "to rest". They are settled by standing in a place of confidence in God's commitment to working all things together for our good.
Spiritually Wicked Nature
Too often we avoid spiritual truths. It is easy to buy in to explanations of psychology and sociology and other disciplines and ignore spiritual discipline. Evil is real. Satan, the accuser, is real. Demons are real. Spiritual forces of wickedness are real. Avoid this reality at the cost of destruction in your life and the life of your loved ones. These forces are bent on disturbing your rest and confidence and progress. A tired, worn saint is somewhat useless in the workplace, family, community, and congregation. A stalwart, standing saint is a fearsome warrior advancing in all areas for the good of the kingdom.
Spiritually Blessed Nature
Early in the book of Ephesians, Paul tells us we are blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places. It is an exact opposite of what we find during standing lessons by the time we reach chapter 6. It is a clear message. There is all the spiritual force needed to sustain us in the spiritual battle. Stand. Be blessed while facing wickedness.
Living the Lesson
Some years back during an especially testing reorganization of a work unit, a letter showed up on the CEO's desk. In it were lies and accusations concerning my management methods. The letter moved to the CFO and CIO to be addressed. Both knew me and knew the words to be untrue. In conversations as we wrestled with who may have written such a thing and why, the answer seemed evident to me. The person was simply not in control of their own actions. Their actions were actions of a pawn in the hands of evil. The event was committed to prayer. I simply asked my Father to address the hidden issue of accusations from the evil source that were displaying themselves this way. As I discussed the dilemma with a co-worker, I simply agreed that my Father would remove the person involved to a place where they could have more peace. The co-worker thought I should set the person up and trap them. Not my style. Within a month the person who "anonymously" submitted the letter left the company. Life became much easier. Standing instead of attacking made all the difference in a real solution.
Inventory
Steve, have you been resisted by evilness? Is there some unexplainable situation plaguing you or a family member or a co-worker.
Prayer
Father, we need endurance. We need resistance to evil built into our substance and soul. Build us.
Encourage us, Father, to stand and receive strength from Your Hand.
We are able in Him.
We are strong in Him.
We can resist in Him.
We can stand in Him.
Evotions
Interdeniminational Thoughts
PrayerMetro
Ephesians 6:12-14
We wrestle much in this life. It is not a wrestling with other people that consumes us but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness that inhabit and influence this world in many forms, against strong forces of continually spiritually wicked nature in the heavens. Against such we take and place on the whole armor of God, that we would have the ability and endurance to resist and withstand in the days that are evilly normal, and having done all we know to do, sometimes failing and sometimes succeeding, we continue to stand righteous and accepted before our Heavenly Father
Ability and endurance to resist and withstand for Steve.
Wrestling
How many evenings have I been thrashing while sleeping over some small matter best left at the foot of the cross? How often have I lost sleep over an inability to balance out the pressures presented that day? Have you? Of course you have. The drug companies make a fortune over our wrestling mentally and emotionally with issues unresolveable before the sun goes down.
Settling
Putting those issues to bed is tough when we have no ready answers. Putting ourselves to bed is tough. Bed is a place of rest. Our promise in trusting God tells us we should be able to lay down in rest. Do we do it? We can. Issues can be settled. They are not settled by being resolved. They are settled by putting them "to rest". They are settled by standing in a place of confidence in God's commitment to working all things together for our good.
Spiritually Wicked Nature
Too often we avoid spiritual truths. It is easy to buy in to explanations of psychology and sociology and other disciplines and ignore spiritual discipline. Evil is real. Satan, the accuser, is real. Demons are real. Spiritual forces of wickedness are real. Avoid this reality at the cost of destruction in your life and the life of your loved ones. These forces are bent on disturbing your rest and confidence and progress. A tired, worn saint is somewhat useless in the workplace, family, community, and congregation. A stalwart, standing saint is a fearsome warrior advancing in all areas for the good of the kingdom.
Spiritually Blessed Nature
Early in the book of Ephesians, Paul tells us we are blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places. It is an exact opposite of what we find during standing lessons by the time we reach chapter 6. It is a clear message. There is all the spiritual force needed to sustain us in the spiritual battle. Stand. Be blessed while facing wickedness.
Living the Lesson
Some years back during an especially testing reorganization of a work unit, a letter showed up on the CEO's desk. In it were lies and accusations concerning my management methods. The letter moved to the CFO and CIO to be addressed. Both knew me and knew the words to be untrue. In conversations as we wrestled with who may have written such a thing and why, the answer seemed evident to me. The person was simply not in control of their own actions. Their actions were actions of a pawn in the hands of evil. The event was committed to prayer. I simply asked my Father to address the hidden issue of accusations from the evil source that were displaying themselves this way. As I discussed the dilemma with a co-worker, I simply agreed that my Father would remove the person involved to a place where they could have more peace. The co-worker thought I should set the person up and trap them. Not my style. Within a month the person who "anonymously" submitted the letter left the company. Life became much easier. Standing instead of attacking made all the difference in a real solution.
Inventory
Steve, have you been resisted by evilness? Is there some unexplainable situation plaguing you or a family member or a co-worker.
Prayer
Father, we need endurance. We need resistance to evil built into our substance and soul. Build us.
Encourage us, Father, to stand and receive strength from Your Hand.
We are able in Him.
We are strong in Him.
We can resist in Him.
We can stand in Him.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Shark Tales
IT director pilot fish is working for a staffing company, interviewing candidates for a Web developer position.
"During the interview, I ask many general questions trying to see how knowledgeable or how well an interviewee can carry on a conversation," says fish. "I typically will ask for three strengths and three weaknesses."
And when this job candidate's interview gets to that point, fish asks for three weaknesses. But the candidate says he can only come up with one.
Do you read? fish asks. "No," says candidate, "I watch a lot of TV."
Fish comments that he, personally, reads lots of books -- mostly biographies of people who have changed the course of history, such as Newton, Kepler, Churchill and Oppenheimer. One trait that all these people had is that they were introspective, he says. Now what about your salary requirements?
That's when fish notices the candidate is giving him a blank stare.
Is something wrong? fish asks.
"Yes," says candidate, "I don't know what 'introspective' means."
Groans fish, "No wonder he could only come up with one weakness. He was not offered the job."
IT director pilot fish is working for a staffing company, interviewing candidates for a Web developer position.
"During the interview, I ask many general questions trying to see how knowledgeable or how well an interviewee can carry on a conversation," says fish. "I typically will ask for three strengths and three weaknesses."
And when this job candidate's interview gets to that point, fish asks for three weaknesses. But the candidate says he can only come up with one.
Do you read? fish asks. "No," says candidate, "I watch a lot of TV."
Fish comments that he, personally, reads lots of books -- mostly biographies of people who have changed the course of history, such as Newton, Kepler, Churchill and Oppenheimer. One trait that all these people had is that they were introspective, he says. Now what about your salary requirements?
That's when fish notices the candidate is giving him a blank stare.
Is something wrong? fish asks.
"Yes," says candidate, "I don't know what 'introspective' means."
Groans fish, "No wonder he could only come up with one weakness. He was not offered the job."
duh
In a bid to stem taxpayer losses for bad loans guaranteed by federal housing agencies Fanny Mae and Freddy Mac,Senator Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) proposed that borrowers be required to make a 5% down payment in order to qualify. His proposal was rejected 57-42 on a party-line vote because, as Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn) explained, "passage of such a requirement would restrict home ownership to only those who can afford it."
Congress.org
Congress.org
HR615
http://fleming.house.gov/HRes615/
"During the past year, members of Congress and the American people have continued to learn the details hidden in the Majority’s massive new health care plan. As a physician, I am convinced that this reform is bad medicine for the American people. Early in this debate, in response to the insistence by many in the majority that health reform contain a government-run “public option,“ I offered a resolution, H. Res. 615, that offered members of Congress an opportunity to put their money where their mouth is, and urge their colleagues who vote for legislation creating a government-run health care plan to lead by example and enroll themselves in the same public plan.
Under the original version of the Democrat health care legislation, members of Congress were curiously exempt from the government-run health care option, keeping their existing health plans and services on Capitol Hill. Because of the millions of Americans who made their voices heard, Congress was forced to abandon the so-called “public option” in their push to overhaul our nation’s health care system. Millions called and wrote their Members of Congress demanding that Congress enroll themselves in the same health coverage they were forcing on the American people ."
"During the past year, members of Congress and the American people have continued to learn the details hidden in the Majority’s massive new health care plan. As a physician, I am convinced that this reform is bad medicine for the American people. Early in this debate, in response to the insistence by many in the majority that health reform contain a government-run “public option,“ I offered a resolution, H. Res. 615, that offered members of Congress an opportunity to put their money where their mouth is, and urge their colleagues who vote for legislation creating a government-run health care plan to lead by example and enroll themselves in the same public plan.
Under the original version of the Democrat health care legislation, members of Congress were curiously exempt from the government-run health care option, keeping their existing health plans and services on Capitol Hill. Because of the millions of Americans who made their voices heard, Congress was forced to abandon the so-called “public option” in their push to overhaul our nation’s health care system. Millions called and wrote their Members of Congress demanding that Congress enroll themselves in the same health coverage they were forcing on the American people ."
author unknown, but the idea makes sense ...
A forwarded email that I am in favor of; All I ask is that you consider the suggestion here.
The entire Congress of the United States is corrupt. And I mean both Houses and I mean both major parties..
I realize that a few Members of each House are trustworthy, but, as a group they are absolutely the most corrupt bunch to ever disgrace our Nation.
In November of 2010 the entire House of Representatives will stand for re-election; all 435 of them. One third of the Senate, a total of 33 of them, will also stand for re-election. Vote every incumbent out.
And I mean every one of them. No matter their Party affiliation. Let's start all over in the House of Representatives with 435 people who have absolutely no experience in running that body, with no political favors owed to anyone but their own constituents. Let's make them understand that they work for us. They are answerable to us and they simply have to run that body with some common sense.
Two years later, in 2012, vote the next third of the incumbents in the Senate out.
We can do the same thing in 2014 and, by that time we will have put all new people in that body as well.
We, the People, have got to take this Country back and we HAVE to do it peacefully.
That's what the Framers of our Constitution envisioned.
I am also suggesting term limits on the new bunch: 8 years for Representatives and 12 years for Senators – no exceptions. (My comment--6 years maximum for all with
1/6 elected each year.)
The longer they stay in office, the more power they get, and they love it and will do anything to get re-elected.
We have term-limited the President, now let’s term-limit the Legislators.
Please, if you love this Country, send this (as I have done) to absolutely everyone whose email address appears in your address book.
This thing can permeate this Country in no time. Let's make it happen.
Don't just delete this - please pass it on and give our Country a fighting chance.
VOTE THE POWER ABUSERS OUT........ LET'S TAKE AMERICA BACK !!!!!!!!!
IF YOU LIKE THE WAY THINGS ARE GOING IN OUR COUNTRY, THEN DO NOTHING.......
A forwarded email that I am in favor of; All I ask is that you consider the suggestion here.
The entire Congress of the United States is corrupt. And I mean both Houses and I mean both major parties..
I realize that a few Members of each House are trustworthy, but, as a group they are absolutely the most corrupt bunch to ever disgrace our Nation.
In November of 2010 the entire House of Representatives will stand for re-election; all 435 of them. One third of the Senate, a total of 33 of them, will also stand for re-election. Vote every incumbent out.
And I mean every one of them. No matter their Party affiliation. Let's start all over in the House of Representatives with 435 people who have absolutely no experience in running that body, with no political favors owed to anyone but their own constituents. Let's make them understand that they work for us. They are answerable to us and they simply have to run that body with some common sense.
Two years later, in 2012, vote the next third of the incumbents in the Senate out.
We can do the same thing in 2014 and, by that time we will have put all new people in that body as well.
We, the People, have got to take this Country back and we HAVE to do it peacefully.
That's what the Framers of our Constitution envisioned.
I am also suggesting term limits on the new bunch: 8 years for Representatives and 12 years for Senators – no exceptions. (My comment--6 years maximum for all with
1/6 elected each year.)
The longer they stay in office, the more power they get, and they love it and will do anything to get re-elected.
We have term-limited the President, now let’s term-limit the Legislators.
Please, if you love this Country, send this (as I have done) to absolutely everyone whose email address appears in your address book.
This thing can permeate this Country in no time. Let's make it happen.
Don't just delete this - please pass it on and give our Country a fighting chance.
VOTE THE POWER ABUSERS OUT........ LET'S TAKE AMERICA BACK !!!!!!!!!
IF YOU LIKE THE WAY THINGS ARE GOING IN OUR COUNTRY, THEN DO NOTHING.......
Sunday, July 11, 2010
senior moment
author unknown
Here's a quote from a government employee who witnessed a recent inter-action between an elderly woman and an antiwar protester in a Metro station in DC.
"There were protesters on the train platform handing out pamphlets, on the evils of America . I politely declined to take one. The elderly woman was behind me getting off the escalator and a young (20-ish) female protester offered her a pamphlet, which she politely declined. The young protester put her hand on the old woman's shoulder as a gesture of friendship and in a very soft voice the young lady said, "Lady, don't you care about the children of Iraq?"
The old woman looked up at her and said, "Honey, my father died in France during World War II, I lost my husband in Korea , and a son in Vietnam. All three died so you could have the right to stand here and badmouth our country.""
Here's a quote from a government employee who witnessed a recent inter-action between an elderly woman and an antiwar protester in a Metro station in DC.
"There were protesters on the train platform handing out pamphlets, on the evils of America . I politely declined to take one. The elderly woman was behind me getting off the escalator and a young (20-ish) female protester offered her a pamphlet, which she politely declined. The young protester put her hand on the old woman's shoulder as a gesture of friendship and in a very soft voice the young lady said, "Lady, don't you care about the children of Iraq?"
The old woman looked up at her and said, "Honey, my father died in France during World War II, I lost my husband in Korea , and a son in Vietnam. All three died so you could have the right to stand here and badmouth our country.""
Saturday, July 10, 2010
wal-mart pricing strategy
Why do I have to pay $2 more for a XXL t-shirt than the L, M and S's? Because it's more material? If that's the logic, then the M should be $1 less and the S $2 less.
Or is it just fat people penalization practiced by Wal-Mart? Hmmmm?
Friday, July 09, 2010
wheeeeee
A fire-fighter was working on the engine outside the station, when he noticed a little girl nearby in a little red wagon with little ladders hung off the sides, and a garden hose tightly coiled in the middle.
The girl was wearing a fire-fighters helmet. The wagon was being pulled by her dog and her cat.
The fire-fighter walked over to take a closer look. "That sure is a nice fire truck," the fire-fighter said with admiration.
"Thanks", the girl replied.
The fire-fighter looked a little closer. The girl had tied the wagon to her dog's collar and to the cat's testicles.
"Little partner", the fire-fighter said, "I don't want to tell you how to run your rig, but if you were to tie that rope around the cat's collar, I think you could go faster."
The little girl replied thoughtfully, "You're probably right, but then I wouldn't have a siren."
The girl was wearing a fire-fighters helmet. The wagon was being pulled by her dog and her cat.
The fire-fighter walked over to take a closer look. "That sure is a nice fire truck," the fire-fighter said with admiration.
"Thanks", the girl replied.
The fire-fighter looked a little closer. The girl had tied the wagon to her dog's collar and to the cat's testicles.
"Little partner", the fire-fighter said, "I don't want to tell you how to run your rig, but if you were to tie that rope around the cat's collar, I think you could go faster."
The little girl replied thoughtfully, "You're probably right, but then I wouldn't have a siren."
Thursday, July 08, 2010
You Didn’t See Me
author unknown
I saw you hug your purse closer to you in the grocery store line, but you didn't see me put an extra $10.00 in the collection plate last Sunday.
I saw you pull your child closer when we passed each other on the sidewalk, but you didn't see me playing Santa at the local mall.
I saw you change your mind about going into the restaurant, but you didn't see me attending a meeting to raise more money for the hurricane relief.
I saw you roll up your window and shake your head when I drove by, but you didn't see me driving behind you when you tossed your cigarette butt out the car window.
I saw you frown at me when I smiled at your children, but you didn't see me when I took time off from work to run toys to the homeless kids.
I saw you stare at my long hair, but you didn't see me and my friends cut ten inches off for Locks of Love.
I saw you roll your eyes at our leather coats and gloves, but you didn't see me and my brothers donate our old coats and gloves to those that had none.
I saw you look in fright at my tattoos, but you didn't see me cry as my children where born and how I have their names written upon my heart.
I saw you change lanes while rushing off to go somewhere, but you didn't see me going home to be with my family.
I saw you complain about how loud and noisy our bikes can be, but you didn't see me when you were changing the CD and drifted into my lane.
I saw you yelling at your kids in the car, but you didn't see me pat my child's hands, knowing he was safe behind me.
I saw you reading the newspaper or map as you drove down the road, but you didn't see me squeeze my wife's leg when she told me to take the next turn.
I saw you race down the road in the rain, but you didn't see me get soaked to the skin so my son could have the car to go on his date.
I saw you run the yellow light just to save a few minutes of time, but you didn't see me trying to turn right.
I saw you cut me off because you needed to be in the lane I was in, but you didn't see me leave the road.
I saw you waiting impatiently for my friends to pass, but you didn't see me; I wasn't there.
I saw you go home to your family, but you didn't see me because I died that day you cut me off.
I was just a biker; a person with friends and a family, but you didn't see me.
author unknown
I saw you hug your purse closer to you in the grocery store line, but you didn't see me put an extra $10.00 in the collection plate last Sunday.
I saw you pull your child closer when we passed each other on the sidewalk, but you didn't see me playing Santa at the local mall.
I saw you change your mind about going into the restaurant, but you didn't see me attending a meeting to raise more money for the hurricane relief.
I saw you roll up your window and shake your head when I drove by, but you didn't see me driving behind you when you tossed your cigarette butt out the car window.
I saw you frown at me when I smiled at your children, but you didn't see me when I took time off from work to run toys to the homeless kids.
I saw you stare at my long hair, but you didn't see me and my friends cut ten inches off for Locks of Love.
I saw you roll your eyes at our leather coats and gloves, but you didn't see me and my brothers donate our old coats and gloves to those that had none.
I saw you look in fright at my tattoos, but you didn't see me cry as my children where born and how I have their names written upon my heart.
I saw you change lanes while rushing off to go somewhere, but you didn't see me going home to be with my family.
I saw you complain about how loud and noisy our bikes can be, but you didn't see me when you were changing the CD and drifted into my lane.
I saw you yelling at your kids in the car, but you didn't see me pat my child's hands, knowing he was safe behind me.
I saw you reading the newspaper or map as you drove down the road, but you didn't see me squeeze my wife's leg when she told me to take the next turn.
I saw you race down the road in the rain, but you didn't see me get soaked to the skin so my son could have the car to go on his date.
I saw you run the yellow light just to save a few minutes of time, but you didn't see me trying to turn right.
I saw you cut me off because you needed to be in the lane I was in, but you didn't see me leave the road.
I saw you waiting impatiently for my friends to pass, but you didn't see me; I wasn't there.
I saw you go home to your family, but you didn't see me because I died that day you cut me off.
I was just a biker; a person with friends and a family, but you didn't see me.
author unknown
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Saturday, July 03, 2010
"Unemployment benefits are creating jobs faster than practically any other program, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Thursday."
So, can we send Mrs. Pelosi home?
I'm not making this up!
So, can we send Mrs. Pelosi home?
I'm not making this up!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
The Doctors
A Japanese doctor said, "Medicine in my country is so advanced that we took the kidney out of one man, put it in another, and have him looking for work in six weeks."
A German doctor said, "That's nothing, we can take a lung out of one person, put it in another, and have him looking for work in four weeks."
A British doctor said, "In my country, medicine is so advanced that we can take half of a heart out of one person, put it in another, and have them both looking for work in two weeks."
A Chicago doctor, not to be outdone said, "You guys are way behind. We took a man with no brains out of Chicago, put him in the White House, and now half the country is looking for work."
A German doctor said, "That's nothing, we can take a lung out of one person, put it in another, and have him looking for work in four weeks."
A British doctor said, "In my country, medicine is so advanced that we can take half of a heart out of one person, put it in another, and have them both looking for work in two weeks."
A Chicago doctor, not to be outdone said, "You guys are way behind. We took a man with no brains out of Chicago, put him in the White House, and now half the country is looking for work."
one-liners for Christians
authors unknown
Don't let your worries get the best of you; remember, Moses started out as a basket case..
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited, until you try to sit in their pews.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisers.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The good Lord didn't create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
People are funny; they want the front of the bus, middle of the road, and back of the church.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on the front door forever.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Quit griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn't belong.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
If a church wants a better pastor, it only needs to pray for the one it has..
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
We're called to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God Himself doesn't propose to judge a man until he is dead. So why should you?
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Some minds are like concrete, thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Peace starts with a smile.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
I don't know why some people change churches; what difference does it make which one you stay home from?
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
A lot of church members singing 'Standing on the Promises' are just sitting on the premises.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Be ye fishers of men. You catch 'em - He'll clean 'em.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Stop, Drop, and Roll won't work in Hell.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Don't put a question mark where God put a period.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Don't wait for 6 strong men to take you to church.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Forbidden fruits create many jams.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God grades on the cross, not the curve.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God loves everyone, But probably prefers 'fruits of the spirit' over 'religious nuts!'
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
He who angers you, controls you!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
If God is your Co-pilot, swap seats!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Prayer: Don't give God instructions, just report for duty!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The task ahead of us is never as great as the Power behind us.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The Will of God never takes you to where the Grace of God will not protect you.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
We don't change the message, the message changes us.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The best mathematical equation I have ever seen: 1 cross + 3 nails = 4 given.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
If this blessed you in a profound way today, share it with a few friends to bless them! I bet someone else will LOVE it too. There is no greater treasure than a good friend! Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain.
authors unknown
Don't let your worries get the best of you; remember, Moses started out as a basket case..
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited, until you try to sit in their pews.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisers.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The good Lord didn't create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
People are funny; they want the front of the bus, middle of the road, and back of the church.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on the front door forever.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Quit griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn't belong.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
If a church wants a better pastor, it only needs to pray for the one it has..
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
We're called to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God Himself doesn't propose to judge a man until he is dead. So why should you?
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Some minds are like concrete, thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Peace starts with a smile.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
I don't know why some people change churches; what difference does it make which one you stay home from?
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
A lot of church members singing 'Standing on the Promises' are just sitting on the premises.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Be ye fishers of men. You catch 'em - He'll clean 'em.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Stop, Drop, and Roll won't work in Hell.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Don't put a question mark where God put a period.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Don't wait for 6 strong men to take you to church.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Forbidden fruits create many jams.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God grades on the cross, not the curve.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God loves everyone, But probably prefers 'fruits of the spirit' over 'religious nuts!'
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
He who angers you, controls you!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
If God is your Co-pilot, swap seats!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Prayer: Don't give God instructions, just report for duty!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The task ahead of us is never as great as the Power behind us.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The Will of God never takes you to where the Grace of God will not protect you.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
We don't change the message, the message changes us.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The best mathematical equation I have ever seen: 1 cross + 3 nails = 4 given.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
If this blessed you in a profound way today, share it with a few friends to bless them! I bet someone else will LOVE it too. There is no greater treasure than a good friend! Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain.
authors unknown
never a solo act for God
by Chris Polanco, 12/14/09
I had spoken in a church that has two morning services, and I went into that little room off the sanctuary where you meet to pray with the church leaders. But the people who were there when I went in weren't praying, they were playing - their trombones, that is. Actually, they were warming up to play in the brass section of the church's worship band. Now, there were some very interesting sounds coming from that room, in fact. I was almost afraid to go in, but I did. And I got involved in a conversation with the men behind the music. One of them had just made a minor goof in what he was practicing. Of course, how would I know - Mr. Music Dork? But that led to George telling me why he would much rather play with a band than play a solo. He said, "You know, it's so much easier when the band is there to support you." When I asked him what he meant by "support you," he said, "Well, the rest of the band sort of carries you along, and they cover up your mistakes!"
Take a look at Acts 2:14 . It's in the middle of one of the most powerful sermons ever preached. It's on the day the Holy Spirit came just as Jesus had predicted to indwell and to empower His followers. It's about two months after Jesus' return to heaven and Peter is standing right in the middle of the crowds in downtown Jerusalem. The city is still highly charged with hostility toward Jesus and toward His followers. Now remember the preacher here is Peter. You remember him, the same man who wimped out on Jesus only a few weeks earlier. He denied Jesus even in front of a little girl. Now, here's what is says, "Then Peter stood up with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd."
Well Peter went on to tell some of the very people who had crucified Jesus that they needed Him as their Savior! And 3,000 people came to Christ that day! What happened to Peter? He suddenly changed from a chicken into a tiger! Several answers - he sincerely repented of his failures - he now had the inner power of the Holy Spirit. But there was something else that gave him courage and confidence - he wasn't playing a solo. The band was there to support him! It says he "stood up with the eleven." We all need that kind of support. Are you consistently giving that kind of support to the people close to you? Are you playing like a team member or a solo performer? Are you doing all you can to create a climate of playing together instead of everyone for himself?
God provides a beautiful score for our spiritual band to follow in Hebrews 10:24-25. It's a standard to measure what you're doing with your family, the folks you work with, and the people you minister with. It says, "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."
Now, is the result of people being around you that they feel more motivated to be loving - to make a difference? It goes on to say, "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."
Now, maybe you've somehow allowed yourself to slip into a solo mode, where you're cut off from the support of the band and where every mistake is amplified. In Africa, when a lion wants a gazelle for lunch, he seldom attacks when the gazelle is with the herd. He waits for it to wander off by itself. I think Satan operates like that. He wants to get you away from the rest of the band, isolate you so he can attack you and devour you. Don't let your frustrations; don't let your differences get you to pull away from the band. You really need their support.
Where you live, where you work, where you minister, be known as the encourager. Learn to appreciate the unique contribution of the other instruments, even if they sound very different from you. We were never meant to be soloists. We're created to play with the support of the band around us. Together, we can carry each other along and cover each other's mistakes!
Christopher Michael Polanco
I had spoken in a church that has two morning services, and I went into that little room off the sanctuary where you meet to pray with the church leaders. But the people who were there when I went in weren't praying, they were playing - their trombones, that is. Actually, they were warming up to play in the brass section of the church's worship band. Now, there were some very interesting sounds coming from that room, in fact. I was almost afraid to go in, but I did. And I got involved in a conversation with the men behind the music. One of them had just made a minor goof in what he was practicing. Of course, how would I know - Mr. Music Dork? But that led to George telling me why he would much rather play with a band than play a solo. He said, "You know, it's so much easier when the band is there to support you." When I asked him what he meant by "support you," he said, "Well, the rest of the band sort of carries you along, and they cover up your mistakes!"
Take a look at Acts 2:14 . It's in the middle of one of the most powerful sermons ever preached. It's on the day the Holy Spirit came just as Jesus had predicted to indwell and to empower His followers. It's about two months after Jesus' return to heaven and Peter is standing right in the middle of the crowds in downtown Jerusalem. The city is still highly charged with hostility toward Jesus and toward His followers. Now remember the preacher here is Peter. You remember him, the same man who wimped out on Jesus only a few weeks earlier. He denied Jesus even in front of a little girl. Now, here's what is says, "Then Peter stood up with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd."
Well Peter went on to tell some of the very people who had crucified Jesus that they needed Him as their Savior! And 3,000 people came to Christ that day! What happened to Peter? He suddenly changed from a chicken into a tiger! Several answers - he sincerely repented of his failures - he now had the inner power of the Holy Spirit. But there was something else that gave him courage and confidence - he wasn't playing a solo. The band was there to support him! It says he "stood up with the eleven." We all need that kind of support. Are you consistently giving that kind of support to the people close to you? Are you playing like a team member or a solo performer? Are you doing all you can to create a climate of playing together instead of everyone for himself?
God provides a beautiful score for our spiritual band to follow in Hebrews 10:24-25. It's a standard to measure what you're doing with your family, the folks you work with, and the people you minister with. It says, "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."
Now, is the result of people being around you that they feel more motivated to be loving - to make a difference? It goes on to say, "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."
Now, maybe you've somehow allowed yourself to slip into a solo mode, where you're cut off from the support of the band and where every mistake is amplified. In Africa, when a lion wants a gazelle for lunch, he seldom attacks when the gazelle is with the herd. He waits for it to wander off by itself. I think Satan operates like that. He wants to get you away from the rest of the band, isolate you so he can attack you and devour you. Don't let your frustrations; don't let your differences get you to pull away from the band. You really need their support.
Where you live, where you work, where you minister, be known as the encourager. Learn to appreciate the unique contribution of the other instruments, even if they sound very different from you. We were never meant to be soloists. We're created to play with the support of the band around us. Together, we can carry each other along and cover each other's mistakes!
Christopher Michael Polanco
don't mess with old people
An old prospector shuffled into the town of EIidio, Texas leading an old tired mule. The old man headed straight for the only saloon in town, to clear his parched throat. He walked up to the saloon and tied his old mule to the hitch rail. As he stood there, brushing some of the dust from his face and clothes, a young gunslinger stepped out of the saloon with a gun in one hand and a bottle of whiskey in the
other.
The young gunslinger looked at the old man and laughed, saying, "Hey old man, have you ever danced?" The old man looked up at the gunslinger and said, "No, I never did dance... never really wanted to."
A crowd had gathered as the gunslinger grinned and said, "Well, you old fool, you're gonna' dance now," and started shooting at the old man's feet. The old prospector, not wanting to get a toe blown off, started hopping around like a flea on a hot skillet. Everybody was laughing, fit to be tied.
When his last bullet had been fired, the young gunslinger, still laughing, holstered his gun and turned around to go back into the saloon. The old man turned to his pack mule, pulled out a double-barreled shotgun, and cocked both hammers. The loud clicks carried clearly through the desert air.
The crowd stopped laughing immediately. The young gunslinger heard the sounds too, and he turned around very slowly. The silence was almost deafening. The crowd watched as the young gunman stared at the old timer and the large gaping holes of those twin barrels.
The barrels of the shotgun never wavered in the old man's hands, as he quietly said, "Son, have you ever kissed a mule's ass?"
The gunslinger swallowed hard and said, "No sir...... but...I've always wanted to."
There are two lessons for us all here:
Don't waste ammunition.
Don't mess with old people.
other.
The young gunslinger looked at the old man and laughed, saying, "Hey old man, have you ever danced?" The old man looked up at the gunslinger and said, "No, I never did dance... never really wanted to."
A crowd had gathered as the gunslinger grinned and said, "Well, you old fool, you're gonna' dance now," and started shooting at the old man's feet. The old prospector, not wanting to get a toe blown off, started hopping around like a flea on a hot skillet. Everybody was laughing, fit to be tied.
When his last bullet had been fired, the young gunslinger, still laughing, holstered his gun and turned around to go back into the saloon. The old man turned to his pack mule, pulled out a double-barreled shotgun, and cocked both hammers. The loud clicks carried clearly through the desert air.
The crowd stopped laughing immediately. The young gunslinger heard the sounds too, and he turned around very slowly. The silence was almost deafening. The crowd watched as the young gunman stared at the old timer and the large gaping holes of those twin barrels.
The barrels of the shotgun never wavered in the old man's hands, as he quietly said, "Son, have you ever kissed a mule's ass?"
The gunslinger swallowed hard and said, "No sir...... but...I've always wanted to."
There are two lessons for us all here:
Don't waste ammunition.
Don't mess with old people.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
stand up
The liberals are asking us to give Obama time. We agree . . . and think 25 to life would be appropriate.
--Jay Leno
America needs Obama-care like Nancy Pelosi needs a Halloween mask.
--Jay Leno
Q: Have you heard about McDonald's' new Obama Value Meal?
A: Order anything you like and the guy behind you has to pay for it.
--Conan O'Brien
Q: What does Barack Obama call lunch with a convicted felon?
A: A fund raiser.
--Jay Leno
Q: What's the difference between Obama's cabinet and a penitentiary?
A: One is filled with tax evaders, blackmailers, and threats to society. The other is for housing prisoners.
-- David Letterman
Q: If Nancy Pelosi and Obama were on a boat in the middle of the ocean and it started to sink, who would be saved?
A: America !
--Jimmy Fallon
Q: What's the difference between Obama and his dog, Bo?
A: Bo has papers.
--Jimmy Kimmel
Q: What was the most positive result of the "Cash for Clunkers" program?
A: It took 95% of the Obama bumper stickers off the road.
-- David Letterman
--Jay Leno
America needs Obama-care like Nancy Pelosi needs a Halloween mask.
--Jay Leno
Q: Have you heard about McDonald's' new Obama Value Meal?
A: Order anything you like and the guy behind you has to pay for it.
--Conan O'Brien
Q: What does Barack Obama call lunch with a convicted felon?
A: A fund raiser.
--Jay Leno
Q: What's the difference between Obama's cabinet and a penitentiary?
A: One is filled with tax evaders, blackmailers, and threats to society. The other is for housing prisoners.
-- David Letterman
Q: If Nancy Pelosi and Obama were on a boat in the middle of the ocean and it started to sink, who would be saved?
A: America !
--Jimmy Fallon
Q: What's the difference between Obama and his dog, Bo?
A: Bo has papers.
--Jimmy Kimmel
Q: What was the most positive result of the "Cash for Clunkers" program?
A: It took 95% of the Obama bumper stickers off the road.
-- David Letterman
coulda heard a pin drop ...
author unknown
Here`s a refresher on how some of our former
patriots handled negative comments about our
country.
JFK'S Secretary of State, Dean Rusk,
was in France in the early 60's when DeGaule decided to
pull out of NATO. DeGaule said he wanted all US
military out of France as soon as possible.
Rusk responded "does that include
those who are buried here?
DeGuale did not respond.
You could have heard
a pin drop
When in England , at a fairly large
conference, Colin Powell was asked by the Archbishop of
Canterbury if our plans for Iraq were just an example of
empire building by George Bush.
He answered by saying, 'Over the
years, the United States has sent many of its fine young men
and women into great peril to fight for freedom beyond our
borders. The only amount of land we have ever asked
for in return is enough to bury those that did not
return.'
You could have heard
a pin drop.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
There was a conference in France where a
number of international engineers were taking part,
including French and American. During a break, one of
the French engineers came back into the room saying
'Have you heard the latest dumb stunt Bush has done? He
has sent an aircraft carrier to Indonesia to help the
tsunami victims. What does he intended to do, bomb
them?'
A Boeing engineer stood up and replied
quietly: 'Our carriers have three hospitals on board
that can treat several hundred people; they are nuclear p
owered and can supply emergency electrical power to
shore facilities; they have three cafeterias with the
capacity to feed 3,000 people three meals a day, they can
produce several thousand gallons of fresh water from sea
water each day, and they carry half a dozen helicopters for
use in transporting victims and injured to and from their
flight deck. We have eleven such ships; how many does
France have?'
You could have heard
a pin drop.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A U.S. Navy Admiral was attending a
naval conference that included Admirals from the U.S. ,
English, Canadian, Australian and French Navies. At a
cocktail reception, he found himself standing with a large
group of Officers that included personnel from most of those
countries. Everyone was chatting away in English as they
sipped their drinks but a French admiral suddenly complained
that, whereas Europeans learn many languages, Americans
learn only English. He then asked, 'Why is it that we
always have to speak English in these conferences rather
than speaking French?'
Without hesitating, the American Admiral
replied, 'Maybe it's because the Brit's,
Canadians, Aussie's and Americans arranged it so you
wouldn't have to speak German.'
You could have heard
a pin drop.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AND THIS STORY FITS RIGHT IN WITH THE
ABOVE...
Robert Whiting , an elderly gentleman of
83, arrived in Paris by plane. At French Customs, he took a
few minutes to locate his passport in his carry on.
"You have been to France before,
monsieur?" the customs officer asked
sarcastically.
Mr. Whiting admitted that he had been to
France previously.
"Then you should know enough to
have your passport ready."
The American said, 'The last time I
was here, I didn't have to show it."
"Impossible. Americans always have
to show your passports on arrival in France !"
The American senior gave the Frenchman a
long hard look. Then he quietly explained,
''Well, when I came ashore at Omaha Beach on D-Day
in 1944 to help liberate this country, I couldn't find a
single Frenchmen to show a passport to."
You could have heard
a pin drop.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If you are proud to be an American, pass
this on! If not, delete it.
I am proud to be of
this land,
AMERICA
and ASHAMED OF ANY PRESIDENT WHO
APOLOGIZES FOR IT!!
is there a pin dropping
somewhere?
Here`s a refresher on how some of our former
patriots handled negative comments about our
country.
JFK'S Secretary of State, Dean Rusk,
was in France in the early 60's when DeGaule decided to
pull out of NATO. DeGaule said he wanted all US
military out of France as soon as possible.
Rusk responded "does that include
those who are buried here?
DeGuale did not respond.
You could have heard
a pin drop
When in England , at a fairly large
conference, Colin Powell was asked by the Archbishop of
Canterbury if our plans for Iraq were just an example of
empire building by George Bush.
He answered by saying, 'Over the
years, the United States has sent many of its fine young men
and women into great peril to fight for freedom beyond our
borders. The only amount of land we have ever asked
for in return is enough to bury those that did not
return.'
You could have heard
a pin drop.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
There was a conference in France where a
number of international engineers were taking part,
including French and American. During a break, one of
the French engineers came back into the room saying
'Have you heard the latest dumb stunt Bush has done? He
has sent an aircraft carrier to Indonesia to help the
tsunami victims. What does he intended to do, bomb
them?'
A Boeing engineer stood up and replied
quietly: 'Our carriers have three hospitals on board
that can treat several hundred people; they are nuclear p
owered and can supply emergency electrical power to
shore facilities; they have three cafeterias with the
capacity to feed 3,000 people three meals a day, they can
produce several thousand gallons of fresh water from sea
water each day, and they carry half a dozen helicopters for
use in transporting victims and injured to and from their
flight deck. We have eleven such ships; how many does
France have?'
You could have heard
a pin drop.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A U.S. Navy Admiral was attending a
naval conference that included Admirals from the U.S. ,
English, Canadian, Australian and French Navies. At a
cocktail reception, he found himself standing with a large
group of Officers that included personnel from most of those
countries. Everyone was chatting away in English as they
sipped their drinks but a French admiral suddenly complained
that, whereas Europeans learn many languages, Americans
learn only English. He then asked, 'Why is it that we
always have to speak English in these conferences rather
than speaking French?'
Without hesitating, the American Admiral
replied, 'Maybe it's because the Brit's,
Canadians, Aussie's and Americans arranged it so you
wouldn't have to speak German.'
You could have heard
a pin drop.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AND THIS STORY FITS RIGHT IN WITH THE
ABOVE...
Robert Whiting , an elderly gentleman of
83, arrived in Paris by plane. At French Customs, he took a
few minutes to locate his passport in his carry on.
"You have been to France before,
monsieur?" the customs officer asked
sarcastically.
Mr. Whiting admitted that he had been to
France previously.
"Then you should know enough to
have your passport ready."
The American said, 'The last time I
was here, I didn't have to show it."
"Impossible. Americans always have
to show your passports on arrival in France !"
The American senior gave the Frenchman a
long hard look. Then he quietly explained,
''Well, when I came ashore at Omaha Beach on D-Day
in 1944 to help liberate this country, I couldn't find a
single Frenchmen to show a passport to."
You could have heard
a pin drop.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If you are proud to be an American, pass
this on! If not, delete it.
I am proud to be of
this land,
AMERICA
and ASHAMED OF ANY PRESIDENT WHO
APOLOGIZES FOR IT!!
is there a pin dropping
somewhere?
Saturday, June 19, 2010
President
Obama's Stimulus Visit Results in Lost Payday for Construction Workers
"In any case, this marks the second time in less than a month, that I know of, that workers have been forced to take unpaid time off so Obama could brag about how much he’s doing for middle class jobs.
Update: Obama’s trip to Ohio yesterday cost between $500,000 and $1 million and he spoke for less than 10 minutes."
Obama's Stimulus Visit Results in Lost Payday for Construction Workers
"In any case, this marks the second time in less than a month, that I know of, that workers have been forced to take unpaid time off so Obama could brag about how much he’s doing for middle class jobs.
Update: Obama’s trip to Ohio yesterday cost between $500,000 and $1 million and he spoke for less than 10 minutes."
A little boy was waiting for his mother to come out of the grocery Store. As he waited, he was approached by a man who asked, "Son, Can You tell me where the Post Office is?"
The little boy replied, "Sure! Just go straight down this street a coupla blocks and turn to your right."
The man thanked the boy kindly and said, "I'm the new pastor in town. I'd like for you to come to church on Sunday. I'll show you how to get To Heaven."
The little boy replied with a chuckle. "Awww, come on... You don't even know the way to the Post Office."
The little boy replied, "Sure! Just go straight down this street a coupla blocks and turn to your right."
The man thanked the boy kindly and said, "I'm the new pastor in town. I'd like for you to come to church on Sunday. I'll show you how to get To Heaven."
The little boy replied with a chuckle. "Awww, come on... You don't even know the way to the Post Office."
Thursday, June 17, 2010
author unknown
I bought a bird feeder. I hung It on my back porch and filled It with seed. What a beauty of A bird feeder it was, as I filled it lovingly with seed. Within a Week we had hundreds of birds Taking advantage of the Continuous flow of free and Easily accessible food.
But then the birds started Building nests in the boards Of the patio, above the table, And next to the barbecue.
Then came the poop. It was Everywhere: on the patio tile, The chairs, the table .. Everywhere!
Then some of the birds Turned mean. They would Dive bomb me and try to Peck me even though I had Fed them out of my own Pocket.
And others birds were Boisterous and loud. They Sat on the feeder and Squawked and screamed at All hours of the day and night And demanded that I fill it When it got low on food.
After a while, I couldn't even Sit on my own back porch Anymore. So I took down the Bird feeder and in three days The birds were gone. I cleaned Up their mess and took down The many nests they had built All over the patio.
Soon, the back yard was like It used to be .... Quiet, serene.... And no one demanding their Rights to a free meal.
Now let's see. Our government gives out Free food, subsidized housing, Free medical care and free Education, and allows anyone Born here to be an automatic Citizen.
Then the illegal's came by the Tens of thousands. Suddenly Our taxes went up to pay for Free services; small apartments Are housing 5 families; you Have to wait 6 hours to be seen By an emergency room doctor; Your child's second grade class is Behind other schools because Over half the class doesn't speak English.
Corn Flakes now come in a Bilingual box; I have to 'press one' to hear my bank Talk to me in English, and People waving flags other Than 'Old Glory' are Squawking and screaming In the streets, demanding More rights and free liberties.
Just my opinion, but maybe it's time for the government To take down the bird feeder.
If you agree, pass it on; if not, Just continue cleaning up the poop
I bought a bird feeder. I hung It on my back porch and filled It with seed. What a beauty of A bird feeder it was, as I filled it lovingly with seed. Within a Week we had hundreds of birds Taking advantage of the Continuous flow of free and Easily accessible food.But then the birds started Building nests in the boards Of the patio, above the table, And next to the barbecue.
Then came the poop. It was Everywhere: on the patio tile, The chairs, the table .. Everywhere!
Then some of the birds Turned mean. They would Dive bomb me and try to Peck me even though I had Fed them out of my own Pocket.
And others birds were Boisterous and loud. They Sat on the feeder and Squawked and screamed at All hours of the day and night And demanded that I fill it When it got low on food.
After a while, I couldn't even Sit on my own back porch Anymore. So I took down the Bird feeder and in three days The birds were gone. I cleaned Up their mess and took down The many nests they had built All over the patio.
Soon, the back yard was like It used to be .... Quiet, serene.... And no one demanding their Rights to a free meal.
Now let's see. Our government gives out Free food, subsidized housing, Free medical care and free Education, and allows anyone Born here to be an automatic Citizen.
Then the illegal's came by the Tens of thousands. Suddenly Our taxes went up to pay for Free services; small apartments Are housing 5 families; you Have to wait 6 hours to be seen By an emergency room doctor; Your child's second grade class is Behind other schools because Over half the class doesn't speak English.
Corn Flakes now come in a Bilingual box; I have to 'press one' to hear my bank Talk to me in English, and People waving flags other Than 'Old Glory' are Squawking and screaming In the streets, demanding More rights and free liberties.
Just my opinion, but maybe it's time for the government To take down the bird feeder.
If you agree, pass it on; if not, Just continue cleaning up the poop
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)