Monday, December 14, 2009

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:17 - Christ is of No Effect

1 Corinthians 1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.

We must be careful in our Christian life. The word of God can be made ineffective through our own actions. When God gives you insight, do whatever he says.

Mark 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.

Our traditions, especially our religious traditions can make the word of God of no effect. We must be careful that everything we do points people toward the perfection of Christ.

Romans 4:14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:

We must be careful in our witness. It is important that lost people get no confidence to continue being lost. Salvation has come for all people. Their religious tradition won't get them to Heaven.

Heavenly Father, help us to be careful in all aspects of our lives. Make us effectual witnesses for you. In Jesus name, amen.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Food on Friday: Chocolate Chip Cookies

I love baking for Christmas!

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 cup margarine, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs
2 cups (12-ounce package) Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla in large mixer bowl. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition; gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels and nuts. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake in preheated 375º F oven for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

For pan cookies: Prepare dough as above. Spread into greased 15"x10" jelly-roll pan. Bake in preheated 375º F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in pan on wire rack.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Time Waster: DIY Hands Free Phone



Funny!

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:14-17 - What is an Evangilist?

1 Corinthians 1:14-17 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; 15 Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. 16 And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. 17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.

Paul worked as an evangelist and a missionary. It was his work in Christ to preach the word and establish churches. The work of baptism is the job of the bishop (pastor) as it is the ordinance of the local New Testament church. Therefore Paul was not allowed to baptize everyone because he was not the leader of that particular church.

2 Timothy 4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

How does an evangelist make proof of his ministry? Paul dealt with this in an earlier passage:

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.

An evangelist is not allowed to water down God's message. He is to prepare himself to preach the whole council of God.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

If you feel that you have been called to be an evangelist then study. Write your own commentary. Memorize scripture. Post a blog. Preach to whoever will listen. Lead people to the Christ you can read about in the Bible.

2 Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.

If you find that you can't practice what God tells you to do, leave. Come out from among them, find a church that preaches and wins souls! Follow the word of God.

Heavenly Father, help us to make our calling more sure. We want to be successful in your endeavors. In Jesus name, amen.

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

Time Waster: Joystick Controlled Alarm Clock

From the because you can department:



Read all about it.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:12,13 - What is Baptism

1 Corinthians 1:12,13 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?

What is baptism? What is it not? How is it supposed to be administered? When do you do it? Let's set aside the traditions of men for a second and look at what the Bible has to say.

Romans 6:3-5 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

Baptism is identifying ourselves with Jesus. It is a celebration of His death burial and resurrection.

Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Baptism is not a method of salvation. All Christians should be baptized but it is not required. It is only through faith that we are saved.

Acts 8:36-37 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? 37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

These verses give us the method of baptism. It must be administered in water, taken with the verse from Romans above, it can plainly be seen that it must be by complete immersion (See above: planted & buried)

Matthew 3:7-9 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: 9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

Unbelievers cannot be baptized. A real New Testament church has the right to refuse baptism to anyone who is not saved.

Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Baptism should be done in the name of the Father, Son & Holy Ghost. This is the only method ever given by Jesus.

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

I only mention this because Oneness Pentecostals have twisted this verse. We already covered the Importance of the Name in a previous post. If you don't want to go back and read, I will tell you that name means authority and that the Son of God was called Yeshua.

John 3:4-7 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

Many people misunderstand John 3:5, saying that this proves the need for water baptism. Oneness Pentecostals will quote verse 5 completely out of context. When taken in it's proper context you can see that being born of water means natural birth and that being born of Spirit means a spiritual rebirth.

Matthew 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance. but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

Everyone will be baptized one day, in this life or the next. Christians are baptized with the Holy Ghost, and arise to walk in newness of life, and will one day go to heaven. Unbelievers walk in their own way and will one day be baptized in the lake of fire.

Jeremiah 6:15,16 Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush: therefore they shall fall among them that fall: at the time that I visit them they shall be cast down, saith the LORD. 16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.

Luke 10:18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.

It is your choice where you will spend your eternity. You can live any way you want, and fall with the fallen one. Or you can pickup your Bible everyday, find the old paths, and walk therein. Choose eternal life!

Heavenly Father, we want to please you. We want to find the old paths. Speak to us through the scriptures. Help us to find the old paths and restore the old landmarks. In Jesus name, amen.

Tuesday, December 08, 2009

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:12,13 - What Are You Called?

1 Corinthians 1:12,13 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?

Ever try to witness to someone? I'm sure you've gotten this kind of response. "I'm Pentecostal" or "I'm Methodist" or "I'm Baptist". This is exactly what Paul is talking about here. But I tell you, it should not be so!

Acts 11:26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

The only moniker given by the Bible for followers of Christ is Christian.

1 Peter 4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

We should suffer as Christians, don't be ashamed! Live the life!

Acts 26:28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

What are we trying to persuade people to become? Don't we want them to join the body of Christ? Teach them to identify with Him!

Matthew 3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,

Baptist is the only denominational name mentioned in the King James Version. If you believe that the KJV is true then how can you call yourself by that name? John was THE Baptist not A Baptist.

Heavenly Father, I will never be ashamed to identify with Your Son's name. I will live and teach and walk in the Christian way. In Jesus name, amen.

Monday, December 07, 2009

Time Waster: Motion Activated Sprinkler

You'll never have to worry about animals in your garden again!



View the video

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:10,11 - What Are You Contending For?

1 Corinthians 1:10,11 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 11 For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.

We should all be of the same mind. When we start fighting amongst ourselves we present a distorted image of salvation.

Proverbs 18:19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.

There are always consequences to fighting. If we offend our brother in Christ we break fellowship. Only when we are in full fellowship with each other can we do our part in our local church.

Jude 1:3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

This is the only thing we are supposed to contend for. We must never turn from what it says in the Bible. No matter how hard it is or what is asked of us.

Heavenly Father, strengthen us for the days ahead. We want to do your will and have fellowship with you and each other. In Jesus name, amen.

Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Time Waster: Arm Mounted Flame Thrower

This guy made a hand held arm mounted flame thrower. I think he's been playing too much Street Fighter. LOL



Watch the video.

Sorry, no instructions this time.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:10 - Ministers of Encouragement

Verse 10:

1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

There it is again, we should all have the same mind. We should be all speaking the same things. But just what is it we're supposed to speak?

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

We are to speak to each other teaching an admonishing words. Singing of the mighty works of God.

1 Timothy 4:6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

We should be reminding each other. Nourish someone's faith. This is a good ministry.

Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

Finally we are warned not to let evil, corrupt speech come from us. We are to be ministers of encouragement.

Heavenly Father, help us to build up our brothers and sisters. Keep us mindful of the thing we say. In Jesus name, amen.

Monday, November 30, 2009

Get Free Coffee

Dunkin' Donuts. Dunkin' keeps me blogging. Try Dunkin' Donuts Coffee For Free. Get a Sample

I got some. Get you some!

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:9 - Fellowship: Who Do You Go to Church For?

1 Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

Fellowship is an important concept in the Bible. It is vitally important to growth and maturity in Christian life.

Philippians 2:1-3 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

We are not only to have fellowship with Christ but also with other Christians. We are supposed to be like minded. We should make every effort to find a church that not only preaches the word, but that we can be alike.

Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

There is a lot of room for diversity in the church. But there is only one head, that is Jesus Christ. Him being the head, we also need to get His mind if we are ever going to live in God's will.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

We need to study and pray everyday. That is what it means to have fellowship with God. That is what he rewards.

Heavenly Father, give us your mind. Help us to have fellowship with you every day. In Jesus name, amen.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Week Off

Taking the week off from posting. Will be back on it strong next week.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:9 - The Faithfulness of God

Continuing on to verse 9:

1 Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

God is faithful. Oh what a relief. I can just trust in Jesus and everything and be ok. That's great! I will be able to accomplish what it is He has in mind for me.

Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Don't worry about what you don't have. Maybe God never intended you to have them. He will give you the things you need to accomplish His ministry on earth. He will never leave you nor forsake you!

Deuteronomy 7:9 Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;

Has God made you a promise? Have you made a covenant with him? He is not a man that He should lie. He will keep you to the end! Just keep doing his work.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for all you've given us. Help us to accomplish you will. In Jesus name, amen.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Food on Friday: Apple Butter Muffins

I haven't made these in forever! Sounds so good.

Apple Butter Muffins

1 egg
1 cup milk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
4 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
3 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp margarine, melted
3/4 cup apple butter

Beat together egg and milk. In a separate container, mix dry ingredients. Combine these two mixtures. Blend in the melted margarine and apple butter last. Spoon into 12 muffin cups and bake at 400º F for around 20 minutes.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:7 - The Gift of God

Continuing on:

1 Corinthians 1:7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:

Paul addressed the whole assembly of believers. They were zealous of spiritual gifts. Paul said it wasn't his intent diminish that zeal.

1 Corinthians 12:29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?

The problem is that they were a proud people. They were claiming gifts that they didn't have. They were too proud to realize they were all made different.

Ephesians 4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

You see, every member of the church has a purpose of their own. God gives us gifts to accomplish our purpose.

Heavenly Father, make us aware of the gifts you have given us. Help us to develop our talents to glorify you, edify the church, and be a light to unbelievers. In Jesus name, amen.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Time Waster: Driving a Car with an iPhone

Car surfing:



Car surfing video.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:6 - What is Your Testimony

Continuing on:

1 Corinthians 1:6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you:

Exodus 25:21 And thou shalt put the mercy seat above upon the ark; and in the ark thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee.

The first mention of a testimony in the Bible. It refers to something they were to receive later. They were to make the ark then God would fill it.

Exodus 31:18 And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.

The testimony of the old testament was the conviction of sin. God gave His people the ten commandments. This was to point them forward to the need for a savior.

Revelation 20:11-15 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

Revelation 21:1-4 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. 2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

What is the the testimony God will be giving you? Will it be a conviction of sin? Or will He greet you with open arms, wiping away your tears?

Heavenly Father, give us a good testimony. Help us to do your will. In Jesus name, amen.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Time Waster: Diamond Mine Game

Here's a cool game I play now and again.


Free Online Flash Games at Sageth.com


Play Diamond Mine

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:5 - The Enrichment of God

On to verse 5:

1 Corinthians 1:5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;

Not only does God provide us with utterance and knowledge, He makes us rich. As we study His word He changes us.

Matthew 10:19 But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.

Don't worry about what you will say when you are persecuted. God will give you the words. Listen to God and speak what comes to your mind.

Exodus 31:3 And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,

God blesses us with skills and knowledge to bring glory to Himself. How are you using what God has given you?

Heavenly Father, give us knowledge abundantly . Give us opportunity to be useful to your kingdom. In Jesus name, amen.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Time Waster: Water-Powered Bottle Rocket

They got one over 600 feet!



Water powered bottle rockets!

Learn how to build one.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:4 - Being Thankful

On to verse 4:

1 Corinthians 1:4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;

We should always be thankful. Again and again we are commanded to give thanks. Thank Him even when you don't feel like it.

Psalm 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

Praise and thanksgiving go hand and hand. We should be thankful all the time.

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

As we approach Thanksgiving, we should remember to thank God for His ruling. Let Him always be Lord of your life.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for everything you do for us. Help us to keep a thankful heart. In Jesus name, amen.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Time Waster: Forklife Failure

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:3 - Jesus as Lord

Continuing in verse 3:

1 Corinthians 1:3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Jesus is our Lord. Lord is a term of royal origin. Let's see what else that means.

Exodus 20:2-5 I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me. 4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. 5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;

Being the Lord, we are to put nothing before Him. Not preferring anything else that opposes His Lordship. Do not consider something else more important than Him. That is called idolatry.

Philippians 2:9-11 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

We've already learned of the importance of the name. Now we know that His name is above all names. Eventually we will all bow to Him.

1 John 4:3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.

If someone doesn't confess Jesus as Lord, they are the antichrist. They are opposed to Jesus. This profession can be made by word or by deed. If they say there are other ways of salvation, serve other gods (or none at all), they are antichrist. You should be mark them and be careful around such.

Heavenly Father, I accept you as Lord of my life. Give me discernment, help me to know the antichrists who surround me. In Jesus name, amen.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Sermons on Sunday: Idolatry in Christianity

Michael Slattery was born in Lakewood New Jersey as one of the Last of the Baby Boomers, Moved to Florida in 1984 Got Saved and then got Married. Married now for 23 years to his lovely wife Yelena Father to 8 Children ( 7 girls and 1 boy) and now three grandchildren SO FAR...Saved October 18 1985m. slattery 1

Authored the booklet "the Church Whoring Around" a frank biblical look at church incorporation.

Pastor Freedom Baptist Church Belleview Florida 1998-2008

Outreach Ministry Of Light House Chapel Durham North Carolina hosting what we affectionately refer to as "Hurricane Preparedness Meetings"

Defender of the Free Church movement and the Correct understanding of Romans 13. Brother Slattery applies the bible to every aspect of life.



http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=519072015

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:3 - God as Our Father

Continuing in verse 3:

1 Corinthians 1:3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Over and over again we are told to think of God is our Father. He is our source of grace and peace. What else does that mean?

John 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.

The Jews never thought of themselves as God's children. They were highly traditional. Only doing those things they were taught, following the letter of the law.

Matthew 23:9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.

We are to call no man our father. There is only one who provides for us. That is our Heavenly Father.

Matthew 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He taught us to pray to the Father. He didn't teach us to pray to Himself or the Holy Spirit or any man, living or dead, or any statue. Only the Heavenly Father provides all our needs and hears all our prayers.

Matthew 7:11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

God provides for us. We should praise Him for His provision and share with Him the desires of our heart, if they are within His will.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for every good gift. Thank you for being a good Father to us. In Jesus name, amen.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

DIY Saturday: Build You Own Sound Booth

Over at ThoughtLab.com, they have posted a DIY Sound Booth. This would be an easy weekend project if you wanted to do some quality recording for pretty cheap.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:3 - Finding True Peace

Continuing in verse 3:

1 Corinthians 1:3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

For the entirety of history the world has been at war. Much of our own country's history has been marred by war. Within our own lifetimes, millions have died by war and tyrannous government.

Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

We should do as much as possible to live in peace with all men. That doesn't mean that we compromise the truth or live in sin. We must continue to share the truth in love.

1 Peter 5:14 Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

We are to greet our brothers in Christ with charity. It is part of the process of building up each other.

Matthew 10:34 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.

Not everyone will agree with the truth. In fact, most people are hostile to the gospel. We're not going to make a lot of friends telling people they are going to hell.

Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

If we have been saved, we can know peace with God. That is the only peace that really matters.

Heavenly Father, we want to be at peace with you. Help us to tell the truth with others and find peace with the brethren. In Jesus name, amen.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Food on Friday: The Difference Between Baking Soda & Powder

Both baking soda and baking powder are leavening agents, which means they are added to baked goods before cooking to produce carbon dioxide and cause them to 'rise'. Baking powder contains baking soda, but the two substances are used under different conditions.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate. When baking soda is combined with moisture and an acidic ingredient (e.g., yogurt, chocolate, buttermilk, honey), the resulting chemical reaction produces bubbles of carbon dioxide that expand under oven temperatures, causing baked goods to rise. The reaction begins immediately upon mixing the ingredients, so you need to bake recipes which call for baking soda immediately, or else they will fall flat!

Baking Powder

Baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate, but it includes the acidifying agent already (cream of tartar), and also a drying agent (usually starch).

Baking powder is available as single-acting baking powder and as double-acting baking powder. Single-acting powders are activated by moisture, so you must bake recipes which include this product immediately after mixing. Double-acting powders react in two phases and can stand for a while before baking. With double-acting powder, some gas is released at room temperature when the powder is added to dough, but the majority of the gas is released after the temperature of the dough increases in the oven.

How Are Recipes Determined?

Some recipes call for baking soda, while others call for baking powder. Which ingredient is used depends on the other ingredients in the recipe. The ultimate goal is to produce a tasty product with a pleasing texture. Baking soda is basic and will yield a bitter taste unless countered by the acidity of another ingredient, such as buttermilk. You'll find baking soda in cookie recipes. Baking powder contains both an acid and a base and has an overall neutral effect in terms of taste. Recipes that call for baking powder often call for other neutral-tasting ingredients, such as milk. Baking powder is a common ingredient in cakes and biscuits.

Substituting in Recipes

You can substitute baking powder in place of baking soda (you'll need more baking powder and it may affect the taste), but you can't use baking soda when a recipe calls for baking powder. Baking soda by itself lacks the acidity to make a cake rise. However, you can make your own baking powder if you have baking soda and cream of tartar. Simply mix two parts cream of tartar with one part baking soda.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:3 - What is Grace?

On to verse 3:

1 Corinthians 1:3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

What is grace? In churches and among Christians there is a lot of confusion as to what it is, how it is obtained and what it means

Genesis 6:7-9 And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. 8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. 9 These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.

The first instance of the word grace is a reference to Noah. God had decided to destroy everything on the earth except Noah. So grace means that God has decided not to punish you.

John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

Romans 4:16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,

We can obtain the grace of God by faith in Jesus Christ. It is a question of salvation.

What does grace not mean?

Romans 6:15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.

Grace does not give us permission to sin. We are commanded again and again to Sanctify ourselves.

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Throughout the whole Bible there is only one person listed as being full of grace. That is the Lord Jesus Christ. Not Mary, his mother, or any other living or dead person. Anyone who tells you anything different is pushing false religion and should be avoided as such.

Heavenly Father, let us find grace in your eyes. Show us your will. Set us free from false religion and anyone who would have us live under the law. In Jesus name, amen.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Time Waster: Living on Air

There is this worldwide cult that believes you can live by breathing alone. Watch this crazy video about them:



Living on Air

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:2 - The Importance of the Name

Continuing on in verse 2:

1 Corinthians 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

What does it mean to call upon the name of Jesus, or the name of the Lord?

John 14:13,14 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

Some people would have you believe that God only gave one name for himself throughout the whole Bible, and that would be Jesus. They will tell you that there's power in that name. Speaking of the name "Jesus" like it's magic, and saying "in Jesus name" like it's some sort of incantation or magic spell.

1 John 5:13,14 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

To ask something in someone's name is to be speaking according to their will or with their authority. We must be careful when assuming God's will.

If you insist on calling on His actual name, you might want to use the one He used when He was a human. That would be Yeshua.

Heavenly Father, Help us to know and do and ask things according to your will. In Jesus name, amen.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Time Waster: Mime Mayhem

Here's a game for those who don't like mimes.


Free Online Flash Games at Sageth.com

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:2 - What is Sacitification?

Continuing on in verse 2.

1 Corinthians 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

What is sanctification?

1 Thessalonians 4:3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

Sanctification is the will of God. Sanctification is separation, or as the Bible puts it abstaining. Today we will examine fornication.

2 Chronicles 21:11-13 Moreover he made high places in the mountains of Judah and caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem to commit fornication, and compelled Judah thereto. 12 And there came a writing to him from Elijah the prophet, saying, Thus saith the LORD God of David thy father, Because thou hast not walked in the ways of Jehoshaphat thy father, nor in the ways of Asa king of Judah, 13 But hast walked in the way of the kings of Israel, and hast made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to go a whoring, like to the whoredoms of the house of Ahab, and also hast slain thy brethren of thy father's house, which were better than thyself:

The first type of fornication is spiritual fornication. Also known as whoring:

Judges 2:17 And yet they would not hearken unto their judges, but they went a whoring after other gods, and bowed themselves unto them: they turned quickly out of the way which their fathers walked in, obeying the commandments of the LORD; but they did not so.

Throughout the histories of Israel and the church, there have been periods of tremendous revival followed by terrible apostasy. During the apostasy people would go off and serve other Gods.

Matthew 5:32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

The second type of fornication is physical fornication. Which the Bible defines as sex outside marriage.

Mark 10:9 What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

It is a sin to have sex outside marriage. The Bible doesn't say sex specifically because in those days, it wasn't a sliding scale. Today we like to think of petting as not as bad a penetration, but the Bible makes no such distinctions.

Heavenly Father, keep us from fornication. Make us mindful of situations around us so that we can avoid them. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Time Waster: Sleep Walking Dog

So funny!

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:2 - What is a Church?

Today we finally make it to verse 2.

1 Corinthians 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

What is the Church?

Matthew 16:13-18 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

The church is a body of called out believers.

Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Belief is being defined as those who not only profess but act upon that belief. It is one thing to say that you believe a bridge is sturdy, it is another thing to actually cross it.

Who is the head of the church?

Colossians 1:18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Jesus Christ is the only recognized head of the church in the Bible.

What is the church's function?

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

The church has been put together to accomplish God's purposes.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

We are called together to comfort and encourage one another.

James 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

We are called to visit those who hurt and to live a holy life.

Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

We are called to follow the apostle's doctrine, fellowship and pray together.

2 Timothy 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

Teach men, so that they can teach other.

Heavenly Father, give us unity with true believers. Help us to be the church you want. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Monday, November 09, 2009

Time Waster: WALL-E Email Notifier

TotoroYamada at letsmakerobots.com has a Wall-E build for an email notifier. Check out the video of Wall-E in action.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:1 - The Mouth of Two Witnesses

1 Corinthians 1:1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,

also:

Deuteronomy 19:15 One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.

God knows about the unreliability of people. As long as we are in the flesh, we will never be perfect. According to the Jewish justice system, it took two people to bear witness to sin.

Matthew 18:15-16 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

Jesus firmly established this as the church norm. Paul and Sosthenes' firmly established the sin of the Corinthian church.

Titus 3:10,11 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; 11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

Heresy has to be dealt with swiftly. After admonitions have been given, they must be reject. They have shown themselves not to be Christians.

Revelation 11:3 And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.

One day God will send two witnesses to this world to preach and then judge the world. Let's try to help as many as people as we can to get to Heaven.

Heavenly Father, keep us mindful of the time we live in. Help us to reach out to people who are hurting and lost. In Jesus name, amen.

Sunday, November 08, 2009

Sermons on Sunday: Family Worship

Dr. Joel R. Beeke is Professor of Systematic Theology and Homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, pastor of the Heritage Netherlands Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, Michigan USA, editorial director of Reformation Heritage Books, and editor of the Banner of Sovereign Grace Truth.



Family Worship Sermon

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:1 - What is Your Calling?

What is Your Calling

1 Corinthians 1:1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,

What have you been called to do with your life. Is what you're doing helping you to reach that goal?

Romans 11:29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.

If you ever feel that God has called you to do something or given you a gift for a ministry, He will never take it away from you. He wants you to use it to build up the church. But just how are you going to do that?

Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Notice He never gave any to take up space on the pew. He never gave any to make themselves a ton of money. God has called us to live a different life.

Isaiah 58:12 And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.

Heavenly Father, give us opportunities to use the gifts you have given us. In Jesus name, amen.

Saturday, November 07, 2009

DIY Saturday: Evasive Beeping Thing

The beeping thing is a simple circuit board powered by a 9-volt battery and outputting a high-pitched whining sound through a tiny speaker. The pictures above show it hidden in a gutted power transformer, but you could just as easily hide it in anything else big enough to conceal the device. Check the video below to see the construction process and hear it in action.



DIY Evasive Beeping Thing

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:1 - Who is My Brother

Who is My Brother

1 Corinthians 1:1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,

Who is my brother?

First we need to identify we are talking about. We can't go about thinking everyone is saved, even in our churches.

Mathew 12:48-50 But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? 49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! 50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.

What does that mean?

Relationship in the church is important. The church is a family of families. We need to treat each other as such.

1 Timothy 5:1-2 Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; 2 The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.

Brotherly love is not selfish.

Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

It is not judge others by our own personal convictons.

Romans 14:10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

We must restore our brothers. It is imporant for our witness that we keep each other from sin.

1 John 5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

Heavenly Father, help us to treat each other as a family. Keep us mindful of our attitudes & actions. In Jesus name, amen.

Friday, November 06, 2009

Food on Friday: Chicken Parmesan

Here's another of my favorites.

Chicken Parmesan

1.5-2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
1/4 cup margarine

Breading:
1 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Mrs. Dash*
2 medium eggs

Sauce:
2 14.5 oz cans diced tomatoes
1 14.5 oz can tomato paste
1 tbsp total of basil, oregano & garlic powder
2 tbsp olive oil*

2 cups bow tie pasta

* - Estimated amounts

Combine crumbs, cheese & Mrs. Dash in small bowl, set to side. Beat eggs together in separate small bowl, set to side. take 9x13 baking pan, spray with non-stick cooking spray. Preheat oven to 350º F. Dip chicken into egg on both sides, place in breading bowl & bread on each side. Place in baking pan. Repeat until all chicken is breaded. Drop up to 1/4 cup of margarine around pan, not on chicken. Bake 45 minutes or until chicken is cooked thoroughly. In small sauce pan, combine diced tomatoes & tomato paste. Stir until consistency is even. Add basil, oregano, garlic & olive oil, stir well. Simmer until chicken is ready. Sauce will be thick. Prepare bow tie pasta according to package instructions. Serve chicken atop pasta, covered with sauce.

For more breading, mix 2 parts bread crumbs with 1 part cheese & sprinkle with Mrs. Dash.

For more sauce, mix 2 parts diced tomatoes with 1 part tomato paste, with spice & olive oil to taste.

The sauce makes a great homemade pizza sauce as well.

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Time Waster: Pong Wrist Watch



This guy decided to make a portable version of the Pong Wall Clock. It's really an amazing job. Check it out!

Pong Wrist Watch Detailed Build

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:1 - How to Determine God's Will

There's more than meets the eye in this verse.

1 Corinthians 1:1 Paul called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,

How do you determine God's will?

Acts 1:24,26 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, 26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

In times past, before the gift of the Holy Spirit, Men used the lot as a means for determining the will of God.

Hebrews 2:4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?

During apostolic times the apostles were given gifts to verify their ministry. But now we have a better way to determine the will of God.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Now that we have God's word written down (the Bible) we can know what God's will is for our lives. We need to study everyday to learn what his will is.

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

We should start with the plainly known will of God, those things that are repeated over and over again in scripture. As we study God will work out what is His acceptable and perfect will.

Heavenly Father, help us to get into Your Word everyday. Help us to find your will for our lives. In Jesus name, amen.

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

Time Waster: Amazing Corn Mazes

If there’s one thing we’ve got a LOT of here in America, it’s corn. In the past few years Corn Mazes have become a wildly popular fall activity for all ages. We’ve enjoyed many ourselves and part of what we like about them is that they’re a hack. Whether made by the farmer down the road or a professional company most now use GPS to ensure a fun, challenging, and cool looking corn maze.

Amazing Corn Mazes

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:1 - What is an Apostle?

Continuing in our study of Corinthians:

1 Corinthians 1:1 Paul called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,

What is an apostle? What are the qualifications to become one? Some say that it is an office for today, other say that time has passed. Let's see what the Bible has to say. This is a murky subject in most churches, but let's put our own biases and traditions aside an look at what the Bible has to say.

How are they chosen?

Acts 1:2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:

First of all, like any other ministry, apostles are people chosen specifically by God for his purposes.

What are the qualifications?

Acts 1:20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.

This verse of scripture refers to the apostle Judas. So an apostle holds the office of bishop. We should look at requirements for bishop.

1 Timothy 3:2-5 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)

It says here that a bishop has to be a married with children. Using deductive reasoning, we must assume the word "bishoprick" means office. Although Peter was married, none of the other big 13 were married. In fact Paul specifically claims virginity.

Peter was married?

That's right.

Matthew 8:14 And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever.

If they had meant another Peter the Bible would say so, but it doesn't. So at the very least Peter was married. But why don't you ever hear about her?

Luke 14:26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

So in order to become a disciple of Jesus, you had to leave your family behind.

What does an apostle do?

Romans 11:13 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

2 Corinthians 12:12 Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.

An apostle is an office of the Church. He is a missionary. His ministry is accompanied by verifiable miracles.

What about the requirement that they be with Jesus throughout His ministry?

Acts 1:3,21 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: 21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.

Of the original apostles, they all saw Jesus before and after His death. There is however no such requirement listed. Quite the opposite is said in Romans.

Romans 1:5,6 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: 6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:

Grace and apostleship come from the same place, not of works of the flesh but by God.

Hebrews 3:1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

Jesus is also listed as an apostle, so that is not a requirement.

Are there apostles today?

Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

We can say for sure that there are still evangelists, pastors and teachers, but can we be sure of apostles and prophets? Before you raise someone up to these offices, or allow someone to claim them over you, you should be sure of signs of a true apostle and prophet.

We will deal with prophets later. For now let's deal with apostles.

Acts 5:14-16 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) 15 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. 16 There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

Not only can a apostle heal, but he can heal every one. We're not talking about one healed now and again, but every one!

Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

An apostle is a teacher, missionary and disciple maker. Not just some guy that starts churches. I've never met an apostle and I likely never will. I've met several people who claim the office but never could match up the the Biblical definition.

2 Corinthians 11:12-14 But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we. 13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

A true apostle is truly a man of humility. He will not build himself up.

Heavenly Father, help us to recognize false apostles. Set us free from those who would put us into bondage. In Jesus name, amen.

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

Time Waster: Bat Bashing

Whoa, quick reflexes!



Bat Bashing

Here's PETA's take one it:

To bludgeon a 4-ounce animal to death, it takes either a small man or a totally unthinking one—with no respect or consideration for lives humbler than his own. This is a time when athletes in particular need to be on their best behavior around any animal and show that they have brains and a heart, not just reactionary brawn.

Manu Ginobili

Wonder if their compassion extends to unborn children? I very much doubt it.

Morning Meditations: 1 Corinthians 1:1 - Sosthenes

Finally back to the Corinthians! From my morning devotion:

1 Corinthians 1:1 Paul called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,

Who is Sosthenes? Nothing is in the word of God by accident. Let's look into the word and let's see what the Bible has to say.

Acts 18:1,4-6,8,11-18 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; 4And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks. 5 And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ. 6 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean; from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles. 8 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized. 11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. 12 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, 13 Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law. 14 And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you: 15 But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters. 16 And he drave them from the judgment seat. 17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things. 18 And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.

Some people say that Sosthenes and Crispus are the same person. I disagree. Under Roman law, the chief ruler of the synagogue would have been in charge of keeping the Jews in line. Crispus had not been the chief for more than a year and a half by the time of the Jewish insurrection (verse 11). Sosthenes was dragged before the judgment seat and beaten (verse 17), the Roman ruler had given his approval.

What happened after that we can only speculate. Paul stayed there yet a good while (verse 18). It appears that the love and compassion of the Christians won over Sosthenes. By the time Paul is writing the letter to the Corinthians, this converted Jewish leader has authority with the local New Testament church and Paul speaks with his authority.

Matthew 5:43-45 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

We should remember to love our enemies. It turns out it can make a world of difference. Pray for them. God demands it.

Heavenly Father, help us to love our enemies. Help us to see the possibilities of showing them your love. In Jesus name, amen.

Monday, November 02, 2009

Time Waster: Amazingly Cool Workspace

One of the best ways to cut down on cable clutter is to get all your equipment and cables right off the floor, so cables can never drape across the floor in the first place. Louis' workspace uses a system of shelves to keep everything in a position where the cords travel the shortest distance possible. His computer and accompanying gear, save for the printer, are on a shelf right below his floating desk and directly beside the outlet they pull power from. In most places the cables have to travel mere inches to get where they are going and can stay tucked out of site easily.

Cool Handmade Workspace

Morning Meditations: Holiness

Wish I could get back to Corinthians, but there's too much good stuff here in Exodus. From my morning devotion:

Exodus 28:36 And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

Holiness belongs to the Lord. He is the most holy and nothing unholy can appear in His presence. It is in Him and through Him that we breath and move and have our existence.

Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Our righteousness is dirty rags. His ways are far above our own. His holiness is not necessarily our holiness. We should do those things the He has asked of us (within a Biblical framework).

Matthew 6:1,2 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. 2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Do not do any works to be seen. Holiness is to be to the Lord, of the Lord, and by the Lord. His reward will far exceed any reward we will get on earth.

When it comes right down to it, holiness is works. It has nothing to do with salvation. But those that are called of God will feel the need for a further purging of worldly things and ways. If you don't, you need to listen to God, cry out for Him. For holiness is the evidence of the Spirit dwelling in you.

Proverbs 3:12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

The purpose of His holiness is to make us delightful in His eyes. He will correct us like a potter works clay, molding us into the image vessel He wants us to be.

Heavenly Father, correct us. Treat us as your sons and daughters. Make our lives a joy to observe. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Morning Meditations: HolinessMorning

Wish I could get back to Corinthians, but there's too much good stuff here in Exodus. From my morning devotion:

Exodus 28:36 And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

Holiness belongs to the Lord. He is the most holy and nothing unholy can appear in His presence. It is in Him and through Him that we breath and move and have our existence.

Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Our righteousness is dirty rags. His ways are far above our own. His holiness is not necessarily our holiness. We should do those things the He has asked of us (within a Biblical framework).

Matthew 6:1,2 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. 2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Do not do any works to be seen. Holiness is to be to the Lord, of the Lord, and by the Lord. His reward will far exceed any reward we will get on earth.

When it comes right down to it, holiness is works. It has nothing to do with salvation. But those that are called of God will feel the need for a further purging of worldly things and ways. If you don't, you need to listen to God, cry out for Him. For holiness is the evidence of the Spirit dwelling in you.

Proverbs 3:12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

The purpose of His holiness is to make us delightful in His eyes. He will correct us like a potter works clay, molding us into the image vessel He wants us to be.

Heavenly Father, correct us. Treat us as your sons and daughters. Make our lives a joy to observe. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Morning Meditations: God's Plans

We will get back to Corinthians soon enough. Today's thought is from Exodus. From my morning devotion:

Exodus 25:9...Exodus 27:19 According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it. Exodus 27:19 All the vessels of the tabernacle in all the service thereof, and all the pins thereof, and all the pins of the court, shall be of brass.

When you read through the Bible some things are obvious and others are painfully obvious. He takes three chapters to explain in detail just what the tabernacle is supposed to look like. We think that we can live our lives whatever way we want and God will be pleased.

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

The way you're going is not good enough. Living by your own wisdom is not pleasing in God's eyes. Following your heart is not an option.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

What are God's plans for your life. They will be far better than the plans you have for yourself. He has plans for you before you were even born. Live you life for him.

Heavenly Father, conform us to the thought you have of us. Remake us in the image of your Son. Show us what your plans are. In Jesus name, amen.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Morning Meditations: Introducing the Corinthians

I'm going to do something a little different for a while. Considering the day we live in, it's appropriate to take a little extra time with the books of Corinthians. We live in a day of denominations and divisions. A day when we idolize our spiritual leaders, put them on a pedestal, much like the Corinthians.

1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

I'm going to take as long as I need to deal with the doctrinal issues of the day and apply it to modern church problems. It is my hope that through the study of the Corinthians we can come to the truth of the Bible.

Romans 3:3-4 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? 4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.

Amen! This study will hold up the Word of God as the standard. The traditions of men will be examined and what doesn't hold truth will be discarded. We will let the Bible define it's own terms.

Heavenly Father, help us to unite under your banner. We will hold nothing but your Holy Word as true. We submit ourselves to your command. In Jesus name, amen.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Morning Meditations: Good & Evil

From my morning devotion:

Romans 16:19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.

God, writing through Paul said that he would would have us wise concerning that which is good. He wants us to know little about that which is evil. How does that look in practical life?

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

What do you think about? Is it things that you can admit and still have a good testimony? We must get control of our thought life! We must consider those things which are positive, true and honest.

Psalm 101:3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.

What are you setting before your eyes? What are you looking at? What are you listening to? Could they be qualified as good or evil? What is cleaving to you? What are you obsessed with? I can guarantee if it's not of God, it's evil.

Heavenly Father, help us to cleave to you. Help us to make the hard decisions in our lives. Keep our minds pure and our hearts clean. In Jesus name, amen.

Monday, October 26, 2009

Time Waster: Honking Pumkin

Here's one way to keep kids off your porch this year. If he'd just add a motion sensor to the thing, it'd be perfect:



Honking Pumkin

Morning Meditations: Hope

From my morning devotion:

Romans 15:3-4 For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. 4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

also:

Titus 3:7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

You must be justified by grace through faith. Don't think that you can do it on your own. You can never do enough good to get God to give you his grace.

1 John 5:13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

Over and over again, throughout the New Testament, God speaks of having hope. We can have hope that when we die, we can go to heaven. Hope that the suffering of this life will eventually lead somewhere better.

Heavenly Father, give us true hope. Help us to trust in you alone for our salvation. Allow us to see life through your eyes. In Jesus name, amen.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

DIY Saturday: Make Your Own Rolling Toolbox

Here’s a project that tarts up a dresser into a passable tool chest. Using casters, modern drawer pulls and a tidy paint job, they turn a nasty old dresser into something presentable. It’s nowhere near as slick as the commercial units…no ball bearing glides, not chemical resistant, and your macho grease monkey friends will just roll their eyes…but if you’d rather spend your hard-earned money on more and better tools than a pretty box to put them in, this might be just the thing. From across the room, you’d hardly know the difference.

A good tool chest will include several shallow drawers so that all the tools are visible at a glance and not buried in a jumble. If searching for a piece of furniture to re-use, look for something with multiple slim drawers rather than just a few deep ones; a large jewelry chest might work well.

See the project

Friday, October 23, 2009

Morning Meditations: For The Recovering Pharisee

From my morning devotion:

Romans 14:1,10 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. 10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

also:

Romans 14:5-8 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. 6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. 7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. 8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.

We are to receive someone who claims to be a Christian in faith. Unless they show themselves to be false prophets or someone obviously trapped in sin, you have no right to say to say anything against them or their personal convictions.

Romans 14:13-19 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. 14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. 15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. 16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of: 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. 19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

If you are judging someone for something not obviously sin, you are condemning yourself. Furthermore you are putting a stumblingblock in their way. Who are you to judge what god has called them to do. Do you have all the same gifts and callings as they do?

I have been in "churches" where a woman is judged for wearing pants, or on the length of their skirt (even though they were being modest). Going to hell for cutting their hair? Won't listen to a teacher or support a missionary because he wears a wedding band? We need to repent people!

Heavenly Father, forgive us for judging our brothers and sisters. Help us to build up each other in love of You. Help us to have unity. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Morning Meditations: The Government

From my morning devotion:

Exodus 22:28 Thou shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of thy people.

also:

Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

We must be careful in our dealings with people outside our families and churches. When dealing with a government, whether they be just or not, we must seek to live in peace with the rulers and courts. Two things we must never allow our government to do are these: sin and stop witnessing.

Daniel 4:17 This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.

God even ordains poor rulers. Sometimes God puts His people to the fire so that they will turn back to Him, or to perfect them.

1 Timothy 2:1-4 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

God wills that all men come to salvation. For all to know the truth. We should pray for our bad rulers as well as our good ones.

Heavenly Father, bless our land with good leadership. May the rulers you have ordained live a long fruitful life. Help them to make good choices. Please bring them to salvation. In Jesus name, amen.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Morning Meditations: Jesus Loves the Unborn Children

From my morning devotion:

Exodus 21:22-25 If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman's husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine. 23 And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life, 24 Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, 25 Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.

also:

Jeremiah 1:5a Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee;

God has a sweet spot for the unborn. All throughout scripture it is bore out. The sovereign Lord of the universe has a purpose for each and every person, even before conception.

Judges 13:5 For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.

We subvert the purposes of God whenever we end the life of an unborn child. Whether it's from the hand of a "doctor" or we us an abortifacient such as birth control pill.

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

Heavenly Father, reward us richly. We want to accomplish your purposes. Make our lives a blessing and not a curse. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Time Waster: Doom on a Picture Key Chain

Alright, so Doom isn’t actually running on the key chain itself, but rather a BifferBoard: a small 150MHz x86 containing ethernet, serial, and even USB with only one watt of power consumption! The project is to show how easy it is to program the BifferBoard and getting it talking to other hackable items – such as the picture key chain for a display. Doom does appear a bit slo.

Doom on a Bifferboard via photoframe from Tristan Green on Vimeo.

Morning Meditations: The Christian Sabbath

From my morning devotion:

Exodus 20:8-11 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: 10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: 11 For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

also:

Colossians 2:16-17 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.

Under the Jewish law, you could be punished for working on the sabbath. But this was simply a foreshadowing of things to come.

Mark 2:27 And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath:

You see, the Pharisees had made the Sabbath work to keep. They looked down upon those who didn't keep it. It filled them with pride to keep it.

Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Go to Jesus for your rest. He's your rest.

Heavenly Father, help us to find our rest in you. Give us peace. In Jesus name, amen.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Morning Meditations: Peculiar Treasure

From my morning devotion:

Exodus 19:5 Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine:

also:

1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;

Sometimes when we read through the Bible we get the idea that God is this cosmic ogre, just waiting to whack us whenever we do something wrong. This is simple not true! He wants you to follow Him so that you can bring glory to Him.

Zechariah 2:8 For thus saith the LORD of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye.

When we become His people, we become the apple of His eye! Other scriptures refer to Him as the good father. He loves us so much!

Heavenly Father, we thank you for all the good things that you do for us. We thank you for keeping us and loving us. In Jesus name, amen.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Sermons on Sunday: Paul Washer - The Purpose of Marriage

Another great sermon from Paul Washer. He is a straight shooter.

Morning Meditations: Election

From my morning devotion:

Exodus 18:20-22 And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do. 21 Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens: 22 And let them judge the people at all seasons: and it shall be, that every great matter they shall bring unto thee, but every small matter they shall judge: so shall it be easier for thyself, and they shall bear the burden with thee.

also:

Romans 9:11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)

Whenever a great man of God is chosen in the Bible, it's always the will of God. Like Jonah, God does the choosing.

Romans 9:15,16 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

God will do the choosing. God will save whom he will save. It is not of your will, but of his.

Romans 9:33 As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

Why won't you believe on Him today? Proclaim it! Don't be ashamed!

Heavenly Father, continue to draw is near to you. Give us your grace. Transform us into your image. In Jesus name, amen.