From my morning devotion:
Genesis 46:34 That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.
also:
Acts 16:20-23 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, 21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans. 22 And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. 23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:
Egypt is a type of sin and I would think it appropriate to call the shepherd a type of pastor. So what we have here are sinful people that don't like pastors. Not surprising when that old pride gets hurt it really stings. It's hard to be told what to do.
Ephesians 4:11,12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
But the purpose of church leadership is the perfecting of the saints. This doesn't just mean preaching and teaching but also counseling, encouragement and fellowship.
Luke 22:25,26 And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. 26 But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.
Do not let a pastor act as lord over you. You have one Lord, who is Jesus Christ. You shouldn't feel like you're wasting your pastor's time or be scared to approach them, they are there for your perfection.
Lord, help us all to find pastor who love you and do what you command. Give us grace to follow them in a way that pleases you. In Jesus name, amen.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Morning Meditations: Law vs Grace
From my morning devotion:
Acts 15:24,28,29 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:...28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; 29 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
Salvation is by faith. It always has been, from the time of the fall till now. The law was there for our humility. We were to be driven to our knees by the requirements of a holy God. Instead men thought that they could keep the law and it made them proud.
Acts 15:9 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
The gentiles weren't to be commanded to keep the law. What the law means to us is a means of purifying our lives, by following biblical patterns.
John 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
Lord, we are humbled by your law. Give us your grace and mercy. In Jesus name, amen.
Acts 15:24,28,29 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:...28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; 29 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
Salvation is by faith. It always has been, from the time of the fall till now. The law was there for our humility. We were to be driven to our knees by the requirements of a holy God. Instead men thought that they could keep the law and it made them proud.
Acts 15:9 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
The gentiles weren't to be commanded to keep the law. What the law means to us is a means of purifying our lives, by following biblical patterns.
John 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
Lord, we are humbled by your law. Give us your grace and mercy. In Jesus name, amen.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Morning Meditations: Reproof and Correction
From my morning devotion:
Proverbs 29:15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.
also:
Proverbs 29:17 Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.
Let's consult Mr Webster:
Reproof - Blame expressed to the face; censure for a fault; reprehension.
Correct - Literally, set right, or made straight.
In order to raise godly children we must be consistent. We must not let a child raise themselves or they will not turn out well at all.
Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
Simply spanking them every time they do something wrong is unbiblical. It is provoking them to anger and sin. But when combined with reproof and correction spanking becomes an invaluable part of child rearing.
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
The use of scripture in discipline of children not only helpful to teach them scripture, but it also gives us a baseline for our own consistency.
Lord, help us to get into the Bible everyday. Help us to be more consistent in the discipline of our children. In Jesus name, amen.
Proverbs 29:15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.
also:
Proverbs 29:17 Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.
Let's consult Mr Webster:
Reproof - Blame expressed to the face; censure for a fault; reprehension.
Correct - Literally, set right, or made straight.
In order to raise godly children we must be consistent. We must not let a child raise themselves or they will not turn out well at all.
Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
Simply spanking them every time they do something wrong is unbiblical. It is provoking them to anger and sin. But when combined with reproof and correction spanking becomes an invaluable part of child rearing.
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
The use of scripture in discipline of children not only helpful to teach them scripture, but it also gives us a baseline for our own consistency.
Lord, help us to get into the Bible everyday. Help us to be more consistent in the discipline of our children. In Jesus name, amen.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Food on Friday: Easy Rice Pudding Recipe
I worked on my Rice Pudding Recipe for more than a year. If you have any opinions or suggestions please post a comment.
Rice:
2 Cups Instant Rice
2 Cups Water
Microwave for 5 minutes covered. Let sit covered for 3-4 minutes. Fluff rice with fork adding 2 Tablespoons margerine.
Inside a 1 1/2 Quart bakable dish mix:
Cooked Rice
4 Beaten Eggs
12 Ounces Evaporated Milk
1 Tablespoon Vinalla
1 Teaspoon Cinnamon
1/2 Cup Sliced Almonds
Sugar to taste
Bake 1 hour at 325 or until you can insert a butter knife and it comes out nearly clean. I have noticed that the almonds tend to float to the top. Check the dish half way through and stir if this has happened.
Sprinkle cinnamon on top after pulling it from the oven.
If this seems like a lot of vinalla or cinnamon reduce as you feel necessary. I have not included an set amount of sugar because I'm not sure exactly how much I put in, it's not a whole lot, plus everyone likes a different amount.
I know it would probably be better if I used slow cook rice, but I've never had any complaint about using it. Besides, this is a recipe for Easy Rice Pudding.
Rice:
2 Cups Instant Rice
2 Cups Water
Microwave for 5 minutes covered. Let sit covered for 3-4 minutes. Fluff rice with fork adding 2 Tablespoons margerine.
Inside a 1 1/2 Quart bakable dish mix:
Cooked Rice
4 Beaten Eggs
12 Ounces Evaporated Milk
1 Tablespoon Vinalla
1 Teaspoon Cinnamon
1/2 Cup Sliced Almonds
Sugar to taste
Bake 1 hour at 325 or until you can insert a butter knife and it comes out nearly clean. I have noticed that the almonds tend to float to the top. Check the dish half way through and stir if this has happened.
Sprinkle cinnamon on top after pulling it from the oven.
If this seems like a lot of vinalla or cinnamon reduce as you feel necessary. I have not included an set amount of sugar because I'm not sure exactly how much I put in, it's not a whole lot, plus everyone likes a different amount.
I know it would probably be better if I used slow cook rice, but I've never had any complaint about using it. Besides, this is a recipe for Easy Rice Pudding.
No Post This Morning
Keeping myself busy with the family today. No time to write! Recipe scheduled to post at noon.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Time Waster: Rock Radio
My ROCK Radio. The number two in my cement-audio-series. It started of being a very nice rectangular brick shape. Then I found out that a thick layer of cement shields the radio from actually receiving radio waves. With my "Now it doesn't work anyway" philosophy, I took a big hammer and created this Flintstones look, and the radio works!Flintstone Radio
Morning Meditations: Contending for Headship
Today we're going to deal with more biblical patterns for living. I know these types of posts don't make me a lot of friends. I don't write the mail, I just deliver it. If you have a problem with this pattern, then your problem is with the Bible, not me. I have struggled with this post all day. Feel free to post your questions or comments.
From my morning devotion:
Proverbs 27:15 A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.
also:
Proverbs 21:9 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
Let's consult Mr Webster just so we can make sure we know what we are talking about.
Contentious - Apt to contend; given to angry debate; quarrelsome; perverse.
Brawling - The act of quarreling.
Healthy debate amongst married couples is good. It's good to make sure that both of you are on the same page. How can you two walk together except you agree? What we're talking about here is a perverse spirit of anger.
1 Corinthians 3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
When we start arguments and threaten to leave, not only are we driving a wedge between ourselves and our spouse, but we are carnal. We're not living any better than lost people. It is a hindrance to our spiritual growth and a bad witness.
1 Peter 3:6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
God made men and women to fulfill certain roles within a marriage. When either gets outside of their God given role, we start to have problems.
1 Peter 3:1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
That's right, even if your husband is not a believer you should be in subjection to him. He could be rushing headlong toward the gates of hell and your best witness for him is your submission.
Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
How much more should you submit to a husband who is trying to do the right thing? Guess what? He's going to stumble, he might even fall. What should you do? Berate him about how poorly he's doing? Not a chance. Get behind him and encourage him or shut up and do what the Bible tells you to. To do otherwise is rebellion against God.
Lord help us to fulfill our Biblical roles as husbands and wives. Give us guidance, direction and grace. In Jesus name, amen.
From my morning devotion:
Proverbs 27:15 A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.
also:
Proverbs 21:9 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
Let's consult Mr Webster just so we can make sure we know what we are talking about.
Contentious - Apt to contend; given to angry debate; quarrelsome; perverse.
Brawling - The act of quarreling.
Healthy debate amongst married couples is good. It's good to make sure that both of you are on the same page. How can you two walk together except you agree? What we're talking about here is a perverse spirit of anger.
1 Corinthians 3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
When we start arguments and threaten to leave, not only are we driving a wedge between ourselves and our spouse, but we are carnal. We're not living any better than lost people. It is a hindrance to our spiritual growth and a bad witness.
1 Peter 3:6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
God made men and women to fulfill certain roles within a marriage. When either gets outside of their God given role, we start to have problems.
1 Peter 3:1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
That's right, even if your husband is not a believer you should be in subjection to him. He could be rushing headlong toward the gates of hell and your best witness for him is your submission.
Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
How much more should you submit to a husband who is trying to do the right thing? Guess what? He's going to stumble, he might even fall. What should you do? Berate him about how poorly he's doing? Not a chance. Get behind him and encourage him or shut up and do what the Bible tells you to. To do otherwise is rebellion against God.
Lord help us to fulfill our Biblical roles as husbands and wives. Give us guidance, direction and grace. In Jesus name, amen.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Morning Meditations: The Rod of Correction
From my morning devotion:
Proverbs 26:5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
also:
Proverbs 22:15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
Let's see what Noah Webster had to say about folly to figure out what we're talking about:
A weak or absurd act not highly criminal; an act which is inconsistent with the dictates of reason, or with the ordinary rules of prudence. An absurd act which is highly sinful; any conduct contrary to the laws of God or man; sin; scandalous crimes; that which violates moral precepts and dishonors the offender.
But you might say that kids will be kids, right? They're just silly! That's right, but there's a big difference between a playful child and something which intentionally dishonors a person.
Let's look a little more into Proverbs 26 to see what else God has to say about this foolishness:
Proverbs 26:11,13,18,19,20,28 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly. 13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets. 18 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, 19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport? 20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. 28 A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.
These are the fruits of living a foolish life. It's better that we drive this foolishness from them now then to reap the fruits of them later in life.
Proverbs 26:3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back.
What we are talking about here is the rod of correction. But sometimes correction isn't the rod. Sometimes the need a word of encouragement to WHIP them into shape. Sometimes you need to use the BRIDLE to bring direction to their lives. And sometimes they need the ROD. Yes, the Bible commands us to spank our children.
Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
To think that we love our children to much to punish them is a false idea. It will lead to more generations of lost people.
Lord, give us direction to help us correct our children. Give us grace to do what is write in your sight. In Jesus name, amen.
Proverbs 26:5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
also:
Proverbs 22:15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
Let's see what Noah Webster had to say about folly to figure out what we're talking about:
A weak or absurd act not highly criminal; an act which is inconsistent with the dictates of reason, or with the ordinary rules of prudence. An absurd act which is highly sinful; any conduct contrary to the laws of God or man; sin; scandalous crimes; that which violates moral precepts and dishonors the offender.
But you might say that kids will be kids, right? They're just silly! That's right, but there's a big difference between a playful child and something which intentionally dishonors a person.
Let's look a little more into Proverbs 26 to see what else God has to say about this foolishness:
Proverbs 26:11,13,18,19,20,28 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly. 13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets. 18 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, 19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport? 20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. 28 A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.
These are the fruits of living a foolish life. It's better that we drive this foolishness from them now then to reap the fruits of them later in life.
Proverbs 26:3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back.
What we are talking about here is the rod of correction. But sometimes correction isn't the rod. Sometimes the need a word of encouragement to WHIP them into shape. Sometimes you need to use the BRIDLE to bring direction to their lives. And sometimes they need the ROD. Yes, the Bible commands us to spank our children.
Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
To think that we love our children to much to punish them is a false idea. It will lead to more generations of lost people.
Lord, give us direction to help us correct our children. Give us grace to do what is write in your sight. In Jesus name, amen.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Morning Meditations: What Really Matters
From my morning devotion:
Acts 11:22-24 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.
also:
Proverbs 25:3 Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established:
Each one of us is building a legacy. What will be said of us one day? "He was a good provider." "She was a loving mother." "He was always fair." These are nice sentiments but fall far short of our potential in the Lord.
Psalm 127:1 Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.
Except the Lord be in it, we may as well hang it up. Involve Him in everything! Pray about everything!
2 Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.
The more ungodliness there is in the world, the more he is looking for someone someone who will submit their heart to Him. He wants to be strong for you. Help you to live a godly life!
Lord, show yourself strong in our lives. Help us to live lives that seek to please you and be an example to others. In Jesus name, amen.
Acts 11:22-24 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.
also:
Proverbs 25:3 Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established:
Each one of us is building a legacy. What will be said of us one day? "He was a good provider." "She was a loving mother." "He was always fair." These are nice sentiments but fall far short of our potential in the Lord.
Psalm 127:1 Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.
Except the Lord be in it, we may as well hang it up. Involve Him in everything! Pray about everything!
2 Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.
The more ungodliness there is in the world, the more he is looking for someone someone who will submit their heart to Him. He wants to be strong for you. Help you to live a godly life!
Lord, show yourself strong in our lives. Help us to live lives that seek to please you and be an example to others. In Jesus name, amen.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Time Waster: KISS Tunes
KissTunes turns the home row and a few secondary keys above the home row, into a keyboard-like tool for composing simple tunes. You can edit your work, share it, and even back up the tunes you create to your computer. Check out the video below, which covers just about everything you can do with KissTunes:
KissTunes Video
Kiss Tunes [Via Lifehacker.com]
KissTunes Video
Kiss Tunes [Via Lifehacker.com]
Morning Meditations: Compassion
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 40:6,7 And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they were sad. 7 And he asked Pharaoh's officers that were with him in the ward of his lord's house, saying, Wherefore look ye so sadly to day?
also:
Matthew 14:14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.
When was the last time compassion moved you? In this modern life, sometimes we get so busy that we forget to look around and reach out a loving hand to someone. Give them some encouragement. Watch carefully today. Maybe someone needs your help.
Lord, keep us mindful of those that hurt. Help us to show them an example of your grace and love. In Jesus name, amen.
Genesis 40:6,7 And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they were sad. 7 And he asked Pharaoh's officers that were with him in the ward of his lord's house, saying, Wherefore look ye so sadly to day?
also:
Matthew 14:14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.
When was the last time compassion moved you? In this modern life, sometimes we get so busy that we forget to look around and reach out a loving hand to someone. Give them some encouragement. Watch carefully today. Maybe someone needs your help.
Lord, keep us mindful of those that hurt. Help us to show them an example of your grace and love. In Jesus name, amen.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Sermons on Sunday: What to Expect From a 12 Year Old
Dr. Davis has been serving the Lord in many different areas since surrendering to the ministry in November of 1967. He has been a minister of music, associate pastor, and presently is pastor of Park Meadows Baptist Church in Lincoln, Illinois, where he has served since 1975.Dr. Davis speaks at churches and conventions across the country. He comes very highly recommended by many Christian state home school organizations. His tape ministry, comprised of 80+ video tapes (all of which contain captivating on-screen graphics!) and 90+ audio tapes, reach all over the United States and into many foreign countries. Many of those messages give Biblical solutions to critical family problems.
What to Expect From a 12 Year Old
Morning Meditations: Evangelism
From my morning devotion:
Acts 9:16-20 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. 17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. 19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. 20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.
What a difference a week makes! After encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus Paul (well Saul at the time) becomes a follower of Jesus. Then just a few days later he is preaching in the synagogue. How does that happen?
Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
God gives gifts to people for his special purposes. He did it then and he could do it now. God has no plans for seminary or college, the local church is responsible for the training of ministers.
Romans 11:29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
If God has ever made a call upon your life, you need to answer it. He's not going to tell you to do something and then change His mind. Find yourself a church or a church attached Bible college, get into the word, and serve!
Lord, help us to fulfill our callings and use our gifts to Your glory. In Jesus name, amen.
Acts 9:16-20 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. 17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. 19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. 20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.
What a difference a week makes! After encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus Paul (well Saul at the time) becomes a follower of Jesus. Then just a few days later he is preaching in the synagogue. How does that happen?
Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
God gives gifts to people for his special purposes. He did it then and he could do it now. God has no plans for seminary or college, the local church is responsible for the training of ministers.
Romans 11:29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
If God has ever made a call upon your life, you need to answer it. He's not going to tell you to do something and then change His mind. Find yourself a church or a church attached Bible college, get into the word, and serve!
Lord, help us to fulfill our callings and use our gifts to Your glory. In Jesus name, amen.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
DIY Saturday: Make a Resistor Reference Card
This is something truly useful. I might seriously make this one. From the site:It was a simple piece of cardboard with 3 wheels inside of it, dial in the colors and it told you the values of resistors, capacitors, and on the backside 2 scales of inductors! (catalog number 271-1210)
While no replacement for proper education on the subject, it proved itself more than useful, so useful I still own the darn thing to this day 20 + years later, and even mention it in one of my Instructables as "the best darn piece of cardboard they don't make anymore".
The problem with it is, when radio shack changed from Archer brand stuff in brown packages to R (circle) stuff in blue and white packages, and eventually dwindled their electronic supply down to a couple of cabinets from 3 walls of the stuff, this handy device disappeared.
Morning Meditations: Who Controls The Birth?
I know this post is not going to make me popular at all. I'm not doing this to shock or offend anyone. I'm just rightly dividing the word for what it says. I have struggled for two days with writing this post, whereas I usually write an article in less than a half an hour. If you any questions or counter points, please feel free to comment.
If we are going to be effective Christians we have to recognize and apply Biblical patterns to our lives. That being said, this is a hard bit of scripture to deal with. I have been wrestling with with this pattern for more than a year now.
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 38:8 And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother. 9 And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother. 10 And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also.
There are methods of birth control that we use in this modern age that conform to no Biblical pattern. Some barrier methods and any method in which the seed is spilled (i.e. does not reach the inside) fall under this category.
Genesis 29:31 And when the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren.
Any method which mutilates a woman's body so that the womb is surgically opened or closed does not follow a Biblical pattern. It is God's prerogative which wombs are open or closed. Barrenness was a sign of curse. But we look at a woman who voluntarily takes on this curse and declare them "fixed". It is a perversion of the truth to view it in this way. See also: Genesis 25:21, Genesis 30:22, Genesis 20:18, Exodus 23:26, Deuteronomy 7:14, and many many more.
Exodus 21:22 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.
The Bible recognizes the personhood of the unborn at any age. Abortion is absolutely not allowed. It is absolutely antithetical to any Biblical pattern.
Daniel 2:20,21 Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: 21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:
Methods of birth control which regulate the body's hormones in such a way that prevent ovulation change the seasons and times. If there are any methods which prevent the generation of sperm, you are doing the same thing.
1 Corinthians 7:5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
Marital celibacy is acceptable for seasons of prayer and fasting, but not as a method of birth control.
1 Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Methods of birth control which mutilate the body go against this Biblical pattern. This includes vasectomy or any method of surgically preventing pregnancy.
Now for a little bit of Q & A that always shows up when someone starts talking about this subject:
So what's the pattern for birth control? The pattern for control is that he controls it. Don't spill the seed, don't kill the unborn, don't deprive each other, and don't change your seasons. You should pray about any birth control method which near 100% effectiveness. That chance at pregnancy is your chance at a blessing!
What's the big deal, why do I need to worry about birth control? The problem isn't so much birth control, but that we start thinking about children in the way God thinks about them. They are a reward and a blessing. (see Psalms 127, Matthew 19:14 & Matthew 18:6)
So God commands us not to use birth control? No, he commands us to be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 1:28) then tells stories that reveal his attributes and attitudes. From these we should be able to discern some pattern to follow.
Should we maximize our child output? That is between you and God. If you raise your children right and have a lot, churches will fill and there will be more people to do God's work. For far too long we've had 1 or 2 children and not raised them correctly and churches are dying!
Am I sinning if I use any method of birth control? Generally no. But not doing God's will for your life is sin. (2 Peter 2:21)
But I don't feel convicted about it!: If you read the word of God and don't feel convicted about something you should search your heart and ask God why you don't.
What about cases where the life of the mother is at risk? Who says her life is worth more than that of the child?
What method of birth control do you use? My wife is pregnant right now but we are prayerfully considering our options.
What methods of birth control might be acceptable? That is between you and God. You should prayerfully consider any method you will use, if you use any at all.
But what if I don't have the money to have more children? God will provide for what he asks you to do. (Matthew 6:31) Typically the issue is not money but lifestyle. You can't have a lot of children with a me, me, me attitude, you have to learn to give a lot. Maybe he wants a lifestyle change from you.
Here's a rundown of birth control methods I consider closest to Biblical acceptable, not perfect but acceptable:
Lord, I truly regret not considering your will in this matter. Please forgive me and give me direction for my life. In Jesus name I pray, amen.
If we are going to be effective Christians we have to recognize and apply Biblical patterns to our lives. That being said, this is a hard bit of scripture to deal with. I have been wrestling with with this pattern for more than a year now.
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 38:8 And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother. 9 And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother. 10 And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also.
There are methods of birth control that we use in this modern age that conform to no Biblical pattern. Some barrier methods and any method in which the seed is spilled (i.e. does not reach the inside) fall under this category.
Genesis 29:31 And when the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren.
Any method which mutilates a woman's body so that the womb is surgically opened or closed does not follow a Biblical pattern. It is God's prerogative which wombs are open or closed. Barrenness was a sign of curse. But we look at a woman who voluntarily takes on this curse and declare them "fixed". It is a perversion of the truth to view it in this way. See also: Genesis 25:21, Genesis 30:22, Genesis 20:18, Exodus 23:26, Deuteronomy 7:14, and many many more.
Exodus 21:22 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.
The Bible recognizes the personhood of the unborn at any age. Abortion is absolutely not allowed. It is absolutely antithetical to any Biblical pattern.
Daniel 2:20,21 Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: 21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:
Methods of birth control which regulate the body's hormones in such a way that prevent ovulation change the seasons and times. If there are any methods which prevent the generation of sperm, you are doing the same thing.
1 Corinthians 7:5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
Marital celibacy is acceptable for seasons of prayer and fasting, but not as a method of birth control.
1 Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Methods of birth control which mutilate the body go against this Biblical pattern. This includes vasectomy or any method of surgically preventing pregnancy.
Now for a little bit of Q & A that always shows up when someone starts talking about this subject:
So what's the pattern for birth control? The pattern for control is that he controls it. Don't spill the seed, don't kill the unborn, don't deprive each other, and don't change your seasons. You should pray about any birth control method which near 100% effectiveness. That chance at pregnancy is your chance at a blessing!
What's the big deal, why do I need to worry about birth control? The problem isn't so much birth control, but that we start thinking about children in the way God thinks about them. They are a reward and a blessing. (see Psalms 127, Matthew 19:14 & Matthew 18:6)
So God commands us not to use birth control? No, he commands us to be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 1:28) then tells stories that reveal his attributes and attitudes. From these we should be able to discern some pattern to follow.
Should we maximize our child output? That is between you and God. If you raise your children right and have a lot, churches will fill and there will be more people to do God's work. For far too long we've had 1 or 2 children and not raised them correctly and churches are dying!
Am I sinning if I use any method of birth control? Generally no. But not doing God's will for your life is sin. (2 Peter 2:21)
But I don't feel convicted about it!: If you read the word of God and don't feel convicted about something you should search your heart and ask God why you don't.
What about cases where the life of the mother is at risk? Who says her life is worth more than that of the child?
What method of birth control do you use? My wife is pregnant right now but we are prayerfully considering our options.
What methods of birth control might be acceptable? That is between you and God. You should prayerfully consider any method you will use, if you use any at all.
But what if I don't have the money to have more children? God will provide for what he asks you to do. (Matthew 6:31) Typically the issue is not money but lifestyle. You can't have a lot of children with a me, me, me attitude, you have to learn to give a lot. Maybe he wants a lifestyle change from you.
Here's a rundown of birth control methods I consider closest to Biblical acceptable, not perfect but acceptable:
- Ecological Breastfeeding: This is a form of child care that normally spaces babies about two years apart on the average. The body will naturally prevent ovulation while breast feeding.
- Female Barriers: Diaphragm, cervical caps, or Lea’s Contraceptive - unlike the female or male condom the seed is not spilled. Read the directions and use them correctly.
- Systematic NFP: This is a system that uses a woman’s signs of fertility to determine the fertile and infertile times of her cycle. Dedication to prayer and fasting during fertile times of the month is technically acceptable. Fertile periods typically last about 5-6 days. You can fast for that long, right?
- Spermicide: Sponge or Gel Spermicides - The seed is not spilled.
Lord, I truly regret not considering your will in this matter. Please forgive me and give me direction for my life. In Jesus name I pray, amen.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Food on Friday: Peppermint Rice Recipe
I found this in a book, converted from a medieval recipe. Below that I've done my own quick and easy version. It was my first attempt at a medieval style dish, one that I'd never seen the recipe for elsewhere, except in a archive of Usenet messages. I can't confirm it's medieval origins, the author doesn't include any original recipes or refrences and others complain that she includes non-period ingredients. I did like the results, it was a nice change from what I normally cook.
Peppermint Rice
2 Cups Raw Rice
4 Cups Water
1/4 Teaspoon Salt, more or less to taste
2 Tablespoons Butter
2 Tablespoons firmly packed crushed peppermint leaves, or
2 Teaspoons dried peppermint crushed in a mortar with 2 Tablespoons crushed fresh parsley
Natural green food "paint"
1. In a large, heavy saucepan, combine the rice, water, salt, butter, food coloring, if desired, and peppermint paste. Bring to a quick boil over a high heat.
2. Cover, and simmer until all the liquid is absorbed, about 12 to 15 minutes. The rice should be a delicate green color.
Quick and Easy Peppermint Rice
2 Cups instant rice
2 Cups water
1/4 Teaspoon salt
1/2 Teaspoon Peppermint extract
Green food coloring
2 Tablespoons butter
1. In a large, heavy saucepan, combine the rice, water, salt, food coloring, if desired, and peppermint extract. Bring to a quick boil.
2. Remove from heat and cover until all water is absorbed, about 5 minutes.
3. Fluff rice with fork and butter.
The only complaint I've heard is that it needs sugar. I've tried it with sugar and didn't like it as well. Hope you enjoy it.
Peppermint Rice
2 Cups Raw Rice
4 Cups Water
1/4 Teaspoon Salt, more or less to taste
2 Tablespoons Butter
2 Tablespoons firmly packed crushed peppermint leaves, or
2 Teaspoons dried peppermint crushed in a mortar with 2 Tablespoons crushed fresh parsley
Natural green food "paint"
1. In a large, heavy saucepan, combine the rice, water, salt, butter, food coloring, if desired, and peppermint paste. Bring to a quick boil over a high heat.
2. Cover, and simmer until all the liquid is absorbed, about 12 to 15 minutes. The rice should be a delicate green color.
Quick and Easy Peppermint Rice
2 Cups instant rice
2 Cups water
1/4 Teaspoon salt
1/2 Teaspoon Peppermint extract
Green food coloring
2 Tablespoons butter
1. In a large, heavy saucepan, combine the rice, water, salt, food coloring, if desired, and peppermint extract. Bring to a quick boil.
2. Remove from heat and cover until all water is absorbed, about 5 minutes.
3. Fluff rice with fork and butter.
The only complaint I've heard is that it needs sugar. I've tried it with sugar and didn't like it as well. Hope you enjoy it.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Time Waster: DIY Altoid Tin Bike Light
Another cool Altoid tinproject:Overall I’m very pleased with the outcome of this project. I have more parts on order to make a few more lights for my other bikes and friends, and I want to experiment with other array configurations and colors. There are a two videos of the light on my youtube channel, but they’re nothing to get excited about.
DIY Altoid Tin Bike Light
Morning Meditations: The Promise
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 37:3-5 Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours. 4 And when his brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him. 5 And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more.
also:
Matthew 7:6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.
We have to be careful of the vision that God gives us. so many people will want to kill the promise.
Acts 7:5 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.
We need to see things the way God sees them. Try to look beyond your own situation!
Lord, we thank you for your promises. Give us vision to see where you are leading us. In Jesus name, amen.
Genesis 37:3-5 Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours. 4 And when his brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him. 5 And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more.
also:
Matthew 7:6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.
We have to be careful of the vision that God gives us. so many people will want to kill the promise.
Acts 7:5 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.
We need to see things the way God sees them. Try to look beyond your own situation!
Lord, we thank you for your promises. Give us vision to see where you are leading us. In Jesus name, amen.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Morning Meditations: The Spirit Filled Life
From my morning devotion:
Acts 6:8,15 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. 15 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.
also:
Galatians 5:22,23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
There's just something different about someone who's full of the Holy Ghost. They look different, act different, and seem different because they are different. They are full of faith, having a hand of power on their lives.
Romans 6:22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
The purpose of all these fruits are for our holiness. They give witness to what is going on inside us. If it's not producing holiness, we should really question whether it should be in our lives.
Lord, produce in us the fruits of the spirit. Help us to live the Spirit filled life. That we might be a good witness unto you. In Jesus name, Amen.
Acts 6:8,15 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. 15 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.
also:
Galatians 5:22,23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
There's just something different about someone who's full of the Holy Ghost. They look different, act different, and seem different because they are different. They are full of faith, having a hand of power on their lives.
Romans 6:22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
The purpose of all these fruits are for our holiness. They give witness to what is going on inside us. If it's not producing holiness, we should really question whether it should be in our lives.
Lord, produce in us the fruits of the spirit. Help us to live the Spirit filled life. That we might be a good witness unto you. In Jesus name, Amen.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
The False Gospel of Prosperity Theology
Matthew 8:20 And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.The spotless sinless Son of God came to this earth to serve as our example and he had no home. All but one of his personal disciples were executed in poverty. Martyrs of the early church were stoned to death, tarred and burned at the steak. But these people would have us believe that God wants us to be rich? Sounds like a lot of self worshiping idolatry to me!
From the article:
The prosperity gospel usually comes packaged in terms of the word-faith or faith-promise theology developed early in the 20th century by preachers such as E. W. Kenyon. Kenyon drew from the tradition of New Thought associated with movements such as Christian Science. In one sense, he attempted to bring elements drawn from positive thinking movements into his message, mixing New Thought with Christianity. Kenyon promoted his "new type of Christianity" and found a ready following, especially among those who were experiencing financial distress or poverty. Kenyon, who died in 1948, exerted a significant influence on prosperity preachers such as Kenneth Hagin, Oral Roberts, and Kenneth Copeland (who was once Oral Roberts personal pilot).
Prosperity theology is a False Gospel. Its message is unbiblical and its promises fail. God never assures his people of material abundance or physical health. Instead, Christians are promised the riches of Christ, the gift of eternal life, and the assurance of glory in the eternal presence of the living God.
Read the whole article.
Morning Meditations: Sanctification
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 35:2,3 Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments 3 And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.
also:
Proverbs 18:1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
If God is going to have a people for Himself, we've got to separate ourselves from some things. We've got attitudes, clothing, and jewelry to put away.
1 Timothy 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
It's important that women AND MEN live modestly.
Lord, tell us those things you want us to separate from. We will make the sacrifice. In Jesus name, Amen.
Genesis 35:2,3 Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments 3 And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.
also:
Proverbs 18:1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
If God is going to have a people for Himself, we've got to separate ourselves from some things. We've got attitudes, clothing, and jewelry to put away.
1 Timothy 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
It's important that women AND MEN live modestly.
Lord, tell us those things you want us to separate from. We will make the sacrifice. In Jesus name, Amen.
Monday, August 17, 2009
The Hidden Reality of Abortion -- Empowering Men
The availability of abortion means, in the thinking of many men, that the entire responsibility for pregnancy and parenthood now falls to women. If a woman refuses to have an abortion, having the baby is simply her "choice." As Stith realizes, this gives many men even more leverage as they demand an abortion as the cost of continuing the relationship. Stith cites a report from the Medical Science Monitor indicating that 64% of American women who have had abortions felt pressure from others to do so.Prior to the legalization of abortion in the United States, it was commonly understood that a man should offer a woman marriage in case of pregnancy, and many did so. Though with the legalization of abortion, men started to feel that they were not responsible for the birth of children and consequently not under any obligation to marry. In gaining the option of abortion, many women have lost the option of marriage.
As Richard Stith rightly summarizes, "Elective abortion changes everything." As he explains, "A woman's choice for or against abortion breaks the causal link between conception and birth. It matters little what or who caused conception or whether the male insisted on having unprotected intercourse. It is she alone who finally decides whether the child comes into the world. She is the responsible one. For the first time in history, the father and the doctor and the health-insurance actuary can point a finger at her as the person who allowed an inconvenient human being to come into the world."
Read the whole article.
Time Waster: Wall-E Thumb Drive
It’s the well known dearest little WALL-E all grown up (or shrunken down) into a Thumb Drive! Instead of compacting garbage, this little guy holds 8GB of digital storage for all your storage needs! It comes with a Keyring so it stays close to you at all times.Visit the site.
[Via Hacked Gadgets]
Morning Meditations: Marriage Advice
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 34:9 And make ye marriages with us, and give your daughters unto us, and take our daughters unto you.
also:
2 Corinthians 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
The devil wants our children: first through daycare, then the public school, and finally onto marriage. He knows that if he can get our child's attention on the things of this world and on selfish love, they will have no time to serve God.
Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?
It's important that not only you two be believers, but your beliefs should be complimentary. We have this idea of love as a random act, but that's simply not biblical.
1 Corinthians 13:8a Charity never faileth...
Charity, in the KJV, is love in action. If it's something that's completely random, then it can just randomly fail too. Love is a choice.
Lord, help Christians to find believers believers can agree with to marry, so that they can do your will and encourage each other. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Genesis 34:9 And make ye marriages with us, and give your daughters unto us, and take our daughters unto you.
also:
2 Corinthians 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
The devil wants our children: first through daycare, then the public school, and finally onto marriage. He knows that if he can get our child's attention on the things of this world and on selfish love, they will have no time to serve God.
Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?
It's important that not only you two be believers, but your beliefs should be complimentary. We have this idea of love as a random act, but that's simply not biblical.
1 Corinthians 13:8a Charity never faileth...
Charity, in the KJV, is love in action. If it's something that's completely random, then it can just randomly fail too. Love is a choice.
Lord, help Christians to find believers believers can agree with to marry, so that they can do your will and encourage each other. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Sermons on Sunday: Shocking Youth Message
Paul Washer became a believer while attending the University of Texas studying to become an oil and gas lawyer. He completed his undergraduate studies and enrolled at Southwestern Theological Seminary where he received his Master of Divinity degree. Paul left the states shortly after graduation as a North American missionary to Peru.Paul ministered as a missionary in Peru for 10 years, during which time he founded the HeartCry Missionary Society to support Peruvian Church planters. HeartCry's work now supports over 80 indigenous missionaries in 15 different countries throughout Eastern Europe, South America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
An itinerant preacher, Paul also frequently teaches at his home church, First Baptist Church of Muscle Shoals, and is the author of The One True God: A Biblical Study of the Doctrine of God.
At the present, Paul serves as the Director of HeartCry Missionary Society and resides in Muscle Shoals, Alabama with his wife Charo and two sons Ian and Evan, and one daughter Rowan.
This is the youth message Paul Washer preached in 2002 at a conference. The audience was in shock then and many audiences continue to be shocked by it today.
Shocking Youth Message
Morning Meditations: Favor
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 33:4 And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they wept.
also:
Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
It's amazing how God will surprise us, isn't it? Just when it seems all hope is lost, the Lord gives us mercy! What a great and awesome God we serve!
Proverbs 16:7 When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
When you're in God's will he will soften the hearts of your enemies, and give you favor with them. This is one way God tries to build faith in you.
Lord, help us all to do your will. We trust in you to deal with our enemies. Build our faith, that we might please you. In Jesus name, Amen.
Genesis 33:4 And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they wept.
also:
Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
It's amazing how God will surprise us, isn't it? Just when it seems all hope is lost, the Lord gives us mercy! What a great and awesome God we serve!
Proverbs 16:7 When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
When you're in God's will he will soften the hearts of your enemies, and give you favor with them. This is one way God tries to build faith in you.
Lord, help us all to do your will. We trust in you to deal with our enemies. Build our faith, that we might please you. In Jesus name, Amen.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Took the Day Off
A whole day offline! Took the day off to spend time with my family. Will be back to posting tomorrow!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Food on Friday: Soft Bake Peanut Butter Cookies
My grandmother never left behind her recipe for peanut butter cookies. She had one written down, in her own hand writing, but it turned out to not be hers. So I had to do my own.
Soft Bake Peanut Butter Cookies
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 stick margarine, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 eggs
1 cup peanut butter
Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat margarine, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla in large mixer bowl. Add egg & peanut butter, beat well; gradually beat in flour mixture. Let chill in refrigerator. Form into walnut sized balls and place onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake in preheated 375º F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.
Soft Bake Peanut Butter Cookies
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 stick margarine, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 eggs
1 cup peanut butter
Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat margarine, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla in large mixer bowl. Add egg & peanut butter, beat well; gradually beat in flour mixture. Let chill in refrigerator. Form into walnut sized balls and place onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake in preheated 375º F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.
Morning Meditations: Expectation of Promise
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 32:7-9 Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed: and he divided the people that was with him, and the flocks, and herds, and the camels, into two bands; 8 And said, If Esau come to the one company, and smite it, then the other company which is left shall escape. 9 And Jacob said, O God of my father Abraham, and God of my father Isaac, the LORD which saidst unto me, Return unto thy country, and to thy kindred, and I will deal well with thee:
Also:
Acts 3:1-8 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; 3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. 4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. 5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. 6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. 7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
What are you expecting from God? Do you think He's some giant cosmic ogre, with a stick, just waithing to smack you? If you do, you have him all wrong!
John 3:16-21 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
This is the promise of God. He loves us so much that He sent His Son, to bring us from the darkness of this world into his marvelous light.
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.
He will give us power. Not to make fools out of ourselves, but to be witnesses. He wants us to live holy lives and teach of his goodness all over the earth.
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
If He said it to you, and you read it in His Word, you can take it to the bank!
Lord, we believe your promise. Empower us. Transform our lives. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Genesis 32:7-9 Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed: and he divided the people that was with him, and the flocks, and herds, and the camels, into two bands; 8 And said, If Esau come to the one company, and smite it, then the other company which is left shall escape. 9 And Jacob said, O God of my father Abraham, and God of my father Isaac, the LORD which saidst unto me, Return unto thy country, and to thy kindred, and I will deal well with thee:
Also:
Acts 3:1-8 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; 3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. 4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. 5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. 6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. 7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
What are you expecting from God? Do you think He's some giant cosmic ogre, with a stick, just waithing to smack you? If you do, you have him all wrong!
John 3:16-21 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
This is the promise of God. He loves us so much that He sent His Son, to bring us from the darkness of this world into his marvelous light.
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.
He will give us power. Not to make fools out of ourselves, but to be witnesses. He wants us to live holy lives and teach of his goodness all over the earth.
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
If He said it to you, and you read it in His Word, you can take it to the bank!
Lord, we believe your promise. Empower us. Transform our lives. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Something For The Parents
This world is a wicked place. Without parents standing in the gap for their children, educating them from a young age the will be lost. Recent studies have shown that between 64 and 94 percent of high school graduates plug in to a church after graduation.
Don't want to force religion on your kids? The ministers of atheism in today's public schools have no such qualms!
Prayerfully consider this quote from Al Sanders in Crisis in Morality!:
Don't want to force religion on your kids? The ministers of atheism in today's public schools have no such qualms!
Prayerfully consider this quote from Al Sanders in Crisis in Morality!:
An investigation was made of 1,394 known descendants of Jonathan Edwards of which 13 became college presidents, 65 college professors, 3 United States senators, 30 judges, 100 lawyers, 60 physicians, 75 army and navy officers, 100 preachers and missionaries, 60 authors of prominence, one a vice-president of the United States, 80 became public officials in other capacities, 295 college graduates, among whom were governors of states and ministers to foreign countries.
Morning Meditations: No Tresspassing
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 31:48-52 And Laban said, This heap is a witness between me and thee this day. Therefore was the name of it called Galeed; 49 And Mizpah; for he said, The LORD watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from another. 50 If thou shalt afflict my daughters, or if thou shalt take other wives beside my daughters, no man is with us; see, God is witness betwixt me and thee. 51 And Laban said to Jacob, Behold this heap, and behold this pillar, which I have cast betwixt me and thee: 52 This heap be witness, and this pillar be witness, that I will not pass over this heap to thee, and that thou shalt not pass over this heap and this pillar unto me, for harm.
also:
Proverbs 22:28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.
We laughed at the old men, sometimes in our heart sometimes with our mouth.
"That's such an old attitude."
"That Bible doesn't mean anything anymore."
"I don't see what the problem is, it's just a movie."
They had watch over our souls, they setup the landmarks. They told us, "You can go this far and no farther".
We ignored their rules and shuffled out from underneath their protection. Now we are paying the price: a tyrannical government, increased crime, teen pregnancy, abortion, the list goes on and on and on.
Jeremiah 6:16 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.
It's time that we grew up. The nonsense that passes for church these days hasn't worked, it's not working, and it's not going to work.
Lord, help us to find the old paths. Help us to understand and apply your word to our hearts. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Genesis 31:48-52 And Laban said, This heap is a witness between me and thee this day. Therefore was the name of it called Galeed; 49 And Mizpah; for he said, The LORD watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from another. 50 If thou shalt afflict my daughters, or if thou shalt take other wives beside my daughters, no man is with us; see, God is witness betwixt me and thee. 51 And Laban said to Jacob, Behold this heap, and behold this pillar, which I have cast betwixt me and thee: 52 This heap be witness, and this pillar be witness, that I will not pass over this heap to thee, and that thou shalt not pass over this heap and this pillar unto me, for harm.
also:
Proverbs 22:28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.
We laughed at the old men, sometimes in our heart sometimes with our mouth.
"That's such an old attitude."
"That Bible doesn't mean anything anymore."
"I don't see what the problem is, it's just a movie."
They had watch over our souls, they setup the landmarks. They told us, "You can go this far and no farther".
We ignored their rules and shuffled out from underneath their protection. Now we are paying the price: a tyrannical government, increased crime, teen pregnancy, abortion, the list goes on and on and on.
Jeremiah 6:16 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.
It's time that we grew up. The nonsense that passes for church these days hasn't worked, it's not working, and it's not going to work.
Lord, help us to find the old paths. Help us to understand and apply your word to our hearts. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Oregon State University: Children Are A Curse To The Environment
Scientists at Oregon State University has published a study arguing that any effort to limit carbon emissions must consider the impact of "reproductive choices" on the ecological equation.
This flies in the face of scriptural truth:
Deuteronomy 28:2-4 And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God. 3 Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field. 4 Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.
Sometimes I think I'm a little overboard. But then something like this comes out and I realize I'm not even close.
...a woman in the United States who makes significant lifestyle adjustments in order to reduce her own carbon legacy -- such as increasing her car's fuel economy, reducing miles driven, adopting energy-efficient technologies, recycling, etc. -- would save about 486 tons of carbon dioxide emissions over a lifetime. Yet, "if you were to have two children, this would eventually add nearly 40 times that amount" of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. In other words, all her efforts to be environmentally conscious and careful would be overwhelmed by her decision to have just two children.
This flies in the face of scriptural truth:
Deuteronomy 28:2-4 And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God. 3 Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field. 4 Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.
Sometimes I think I'm a little overboard. But then something like this comes out and I realize I'm not even close.
Morning Meditations: Birth Control
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 30:1,2 And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die. 2 And Jacob's anger was kindled against Rachel: and he said, Am I in God's stead, who hath withheld from thee the fruit of the womb?
also:
Genesis 38:7-10 And Er, Judah's firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the LORD; and the LORD slew him. 8 And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother. 9 And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother. 10 And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also.
There was a day when children were truly viewed as a blessing. In those days people left control of their families up to God. It was His decision when we would be blessed with children. Some women had many many blessings, while some begged and pleaded with God just to get one.
Exodus 23:25,26 And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee. 26 There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil.
Barrenness was always viewed as a curse. God said as long as we would do what we are told, he would not make us barren. These days people make themselves barren, bringing the curse upon themselves.
Imagine how our churches would grow! Imagine how many more missionaries & preachers we would have if we just do what God said. What a difference we would make in our world!
Genesis 1:28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
Now lets have a math lesson. 1+1=2, this is what we call addition. When we limit ourselves to only two children, that's all we're doing.
Lord, help us to see children as you see them. Bless us, give us your grace, make us fruitful. In Jesus name, Amen.
Genesis 30:1,2 And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die. 2 And Jacob's anger was kindled against Rachel: and he said, Am I in God's stead, who hath withheld from thee the fruit of the womb?
also:
Genesis 38:7-10 And Er, Judah's firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the LORD; and the LORD slew him. 8 And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother. 9 And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother. 10 And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also.
There was a day when children were truly viewed as a blessing. In those days people left control of their families up to God. It was His decision when we would be blessed with children. Some women had many many blessings, while some begged and pleaded with God just to get one.
Exodus 23:25,26 And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee. 26 There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil.
Barrenness was always viewed as a curse. God said as long as we would do what we are told, he would not make us barren. These days people make themselves barren, bringing the curse upon themselves.
Imagine how our churches would grow! Imagine how many more missionaries & preachers we would have if we just do what God said. What a difference we would make in our world!
Genesis 1:28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
Now lets have a math lesson. 1+1=2, this is what we call addition. When we limit ourselves to only two children, that's all we're doing.
Lord, help us to see children as you see them. Bless us, give us your grace, make us fruitful. In Jesus name, Amen.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Another Way Our Children Bless Us
Here's an article that any parent can understand:
Another Way Our Children Bless Us
When we say that children are a blessing, we usually mean all those sunshiney things like a fistful of dandelions just for mommy, a family portrait done in crayon and mounted on the fridge...the day to day reality can be so different sometimes. Our little blessings cry, they complain, they don’t want to obey, they get distracted...
Another Way Our Children Bless Us
Time Waster: Wild Berry Mnemonic
Here's a little Mnemonic to know what wild berries are safe to eat:
White and yellow, kill a fellow.
Purple and blue, good for you.
Red... could be good, could be dead.
If [red berries are] growing in little clusters, they're probably not good. If they're growing in little singletons, they probably are good.
[Via Lifehacker]
White and yellow, kill a fellow.
Purple and blue, good for you.
Red... could be good, could be dead.
If [red berries are] growing in little clusters, they're probably not good. If they're growing in little singletons, they probably are good.
[Via Lifehacker]
Time Waster: Wild Berry Mnemonic
Here's a little Mnemonic to know what wild berries are safe to eat:
White and yellow, kill a fellow.
Purple and blue, good for you.
Red... could be good, could be dead.
If [red berries are] growing in little clusters, they're probably not good. If they're growing in little singletons, they probably are good.
[Via Lifehacker]
White and yellow, kill a fellow.
Purple and blue, good for you.
Red... could be good, could be dead.
If [red berries are] growing in little clusters, they're probably not good. If they're growing in little singletons, they probably are good.
[Via Lifehacker]
Morning Meditations: Prophecy
From my morning devotion:
Acts 1:6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
also:
Matthew 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Numbers mean something. Numbers in prophecy mean even more. From the beginning of Jesus ministry, he said that the time was at hand.
Matthew 24:36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
No one will know when that day comes. If there's a human recordable event which e could observe, we would know how long we have. Prophecies for the Church always refer to to times and ages instead of a set time.
Jeremiah 25:11,12 And this whole land shall be a desolation, and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. 12 And it shall come to pass, when seventy years are accomplished, that I will punish the king of Babylon, and that nation, saith the LORD, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans, and will make it perpetual desolations.
When you see prophecies that refer to specific periods of time, you should be alert that this prophecy is speaking specifically about Israel.
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.
So when will the Lord return? When will we see a rapture? Who know? We should live our lives always prepared for that day!
Lord, draw me nearer to you. I want a personal relationship with you. Teach me your scriptures as I read them. Transform my life. In Jesus name, Amen.
Acts 1:6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
also:
Matthew 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Numbers mean something. Numbers in prophecy mean even more. From the beginning of Jesus ministry, he said that the time was at hand.
Matthew 24:36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
No one will know when that day comes. If there's a human recordable event which e could observe, we would know how long we have. Prophecies for the Church always refer to to times and ages instead of a set time.
Jeremiah 25:11,12 And this whole land shall be a desolation, and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. 12 And it shall come to pass, when seventy years are accomplished, that I will punish the king of Babylon, and that nation, saith the LORD, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans, and will make it perpetual desolations.
When you see prophecies that refer to specific periods of time, you should be alert that this prophecy is speaking specifically about Israel.
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.
So when will the Lord return? When will we see a rapture? Who know? We should live our lives always prepared for that day!
Lord, draw me nearer to you. I want a personal relationship with you. Teach me your scriptures as I read them. Transform my life. In Jesus name, Amen.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Morning Meditations: Great Commission
Matthew 28:19,20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
also:
Proverbs 10:8 The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.
Jesus commanded us not only to follow his example, but to preach the gospel, make converts and baptize. The wise servant will do all their master requires. To not be involved in these ministries invites the opportunity for backsliding.
Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Are you being perfected? Are you assisting in perfecting the saints of the Church? God didn't put you where you are to be a spiritual sponge. He gave you spiritual gifts to help out! Listen to the Holy Spirit. Let Him guide your footsteps. Be an encouragement to someone.
Lord, help us be more in tune with your will. Help us to develop our spiritual gifts. Perfect us in your sight. In Jesus name, Amen.
also:
Proverbs 10:8 The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.
Jesus commanded us not only to follow his example, but to preach the gospel, make converts and baptize. The wise servant will do all their master requires. To not be involved in these ministries invites the opportunity for backsliding.
Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Are you being perfected? Are you assisting in perfecting the saints of the Church? God didn't put you where you are to be a spiritual sponge. He gave you spiritual gifts to help out! Listen to the Holy Spirit. Let Him guide your footsteps. Be an encouragement to someone.
Lord, help us be more in tune with your will. Help us to develop our spiritual gifts. Perfect us in your sight. In Jesus name, Amen.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Sermons on Sunday: Centrality of the Home in the Evangelism and Discipleship of the Next Generation
Today's sermon comes from Voddie Baucham, one of my favorite preachers.Voddie Baucham wears many hats. He is a husband, father, pastor, author, professor, conference speaker and church planter. He currently serves as Pastor of Preaching at Grace Family Baptist Church in Spring, TX. He has served as an adjunct professor at the College of Biblical Studies in Houston, TX, and Union University in Jackson, TN. He has also lectured at Southern Seminary.
This is the message that started the "Family Driven Faith" firestorm. This exposition of Ephesians 6:1-4 challenges the very foundation of age-segregated ministry in the local church. The Bible makes it clear that parents (not Sunday school teachers, youth ministers, or teachers) are responsible for the discipleship of their children. Moreover, the church has a responsibility to avoid efforts that undermine this biblical imperative. Unfortunately, much of what we have done for the past several decades has worked against biblical discipleship in the home. There must be a reformation in this area. This message has been the spark for such a reformation in countless lives and local churches around the world.
Centrality of the Home in the Evangelism and Discipleship of the Next Generation
Morning Meditations: Works
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 27:3-4 Now therefore take, I pray thee, thy weapons, thy quiver and thy bow, and go out to the field, and take me some venison; 4 And make me savoury meat, such as I love, and bring it to me, that I may eat; that my soul may bless thee before I die.
also:
Ephesians 6:13-17 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
God knows that in this world we are in for a fight! And sometimes He expects us to do battle for Him before He will bless us.
2 Corinthians 10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
What we see in the natural world is only a weak indicator of what is going on in the spirit world. We must always have the armor of God on to protect us. We must keep the Word of God in our hands & hidden in our hearts, as this is our only weapon.
Lord, give us grace & peace in the time of troubles. Help us to keep your words in the battles to come. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Genesis 27:3-4 Now therefore take, I pray thee, thy weapons, thy quiver and thy bow, and go out to the field, and take me some venison; 4 And make me savoury meat, such as I love, and bring it to me, that I may eat; that my soul may bless thee before I die.
also:
Ephesians 6:13-17 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
God knows that in this world we are in for a fight! And sometimes He expects us to do battle for Him before He will bless us.
2 Corinthians 10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
What we see in the natural world is only a weak indicator of what is going on in the spirit world. We must always have the armor of God on to protect us. We must keep the Word of God in our hands & hidden in our hearts, as this is our only weapon.
Lord, give us grace & peace in the time of troubles. Help us to keep your words in the battles to come. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Man: The Cooking Creature
Albert Mohler posted a new article yesterday on his website. He talks about the importance of cooking an hospitality in christian circles.From the article:
In the Age of Enlightenment, James Boswell defined cooking as a distinctive mark of humanity. Humans, he argued, are "the cooking animal." While most living creatures eat, only human beings cook. Or, as writer Michael Pollan laments, humans used to cook.
Read the whole article.
Morning Meditations: Child Catechism
From my morning devotion:
Proverbs 8:1,17 1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice? 17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
also:
Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: 5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7nd thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
What is it we're teaching our children. Everywhere we look throughout the Bible, we are commanded to instruct our children. God says that the primacy of the parent in education is absolute. We must teach our children God's word.
Luke 6:40 The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.
By giving our child's education over to professionals, we have given them over to whatever curriculum they choose. Do you know what they're teaching your children? Does their education match up with your views and values?
Ephesians 6:1-4 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; 3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. 4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Fathers, we are specifically responsible for the instruction of their children. If we're not teaching our children about the Bible, demonstrating a Godly lifestyle, and disciplining our children, we are living a life in sin. We are disobeying specific biblical commands.
Lord, forgive us for not instructing our children. Help us to teach our children about you everyday. Bless our lives so that we might be able to homeschool our children. In Jesus name, Amen.
Proverbs 8:1,17 1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice? 17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
also:
Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: 5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7nd thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
What is it we're teaching our children. Everywhere we look throughout the Bible, we are commanded to instruct our children. God says that the primacy of the parent in education is absolute. We must teach our children God's word.
Luke 6:40 The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.
By giving our child's education over to professionals, we have given them over to whatever curriculum they choose. Do you know what they're teaching your children? Does their education match up with your views and values?
Ephesians 6:1-4 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; 3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. 4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Fathers, we are specifically responsible for the instruction of their children. If we're not teaching our children about the Bible, demonstrating a Godly lifestyle, and disciplining our children, we are living a life in sin. We are disobeying specific biblical commands.
Lord, forgive us for not instructing our children. Help us to teach our children about you everyday. Bless our lives so that we might be able to homeschool our children. In Jesus name, Amen.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Food on Friday: Phil's Apple Crisp Recipe
Here's a quick & easy desert recipe for you to try. I based it on one I found for Apple Crunch.
Phil's Apple Crisp
3 medium apples
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all purpose flour
3/4 cup quick oats
1/2 cup soft margarine
1/4 tsp. each cinnamon and nutmeg
Wash apples, peel, core, and thin slice them. Put in well buttered pan (using non-stick cooking spray also works). Combine other ingredients and spread over apples. Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.
Let stand 5-10 minutes after removing from oven. Serve with ice cream on top.
Makes 4-8 servings.
If you want to make it crunchy instead of crispy, use large apples & slice them thick, 1/4 cup of butter instead of the margarine, and bake it for only 35 minutes (I had to bake it a little longer due to the extra liquid).
Phil's Apple Crisp
3 medium apples
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all purpose flour
3/4 cup quick oats
1/2 cup soft margarine
1/4 tsp. each cinnamon and nutmeg
Wash apples, peel, core, and thin slice them. Put in well buttered pan (using non-stick cooking spray also works). Combine other ingredients and spread over apples. Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.
Let stand 5-10 minutes after removing from oven. Serve with ice cream on top.
Makes 4-8 servings.
If you want to make it crunchy instead of crispy, use large apples & slice them thick, 1/4 cup of butter instead of the margarine, and bake it for only 35 minutes (I had to bake it a little longer due to the extra liquid).
Morning Meditations: Full of Days
From my morning devotion:
Matthew 25:34-46 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: 43 I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. 44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
also:
2 Chronicles 24:15,16 But Jehoiada waxed old, and was full of days when he died; an hundred and thirty years old was he when he died. 16 And they buried him in the city of David among the kings, because he had done good in Israel, both toward God, and toward his house.
What are we going to fill our days with? What will be our posterity? Will we be remembered as someone who was always too concerned with ourselves? Or are we going to make our lives full of days, loving God and serving Him and serving our fellow man.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
God will reward us, but we should not get tired of doing the right thing. The Lord determines our seasons. We must wait upon Him to reward us.
Lord, give us grace and strength that we might serve you and please you. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Matthew 25:34-46 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: 43 I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. 44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
also:
2 Chronicles 24:15,16 But Jehoiada waxed old, and was full of days when he died; an hundred and thirty years old was he when he died. 16 And they buried him in the city of David among the kings, because he had done good in Israel, both toward God, and toward his house.
What are we going to fill our days with? What will be our posterity? Will we be remembered as someone who was always too concerned with ourselves? Or are we going to make our lives full of days, loving God and serving Him and serving our fellow man.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
God will reward us, but we should not get tired of doing the right thing. The Lord determines our seasons. We must wait upon Him to reward us.
Lord, give us grace and strength that we might serve you and please you. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Time Waster: Fix A Wobbly Table With A Cork Slice
If you have a wine cork and a steady hand, you can turn the cork into a dozen disks, perfect for throwing in a laptop bag to steady wobbly coffee shop tables.
Fix a wobbly table.
[Via Lifehacker]
Morning Meditations: Dating
From my morning devotions:
Matthew 24:38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
also:
Proverbs 6:27 Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?
Do you ever get the feeling that this world has taught us to do everything wrong? We go through a cycle of meeting, dating and breaking up with people of the opposite sex that we are attracted to. The ones we long for. We listen to this old deceitful heart and follow after the fire in our own flesh. Is it any wonder we get burned.
The dating ritual of the day has taught us how to break up rather than to be committed. Is it any wonder divorce rates are as bad as they are?
Genesis 24:3,4 And I will make thee swear by the LORD, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell: 4 But thou shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son Isaac.
Genesis 24:13,14,16 Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water: 14 And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master. 16 And the damsel was very fair to look upon, a virgin, neither had any man known her: and she went down to the well, and filled her pitcher, and came up.
Genesis 24:29,53,58,67 And Rebekah had a brother, and his name was Laban: and Laban ran out unto the man, unto the well. 53 And the servant brought forth jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment, and gave them to Rebekah: he gave also to her brother and to her mother precious things. 58 And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. 67 And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother's death.
I'm not suggesting that we should turn back to the ancient marriage customs of those days, God forbid! But in cultures where they practice similar customs, divorce is almost unheard of. Why's that? Because it's against the law. On the contrary, I think it's because they haven't prepared themselves up for failure the way we have.
So next time your mother, father, or even your pastor questions you, don't blow them off. Consult the wisdom of the wise. Submit to them, not only is it Biblical, but they've been here far longer than you and can see problems you can't.
Lord, help us today to receive this word. Help us to submit to the wisdom of the wise. Help us who are in authority to assist and guide the young to make good choices. In Jesus name, Amen.
Matthew 24:38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
also:
Proverbs 6:27 Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?
Do you ever get the feeling that this world has taught us to do everything wrong? We go through a cycle of meeting, dating and breaking up with people of the opposite sex that we are attracted to. The ones we long for. We listen to this old deceitful heart and follow after the fire in our own flesh. Is it any wonder we get burned.
The dating ritual of the day has taught us how to break up rather than to be committed. Is it any wonder divorce rates are as bad as they are?
Genesis 24:3,4 And I will make thee swear by the LORD, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell: 4 But thou shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son Isaac.
Genesis 24:13,14,16 Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water: 14 And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master. 16 And the damsel was very fair to look upon, a virgin, neither had any man known her: and she went down to the well, and filled her pitcher, and came up.
Genesis 24:29,53,58,67 And Rebekah had a brother, and his name was Laban: and Laban ran out unto the man, unto the well. 53 And the servant brought forth jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment, and gave them to Rebekah: he gave also to her brother and to her mother precious things. 58 And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. 67 And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother's death.
I'm not suggesting that we should turn back to the ancient marriage customs of those days, God forbid! But in cultures where they practice similar customs, divorce is almost unheard of. Why's that? Because it's against the law. On the contrary, I think it's because they haven't prepared themselves up for failure the way we have.
So next time your mother, father, or even your pastor questions you, don't blow them off. Consult the wisdom of the wise. Submit to them, not only is it Biblical, but they've been here far longer than you and can see problems you can't.
Lord, help us today to receive this word. Help us to submit to the wisdom of the wise. Help us who are in authority to assist and guide the young to make good choices. In Jesus name, Amen.
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Lunch Time Waster: Little Walker Robot
Little Walker Robot
This little walking robot caught our eye. We’ve seen tons of 4 legged bots, but the design on this probably took more effort than the electronics. The design is radially symmetrical, it can walk in any direction, turn in place, and even walk upside down. The electronics weren’t forgotten though. This little bugger manages to pull a half our of use out of each battery charging. It communicates wirelessly with a custom dual Wiimote Nunchuck setup via XBEE modules. You can find much more technical details in the captions of the pictures. We’re not positive what processing power is hidden in the bot itself, but we know there’s an Arduino in one of the nunchucks. This might be the brains of the operation leaving the hardware on the bot simply to control the servos. We really like the arc-reactor-esque power display.
[Via Hack A Day]
Morning Meditations: Strength
From my morning devotions:
Proverbs 5:21 For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.
also:
2 Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.
These are a couple of my favorite Bible passages. No matter what I'm doing, he's always got his eyes upon me. He wants me to have a successful walk more than I do. He's going to watch me and help me, showing Himself strong in my life.
Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Don't wait too long! Sometimes we get the idea that we're not supposed to do anything, just sit here waiting for God to move in our lives. I believe we should always be moving toward the part of His will that he has revealed to us. Don't worry about you strength, he will renew it!
Lord, give us faith that we might be able run toward you will, keeping back nothing for ourselves. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Proverbs 5:21 For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.
also:
2 Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.
These are a couple of my favorite Bible passages. No matter what I'm doing, he's always got his eyes upon me. He wants me to have a successful walk more than I do. He's going to watch me and help me, showing Himself strong in my life.
Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Don't wait too long! Sometimes we get the idea that we're not supposed to do anything, just sit here waiting for God to move in our lives. I believe we should always be moving toward the part of His will that he has revealed to us. Don't worry about you strength, he will renew it!
Lord, give us faith that we might be able run toward you will, keeping back nothing for ourselves. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Time Waster: Single Octive Keyboard
Ozan Sarıer is a composer, performer and a designer for musical instruments and interfaces. His latest creation is this Piyola, it is a USB device which was made from recycled parts. The keyboard plays a single octave, key presses are transferred to the computer using a found USB joystick.
[Via Hacked Gadgets]
Morning Meditations: Obedience
From my morning devotion:
Genesis 22:18 And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.
also:
Proverbs 4:20-22 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. 21 Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. 22 For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.
What kind of seed are you raising? Are you raising a blessing or a curse. Have you taught them that God rewards obedience?
Matthew 22:36-39 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
This is the beginning of training. Love of the Lord and of neighbor is where we are expected to start.
Lord, help us to raise children who will be a blessing to all who know them. Keep your commandments in their hearts. In Jesus name, Amen.
Genesis 22:18 And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.
also:
Proverbs 4:20-22 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. 21 Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. 22 For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.
What kind of seed are you raising? Are you raising a blessing or a curse. Have you taught them that God rewards obedience?
Matthew 22:36-39 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
This is the beginning of training. Love of the Lord and of neighbor is where we are expected to start.
Lord, help us to raise children who will be a blessing to all who know them. Keep your commandments in their hearts. In Jesus name, Amen.
Monday, August 03, 2009
Time Waster: DIY Paper Record Player
This one minute video demonstrates how you can make a Paper Record Player with only a piece of construction paper, a needle and some tape. It is so interesting to see how simple the pressed record technology actual is. Now compare that to CD and DVD technology, you need a ton of tech to make heads or tails of the tiny pits that are burnt into those!
[Via Hacked Gadgets]
[Via Hacked Gadgets]
The Case For Early Marriage
Evangelicals tend to marry slightly earlier than other Americans, but not by much. Many of them plan to marry in their mid-20s.Yet waiting for sex until then feels far too long to most of them. And I am suggesting that when people wait until their mid-to-late 20s to marry, it is unreasonable to expect them to refrain from sex. It's battling our Creator's reproductive designs.Read the whole article.
Morning Meditations: Guidance
From my morning devotion:
Proverbs 3:5,6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
also:
Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
I think sometimes we forget that we have an ever present help. Sometimes we need a reminder that God is still on the throne. He still knows where He wants to take us. We just have to get into His perfect will.
Isaiah 46:10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:
He's already spoke it. But will not force Himself on you, but like a nest of hornets he will direct you to his will.
Lord, help us to get into your word and learn your perfect will. Give us grace to walk in your way. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
As an added bonus this morning, I present the hornet song:
Proverbs 3:5,6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
also:
Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
I think sometimes we forget that we have an ever present help. Sometimes we need a reminder that God is still on the throne. He still knows where He wants to take us. We just have to get into His perfect will.
Isaiah 46:10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:
He's already spoke it. But will not force Himself on you, but like a nest of hornets he will direct you to his will.
Lord, help us to get into your word and learn your perfect will. Give us grace to walk in your way. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
As an added bonus this morning, I present the hornet song:
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Why I Write
Most of my life I feel like I've been on a spiritual journey. Mostly either running from God or trying to getting closer without doing what I've been told. Those days are over.
I write because everyday because when I don't it feels like fire, shut up in my bones.
I write so that I might better retain a knowledge of God and so avoid doing things which are inconvenient to my faith.
I write because I know there are a lot of false teachers out there who either pollute or dilute the word of God.
I don't write because I think I'm better than anyone else.
I don't write because I want to run everybody's life.
I don't write because I want to bad mouth any particular preacher or denomination.
I want to build not only my faith but your own. I want to make sure that we are all on the right path.
If I write something here that you don't agree with, comment about it. But before you do you better back it up with some Bible and a lot of prayer. I'm not at all interested in what your favorite teacher or your grandma say on the subject. I don't have to answer to them. I have to answer to God and His word.
I write because everyday because when I don't it feels like fire, shut up in my bones.
I write so that I might better retain a knowledge of God and so avoid doing things which are inconvenient to my faith.
I write because I know there are a lot of false teachers out there who either pollute or dilute the word of God.
I don't write because I think I'm better than anyone else.
I don't write because I want to run everybody's life.
I don't write because I want to bad mouth any particular preacher or denomination.
I want to build not only my faith but your own. I want to make sure that we are all on the right path.
If I write something here that you don't agree with, comment about it. But before you do you better back it up with some Bible and a lot of prayer. I'm not at all interested in what your favorite teacher or your grandma say on the subject. I don't have to answer to them. I have to answer to God and His word.
Morning Meditations: Pastors
From my morning devotion:
Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
As Christians, we must be on guard at all times. Jesus spoke often about leadership. Here is a short list of the most common ways to determine if you have a bad pastor:
Matthew 23:15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.
Beware, you could easily find yourself in this position. Even if it seems that you pastor started out good, there are those that will turn off very bad indeed.
Read your Bible, pray, ask God for wisdom and ask him for guidance. Then do what he says!
Lord, lift the blinders off our eyes. Help us to see the truth in our leaders. Help us to find pastors who have a heart after you. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
As Christians, we must be on guard at all times. Jesus spoke often about leadership. Here is a short list of the most common ways to determine if you have a bad pastor:
- Exhalts himself above everyone - Matthe 23:11,12
- Irreverence in prayer - Luke 18:10-14
- Makes demands on others that they will not do themselves - Matthew 23:13
- Doesn't follow the spirit of the law - Matthew 23:23
- Concerned with outward holiness but not inward holiness - Matthew 23:25
- Wants to sit in the seats of honor - Luke 11:43
Matthew 23:15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.
Beware, you could easily find yourself in this position. Even if it seems that you pastor started out good, there are those that will turn off very bad indeed.
Read your Bible, pray, ask God for wisdom and ask him for guidance. Then do what he says!
Lord, lift the blinders off our eyes. Help us to see the truth in our leaders. Help us to find pastors who have a heart after you. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Morning Meditations: Divorce
From my morning devotion:
Matthew 19:8,9 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. 9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Also:
Deuteronomy 24:1 When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give it in her hand, and send her out of his house.
Many things in this world have changed, but many are still the same. God allows us divorce because of our hard hearts, but he does not approve. This is more than a semantic distinction.
In those days, marriages were arranged. The prospective husband and wife usually spent little or no time together. Even more, they were never allowed to be alone together. Because of these things, God is merciful and allowed for divorce.
But I think that for most marriages today, there is a much more pertinent verse:
Deuteronomy 22:28,29 If a man find a damsel that is a virgin, which is not betrothed, and lay hold on her, and lie with her, and they be found; 29 Then the man that lay with her shall give unto the damsel's father fifty shekels of silver, and she shall be his wife; because he hath humbled her, he may not put her away all his days.
Consider the spirit of this verse like this:
"In a world where men and women are allowed to freely choose their mates, divorce should never be allowed."
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Guard your heart, keep it for marriage with someone you're truely compatible with.
Lord, help us to keep our heart safe. Help us to draw closer to you. Help us to find your pick for our mate. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Matthew 19:8,9 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. 9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Also:
Deuteronomy 24:1 When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give it in her hand, and send her out of his house.
Many things in this world have changed, but many are still the same. God allows us divorce because of our hard hearts, but he does not approve. This is more than a semantic distinction.
In those days, marriages were arranged. The prospective husband and wife usually spent little or no time together. Even more, they were never allowed to be alone together. Because of these things, God is merciful and allowed for divorce.
But I think that for most marriages today, there is a much more pertinent verse:
Deuteronomy 22:28,29 If a man find a damsel that is a virgin, which is not betrothed, and lay hold on her, and lie with her, and they be found; 29 Then the man that lay with her shall give unto the damsel's father fifty shekels of silver, and she shall be his wife; because he hath humbled her, he may not put her away all his days.
Consider the spirit of this verse like this:
"In a world where men and women are allowed to freely choose their mates, divorce should never be allowed."
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Guard your heart, keep it for marriage with someone you're truely compatible with.
Lord, help us to keep our heart safe. Help us to draw closer to you. Help us to find your pick for our mate. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
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