Why McCain Lost

I recently came across an article from the evangelist Perry Stone. He gives his opinion on why John McCain did not get elected. I find it interesting and very possible. I will give a little bit of what he said. If you would like to read the whole article, click on the title.
Perry states: "Shortly after McCain became the choice of the Republicans, John Hagee stepped forward to endorse McCain. It was then the media found a clip of Hagee preaching a prophetic word which linked the woman on the beast in Revelation 18 to Rome and the Roman church system. Many Bible believing Catholics even believe that an apostate pope will take charge of the church in the future and if confronted with the teaching would actually agree with Hagee’s futuristic interpretation. The media, however, misrepresented the teaching of Hagee and made it appear that he was a Catholic hater. Once the clip from Hagee became public, McCain rejected Hagee’s endorsement due to pressure from some Catholic groups.

Another early endorsement for McCain came from Pastor Rod Parsley. In 2004 it was pastor Parsley’s ministry that began to reveal the importance of selecting leaders who would reject the shedding of innocent blood and same sex relations. His rallies across Ohio actually exposed the hypocrisy of anti-biblical thinking and revealed a conflict of cultures in America. Rod’s messages amazingly translated to a great Ohio victory for President Bush in 2004. The contrast between Bush’s more conservative thought and John Kerry’s liberal stance was evident and Bush won Ohio.

Shortly after Parsley’s endorsement of McCain, the media again went after this great man of God and began to say he had been spewing hate toward Muslims when in fact he had actually exposed fanatical and dangerous forms of Islam. The media painted Rod as a right winged fanatic. Once again, out of fear McCain rejected Rod’s endorsement and Rod stepped aside from the picture.

When McCain was running against Bush for the Republican nomination in 2000, the McCain campaign was in Virginia. There the senator made a very huge blunder, comparing Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell to Louis Farrakkhan and Al Sharpton and called them “agents of intolerance.” He continued, “They are corrupting influences on religion and politics, and those who practice them in the name of religion or in the name of the Republican Party or in the name of America shame our faith, our party and our country…”

The fact is the strongest base of the Republican Party is considerably Christian, which includes millions of conservatives, and when they are expelled from the process, it will be impossible for any Republican candidate to ever win the White House, or a congressional seat.

The public rejection of the endorsement of two great ministers was a mistake. Any conservative leader who desires to obtain the highest offices of the land in the future must understand the importance of the conservative Christian base. We are not going anywhere and instead of dying out, these millions of Christians will continue to fight for the causes that are right and just in the eyes of God, including life, marriage, fiscal responsibility and freedom to worship."
I think this is a very viable point he makes. I know a lot of Christians that just couldn't jump on board the 'McCain bandwagon', even when Palin joined the ticket. Very interesting indeed.

The End is Near II

The chart in my Bible- 'The Last Days of Preparation' has 8 categories of things that need to happen before the rapture occurs:

1. Increase of false prophets and religious compromise within the church.
2. Increase of crime and disregard of God's law.
3. Increase of wars , famines and earthquakes.
4. Decrease in love and family affection.
5. More severe persecution of God's people.
6. Those who stand firm will be saved.
7. Gospel will be preached to the whole world.
8. The Spirit will be poured out on God's people.

How many of these have been occurring or have happened?
2Timothy 3:1-5 'But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them'
I will give a longer list of Scriptures in another post. I just have had this one on my heart for a while now.

The End is Near

We are living in the end times. Jesus is coming back to collect His own to Heaven. Then comes the seven years before the final judgment. I'm not a theologian nor an eschatologist. I go to an Assembly of God church and believe in their 16 Fundamental Truths. I also have a really neat Bible with a chart in it explaining 'the last days of history'.
What peaked my interest enough to write about end times has been recent events and verses that keep speaking about it. Also, I hear fellow Christians and churches speaking more on the subject. It is no wonder everybody isn't talking about it with all of the recent financial troubles worldwide, the elections, natural disasters, and immorality becoming more prevalent.
My chart is boxed into chronological categories: Last Days of Preparation, The Rapture, The Tribulation, The Great Tribulation (the last 3.5 years), The Antichrist, Christ's appearance to judge and to wage war, The Millennium, The Final Judgment, and The New Heavens and New Earth. Before finding this chart, I just wanted to write down a few verses to focus on what to look for in our own lives and in the world. I will focus only on the last days of preparation and might reference to the others. This will be the first of a few posts on this subject.
As I wrote several times this year, it has been a year of change for me. God showed me my issues with pride, self-centeredness, problems in my marriage, and other things. So I had ears to hear what God was saying to me. What I've been hearing is we have better get it together or we might not have any oil left in our lamp when Jesus shows up (Matthew 25:1-13). You think you always have time to get 'serious' with God. Time is running out. I can see the Rapture coming within the next few years. A lot of things are in place and have happened according to scripture that need to before Jesus comes for us. Many are occuring now and at a rapid pace.
Romans 2:7-9 'To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile;' (NIV) These verses point to the end times and how each heart will increase in good or evil. Matthew 24:12-13 'Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.' (NIV) The love of MOST will grow cold. Are you in the most crowd? I did not think so either. I thought I loved God and heard His voice. I thought I was selfless, giving, and had a good marriage. I got a very important wake up call. I was in the most crowd. I only loved God part time. I was deceived so bad I thought I was good. I loved me more than my wife, others, and God. I was comparing my life with others in the world. Yes, compared to the world I do look good. However, we are not to compare ourselves to each other but to Jesus.
How do you compare to Him? Do you think of others when needs arise? Do you give to your church, missions, and to those in need? Do you avoid people just so you don't have to talk to them? A lot of people need help of some kind. Maybe Jesus is calling you to help one of them. Do you want to know God more? What are you doing about that? Are you letting your love grow cold towards God by avoiding Him? He's there with you right now. Ask Him to forgive you from a lazy cold heart. He wants you to be ready when He comes back. The end may be near, but it can be just the beginning for you. Romans 10:9-10 says 'If you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.' You are one prayer away from making sure you go to heaven. God will tell you what to do if you only ask Him. Don't stay cold. Time is short.

Finding Good in the Vote

I live in Michigan. I work in Ohio. Both states nominated Obama and all the Senate and House winners were not who I voted for. I saw the bars at the top of the page of MSNBC.com and they declared both houses of government and the president are now controlled by the Democrats. I looked up the two proposals in Michigan and they both passed. One is for Medical Marijuana use and the other is my tax dollars to be use for Embryo and Embryonic Stem Cell Research.
I started to freak out a little because it looked like the world was coming to an end. Then I remembered the gay marriage ban proposal in California was being voted on also. I looked at it and saw it winning and my hopes came back. The country isn't going to hell in a hand basket over night! It may be in a few months but not over night!
Also, I remembered a list put out by The Family Research Council. It gives every proposal/amendment that was up for vote that affects the family. As I checked these one by one I was pleasantly surprised to find a lot of the things were passing. Colorado, Arkansas, Arizona, and Florida all passed their proposals on marriage = one man and one woman. Colorado's declared a person starts at conception.
I did find two other disappointments in South Dakota and Washington. Washington voted for assisted suicide and South Dakota voted not to ban abortions.
Overall looking at the big picture, I don't like what I see. With the Democrats in control, I can see our morals as a country deteriorating quickly. Without a lot of prayer and groups that stand for family values fighting and keeping us informed, Sodom and Gomorrah will seem better off than we will be.
I know once Obama is in the Presidency January 20th our government will try to silence any voice that tries to inform Americans of legislation that is sneaked into a bill just to get it passed. I can't tell you how many times James Dobson came on Focus on the Family to tell us of a bill that needed our involvement so it wouldn't get passed. Thousands would call and email their congressman and it wouldn't pass.
They tried on bill #1 on the 2008 agenda to pass a bill to silence all religious organizations on speaking out the truth about bills being voted on in the House and Senate. Jesus is being banned left and right in every shape and form. My pastor had an article he blogged about that tells of a child that had to leave school because his costume was a distraction to the education process. He was dressed as Jesus Christ.
Well I just wanted to shed a little light on a dark picture. Hopefully, this will get Christians to seek His face all the more. We can't depend on too much in this planet anymore. God needs to be our guide and make a way where there is no way.

I Dare You To Read And Comment On This Election Post

I really don't like politics at all. Everything about it makes me sick to my stomach. Some laws I still don't know what God's opinion is on them. Others I know are wrong. Voting is pretty easy for me. If the politician is for the laws that are wrong I vote for the other guy. Stuff like the environment, alternate fuels, jobs and the economy are really secondary to what is right and wrong.
Pulling out of the war in Iraq early is wrong. 4000 plus soldiers would have died for nothing. The Taliban would quickly move in and undo everything our young men and women helped establish over there. Abortion is wrong. Gay marriage is wrong. Judges deciding what the laws of this country should be based solely on there agenda is wrong.
Family values are right. 'Adult' stem cell research is right. Abstinence education is right. Preaching the Gospel on the radio and television is right.
Some of you are probably saying "Yeah, I want world peace and food for the starving children too, but we are in debt ready to lose our jobs, house, cars, and retirement." Let me tell you something you don't want to hear. Our hope is not in the economy. Our trust is not in our job. Our future is not in our home, car, pension, or 401k. Yes we need these things on this earth to survive comfortably, but if we put our trust in these things we will lose them.
Isaiah 31:1 says: 'Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel, or seek help from the LORD.' Let me tell you when God says "woe" it ain't good!
Our trust needs to be in God alone. "In God We Trust".
If we do not vote with the 'right' motives we can kiss that slogan good bye. 9-11 will be a walk in the park compared to what is coming. God will take His hand off of us. Whatever we allow in as compromise with terrorists will come back to haunt us.
We are living in the end times. The end is near and the anti-christ will have reign because we are deceived. Are you ready to take the mark of the beast? If this kind of talk scares you, it should! Because it's time to get right with God. He is setting things in motion to have us repent or grow cold to the things of God.
Ephesians 4:17-19 'So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.'
2Timothy 3:1-5 'But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them'
I know this went in a different direction than the election. However, it is exactly how we should vote, both with our lives and our politicians.
Do you want to get right with God? click here
If you know God but are finding out it is not as it use to be. Your decisions are a little more compromised. Your time with Him is less and less. Reading your Bible happens on Sunday only. Maybe you are doing everything right but something is missing.
Revelation 2: 2-5 'I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.'
Don't let Him remove your lampstand. This is a symbol of you being rejected by God.
Revelation 3: 15-16 'I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.' Become hot for God once again. He never left you and He loves you. Get right with Him while it is still today.
Hebrews 3:12 'See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.'
Hebrews 3:7-8 So, as the Holy Spirit says:
"Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your heart".

Fireproof

I went to see 'Fireproof' this weekend. I knew it would be good because I saw 'Facing The Giants', the same makers of this movie made 'Fireproof'. I saw previews, read reviews, and looked into the plot a little. I wanted a little more when I read a blog review. I got "It's great, all married people should see it." "I loved it" "A must see." I wanted something like: "I loved the way it portrays a real subject so effectively." "The main character does a good job of hooking you in." "There are two great plots to this movie." (none of these are accurate I am just giving examples)
I also keep hearing how this movie was better than 'Facing The Giants'. I don't know about that. 'Facing The Giants' is one of my two favorite movies of all time. So to give an accurate review I watched 'Facing The Giants' again.
Okay here we go. 'Fireproof' was an excellent movie and it is a must see. I love how a father's love and patience is portrayed. The salvation message is clearly spoken. The problems in marriage are looked at in a real way that pricks your heart if there is any connection to your own. The movie is set around a fire station. So, there is action that keeps you rooting for the heros. I laughed, cried, sat on the edge of my seat, and was fully entertained with a movie that convicted me in some areas of my marriage that need fixed.
As good as this movie was I still like 'Facing The Giants' more. In this movie a man has the world against him and he turns to God to find answers. One by one the answers come and through it all he changes his attitude to be a winner in spite of losing. His attitude becomes contagious and it changes his whole school. Revival breaks out during school hours and hurting lives are instantly changed. This man is a football coach and his team rides his leadership to the playoffs and learn to do things they believe were not possible. God is the Hero in this movie. He is our provider and you see that is a big way in this film.
I think because one is a sports theme and the other is basically a love story men are drawn to the one and women to the other. However, they both are equally good and worth owning. They involve you to look into your own life and see what needs fixed. Don't you want to be the best 'you' you can be?

Life As I Know It (Or So I Thought)

I really have not had much to say as of late. Everything I have written is still happening. Anything new just magnifies what I already know. If anything, I feel my struggle to stay focused and positive is intensifying. I find it difficult not to give up and revert back to my wrong thinking and actions. It is hard to express what is happening in words. So I thought I'd try it with pictures.
This year has been a year of change for me. God has removed me from ministry in order to look at my life and fix what is wrong. I thought life was good. Sure it has it's ups and downs but mostly it is just fine. Sure, the marriage lost a little pizazz but we get along. The job isn't a dream but I enjoy being a hero of small portions. My relationship with God needed work but we talked every now and then and He took care of me. I was in for a rude awakening.
The picture I had of life just broke.
It seems good but Proverbs 16:25 says: There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. My course v'ed somewhere and I chose the wrong fork. My fruit turned out to be weeds instead. Matthew 16:25-26 But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.
I got more concerned about me than anything else. So Jesus knocked that picture of a good life and a perfect boxed in God off my mantle.
I feel like I'm changing and slowly making the moves He wants me to make. Then He hits me again with something I thought was right but I am 100% wrong. It is very humbling and throws my entire world off it's tracks.


Everything I thought and did is now unreliable. Almost every question has to be answered "I don't know". You would think I would be searching the Bible and praying constantly for answers. Yes I read the Bible, books on improving my life, and encouraging blogs. I also pray but I know it's not enough. I know I'm in the middle of this thing I have to go through. It's not near the end as I had thought. It's kind of like what the financial world is going through right now. Everybody is waiting and wanting the bottom to happen. Speculation is everywhere on the spectrum. The market is swinging on record day highs and lows.
The problems of all this turmoil took years to makes and it won't be fixed by a simple buy out. It will help but it needs to run it's course until all the problems are corrected. I believe this is what is going on in my life. Jesus bought out my sins but I need to correct the way I think, act, and believe.
The market don't bother me. I pulled out my money into a cash account until it's safer to put it back in. I know it will happen but I don't know if my job will. A lot of rumors are flying around. Anything can happen. I am not worried but losing my job would be a major change forcing me to adjust in ways I haven't in years. That scares me. This may end with me changing whether I want to or not.

The Truth Hurts

I have been hearing from God for the past two weeks and it has been very difficult medicine to take. It started with a book I needed to read in preparation for the marriage seminar I was going to at my Church. Then came the marriage seminar. I followed that by going to a men's leadership training class. Lastly, there were individual occurrences God pointed out things I needed to see. All this in a nice little package that hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt like Wild E. Coyote when one of his schemes to catch the Roadrunner backfired. Can you see me waving that little white flag out from under a pile of rubble?
I was told in many different ways how selfish I've been as a husband, leader, and just in living. The book alone was a wake-up call that I couldn't start reading once I stopped. It convicted me and just kept hitting me-left, right, left, right. I was not able to hardly breath because it just said over and over how bad I was as a husband. It turned into condemnation until my friend told me what I was doing. He saw it for what it was and pulled me back into reality. I still haven't finished reading it yet.
I went into the marriage seminar expecting the best. I did learn a lot of new things that already helped me with understanding and communicating with Kim. However, there came another new set of things I was doing wrong. I didn't feel too bad until we had our first post-seminar fight. It was not as bad as it could have been before the book and seminar. The thing was a concept of the past mixed in with a little misunderstanding. We got through it but I felt like I couldn't change anything in my life. I was knocked down a notch and couldn't get back up.
Kim's mom's friend had a heart attack and they decided to go down to Columbus to visit. I was not going so I got the opportunity to go to the men's leadership training class at church. Originally I had not planned on going. I saw my life as it was and how to fix it. The only problem I had was a lack of ambition to take the leap to just do the things I needed to do to make my life productive and Spirit led. I pondered on these facts and recalled my track record. Then I looked at my present position and a longing to change stirred within me. I wish I could say it was all peaches and cream from that point on but I can't. I saw what needed done in my life and I just caved in. It was just too much for me to comprehend a happy ending to all this. I was always a slacker and even today I slide into slacker mode. I don't like confrontation, being told what to do, the chance of being hurt, or arguing. I back away from most things I can't control or dislike.
Then came Sunday...I had to go to the 'Race for the Cure' in downtown Toledo. I was trying to get out of it but it didn't work. I didn't have to walk, just be there to support Kim's sister and her daughter. I got through the day easy enough but the family is strong willed and they make decisions at the last second. I was complaining and had an attitude that was noticable.
When I got home I thought about how I acted. I wasn't unbarable but it was just enough to peak it's head above the surface and make things uncomfortable. Is this how I influence my family? Is this the way Jesus wants me to live? Is this the way I want to live? Obviously the answer is no and I knew I had to change right then and there. I broke down and cried and begged God to change me. I knew I couldn't do it and any ambition I had was dying. I was close to delving into a deeper depression than I've ever had. I was going to email my friends for help. I knew the answer but it was like I couldn't do it. The answer is 'just do it'.
God was disciplining me so I could change. I never felt all of what these two weeks have told/done to me before. God was gentle, kind, and forgiving. Now He's a Father spanking me and telling me what I did wrong and what I need to do to fix it. Emailing friends won't fix this. I picked up my Bible and said "Lord, tell me what to read. Give me exactly the Word I need for right now in my life that will change me forever." I heard "Zephaniah". I read the last half of the last chapter and knew it was what I prayed for. He spoke to me saying He loved me, is with me, and is changing me. Click here if you want to read what He spoke. The title of that post is a link to a blog that helped me in the right direction too.
I am taking the attitude of 'Just do it'. I am going to sacrifice myself for His glory. Too many examples have been before me not to follow their example. People need the me that God created and not the one I want. If I die in the process I go home to Jesus. It's a win-win situation:-)
Clinging to Jesus and not to this world is my goal. Welcome back Aaron, it's good to see you.

Guard Your Heart

I saw 'Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.' It made me wonder about guarding and how much I do and don't do.
I have seen some areas of weakness as of late and even considered not going to a marriage seminar because of the stark reality of my shortcomings. I know I need all of God I can get and to surrender my ways for His but the shock was overwhelming how much I am still an infant. I'm holding on to the easy life. There is so little self sacrifice. I am still protecting myself from rejection, being hurt, and being wrong.
So guarding my heart more than likely needs improvement. Here's what I found:

• Proverbs 4:13 Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.

Guard instruction...written and spoken word of God. I have been doing better this year but I need to learn to stand on the Word. I need to believe it by living it. There is stuff God told me that I need to stand on too.

• Proverbs 13:3 He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.

Guard lips...what I say. I have to stop before I speak. I let this slip as of late and my wife has been letting me know.

• Proverbs 16:17 The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life.

Guard the way...what I do. I can do better. What programs/movies am I watching, conversations am I having, and time am I wasting? How many prayers have I neglected to pray?

• Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."

Guard against greed...what I own and want to own. How much money have I wasted on stuff that later I find out how dumb it was to buy? Do I need the newest, best, brand name, electronic item to make my life easier? By the time you get it home it needs an upgrade. I need to downgrade on earthly treasures and strive for heavenly treasure.

• Psalm 91:11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;

Praise God!!! Even when I'm stupid He's watching over me. I need to take an attitude that I'm protected and just obey God without worrying about the consequences. God's got my back!

The Greatest People on Earth

I received this in an email from James Robison. He is the host of 'Life Today', a program that has Christian guests on it or just him and his wife. He goes around the world feeding those that need it most. Most recently, he's known for putting up wells in villages so people have clean water to drink.
Here is the story of the greatest people on earth:
it’s not uncommon for people to ask me, “Who is the greatest person you’ve ever met?” In my experience, the greatest people on earth are the missionaries and relief workers I have seen up close and personal. Around the world, they give their time, energy and sometimes their lives to help suffering people. Their lives, commitment and sacrifices, along with the joy in which they do it, leaves me overwhelmed.
Jesus said, "Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life." (Matthew 19:29) Clearly, he values this type of selfless service, so I recognize the greatness inherent in such dedication.

Wherever we go -- China, Romania, India, Angola, Croatia, Bolivia and many other places -- we find people to admire. I mentioned this to Peter Pretorius one time, telling him that Betty and I thought that the missionaries were the greatest people we had ever met. His reaction, and Ann’s [his wife] as well, really surprised me.

“James, let me tell you what we missionaries think,” he said forcefully. “The people who recognize the need, whether it’s by watching LIFE Today or some other means, and then reach out to help, these are the greatest people on earth. They are the greatest examples of God’s love because even though they are unable to personally meet someone else’s need, they are determined in their hearts to make sure the need is met. They make it possible for missionaries to go into the fields of suffering with hands filled with possibilities and life. They are the great enablers.”

Peter made me realize that regardless of how much the missionaries care, how much they pray, or how much they want to help, they are empty-handed without the support of others. In practical terms, it’s impossible for a missionary to hold a high-paying job or raise funds personally while they work to help others. Like the rest of us, they can only do one thing at a time. They would simply stand, weeping in the face of disaster with no way to alleviate the suffering, if it wasn’t for hundreds and thousands of others who give them the support, both financially and spiritually, that they must have to fulfill their mission.

That mission involves “Good Samaritan” care, like providing food, shelter and medicine, but it also involves evangelism. Paul wrote in Romans 10, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." He then asked, “How can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent?” A handful of people are called to do the physical work, but it takes a larger group to send them.

After reading this I realized this is my gift. I had thought 'if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously'(Romans 12:8) was me but this confirmed it. I play a crucial part in the missions field even though I have only been on two missions trips.
Let me encourage you to give to missions. God will bless you and your money will be used for a people you may never know until you step into heaven with them and you'll hear that song being played...'Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed. Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.' What a glorious day that will be when I see all the lives I touched for the Kingdom. How can you not give?
**I have used only the part of this email that most relates to me. Click here to read the whole thing.**

Not Of The World

I went to a Detroit Lions game Sunday. It was a free ticket from a friend, an $80 free ticket. How can people justify paying such a high price for a football game? I understand the whole 'fanatic' thing. I 'r' one:-)
I went to the restroom and walking back I checked out the prices for pop/hot dogs, etc. $4 for a bottled water!!! I just kept on walking. The curiosity stopped right there. I never would have gone if I had to pay.
The Lions were playing the Green Bay Packers (my favorite team). My buddy knew this and that is why I was chosen for his extra ticket. His two boys went with us. It was fun and the Packers won. I love experiencing the atmosphere of 'being part' of the game and seeing the whole field instead of whatever the cameraman chooses to show us.
However, this is where the good stuff stops (except seeing the stadium). I saw all the usual worldly things: drinking beer, cussing, gesturing, and music that is ungodly. I also saw hatred towards players on the field, guys being paid millions of dollars, sky boxes being rented out for a LOT of money, and just a sad feeling that people are so into this.
I saw football by looking down on it from up above (literally and figuratively). On TV it seems so big, but from row 24 in person they look small and real. I am not of this world and see myself separate from a game I love. It just is not that important anymore. Lately, a lot of things seem smaller or less spectacular when you experience them. I guess compared to God all things are small:-)

The Stones Will Cry Out

I was responding to a blog the other day and this verse eluded me: Romans 1:18-20 The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
I have been having a hard time lately finding and remembering verses. I am usually within the ballpark of where a verse is located. Sometimes I know two words and can search on line or in my concordance. However I think this is God's way of having me search out a new thing I never saw before.
It took two days and linking out to a devotion/commentary to find it. In the process I found these:
Luke 19:39-40 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!" "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
Psalm 19:1-2 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.
Habakkuk 2:11 The stones of the wall will cry out, and the beams of the woodwork will echo it. Joshua 24:25-27 On that day Joshua made a covenant for the people, and there at Shechem he drew up for them decrees and laws. And Joshua recorded these things in the Book of the Law of God. Then he took a large stone and set it up there under the oak near the holy place of the LORD. "See!" he said to all the people. "This stone will be a witness against us. It has heard all the words the LORD has said to us. It will be a witness against you if you are untrue to your God."
After reading: "This stone will be a witness" I realized God was talking and old sermons I dismissed came back to me. I remember how they went into the science side of it. It was based on Isaiah 55:8-12 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.
It got me thinking. I remember one thing said was how you can never take back anything you say. The vibration sent out goes on forever. That is why we need to watch what we say:
James 3:6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
Not only does our word carry on out of our mouth forever, it can cause destruction in our lives. Also, our fight is not against our neighbor:
2 Corinthians 10:3-6 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete. Ephesians 4:27 and do not give the devil a foothold.
I believe God is telling me, at least, that our enemy is out to get us by whatever means he can. In the Word quoted above STONES CRY OUT. The spoken word goes on forever and God word does not return back to Him empty. This tells me we need to speak His word out loud. If a stone can be a witness, it can be a witness for us or against us. If we say bad stuff it will send out bad stuff as a witness. It will open the door for the enemy to rule in that area.
I see how spirits can be in a room where there are Christians. We must send out good news, the truth, in order to dispel anything set out to trap us. By not saying anything we allow things to be said to us. The enemy speaks to us all the time to discourage, oppress, depress, and mislead. If we are not confessing what God says for our lives, the enemy is saying what our lives are not. Worship music is another great way to speak the truth and bring joy. It can drown out every evil thought, word, or memory.
There are many things to be retrieved from these verses. I have only touched the surface. The main point to all of this is to speak the truth.
Deuteronomy 32:46-47 he said to them, "Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day, so that you may command your children to obey carefully all the words of this law. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. By them you will live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to possess."
Matthew 12:33-37"Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."
*Words are important*Speak the Truth*

Jesus Boycotted?

This is one of many ponderings I've had recently. I had read of and saw protests. I have also heard of boycotts. They both seem like the right thing to do but is it what Jesus would do? He said give to Caesar what is Caesar's. I know when the temple was being desecrated He cleared it of the thieves. Jesus confronted the religious leaders of the day but He still attended the ceremonies. He cursed the fig tree when it produced no fruit.
Boycott means: To abstain from or act together in abstaining from using, buying, or dealing with as an expression of protest or disfavor or as a means of coercion. (Dictionary.com)
Yes this seems right and noble but is this the thing Jesus would do? Does He want us to fight against the corporations that sponsor abortion, gay rights, and pornography? I have heard of the effectiveness Focus on the Family has when they call for a boycott against a corporation or a call for action against a bill that could change our morals as a country. Millions of calls come in to the Senate or House of Representatives and the bill fails. They also have written and called corporations in an effort to have them stop supporting a cause or financing a group that supports immorality. Usually if their efforts go unresponsive they send out a call to boycott their product. They also send a clear message this is what they are doing and the reason behind it. Typically they give in before it even begins because they know the financial loss they would suffer.
This is an effective tool in this world's system but is it what Jesus would do? I'm just wondering...
***Here is a verse I read today that goes along with Focus on the Family's actions and if Jesus would boycott: Titus 3:9-11 But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.

~**Prayer Update**~

Here's the latest on my sister-in-law. She's home and within 24 hours!! She can talk, eat, and has no complications! So far everything looks real good. This is better than any of us expected! Thank you for praying. I really love how our God takes care of us!!! Praise the Lord! Woo hoo:-)

Need Some Prayer

My sister-in-law is having surgery today at 1pm. Her name is Margaret Raker and she is having her thyroid removed. She has a lump on the thyroid. As far as I know they found no cancer. Pray they find no cancer after the removal and that everything goes the way the doctors would like it to. They told her she would stay in the hospital 2-4 days. So pray for a quick recovery with no complications. Thank You.

Addition: Jenni Weiss @ Big Weiss Blog reminded me : "I will also be praying that your sis-in-law will be able to eat/talk/and swallow easily! I am told that those are the major complaints of thyroid patients!"
My friend Tami @ African Dreams had the same procedure done except she had cancer. God healed her! She initially lost her voice and her singing voice was lost for up to a year. She also was healed for this too! I also remember her meds took a while before the proper dosage was determined. So pray for these things as well.

Braggin' Wagon (Jumpin' On)

Who's jumping on the braggin' wagon today? Let us start with DaNella Auten @ 'Beyond Microbursts!'. She is a pastor's wife and semi-professional photographer. She usually has pictures on her blog. Half of them are of her daughter and some little critter in her hand that I would never dream of getting within 10 feet of. The other half are nature at its finest. I love photography and see she has a talent and an eye for getting the perfect shot. If it makes her curious you're going to see it!
DaNella has become a good friend because she has a good heart. She is working on her degree to become a councilor and is pretty good at it already.
She has written a devotional book published by 'Lion & Lamb Publications' called "Microbursts!- Devotions with a Unique Look into the Power of God in Everyday Life". The title says it all because she takes stuff in everyday life and sees God in it. It is a book well worth $14.95+ s/h. You will laugh, cry, and be touched by God when you read it. You can apply most of it in your life and see God where you missed Him before. Check out her photos and her 'microbursts'. You will not be let down.
The next blog I like is called 'My Operation Obligation Journal' by Patti. She's a mom and a military wife. The reason her blog is so cool is because her 'operation obligation' is to help the country of Guatemala. She is not a missionary, pastor's wife or any other position that you would think. She is just somebody doing what they think they should do. Patti sponsors three children (Marcos, Oscar, and Rafael) through 'Mayan Families'-a ministry working right in Guatemala. Her heart has such a love to touch these families and help them.
In May she was able to go there on a missions trip with her son. The poverty was so great that it just overwhelmed her, but she was able to see her sponsored children and their homes. What a feeling it is to see with your own two eyes exactly what your money and supplies are doing for a family in need. Her friend Daphne adopted two children from Guatemala and arranged that whole trip. She also sponsors four children of her own. If you go back to the May posts you can see the pictures from their trip.
She encourages me to do more for missions because she is always looking for ways to make money for Guatemala. Come and see how anybody can make a difference.

Braggin' Wagon

I wanted to just point out a few blogs and our blog ring today. I will start with our blog ring 'Assembly of God Blogs'. First and for most I think Sharon is doing a great job and deserves the highest praise (under God) for a first class blog ring! I love the way it is bringing us together as a denomination countrywide. I am able to talk to fellow A/G 'ers from Missouri, Alabama, Florida, Indiana, etc. Soon it will be worldwide and we will never be able to keep up with all the new blogs!
Secondly, I love the way it has shown me how my church body is awesome. I have seen plenty of people being open with their lives so I can grow from their experiences. I could also use my gift of encouragement to lift them up when they needed it most. I can say that I have friends I've never met and may never meet only from the opportunity of being in this blog ring.
Lastly, my blog was only being read by a few friends and an occasional search hit until I joined this ring. The Assembly of God Blogs has given me not only fellow A/G 'ers reading my blog but people from all over the world. Somehow being linked with this ring has made searchers find my blog and hear about Jesus Christ. Wow! Even when nobody has seen my blog in days I know there will come a day when I'll get 5-10 hits from nobody I know. They can search for any idea they come up with and surprise I am there. Just from the comments I get, I know I'm making a difference.
I have found several blogs that I want to brag about. First one is 'Lifetime Intimate Portrait' by Deanna Shrodes a pastor in Tampa Bay, Florida. I first could not keep up with how much this woman writes! However, I have learned to skip a few that are not my cup of tea. Recently she has been fighting depression and sharing with her readers just what she goes through and how she deals with it. She is open and honest and impresses me to no end. I have my share of depressive times and don't even compare with her at all. She loves God and it shows. I know what it's like being depressed and wanting to serve the Lord. You try and nothing. No response from God and no twinge inside from the Holy Spirit about what to do. You have to encourage yourself in this time or you just stay down. She has mastered this. She is living like the Bible tells you to do. She is putting action to her faith when there is no feeling into it and she doesn't even want to. She has found that servant's heart that works separate from emotions and feelings. Deanna, you are an encouragement bigger than you'll ever know because you share your life with us. You are showing us the way, when you're not even sure yourself. She is amazing and her blog is an 'intimate portrait' of that amazingness. Check out her battles, victories and the way God is changing her for all our benefits.
I knew this would get long so I'll only do one more today. The last one is 'African Dreams' by Tami Moreno. Yes I'm a little bias here since she's a good friend and the one to get me to start blogging. She plans on being a missionary to Africa someday with her family. She's a regular gal that loves Jesus, her hubby, and her children. Tami has been through a lot in her life and it has made who she is today. Dealing with life and loving Jesus is what her blog is all about. She has her days when life is getting the best of her but always has victory in the end. I can relate to her real situations and her reactions to them. Her love for the Lord is what makes her different from the usual church crowd. It is awesome to see the decisions and influence this family makes. You can read this blog to find out how to live and get past your past. She also has an uncanny way of taking stuff in her day and using it in a devotion. I have been encouraged and brought back into focus by reading this blog. I also have gotten through some hard times from her prayers. Check it out and be blessed.

Empty Me

Here is Chris Sligh. He was a contestant on American Idol and sings this awesome song called "Empty Me". I found a video that shows the words like church so you can sing along if you'd like. Listen and be drawn closer to our Lord while you empty me.

A Fight to the Finish (Part 2)

OK this passage is titled 'Tearing Down Barriers' but it reads in the same line as yesterday's verses.

2 Corinthians 10:3-6
The world is unprincipled. It's dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn't fight fair. But we don't live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren't for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.

This is from the Message Bible again. I like how it clearly separates us and from the world. I think we all from time to time need to be reminded that: "we win". When it is all over, we win. The evil one may have our number for the day, week, month or year. However, if we do not faint, give up, or ignore God, we win. If today the devil has your number keep fighting you will win. You are not alone. We all have battles. Nobody is going through anything that hasn't happened before. Jesus is right there with you. Trust Him and use the weapons He gave us by dying for us. Remember His fight? He won!!!

A Fight to the Finish

You know the passage of Scripture in Ephesians 6 titled 'The armor of God'? In the Message version it's titled 'A fight to the finish' and it reads like this:

10-12And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.

13-18Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

I found this worthy of sharing and something we need to put into practice. I particularly like the last line because that is what I try to do here and in everyday life.

I Won!!!

It's true I won! DaNella Auten nominated me as one of her favorite blogs, 'sniff' I am so touched. The only problem is I need to nominate five other blogs I think are worthy of such an award. You see, Danella was nominated by Sharon, which gives a total of eleven blogs used. Many of these are the ones I track on a daily basis and would consider for this award.
Anyways here are the rules for those nominated:

What is the meaning of the expression: Arte y Pico

What is the meaning of the expression: And basically, ironically, it translates into a wonderful phrase in Mexico, “lo maximo.” LOL! It will never find its counterpart in English, but if it HAD to, it would be something like, Wow. The Best Art. Over the top. http://arteypico.blogspot.com/

Here are the rules:

Congratulations!

Now go forth and share the love!

POST THE FOLLOWING ALONG WITH YOUR SELECTIONS:

The official instructions follow:

1) You have to pick 5 blogs that you consider deserve this award, creativity, design, interesting material, and also contributes to the blogger community, no matter of language.
2) Each award has to have the name of the author and also a link to his or her blog to be visited by everyone.
3) Each award-winning, has to show the award and put the name and link to the blog that has given her or him the ward itself.
4) Award-winning and the one who has given the prize have to show the link of "Arte y pico" blog , so everyone will know the origin of this award.
5) To show these rules on each one. Post the rules!
Publicado por Eseya, Muñecas con historia

Here we go...My five...er four nominations are:

1. Tami Moreno @ African Dreams. A good friend that will be a missionary to Africa.
   
2. Patti K @ My Operation Obligation Journal. Giving lady that is changing a country.
3. Dorinda @ Treasures in Jars of Clay. Always find good stuff to read here!
4. Julie @ The Surrendered Scribe. A wide variety to read and never boring!

Whew! That wasn't too bad. You guys deserve it! You make a difference and it shows:-)

It's my Fault

These are three words we never want to have to say. Usually when we say "It's my fault" we made a big mistake. Remember when you were little and 'somebody' did something they were not suppose to do and mom or dad said, "Who did this?". When "It's my fault" was finally said they got a whooping. How about at work when a project does not work out or you lose a customer. It's your fault and you just want to run and hide but somebody has to take the hit. In each case the parent and the boss will figure out the culprit so you had better come clean.
Whenever I am at fault I feel like a failure. I can't help it. I look at my progress in life and expect a certain level of performance. If I fail to meet that level, I become frustrated and want to blame somebody else for my mistakes. I may start yelling at every little thing that sounds like an accusation or put down. I have my eyes off of Jesus and onto the problem. If I could just keep my focus on His word and the promises He gave us, I could quickly get past this learning moment and see that His plan is still in place for my life. I could respond properly because I know what is right if I take time to think about it. If I had no answer I could ask God for wisdom and He would give it (James 1:5).
For some reason I tend to lean towards self preservation and avoid being hurt. Both of these get me into further trouble. Problems are not solved but only ignored. The more you try to protect yourself the more work you create. It can work it's way throughout your whole life. Problems grow at work, at home, in your health, in your marriage, at church, in your relationships, bills get behind, and your walk with God suffers.
In the end you start saying "It's not my fault". You could be so far down the wrong path that you actually start to believe it. In reality, it's all your fault and it won't change until you start taking responsibility for your faults. Confess your sins to God, get forgiveness, and walk in the right way. To know the right way you need to read the Bible, pray, and go to church. Spiritual disciplines cannot be ignored. To be in the right state of mind in peace and grace to walk effectively, we need to have a personal intimate relationship with God. Without contact the connection becomes corroded and we don't hear Him or remember what's right in a given situation.
So, being responsible in life takes courage and sometimes saying, "It's my fault". I struggle too much trying to escape this responsibility and need God's help to keep me connected and on track. Friends are another way to remember what's important in life. Talk about Jesus every now and then just to see where we are in our hearts. Sometimes one's desire to please the Lord awakens that desire in somebody else. Together our impact can be contagious. The very life around us can change just because we talked about Jesus. Joy becomes your strength and courage and the only thing that matters is making a difference in somebody else's life. You and God can change the world just by living to be a blessing. Give more than you get.

Fear

The thing that holds me back the most in life is fear. I also think selfishness is a big stopper too. God has a great plan for me and for others through me. I think the more I am into God's plans and will for my life the more I stay with His plan. If I think of my weaknesses I tend to withdraw from anything that could go wrong or I could mess up. I don't want to be responsible for somebody walking away from God or having issues in life because of my lack of commitment.
I would rather not do anything than something and fail. That is my fleshly tendency. Is this what God wants though? He would leave the 99 to find the lost one. Leaving the 99 is a big risk. The lost one is just one. Only one % compared to however many left when He wasn't there.
The one could have been killed or died some other way. He might never have found him. If I were that little lost one who went his own way and found out the way he chose was not right, I would want for my shepherd to look for me. I also think of all the little ones that would miss out by me not being there for them. I am gifted and blessed to be a blessing to children and would have none to bless if I chose not to follow God's plan for me.
God has been speaking to me from the story in Numbers 13 & 14 where the spies checked out the promised land and gave their reports. 10 gave a bad report saying how big the enemy was and how they could never defeat them. 2 gave a good report saying how bountiful the land was and how with God they could take the enemy. I know I usually listen to the bad reports given to me because of the reasoning and the many voices saying how 'this is the way it is and you can't change it'. Fear then grips on and the gloominess is seen in every report going forward no matter how good it is.
However, if I would remember what the Bible said about what to do and what to believe, I could push back that fear and see clearly that God is still in charge.
If I do what I think He wants me to do, I will have His grace and guidance to do it. I might not be ready to do it but He is still there to help me. He uses me because of my heart and faith in action.

The Last Hour

Saturday I saw my Aunt die. I never witnessed any body dying before and hope I never have to again. It was a really rough day. First we had to get ready and then leave at 2 am to pick up our Grandma from the nursing home then come home to pick up three more family members. Then all of us drove three hours to our Aunt's home.
The minute we arrived we were whisked in and placed right next to her bedside. She shocked us. We knew she had cancer, was on morphine and was dying fast. However, we were not prepared for her yellow sunken in face, her lifeless look, her labored breathing, and the motionlessness. She sat there and moaned. Each of us were put in front of her and said whatever we could come up with.
My niece starting crying right away and couldn't say anything. My wife was next. She took her hand and told her she loved her. Then Mom said sing her a song... She started singing 'her Jesus song' to her and everybody started crying. I was next and just didn't know what to say. I looked at her face and told her "I love you" while holding her hand. She then said my name as plain as day because several other people heard it. I was dumbfounded and in the meantime she squeezed my hand. She was still with us and could communicate if you listened hard enough. My wife's sisters went next and said their 'I love yous' and 'good byes.' Grandma had a turn too. She knew her daughter and told her she looked beautiful. She then starting crying.
Sis had some pictures with her and started to show her them one by one. She acknowledged each one. Some were of the Christmas party 8 months ago when she was the life of the party.
She came down to surprise Grandma. We put her into a wrapped cabinet and used a dolly to set it in place. They started the song 'I'll be home for Christmas' and at the end she came out and surprised everybody (that didn't know). I got to spend a lot of time with her that day and it was very special to me. That party really did reflect just the kind of person she was: happy, fun, and joyous.
Grandma went up one more time and said the same thing but she bent over sobbing this time and almost fell over. Being that she has Alzheimer's it was that much more special. People just kept coming to her side until Sis said a prayer for her and us. She died and I went outside to breathe. I could hardly swallow.
I never felt this way about anybody. I remember my Grandpa dying and shedding a tear but this was different. I didn't know anything, not how to act, feel, or what to say. I will definitely miss her and hope I can bring as much joy to people as she did.

Mary

Let me start by saying I have no children. My wife is a quadriplegic and has had problems with her cycles. We are going to be 40+ers this year. The conversation came up that we should start looking for Mary.
Now Mary is our daughter. She was shown to both of us in a dream/ vision about 10 years ago. Her age was between 10-12 with long tan/ blond hair. She was riding a bike in our driveway and two other boys were behind her. They were around 5 and 6 years old. I knew they were ours. I only had one other dream/ vision before and that one hasn't come to fruition either.
Yesterday I saw a movie that was about an orphan and in the credits it said: "Please...Consider adoption". I felt that familiar twinge that this was meant for me. I never felt this for adoption before. In fact, I told her that we should wait for her to show up because I showed up in answer to her prayers 19 years ago. I was open for adoption but not sure if we're ready. I think God may have taken me through the past 3 years to prepare me. I do long to have a child of my own but life will change forever. I may be spiritually ready but what about emotionally? Time to start looking. Does anybody have any ideas?

Christian Bloggers Network

Everybody who has a blog can join the Christian Bloggers Network on Facebook. They have a list of blogs worldwide of 500 and it is growing daily. The link is here.
The blogs are listed by country and by state. You can check out blogs from Africa or as close as your own state. I really think it's cool to see pages and pages of Christian bloggers. So check it out. If you don't have a Facebook account now is your chance to sign up. I know you can find old friends, classmates, coworkers, fellow church goers, relatives and a lot of other people you know. I connect with missionaries even!

Dull

My sword has been dull. I used it during VBS and put it away. I took it out a couple times to remind me who I am and what is God's will. It's dull and rusty. The verse that inspired this blog says one man sharpens another and that is when I pulled it out again. When I say "my sword" I am referring to God's word. Ephesians 6: 17 "Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
Now lets look at what is God's word. First, John 1: 1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John is speaking of Jesus in this verse. We know that the Bible is God's word. Now when we read the Bible God's word is in our minds and hearts. When we talk about the Bible our mouths and ears have God's word in them. So by activating the Word in any form: reading, speaking, thinking, hearing, believing, writing, or living it in action, we are sharpening our sword.
When I have a dull sword I withdraw and do whatever is easy and time consuming. It can be the computer, television, or movies. Typically all three of these have ungodly messages whether it is commercials, shows or hidden messages. Everything has a message and pulls for our attention. If we are filling our minds and hearts with ungodly things it dulls our sword and makes us ineffective. We start believing the negative things our minds tell us and start to fill those holes with whatever makes us feel better.
Why can't we just do what's right and reject the lies and inject the truth? If there is no more room for the truth we can't get the truth. All that's left is whatever we've been filling our minds and hearts with. I have learned more than any other time in my life that iron sharpens iron. We sharpen each other. By talking openly and honestly with close friends, you have an ally that tells you the truth and shares their struggles with you. You can see you're not alone and hope begins to rise once again.
I had a 13 year old girl show me where I was at fault. She recently came back from a four week missions trip and started spending early morning hours with God. She came back changed and it shows. I am proud of her and am humbled at her example. She has awaken who I need to be and what I should be doing. My priorities need realigned. 15 minutes with our Lord and a promise, it's a start. Thank you friends for the encouragement and prodding. You mean the world to me.

I Just Have To

Here's my cute niece.





Yep, here's a few more pics from VBS. Do you think I'd stop at 7 or 8?

It's Over!

Yes it is done!
I survived but I think I got the cold of one of my boys. Ughhh. Come to find out Mrs. Holly got slimed! Here are some pics to show the experience of VBS.
Holly being slimed!!!

VBS Almost Over

Today is the last day and as always...I am glad it's finally over but wish it would never end! Yesterday was just as good as the day before. I was refreshed and ready when it started. The day went without a hitch. The boys were good (most of the time) and I got to hear about Jamaica again. I went there on a missions trip in 2002 and met our Bible story teller and her family when they were missionaries down there. She never confirmed remembering me when they started coming to our church but today she said I was down there to the kids. It was a special story time indeed! They are a great family and the time we had in Jamaica was special. She told of having to sell everything to go there and having to return a year later with nowhere to live. God took care of her. It was so cool to be connected to that story and the boys could hear how God takes care of you if you trust in Him.
Today will be a big day for the kids with games, hot dogs, a special guest, and of course we find out who gets slimed... the children's pastor or his wife? The kids have a contest to see who gives the most money to missions (BGMC) the boys or the girls. If the boys win the wife gets it. If the girls win Pastor gets it. Yeah, like the women would let her get slimed! 3 years in a row Pastor has been a hot dog, a sundae and pied in the face! It's rigged I tell ya.

The Middle of VBS

Oh man, I was tired and not wanting to do anything for VBS yesterday. I knew the kids would be there and they need me. I brought a pop with me today for a little extra pep, took 2 aspirin, and asked for prayer. Little did I know I would have my most energetic day yet! I interacted with the boys like I should have been and knew God was using me. I was injected with Holy Spirit juice and had no ill effects. It's funny how when it was over I felt the pain again and lost that spring in my step.
How much do we depend on God instead of trying to get through it? You know how it is going to be and you react to everything that confirms this way of thinking. I was prayed over and believed with action that I could do it and I wasn't going to give them anything less than 100%. If I'm going to be there just to get through it, I should just stay home because those kids need what we are giving them. They need to know God is real and He's not boring. Thank you Jesus for hearing our prayers and giving those kids what they so desperately need!

VBS Day 2

Well, I am tired and in some pain. I will get through this day regardless. Yesterday was less than I expected in my opportunities but I saw God at work and was touched at the Bible story. There were two times I saw God at work where I knew it was God. The first was the Bible story when the story teller was sharing how much she loved Jesus and how much He loves us. I was remembering a time in her life when her world turned upside down. She needed to function but it was noticeable that something was wrong. Today I saw her joyful and connecting in a way that made Jesus real to the boys. I actually teared up because I could feel Jesus sharing how much He loved us. The other time was when my fellow guide took a boy up in his arms to show him the love of Jesus. I was blown away because he didn't seem like he would do that kind of thing. I thought I would be that special friend to love them but my prayers were answered through this man.
I am not living up to my expectations but the week is not done and I still show them Jesus when I set the example and encourage them. Jesus will have to keep me focused today because I am a little out of it.