Good Morning!
Psalm 100 (English Standard Version)
His Steadfast Love Endures Forever
A Psalm for giving thanks.
1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Serve the LORD with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
3Know that the LORD, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;[a]
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 100:3 Or and not we ourselves
Psalm 100 was one of the Bible Study passages for yesterday … I hope you got a chance to read through it.
What a beautiful song for us to “sing” to God. When I think about making a joyful noise, I am reminded that not all noise is beautiful, on key, timed perfectly. No, a joyful noise can be off key and ill timed. God’s ears hears beautiful music – even when our ears miss the tune.
So make some “music” this weekend – thank God for His wonderful steadfast love and His faithfulness to you and your loved ones. I am sure God is waiting to hear you.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Friday, October 29, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Plumb Tired
10/28/2010
Good Morning!
I am plumb tuckered out as I sit down to write this Good Morning. The Gant household has been battling a stopped up sink since Sunday week ago when some dimwit (me) poured cream of potato soup down the drain. It is now almost eight o’clock Wednesday evening and the plumbers who have been here since ten are still here. But, Miss N’s house has a new water heater, the washing machine lines have been moved to the utility room, drains have been set at 6774.
Unfortunately, the drain at 6766 is still stopped up but our toilet no longer leaks and we have new drainage from the utility room to the main. The plumbers say the line had only about an inch to drain … which we suspected since the house is fifty years old and the drains are cast iron.
My day has been spent replacing bathroom floor – which was rotted. I am covered in sawdust. I am a sight. But God is good … and His love and mercy endures for all generations.
We also had our bug guy back out today. And he shared his testimony with us … God knows I need that constant encouragement. It is really great to know that are surrounded by people who love God and aren’t afraid to testify to His goodness. It make as difficult day more wonderful.
I got a praise from my buddy Fred that I want to share with you. You know, Fred had a stroke earlier this year … but I am stealing his thunder:
Jim,
Thought I would take some time to give God the praises for some answered prayer. First, my sister, Barbara Blair, has greatly improved in her health. She is now with her son and being cared for at home. While she, like others, always need prayer, she can be removed from the daily list.
Second, Howard is holding up under the circumstances. He calls once a week and can talk for about 15 minutes. He 'misses' a lot of things, but uses this to help gain an appreciation of what God provides. He has at least 4 more months there.
Finally, I saved what seems the best for last. I had my eye examination yesterday, Tuesday (6 months from the stroke) and the doctor, after examining my eyes (and I quote) "Wow, I've never seen this before." Two things have happened. The loss of control of the left eye's pupa(?) that was highly evident after the stroke occurred is gone! The doctor said she has never seen this type of recovery before; this is usually a permanent residual effect from a stroke. She also was amazed that the Diabetic Retinopathy that was evident the last exam is also completely gone! No evidence of it. My vision has cleared (not deteriorated) since the last time.
I'm certainly not boasting as this is something I cannot control; but God, through prayer, can; and I give Him all the praise and glory!
Have a Blessed Day!
Fred & Daisy Hottensen
Pastor Cook, please stop running up and down the aisle … on second thought, please keep running up and down the aisle. (I’m just picking on you, James – I love ya, brother.)
I truly believe that the faithful prayers of our people have a definite impact. Thank you – thank you – thank you for your diligence.
We have a report on Sue Stiltner and another prayer request to pass along. Here’s Anna’s email:
Mom's cousin Sue had a 10-hour surgery on Monday. As of last night, she was still in ICU (I think). They think they got all of the tumor. It was tricky because the tumor had gotten into an artery and some of her veins feeding off it. At least, that's how I pictured it when Mom updated me last night.
Also - she would like us to add her cousin Barbara's daughter Carrie to the list. Carrie is about Rachel's age (20) and has a huge kidney stone they are going to try to blast tomorrow (Thurs.) sometime. They have attempted this before but the stone was not in a good place to do it, so they are trying again tomorrow.
Love you! See you tomorrow.
am
So we have a task before us – praying for Sue and for Carrie. May God bless them at this present time.
I don’t want it to go without saying that I love you guys. The word “agape” means God’s merciful undeserved love that He gives free to you and to me. My wish for you is that your day be blessed and that God present you with a glimpse of His power.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Shared Praises:
Alphonso and Max finally got the clog out around 8:30 – so the day ended successfully at 6766.
Good Morning!
I am plumb tuckered out as I sit down to write this Good Morning. The Gant household has been battling a stopped up sink since Sunday week ago when some dimwit (me) poured cream of potato soup down the drain. It is now almost eight o’clock Wednesday evening and the plumbers who have been here since ten are still here. But, Miss N’s house has a new water heater, the washing machine lines have been moved to the utility room, drains have been set at 6774.
Unfortunately, the drain at 6766 is still stopped up but our toilet no longer leaks and we have new drainage from the utility room to the main. The plumbers say the line had only about an inch to drain … which we suspected since the house is fifty years old and the drains are cast iron.
My day has been spent replacing bathroom floor – which was rotted. I am covered in sawdust. I am a sight. But God is good … and His love and mercy endures for all generations.
We also had our bug guy back out today. And he shared his testimony with us … God knows I need that constant encouragement. It is really great to know that are surrounded by people who love God and aren’t afraid to testify to His goodness. It make as difficult day more wonderful.
I got a praise from my buddy Fred that I want to share with you. You know, Fred had a stroke earlier this year … but I am stealing his thunder:
Jim,
Thought I would take some time to give God the praises for some answered prayer. First, my sister, Barbara Blair, has greatly improved in her health. She is now with her son and being cared for at home. While she, like others, always need prayer, she can be removed from the daily list.
Second, Howard is holding up under the circumstances. He calls once a week and can talk for about 15 minutes. He 'misses' a lot of things, but uses this to help gain an appreciation of what God provides. He has at least 4 more months there.
Finally, I saved what seems the best for last. I had my eye examination yesterday, Tuesday (6 months from the stroke) and the doctor, after examining my eyes (and I quote) "Wow, I've never seen this before." Two things have happened. The loss of control of the left eye's pupa(?) that was highly evident after the stroke occurred is gone! The doctor said she has never seen this type of recovery before; this is usually a permanent residual effect from a stroke. She also was amazed that the Diabetic Retinopathy that was evident the last exam is also completely gone! No evidence of it. My vision has cleared (not deteriorated) since the last time.
I'm certainly not boasting as this is something I cannot control; but God, through prayer, can; and I give Him all the praise and glory!
Have a Blessed Day!
Fred & Daisy Hottensen
Pastor Cook, please stop running up and down the aisle … on second thought, please keep running up and down the aisle. (I’m just picking on you, James – I love ya, brother.)
I truly believe that the faithful prayers of our people have a definite impact. Thank you – thank you – thank you for your diligence.
We have a report on Sue Stiltner and another prayer request to pass along. Here’s Anna’s email:
Mom's cousin Sue had a 10-hour surgery on Monday. As of last night, she was still in ICU (I think). They think they got all of the tumor. It was tricky because the tumor had gotten into an artery and some of her veins feeding off it. At least, that's how I pictured it when Mom updated me last night.
Also - she would like us to add her cousin Barbara's daughter Carrie to the list. Carrie is about Rachel's age (20) and has a huge kidney stone they are going to try to blast tomorrow (Thurs.) sometime. They have attempted this before but the stone was not in a good place to do it, so they are trying again tomorrow.
Love you! See you tomorrow.
am
So we have a task before us – praying for Sue and for Carrie. May God bless them at this present time.
I don’t want it to go without saying that I love you guys. The word “agape” means God’s merciful undeserved love that He gives free to you and to me. My wish for you is that your day be blessed and that God present you with a glimpse of His power.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Shared Praises:
Alphonso and Max finally got the clog out around 8:30 – so the day ended successfully at 6766.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Politics
Good Morning!
4. Hate is only validated when one responds in like spirit.
Are you about as sick of it as I am? Can you hardly wait until November 3rd when all the attack ads are put away for another two years? Can you stomach one more analysis program where one or more commentators is declaring their hatred of one of the candidates?
I don’t talk about politics often in these good mornings – but I am going to today. I don’t care if you are a conservative or a liberal or an in-between. Your party affiliation or lack thereof makes no difference to me. My concern is that Americans have begun to hate each other just because of politics – that includes Christians, and Jews and Muslims and others. Why? Because we demonize people who choose to believe differently politically than we do.
The bottom line is that we should evaluate our values and take a stance. And we should enter into amicable debate. But we should never allow our political convictions to overcome our love for God’s creation – mankind. At the end of the day, we are commanded to love one another. Here’s what Jesus said about hatred:
Matthew 5:43-48 (English Standard Version)
Love Your Enemies
43 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47And if you greet only your brothers,[a] what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Footnotes:
a. Matthew 5:47 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to brothers or to brothers and sisters
Brother Shuler’s point is that if we return hatred for hatred, all we are doing is validating hatred as being reasonable. Well, it is not! Not for the Christian! We are commanded by Jesus to love one another – and I think He means everybody. We can hate the sin a person is engaged in … but we should never hate the sinner for he / she is the creation of God.
Let’s purpose to love the unlovely today – and give God the glory.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Cheri and Conner Kennerly need our prayers during this difficult time in their lives.
Shared Praises:
Mom called me last night with a report from the doctor. He examined her and says that he doesn’t find anything to worry about – fatty deposits occur as ladies age. They were not able to do the mammogram – it isn’t fully installed yet – but he told Mom not to worry. She is on the schedule for an exam but he doesn’t think it will reveal anything (just as the first one didn’t). She is very grateful for your prayers and your concern – and basically told me to let you know this. And I do what Momma says do.
4. Hate is only validated when one responds in like spirit.
Are you about as sick of it as I am? Can you hardly wait until November 3rd when all the attack ads are put away for another two years? Can you stomach one more analysis program where one or more commentators is declaring their hatred of one of the candidates?
I don’t talk about politics often in these good mornings – but I am going to today. I don’t care if you are a conservative or a liberal or an in-between. Your party affiliation or lack thereof makes no difference to me. My concern is that Americans have begun to hate each other just because of politics – that includes Christians, and Jews and Muslims and others. Why? Because we demonize people who choose to believe differently politically than we do.
The bottom line is that we should evaluate our values and take a stance. And we should enter into amicable debate. But we should never allow our political convictions to overcome our love for God’s creation – mankind. At the end of the day, we are commanded to love one another. Here’s what Jesus said about hatred:
Matthew 5:43-48 (English Standard Version)
Love Your Enemies
43 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47And if you greet only your brothers,[a] what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Footnotes:
a. Matthew 5:47 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to brothers or to brothers and sisters
Brother Shuler’s point is that if we return hatred for hatred, all we are doing is validating hatred as being reasonable. Well, it is not! Not for the Christian! We are commanded by Jesus to love one another – and I think He means everybody. We can hate the sin a person is engaged in … but we should never hate the sinner for he / she is the creation of God.
Let’s purpose to love the unlovely today – and give God the glory.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Cheri and Conner Kennerly need our prayers during this difficult time in their lives.
Shared Praises:
Mom called me last night with a report from the doctor. He examined her and says that he doesn’t find anything to worry about – fatty deposits occur as ladies age. They were not able to do the mammogram – it isn’t fully installed yet – but he told Mom not to worry. She is on the schedule for an exam but he doesn’t think it will reveal anything (just as the first one didn’t). She is very grateful for your prayers and your concern – and basically told me to let you know this. And I do what Momma says do.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Communication Tools
Good Morning!
3. There is no greater source of wisdom than the Bible and no investment that yields greater returns than prayer.
Psalm 119:9-16 (English Standard Version)
Beth
9How can a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 With my whole heart I seek you;
let me not wander from your commandments!
11I have stored up your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.
12Blessed are you, O LORD;
teach me your statutes!
13With my lips I declare
all the rules[a] of your mouth.
14In the way of your testimonies I delight
as much as in all riches.
15I will meditate on your precepts
and fix my eyes on your ways.
16I will delight in your statutes;
I will not forget your word.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 119:13 Or all the just decrees
As we continue looking at the ten lessons from 25 years of ministry as given by Bill Shuler, we see two points: the Bible and prayer. I am sure I have said this before but it doesn’t hurt to repeat: the Bible and prayer are our communication tools.
It seems as if every time I open the Scripture (the Bible) there is something there that God has prepared just for me. Now I will admit quickly that there are some passages that bumfoozle me … but I am sure there will come a time when God will reveal His meaning. Still, when I am struggling with the junk that goes on in my life, I know God has dealt with the problem before … and my answer is in His Word. And I know that I can pray and He will answer me.
The more I read God’s Word and the more I pray, the more sense life makes to me. It is that simple. God really wants us to know Him and His will for us. Let’s use our communication tools. And let’s rejoice in the results.
Several has asked about Mom (Leta Harris or Grandma Leta). She called Sunday night. She noticed some abnormalities in her breast and has had her regular doctor check it out. He wants her to have a second mammogram today at eleven in Murphy NC. Mom will be 87 November 6th – so keep her in your thoughts and prayers today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Shared Praises:
Miss N returned to work today and is feeling exhausted but otherwise fine.
3. There is no greater source of wisdom than the Bible and no investment that yields greater returns than prayer.
Psalm 119:9-16 (English Standard Version)
Beth
9How can a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 With my whole heart I seek you;
let me not wander from your commandments!
11I have stored up your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.
12Blessed are you, O LORD;
teach me your statutes!
13With my lips I declare
all the rules[a] of your mouth.
14In the way of your testimonies I delight
as much as in all riches.
15I will meditate on your precepts
and fix my eyes on your ways.
16I will delight in your statutes;
I will not forget your word.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 119:13 Or all the just decrees
As we continue looking at the ten lessons from 25 years of ministry as given by Bill Shuler, we see two points: the Bible and prayer. I am sure I have said this before but it doesn’t hurt to repeat: the Bible and prayer are our communication tools.
It seems as if every time I open the Scripture (the Bible) there is something there that God has prepared just for me. Now I will admit quickly that there are some passages that bumfoozle me … but I am sure there will come a time when God will reveal His meaning. Still, when I am struggling with the junk that goes on in my life, I know God has dealt with the problem before … and my answer is in His Word. And I know that I can pray and He will answer me.
The more I read God’s Word and the more I pray, the more sense life makes to me. It is that simple. God really wants us to know Him and His will for us. Let’s use our communication tools. And let’s rejoice in the results.
Several has asked about Mom (Leta Harris or Grandma Leta). She called Sunday night. She noticed some abnormalities in her breast and has had her regular doctor check it out. He wants her to have a second mammogram today at eleven in Murphy NC. Mom will be 87 November 6th – so keep her in your thoughts and prayers today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Shared Praises:
Miss N returned to work today and is feeling exhausted but otherwise fine.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Great Weekend
10/25/2010
Good Morning!
For those readers who don’t know me, I enjoy playing golf. Now I am not very good at the game … but that’s okay because for me it truly is just that … a game I enjoy playing. But there are many days when I am playing golf that it turns into a time to worship God. And this weekend was one of those times for me.
Friday afternoon I got out on the course by about four in the afternoon. I decided to play the back nine since I had played the front nine earlier in the week. I played the tenth hole with a couple of guys who normally play in Southwest Atlanta. We had gotten caught in the backlog so I just teamed up with them for that hole so we could move along. Eleven and twelve I played by myself – but I was aware of a twosome that was catching up with me. On thirteen I was joined by Lee and Rob who invited me to play with them. Before we finished the round, we had gotten to know each other pretty good – with Lee sharing his testimony with me. He once had been caught up in drugs … but God redeemed him and has blessed him with a masonry business. As an entrepreneur, Lee lives life by faith – and his faith is in Jesus Christ. I remarked to him that it is uncanny how when I hook up with someone new on the course, we usually end up talking about Jesus Christ … and usually it the other person who brings Jesus up. But is that not how life should be for fellow believers … each recognizing the brilliant light of Jesus shining through the other? I think so.
While we were playing the round, my buddies Kelvin, Tim and Mike were right behind us – and we met in the parking lot right after they finished. It was a good time of fellowship and sharing. Tim and I had talked about playing Saturday but he had cut his finger Thursday so he was going to take it easy. However, Mike and I hooked up for a game Saturday morning.
Saturday morning we had a great time playing the front nine. Our scores were spectacular but scoring really didn’t matter. Mike had an issue he needed to talk out … and I had the time to listen. You know, God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason … we should spend twice the time listening before we speak. A part of ministering to one another is learning to listen to your brother or sister. People often are reluctant to go to a hospital or a funeral home because they don’t know what to say. Knowing what to say isn’t that important – being there and being available to listen is far more important. Sometimes it is the hug more than the “I love you” that is the balm that heals. I thank God that He didn’t leave us here alone to face life’s challenges but gave us brothers and sisters in Christ who pray for us, and listen to us, and give us comfort in our time of need.
I did not play golf Sunday. Instead I went to Williamson where we continued our study in Paul’s first letter to the called out ones in Thessalonica. We studied the first twelve verses of chapter 4 – where Paul encourages the Thessalonians to continue their good walk but to continue on their journey to sanctification. We should realize – and I know I do – that just because we have accepted Jesus that we have not “arrived”. No – we are redeemed but we are like a diamond in the rough. God keeps chipping away the rough spots – day by day, moment by moment and breath by breath – until the light of Christ shines through us. It is a process that for me has taken most of my lifetime and will continue until I am in His presence. The chipping away often comes in the form of trials that I go through – where I learn to trust God with my life and my life needs. In the case of the Thessalonians, the major obstacle they had to face was sexual immorality – not necessarily by them but by their culture. We learned the Grecian culture was an “anything goes” culture (and parallels much of today’s culture). Paul exhorted the church to not do those things. Here’s what he says”
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 (English Standard Version)
A Life Pleasing to God
1Finally, then, brothers,[a] we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. 2For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. 3For this is the will of God, your sanctification:[b] that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4that each one of you know how to control his own body[c] in holiness and honor, 5not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. 7For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. 8Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.
9Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another, 10for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do this more and more, 11and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, 12so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.
Footnotes:
a. 1 Thessalonians 4:1 Or brothers and sisters; also verses 10, 13
b. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 Or your holiness
c. 1 Thessalonians 4:4 Or how to take a wife for himself; Greek how to possess his own vessel
Paul tells us to love one another – not only with brotherly love but with the love that comes from God’s indwelling. This follows Christ command to us to love one another.
Paul encourages us to live quietly … simple lives committed to God.
Paul encourages us to mind our own affairs – don’t be busy bodies but be available to those in need.
And finally, we are to do what God has talented us to do … in Paul’s case and in many others, to work with our hands.
The ultimate purpose is a life (Christian walk) that honors God and draws people to the message of Jesus Christ. For me, this is a journey sometimes filled with some rocks and ruts and mud holes but one that get smoother each day. And today is another day on that journey. May God bless you on your day today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Leta Harris (my Mom) – doctor’s appt. Tuesday
Good Morning!
For those readers who don’t know me, I enjoy playing golf. Now I am not very good at the game … but that’s okay because for me it truly is just that … a game I enjoy playing. But there are many days when I am playing golf that it turns into a time to worship God. And this weekend was one of those times for me.
Friday afternoon I got out on the course by about four in the afternoon. I decided to play the back nine since I had played the front nine earlier in the week. I played the tenth hole with a couple of guys who normally play in Southwest Atlanta. We had gotten caught in the backlog so I just teamed up with them for that hole so we could move along. Eleven and twelve I played by myself – but I was aware of a twosome that was catching up with me. On thirteen I was joined by Lee and Rob who invited me to play with them. Before we finished the round, we had gotten to know each other pretty good – with Lee sharing his testimony with me. He once had been caught up in drugs … but God redeemed him and has blessed him with a masonry business. As an entrepreneur, Lee lives life by faith – and his faith is in Jesus Christ. I remarked to him that it is uncanny how when I hook up with someone new on the course, we usually end up talking about Jesus Christ … and usually it the other person who brings Jesus up. But is that not how life should be for fellow believers … each recognizing the brilliant light of Jesus shining through the other? I think so.
While we were playing the round, my buddies Kelvin, Tim and Mike were right behind us – and we met in the parking lot right after they finished. It was a good time of fellowship and sharing. Tim and I had talked about playing Saturday but he had cut his finger Thursday so he was going to take it easy. However, Mike and I hooked up for a game Saturday morning.
Saturday morning we had a great time playing the front nine. Our scores were spectacular but scoring really didn’t matter. Mike had an issue he needed to talk out … and I had the time to listen. You know, God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason … we should spend twice the time listening before we speak. A part of ministering to one another is learning to listen to your brother or sister. People often are reluctant to go to a hospital or a funeral home because they don’t know what to say. Knowing what to say isn’t that important – being there and being available to listen is far more important. Sometimes it is the hug more than the “I love you” that is the balm that heals. I thank God that He didn’t leave us here alone to face life’s challenges but gave us brothers and sisters in Christ who pray for us, and listen to us, and give us comfort in our time of need.
I did not play golf Sunday. Instead I went to Williamson where we continued our study in Paul’s first letter to the called out ones in Thessalonica. We studied the first twelve verses of chapter 4 – where Paul encourages the Thessalonians to continue their good walk but to continue on their journey to sanctification. We should realize – and I know I do – that just because we have accepted Jesus that we have not “arrived”. No – we are redeemed but we are like a diamond in the rough. God keeps chipping away the rough spots – day by day, moment by moment and breath by breath – until the light of Christ shines through us. It is a process that for me has taken most of my lifetime and will continue until I am in His presence. The chipping away often comes in the form of trials that I go through – where I learn to trust God with my life and my life needs. In the case of the Thessalonians, the major obstacle they had to face was sexual immorality – not necessarily by them but by their culture. We learned the Grecian culture was an “anything goes” culture (and parallels much of today’s culture). Paul exhorted the church to not do those things. Here’s what he says”
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 (English Standard Version)
A Life Pleasing to God
1Finally, then, brothers,[a] we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. 2For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. 3For this is the will of God, your sanctification:[b] that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4that each one of you know how to control his own body[c] in holiness and honor, 5not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. 7For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. 8Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.
9Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another, 10for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do this more and more, 11and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, 12so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.
Footnotes:
a. 1 Thessalonians 4:1 Or brothers and sisters; also verses 10, 13
b. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 Or your holiness
c. 1 Thessalonians 4:4 Or how to take a wife for himself; Greek how to possess his own vessel
Paul tells us to love one another – not only with brotherly love but with the love that comes from God’s indwelling. This follows Christ command to us to love one another.
Paul encourages us to live quietly … simple lives committed to God.
Paul encourages us to mind our own affairs – don’t be busy bodies but be available to those in need.
And finally, we are to do what God has talented us to do … in Paul’s case and in many others, to work with our hands.
The ultimate purpose is a life (Christian walk) that honors God and draws people to the message of Jesus Christ. For me, this is a journey sometimes filled with some rocks and ruts and mud holes but one that get smoother each day. And today is another day on that journey. May God bless you on your day today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Leta Harris (my Mom) – doctor’s appt. Tuesday
Friday, October 22, 2010
Lesson 2: One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.
Good Morning!
Lesson 2: One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.
Continuing with our second look at Bill Shuler’s ten lessons he has learned in 25 years, we see lesson number 2.
All of us are familiar with the sordid stories of priests and pastors who have allowed the baser part of life to creep in and destroy their ministries. Our current media makes sure to remind Christians of how unchristian our leadership can be – and in the process attempts to sway public opinion against our Lord. What the media fails to do is to focus on the thousands of other clergy and laity whose walk is exemplary. One such clergy is Reverend Billy Graham. When Reverend Graham and his team were starting out in the mid-1940’s, Cliff Barrow, George Beverly Shea and Billy Graham entered into a covenant to not allow themselves to be put into a compromising position. Over sixty years later we can testify that none of the three ever broke that covenant. But that should not be an amazing statistic – it is what all people who claim the Name of Jesus should aspire to because we represent Jesus to the people of this World.
Paul makes this statement:
Ephesians 5:1-21 (English Standard Version)
Walk in Love
1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous ( that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not become partners with them; 8for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9(for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,
"Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
When we develop personal integrity, our public persona emits that integrity. People just know that what they see is what you are. The King James version uses the term “circumspectly” in this passage – and for good reason. I didn’t do well in the only foreign language I took – no, it’s not English – it is Latin. But what little I do remember is that “circum” means “round” and “spectly” means “looking”. What the combined word means is we are aware of what is in our life and we are doing something about it (mainly confessing our sins and letting Jesus have full control).
So our goal is to develop within us the integrity that spills over and is a witness of Christ in us.
Well, it’s Friday again … and I know you are ready for the weekend. Remember to keep Sam, Kim and Kendra in your prayers as Sam makes his way down to Savannah to be with his wife and daughter. Also don’t forget the Brown family in Chattanooga – especially little Caleb. Your prayers work, folks.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Lesson 2: One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.
Continuing with our second look at Bill Shuler’s ten lessons he has learned in 25 years, we see lesson number 2.
All of us are familiar with the sordid stories of priests and pastors who have allowed the baser part of life to creep in and destroy their ministries. Our current media makes sure to remind Christians of how unchristian our leadership can be – and in the process attempts to sway public opinion against our Lord. What the media fails to do is to focus on the thousands of other clergy and laity whose walk is exemplary. One such clergy is Reverend Billy Graham. When Reverend Graham and his team were starting out in the mid-1940’s, Cliff Barrow, George Beverly Shea and Billy Graham entered into a covenant to not allow themselves to be put into a compromising position. Over sixty years later we can testify that none of the three ever broke that covenant. But that should not be an amazing statistic – it is what all people who claim the Name of Jesus should aspire to because we represent Jesus to the people of this World.
Paul makes this statement:
Ephesians 5:1-21 (English Standard Version)
Walk in Love
1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous ( that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not become partners with them; 8for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9(for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,
"Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
When we develop personal integrity, our public persona emits that integrity. People just know that what they see is what you are. The King James version uses the term “circumspectly” in this passage – and for good reason. I didn’t do well in the only foreign language I took – no, it’s not English – it is Latin. But what little I do remember is that “circum” means “round” and “spectly” means “looking”. What the combined word means is we are aware of what is in our life and we are doing something about it (mainly confessing our sins and letting Jesus have full control).
So our goal is to develop within us the integrity that spills over and is a witness of Christ in us.
Well, it’s Friday again … and I know you are ready for the weekend. Remember to keep Sam, Kim and Kendra in your prayers as Sam makes his way down to Savannah to be with his wife and daughter. Also don’t forget the Brown family in Chattanooga – especially little Caleb. Your prayers work, folks.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Lesson 1 - Goal: Redeem the Heart
Good Morning!
One more time…
I really do like Reverend Shuler’s ten lessons – so I thought I would expound on them from time to time. So here is number 1: “The goal is not to win a debate but to redeem a heart.”
All of us have been taught that there are two subjects to avoid in a conversation: religion and politics. That rule has been drilled into us so deeply that some of us refuse to discuss either – choosing to keep our faith and our values to ourselves. Well, I don’t agree with the rule – perhaps that makes me a rebel … or perhaps I just have a different take on the subject.
I think it is perfectly all right to state your political values. We should not be afraid to take a stand on important issues that impact all of America – abortion, gay marriage, healthcare, taxes, spending are subjects that impact each of us – and we should have an opinion and not be afraid to state it.
And it is perfectly all right to publically proclaim your faith. America was founded on the principles of freedom OF religion and freedom OF speech. I have as much right to state that I am a believer in Jesus Christ as the atheist has to proclaim his (mistaken) belief that there is no god.
The key to either point is to make your statement in such a manner that those hearing are encouraged to listen rather than to argue. Sometimes that is not easy … sometimes our passion overcomes our ability to reason. We should keep in our mind the admonishment of the Proverbist that states:
Proverbs 15:1-3 (English Standard Version)
1 A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
2The tongue of the wise commends knowledge,
but the mouths of fools pour out folly.
3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place,
keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Remember our role is to be an ambassador for Jesus Christ to those who do not know Him. Included in that group are people who passionately believe that Christianity is evil – for a number of reasons. And some will never listen to even the soundest of reasoning – but don’t lose every one while winning the debate.
The goal is to redeem a heart.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
One more time…
I really do like Reverend Shuler’s ten lessons – so I thought I would expound on them from time to time. So here is number 1: “The goal is not to win a debate but to redeem a heart.”
All of us have been taught that there are two subjects to avoid in a conversation: religion and politics. That rule has been drilled into us so deeply that some of us refuse to discuss either – choosing to keep our faith and our values to ourselves. Well, I don’t agree with the rule – perhaps that makes me a rebel … or perhaps I just have a different take on the subject.
I think it is perfectly all right to state your political values. We should not be afraid to take a stand on important issues that impact all of America – abortion, gay marriage, healthcare, taxes, spending are subjects that impact each of us – and we should have an opinion and not be afraid to state it.
And it is perfectly all right to publically proclaim your faith. America was founded on the principles of freedom OF religion and freedom OF speech. I have as much right to state that I am a believer in Jesus Christ as the atheist has to proclaim his (mistaken) belief that there is no god.
The key to either point is to make your statement in such a manner that those hearing are encouraged to listen rather than to argue. Sometimes that is not easy … sometimes our passion overcomes our ability to reason. We should keep in our mind the admonishment of the Proverbist that states:
Proverbs 15:1-3 (English Standard Version)
1 A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
2The tongue of the wise commends knowledge,
but the mouths of fools pour out folly.
3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place,
keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Remember our role is to be an ambassador for Jesus Christ to those who do not know Him. Included in that group are people who passionately believe that Christianity is evil – for a number of reasons. And some will never listen to even the soundest of reasoning – but don’t lose every one while winning the debate.
The goal is to redeem a heart.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
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