A Benediction of Hope

A Benediction of Hope

Today's devotional closes out this year of Freedom Fighters, and comes from our daily devotional, "REAL VICTORY FOR REAL LIFE". It was written by Pastor Bill Raws, my mentor, friend, and adopted Dad. We will miss him at this year's New Year's Eve services.

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)

At the conclusion of a year and on the threshold of a new year we tend to examine our past experiences and anticipate possible improvement in our performance and circumstances. We set goals and make resolutions designed to correct past failures and direct future actions. When the resolutions are broken and the goals seem to be elusive, a sense of hopelessness develops and we resign ourselves to failure. We attribute the failures to circumstances over which we have little or no control. A pervading sense of our inability produces a frustration and hopelessness.

What’s our problem? Certainly many of the goals and purposes may be good and godly, but in ourselves we lack the ability to carry them through. The answer must be found aside from ourselves.

After presenting a treatise on the gospel of salvation – past, present and future – the Apostle Paul concludes the book of Romans with some highly practical applications. At the end of a discourse on Christian liberty he inserts a timely benediction in the words of our theme verse, Romans 15:13. It centers on hope and consists of four factors which counteract our hopelessness.

First, he points to the source of hope – “the God of hope.” When His ability is substituted for our inability, there is hope and victory. The word implies no uncertainty. One of God’s characteristics is hope, and it is His kind of hope that He communicates to the believer.

Second, he presents the resource flowing from His hope – “fill you with joy and peace.” Joy relates to our delight in anticipation of seeing our hopes fulfilled. Peace results from the assurance that God will fulfill the hopes that He generates in us.

Third, we are directed to the course which must be followed if this hope is to be realized. It is presented as a requirement – “in believing.” God’s infusion of hope cannot be realized apart from constant faith. Continued faith yields a reward – “that you may abound in hope.” God does not give sparingly; He provides and overflowing reservoir of hope.

Fourth and finally, he describes the force which makes this hope possible – “by the power of the Holy Spirit.” It is not our strength which results in hope; it is the Spirit’s power. The prophet Zechariah was facing situations which could have been considered hopeless, but the angel of the Lord had a word for Him (and us) – “‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit.’ Says the Lord of hosts.” Let’s allow the all-powerful Holy Spirit to produce hope in our hearts as we step into the new year. -- Rev. William A. Raws

On behalf of the Board and staff of America's KESWICK -- Happy New Year!

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 31; Malachi; Revelation 22

Great Quote: Christians who are no longer sure that God loves and accepts them in Jesus, apart from their present spiritual achievements, are subconsciously radically insecure persons—much less secure than non-Christians, because they have too much light to rest easily under the constant bulletins they receive from their Christian environment about the holiness of God and the righteousness they are supposed to have. Their insecurity shows itself in pride, a fierce defensive assertion of their own righteousness and defensive criticism of others…They cling desperately to legal, pharisaical righteousness, but envy, jealousy and other branches on the tree of sin grow out of their fundamental insecurity…it is often necessary to convince sinners (even sinful Christians) of the grace and love of God toward them, before we can get them to look at their problems. Then the vision of grace and the sense of God’s forgiving acceptance may actually cure most of the problems. This may account for Paul’s frequent fusing of justification and sanctification. -- Richard Lovelace. Dynamics of Spiritual Life

The Decline of Godly Leadership (Part 2)

The Decline of Godly Leadership (Part 2)

Yesterday I shared two points from an article written by the late Dr. A. W. Tozer's new biography, "A PASSION FOR GOD -- THE SPIRITUAL JOURNEY OF A.W. TOZER.

The third point is that the Christian world needs leaders that are UNCOMPROMISING. Listen to his poignant words:

"The need today is for leaders identified so fully with the cross-carry Jesus that they have no life apart from Him, no ambition except to make Him appear glorious in the sight of men. Such as these will seek no place, no reputation. Christ Himself will be their glory and all.

He is a poor and wretched example of a Christian who will accept a seat at a banquet where His Lord is not welcome, who will bask in the sunshine of a friendship which His Lord cannot share. The true servant will ask nothing better than to be where Jesus is, to stand or fall with Him in the favor of men, to suffer or to rejoice with Him at all times.

At times like this every real Christian must make his decision, whether he will drift along with the religious times, weakly going wherever the noisy promoters take him, or whether he shall stand to resist the movements which tend away from the sound and solid teachings of spiritual religion.

The Christian with spiritual vision and courage to follow it will not take long to hesitate which course to take. He will set his house in order and prepare to bear his cross along with his Savior."

My prayer in 2009 is that I will be a leader in every area of my life that is uncompromising. Will you pray with me to that end? I'll do the same for you. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 30; Zechariah 13-14; Revelation 21

Great Quote: As to the importance of the children of God opening their hearts to each other, especially when they are getting in a cold state, or are under the power of a certain sin, or are in especial difficulty; I know from my own experience how often the snare of the devil has been broken when under the power of sin; how often the heart has been comforted when nigh to be overwhelmed; how often advice, and great perplexity, has been
obtained, - by opening my heart to a brother in whom I had confidence.We are children of the same family, and ought therefore to be helpers one of another. -- George Muller

Check out this week's STEWARDSHIP INSIGHT from George: http://www.americaskeswick.org/363836.ihtml#h_6177 This is a great resource. Why not encourage a friend to join George's blog.

The Decline in Godly Leadership

The Decline in Godly Leadership

One of my favorite authors is A. W. Tozer. I have read some increbile sermons that he preached, and this fall, I read a brand new biography on his life. The second appendix to this new book is an article that A.W. wrote in 1946 concerning the topic of Godly Leadership.

His words written so many years ago are so up-to-date and necessary for us to hear today -- "The active leadership of the gospel wing of the Church in America has in recent years largely passed out of the hands of men of solid Christian character, and has gone over into the control of young men who are remarkable neither for their learning nor their godliness, but who possess a fair talent for successful promotion. Gravity has been pushed aside to make place for cleverness, and the novice is now in the saddle in direct violation of the solemn warning of the Apostle Paul."

Tozer suggests that we have 1) No Spiritual Giants 2) Unworthy Programs, and 3) Uncompromising Leaders.

I want to share the three points with you over the next two days:

1. No Spiritual Giants -- "Sound, God-honoring believers in our day have to a large degreee surrendered their leadership to lesser men who are not their equal in godliness but who are hungry for power and so ready to take over at the first opportunity."

2. Unworthy Programs: "Many of our latter day gospel programs bear a disturbing similiarity to the familiar radio show. All the elements are there: The sponsor, the product, the artists, the show, and the commercials. The sponsor who is assumed to be back of it all is the Lord; the product is the gospel; the 'artists' are the variuous stars of the evangelistic firmament both speakers and singers; the show is the demonstration these stars put on for the amusement of the public; and the commercial is the dutiful plug which is introduced every so often in favor of the Lord and the gospel. The whole thing is a fair imitation of a soap opera. The discriminating listener is left with the feeling that the artist has a following altogether apart from his sponsor, and that if he were to switch sponsors, his fans would simply switch with him and go right on enjoying the program.

Brethren, these things ought not to be. The true witness has no 'act' apart from the Lord. His act is to reveal his Lord. He will have no acceptance where his Lord is rejected, and he us accepted only as and where his Lord is welcomed. Samuel was rejected from ruling over Israel, but only after Israel had first rejected God." (from A PASSION FOR GOD -- THE SPIRITUAL JOURNEY OF A.W. TOZER -- Moody Press 2008)

As the President and CEO of America's KESWICK, I want to be sure that we are smack dab in the center of God's will in every area of our ministry. To be sure, we are thankful for the godly men and women who serve on our Board of Trustees, and I am very thankful for the men and women who surround me on our Administrative team.

While our desire is that our programs and conferences are relevant, they must not be at the risk of compromise of the message, conformity to what people want vs. what God wants to say through His Word, or to be just entertainment and what I call "fluff-'n-stuff."

We covent your prayers as we move forward into 2009. Much of that will depend on our leaders, which is the third point in Tozer's outline which I will share tomorrow. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

As we approach the end of 2008, would you please give prayerful consideration to a year-end gift for the ministry of addiction recovery? You can give right from our website (www.americaskeswick.org) or call 800-453-7942. Thank you for your consideration.

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 29; Zechariah 9-12; Revelation 20

Great Quote: The devil would just as soon send you to hell from the pew as he had the gutter. -- Dr. Adrian Rogers

Parting Thoughts

Parting Thoughts (Hebrews 13:20-21)

This is my last regular Freedom Fighter. I’m grateful to Bill Welte for allowing me the privilege of writing the weekend Freedom Fighters. As much as I enjoy writing the weekend pieces, I’ve sensed the Lord telling me that I need to take the next year to listen for His voice and be more attentive to His work in my life. Part of my response to God’s leading is the choice to be quiet, read and listen. I hope I will have occasion in the future to contribute to Freedom Fighters. Until that occasion comes, I’ll enjoy reading Freedom Fighter. Please pray for Bill as he writes each day. Believe me, it’s no easy task to write something fresh every day.

Allow me to share some parting thoughts with you. They come from the writer of Hebrews. Listen to his words: “Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrews 13:20-21)

My prayer for each man and woman who reads Freedom Fighter is that the God of peace will make you complete in every good work. For that to happen, each of us must choose to yield to His work, that work that is well pleasing in His sight. I pray that all of us will discover in fresh and growing ways that God wants to work in our lives. He has plans for you and me. He has work He wants to do in all our lives.

That’s part of the reason I am choosing to live a bit quieter this year. I want to discover more of His plan for me. I want to better understand the work He wants to do in my life. My sense is that many of you who read Freedom Fighter have the same desire. I urge you to pursue the “completeness in every good work” that God has for you. Do whatever it takes, because nothing any of us can pursue has more value than knowing that God is at work in us for His glory and our good.

God bless each of you in 2009. Thank you for reading what I’ve written. I pray that God will use it in your life to help you become “complete in every good work.” -- Pastor John Strain is Senior Pastor of First Baptist Toms River

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 28; Zechariah 5-8; Revelation 19

Great Quote: Let our temper be under the rule of the love of Jesus: He can not alone
curb it, - He can make us gentle and patient. Let the vow, that not an unkind word of others shall ever be heard from our lips, be laid trustingly at His feet. Let the gentleness that refuses to take offence,that is always ready to excuse, to think and hope the best, mark our intercourse with all. Let our life be one of self-sacrifice, always studying the welfare of others, finding our highest joy in blessing others. And let us, in studying the Divine art of doing good, yield ourselves as obedient learners to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. By His grace, the most common-place life can be transfigured with the brightness of a heavenly beauty, as the infinite love of the Divine nature shines out through our frail humanity. Andrew Murray

The Aftermath of Christmas

The Aftermath of Christmas (Luke 2:19)

Christmas is over . . . or is it? Most of us will go back to work on Monday. The presents are unwrapped, and some of them already exchanged or broken. We’re recovering from Christmas dinner and all the sweets that go with it. All the special church services are a memory, and we’re thinking about the New Year.

Jesus’ mother held all the events of Christmas in her mind and heart. Listen to Luke’s words: “But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.” These are his words after the angel’s heavenly chorus and the departure of the shepherds. Mary encountered everything that Christmas brought to our world. She kept them front and center in her consciousness so she could think about them, reflect on them and let them take root in her soul. She knew God was at work in all those events; they deserved more than passing attention. She “pondered” them, thought about them, meditated on them

We can learn from Mary’s response to Christmas night. The lesson she can teach us will help us benefit from Christmas long after our calendars tell us it has past. I’ve been thinking about how to ponder the Christmas event throughout the year. What can men like us do to “ponder” through the year that God stepped into our world as an infant and changed our world and our lives?

Let me tell you what I think we can do that will help us keep the power of Christmas alive between Decembers. First, I plan to read the Christmas story from Luke or Matthew on the twenty-fifth of each month this year. By taking just a few minutes once a month, I give God’s Spirit the freedom to remind me of the power of the Christmas story for my life. Think about reading the story with me once a month.

I’m also going to put a Christmas music CD in the car and make sure that I listen to it at least once a week. The Christmas carols that we sing only three or four weeks a year tell the story of Jesus’ arrival into our world. Listening to the songs and allowing the melodies and lyrics to saturate our souls will help us “ponder” the Christmas events.

Is Christmas over for us? We can refuse, like Mary, to let that happen. Let’s choose to “ponder” Christmas in our hearts throughout the year. -- Pastor John Strain is Senior Pastor of First Baptist Toms River

Today and Tomorrow are the last two Freedom Fighter entries that Pastor John will be writing. Some recent changes at First Baptist are placing addition responsibilities on his shoulders, and for the moment, he felt it was best to discontinue writing the weekend FF's. I have deeply appreciated his commitment in investing in our lives the past several years. I would love to have many of you write notes of appreciation. You can simply respond to this email.

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 27; Zechariah 1-4; Revelation 18

Great Quote: Veiled in flesh, the Godhead see;
hail the incarnate Deity
Pleased as man with men to dwell,
Jesus, our Emmanuel

Charles Wesley

How to Be Content

How To Be Content

"I have learned ... to be content ..." Philippians 4:11

Well it's the morning after Christmas and I was hit with the "bug" late afternoon and have been in bed feverish and nauseous for the past ten hours. Sounds like so many people have been hit with this fun one.

How many of you spent time finding and picking out the "perfect" gift for that special someone in your life only to find out that when then actually opened your gift, they weren't quite as excited about the gift as you were? How did you feel at that point? Frustrated? Hurt? Disappointed?

The problem with our culture is that "stuff" will never make us content. We make a list of all the things that we would like or want, and then when we get them -- we find that the joy in that gift is so fleeting and more temporary then we thought.

Many of us those same issues with the bigger concerns of life -- we go from level to level of wanting and thinking we need this or that, only to discover that we are just not content. Listen to the words of speaker/teacher/pastor, Dr. Eric Crichton, Board Member Emeritus of America's KESWICK:

"When Paul declared that he had learned how to be content, we must understand that he is not saying that he has learned just how to "put up with" a difficult situation or that he has just learned to "grin and bear it," so to speak. What he has written is much more triumphant than that."

The Greek word “content” has in it the thought of learning to be “sufficient” or “adequate” in any given situation. In other words, Paul has learned how to “live above” all the difficult experiences through which he had passed. According to 2 Corinthians 11, those experiences were overwhelming, including stripes, beatings, stoning, shipwreck, imprisonment, etc. Yet in all of these difficult times he had learned to be sustained, to live above, to be upheld. As he added, I know how to be abased, how to abound, to be full and to be hungry. And there was but one secret.

It was not in Paul himself but because of Jesus Christ who infused His life and strength into the Apostle. As Paul explained, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Dr. J. B. Phillips expresses his truth so well when he wrote, “I know how to live when things are prosperous. In general and in particular, I have learned the secret of facing either poverty or plenty. I am ready for anything through the strength of the One who lives in me.” There it is, “ready for anything” through Jesus Christ who infuses His life and strength into us.
In Colossians 3:4 Paul writes, “when Christ who is our life.” That is just to say that when we receive Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, He undertakes to be our life and to live His life in us. That, of course, is through the grace of the indwelling Holy Spirit."

Can you say today -- I have learned to be content? Something to think about on this 26th day after Christmas. I trust you had a good day with your families. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 26; Haggai; Revelation 17

Great Quote: We have false expectations of our holy days, of our churches, of each
other. We have false expectations of our friends. Jesus did not. He had expectations, but they were not false, and when they were not met, he
did not fall apart. He was never taken in by golden calves! Friendship
not only takes time, it takes a willingness to drop false expectations,
of ourselves, of each other. Friends - or lovers - are not always
available to each other. Inner turmoils can cause us to be unhearing
when someone needs us, to need to receive understanding when we should
be giving understanding. Madeleine L'Engle

Christmas Day 2008

Christmas Day 2008

CHRISTMAS AND THE CROSS

“. . . I am a King. In fact, for this reason was I born.” (John 18:37)

The celebration of Jesus birth has been separated from His life and especially from His death. Our Lord's birth in Bethlehem is still a celebration tolerated commercially and privately. Christmas at the Malls and behind the walls of churches and homes is acceptable to the present world system, as long as it goes no further. The cradle, isolated from Christ's life, can be controlled and kept out of public life. But join the cradle to His mission and execution and the world reacts.
Yet Jesus did this very thing. In fact, the only time He is recorded in Scripture as speaking of His birth was on the day of His death.

This reference found in John 18:37 came in a statement made to Pilate only hours before His crucifixion. From the political prospective Jesus'claim sealed His fate. Our Lord, however, in bringing the cradle and cross together revealed the true reason for coming and cause of His execution. Born a King He would die to carry out the sovereign plan of God.

At nine o'clock on good Friday morning it seemed His claim to be King would die with Him, as He was lifted up on Rome's cross. Nevertheless this, His crucifixion was not the end, but rather it was the beginning of His reign. Paul, the apostle, looking back on this hour wrote:

". . .he humbled Himself and became obedient
To death-even death on a cross!
"Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place
And gave Him the name that is above every name
That at the name of Jesus every
Knee should bow. . ." Philippians 2:8, 9

His words to Pilate on the day of His death predicted and confirmed what His execution would accomplish. The promise of Christmas was realized by His cross. Together they testify to the truth. Born a King in Bethlehem=s stable cave, He gained the throne at Calvary.

Why? Why would God who created the universe, who rules the universe, allow Himself to be born a King that had to die on a cross to gain His Kingdom? Simon Peter tells us why:

"You will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of
Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." II Peter 1:11 He was born a King, and died on a cross to establish a Kingdom that could include you and me. Let us then celebrate Christmas, the coming of the King while always looking beyond the cradle to the cross that gained a Kingdom we can enter.

Dr. James O. Rose was the Senior Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, New York City, and is a friend of the ministry of America's KESWICK

On behalf of Bill Welte, the Freedom Fighter Team, and America's KESWICK -- Merry Christmas!!!

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 25 Zephaniah; Revelation 16

Great Quote: Christmas is nothing more than sentiment to those who do not know Jesus
Christ. But for us who know Him Christmas commemorates an event well
worth celebrating. Anonymous

What Will Jesus Say to Me?

What will Jesus say to me?

“Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you; You will find the Babe in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12


The time that surrounded the death of my father is still a little blurry. But I do remember the night of the viewing. I come from a nutty background and that is reflected in some of the folks I am related to. At my father’s viewing I saw some people I have not seen in a real long time. I had to ask some of them to re-introduce themselves to me. I had hoped that they were not offended. When it comes to family who knows?

Since then I have heard some very sad tales about addictions and extra martial affairs that run deep among my cousin’s. I praise God that He stopped me when He did. And then there an uncle that I see from time to time. He is my mother’s brother and he is not too much older than me. He has done very well for himself. I visited his company’s website and got a glimpse of his position with them. WOW! I am just a production manger in a vinyl fence/railing company. But this guy…WOW!!

I have also come to know this guy who has the great responsibility of overseeing the daily operations of America’s Keswick. I have considered it quite an honor to know Bill Welte. I consider him a good man of God and at times a fine example of strength under control or dare I use the word, meekness. I was quite taken back on one of his recent Freedom Fighters. It sounded like he had the same “WOW” hit him with the company that he was surrounded by.

But there was a bigger “Wow” that happened many years ago, the birth of Jesus Christ, Savior of the world. God sent his only Son to come down here to hang out with us. That is a major “WOW”!! When I get to hang out with folks who I think have more on the ball than I do I get like those guys in the Wayne’s World movie “I’m not worthy, I’m not worthy.” But will I do that when my times comes to actually meet the Savior of the world? Will I fall down like Wayne and Garth and bow and say “I’m not worthy, I’m not worthy.”? And what will Jesus say to me? I wish a Merry Christmas to all the Freedom Fighter Brethren. -- Chris Hughes is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a frequent Freedom Fighter Contributor

God's WORD for You: Proverbs 24; Habakkuk; Revelation 15

Great Quote: "While I regarded God as a tyrant I thought my sin a trifle; But when I knew Him to be my Father, then I mourned that I could ever have kicked against Him. When I thought God was hard, I found it easy to sin; but when I found God so kind, so good, so overflowing with compassion, I smote upon my breast to think that I could ever have rebelled against One who loved me so, and sought my good." C.H. Spurgeon

Search My Heart Part 5

Search the Heart (Part 5)

We are on the home stretch of questions for you to use to diagnose your "spiritual" heart. Here are today's probing questions for your consideration:

27) How do you spend your time? What are your daily priorities? What things do you invest your time in every day?

28) What are your fantasies? What are your dreams at night? What do you daydream about?

29) What is your belief system? What beliefs do you hold about life, God, yourself, others? What is your worldview? What is your personal 'mythology' that structures the way you interpret things? What are you specific beliefs about your present situation? What do you value?

30) What are your idols or false gods? In what do you place your trust or set your hopes? What do you consistently turn to or regularly seek? Where do you take refuge? Who is the savior, judge, controller of your world? Whom do you serve? What voice controls you?

31) In what ways do you live for yourself?

32) In what ways do you live as a slave to the devil? Where are you susceptible to his lies? Where do you give in to deceit?

33) When do you say, "If only..."? Our "if onlys" actually define our vision of paradise. They picture our biggest fears and greatest disappointments. They can reveal where we tend to envy others. They picture where we wish we could rewrite our life story. They picture where we are dissatisfied and what we crave.

34) What instinctively feels right to you? What are your opinions -- those things that you feel are true? -- XRay Questions by David Powlison

These are the 34 questions that I am asking myself. How about you? -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 23; Nahum; Revelation 14

Great Quote: Divine love is perfect peace and joy, it is a freedom from all disquiet, it is all content and happiness; and makes everything to rejoice in
itself. Love is the Christ of God; wherever it comes, it comes as the blessing and happiness of every natural life, a redeemer from all evil, a fulfiller of all righteousness, and a peace of God, which passeth all of things, nothing is uneasy,
unsatisfied, or restless, but because it is not governed by love, or because its nature has not reached or attained the full birth of the spirit of love. For when that is done, every hunger is satisfied, and all complaining, murmuring, accusing, resenting,revenging, and striving, are as totally suppressed and overcome, as the coldness, thickness, and horror of darkness are suppressed and overcome by the breaking forth of the light.-- William Law

Search My Heart Part 4

Some Additional Search My Heart Questions (Part 4)

We are still experiencing some issues with the new format of Freedom Fighter. Your feedback is very important. If you cannot open the email version, please let me know. The date is still wrong and some of you are having read issues. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Now for the questions:

19. Whose political power would make everything better for you? Don't just think in a national sense. Think about the workplace and the church. Whose agenda would you like to see succeed and why?

20. Whose victory and success would make your life happy? How do you define victory and success?

21. What do you see as YOUR rights? What do you feel entitled to? What do you feel is your right to expect, seek, require, or demand?

22. In what situations do you feel pressured or tense? When do you feel confident and relaxed? When you are pressured, where do you turn? What do you think about? What do you fear? What do you seek escape from? What do you escape to?

23. What do you REALLY want out of life? What payoff are you seeking from the things you do? What is the return you are working for?

24. What do you pray for? The fact that we pray does not necessarily mean we are where we should be spiritually. On the contrary, prayer can be a key revealer of the idols of the heart. Prayer can reveal patterns of self-centeredness, self-righteousness, materialism, fear of man, etc.

25. What do you think about most often? In the morning, to what does your mind drift instinctively? When you are doing a menial task or driving alone in your car, what captures your mind? What is your mindset?

26. What do you talk about? What occupies your conversations with others? What subjects do you tend to discuss over and over with your friends? The Bible says it is out of the heart that our mouths speak. -- from X Ray Questions by David Powlison

Good questions to work through. Have they been helpful to you? I would love to hear from you. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 22; Micah 6-7; Revelation 13

Great Quote: God put a cross between you and hell. If you want to go to hell, you'll have to crawl over the cross of Jesus. -- Dr. Adrian Rogers

The Fourth Sunday of Advent

The Fourth Sunday of Advent (John 1:6-13)

Today is the last Sunday before Christmas. It is a time of anticipation and joy. Many of us will be in churches tomorrow where the fourth candle of the Advent wreath will be lit. It’s the “candle of peace,” and reminds us that Jesus came to bring us peace—abiding and lasting peace. John reminds us that Jesus came to bring us that peace, but we can’t know it unless we receive it by faith in Jesus’ finished work. “But as many as received him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.”

Most of you who read Freedom Fighter will have received Jesus Christ as your Savior. Praise God for that! Most of us, though, know people who haven’t received Christ. This closing time of Advent gives us time before Christmas to share with our non-Christian friends the importance of receiving God’s gift of hope, love, joy and peace.

2008 has been a difficult year for many of us who read Freedom Fighter. Some of us have lost loved ones. Others have lost their jobs. Some of us have experienced difficult times. That’s why Jesus coming to bring peace is so important. Receiving that peace isn’t just about salvation; it’s about life in all its facets. Some of us may need to receive Jesus’ love and peace in different ways this Christmas season. Part of what makes Advent so special is that opportunity to receive, again, all that God brought to us in Jesus.

We all need hope. We all need love. We all need joy. We all need peace. We receive all of that in Jesus. It begins with receiving Him as Savior. It continues as we receive His work in our lives day after day. Where do you need to receive hope, love, joy and peace in your life this Advent season? That’s just where God’s Spirit wants to bring Jesus’ work to you! -- Pastor John Strain is Senior Pastor of First Baptist of Toms River

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 21; Micah 4-5; Revelation 12

Great Quote: It comes every year and will go on forever. And along with Christmas
belong the keepsakes and the customs. Those humble, everyday things a
mother clings to, and ponders, like Mary in the secret spaces of her heart.

Marjorie Holmes

Living Life Well

Living Life Well (James 1:19)

I attended a funeral today. Emile Krompasick was ninety-one years old when he died as the result of a car accident. He was a World War II veteran and a retired firefighter. He was a faithful husband of sixty-two years and the father of two children and grandfather of four granddaughters. Most of all, he lived as a faithful servant of Jesus Christ.

One of his granddaughters and his son shared memories and observations about his life. They were moving. They were credible because I’ve known his son and two of his granddaughter for almost seventeen years. I’ve observed the influence of a father and grandfather in the lives of his son and granddaughters. During his granddaughters’ words this morning she referred to James 1:19: “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath . . . .” She watched that kind of living in her grandfather for all her twenty plus years.

As I listened to all that was said and watched a family who grieved the loss of one who had significant influence in all their lives, I thought about all the years Mr. Krompasick invested in living honorably. I thought about the discipline he exercised to stay in the Scriptures. (His Bible gave evidence of how much he read and studied God’s Word.) I thought about how many choices he had to make in those ninety-one years to maintain his character and commitment to Christ.

Emile Krompasick was a simple man. He was a courageous man. He was a godly man. He was clearly a man who influenced others in his family, his church and in the fire hall where he worked for more than thirty years. His funeral service today was the celebration of a life lived well. I left the church with greater desire to “be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath . . . .” Perhaps God will allow me to have influence in people’s lives that inspires them to walk with God like Emile Krompasick inspired people to walk with Him.

Perhaps the question for all of us Freedom Fighter is this: Do our lives inspire people to walk with God or not? I’m thinking about my answer to that question this week. I hope you will, too. -- John Strain is Senior Pastor of First Baptist Toms River

God's WORD for You: Proverbs 20; Micah 1-3; Revelation 11

Great Quote: We give ourselves to prayer. We preach a Gospel that saves to the
uttermost, and witness to its power. We do not argue about worldliness; we witness. We do not discuss philosophy; we preach the Gospel. We do not speculate about the destiny of sinners; we pluck them as brands from the burning. We ask no man's patronage. We beg no man's money. We fear no man's frown. Let no man join us who is afraid, and we want none but those who are saved, sanctified and aflame with the fire of the Holy Spirit. Samuel Chadwick

Search My Heart Part 3

Search My Heart Part 3

Spiritual heart surgery is tough stuff, especially when you are trying to examine the idols of the heart. Here is the next series of questions to help us on the journey:

13. Whom must you please? Whose opinion counts? From whom do you desire approval or fear rejection? Whose value system do you measure yourself against? In whose eyes are you living?

14. Who are your role models? Who are the people you respect? Who do you want to be like? Who is your "idol"? (In our culture, this word is used for role model!)

15. What do you desperately hope will last in your life? What do you feel must always be there? What can you live without?

16. How do you define success or failure in any particular situation? Are your standards God's standards? Do you define success as the ability to reach your goals? The respect and approval of others? Is it defined by a certain position or the ability to maintain a certain lifestyle? By affluence? By appearance? By location? By accomplishment?

17. What makes you feel rich, secure, prosperous? The possession, experience, and enjoyment of what would make you happy? The Bible uses the metaphor of treasure here.

18. What would bring you the greatest pleasure? The greatest misery?

These questions are from X Ray Questions by David Powlison. Good questions to ask yourself. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for You: Proverbs 19; Jonah; Revelation 10

Great Quote: I want deliberately to encourage this mighty longing after God. The lack
of it has brought us to our present low estate. The stiff and wooden quality about our religious lives is a result of our lack of holy desire. Complacency is a deadly foe of all spiritual growth. Acute desire must be present or there will be no manifestation of Christ to His people. He waits to be wanted. Too bad that with many of us He waits so long, so very long, in vain. -- A. W. Tozer

Please click here for our 2008 Christmas Letter:

http://www.americaskeswick.org/files/welte/Welte 2008 Christmas Letter.pdf

Search My Heart Part 2

SEARCH MY HEART 2

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me ..." Psalm 139:23-24a

Yesterday I shared with you some probing questions written by David Powlison that helps to diagnose the idols of our hearts. Here are six additional questions to add to yesterday's questions.

Take some time to allow the Holy Spirit to use these to probe your heart:

7. What do you THINK you need? In most cases a person's FELT needs picture his or her idol cravings. Often what we have called necessities are actually deceptive masters that rule our hearts. They control us because they seem plausible. They don't seem so bad on the surface and it isn't sin to want them. However, I must not be ruled by the "need" to feel good about myself, to feel loved and accepted, to feel some sense of accomplishment, to have financial myself, to feel loved and accepted to feel some sense of accomplishment, to have financial security, to experience good health, to live a life that is organized, pain-free, and happy.

8. What are your plans, agendas, strategies, and intentions designed to accomplish? What are you really going to after in the situations and relationships of life? What are you really working to get?

9. What makes you tick? What sun does your planet revolve around? Where do you find your garden of delight? What light up your world? What food sustains your life? What really mattters to you? What are you living for?

10. Where do you find refuge, safety, comfort, and escape? When you are fearful, discouraged, and upset, where do you run? Do you run to God for comfort and safety or to something else? (To food, to others, to work, to solitude?)

11. What do you trust? Do you functionally rest in the Lord? Do you find your sense of well-being in His presence and promises? Or do you rest in something or someone else?

12. Whose performance matters to you? This question digs out self-reliance or self-righteousness. It digs out living through another. Do you get depressed when you are wrong or when you fail? Have you pinned your hopes or another person? Are you too dependent on the performance of your husband, wife, children or friends?

Take some time to allow the Holy Spirit to work through your heart. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 18; Obadiah; Revelation 9

Great Quote: Christmas has lost its meaning for us because we have lost the spirit of expectancy. We cannot prepare for an observance. We must prepare for an
experience.-- Handel Brown

Search My Heart Part 1

Search My Heart (Part 1)

We are still trying to work out the kinks with the new format for Freedom Fighter. If you cannot open your email, please let me know as soon as possible. Please note that the date is off on the email version, but right if you open it in your browser. Please bear with us while we are "under construction."

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me ..." Psalm 139:23-24

One of my staff told me that on Sunday night they wanted to slap the preacher! Don't get mad and write me letters. The reason why she wanted to slap the preacher was because he was speaking through the Holy Spirit right to her heart. God does that.

I am back in the exercise mode. I am embarrassed to tell you that I have been very negligent in this area of my life for more months this year than I want to admit. But I started back on the treadmill and have some major catch up to do in listening to CD's that I've wanted to all year, besides trying to walk off the pounds I've gained in 2008.

Diane Hunt, our Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries loaned me a set of messages by Pastor C. J. Mahaney on "The Idols of the Heart." The first one has been a real ... well let's put it this way -- very convicting.

In this first message he drew attention to a list of questions written by CCEF counselor/speaker/author, David Powlison. It is a powerful list of questions to help you figure out the the "stuff" you are dealing with in your heart. I have written him to see if we can get permission to do a PDF file, so until we hear from him, don't mass produce these.

I will share the 34 questions over the next couple of days. Hold on ...

1.What do you love? Is there something you love more than God or your neighbor?

2.What do you want? What do you desire? What do you crave, long for, wish? Whose desires do you obey?

3. What do you seek? What are your personal expectations and goals? What are your intentions? What are you working for?

4. Where do you bank your hopes? What hope are you working toward or building your life around?

5. What do you fear? Fear is the flip side of desire. For example, if I desire acceptance, then I fear your rejection.

6. What do you feel like doing? This is a synonym for desire. Sometimes we feel like eating a gallon of ice cream, or staying in bed, or refusing to talk, etc.

(From X RAY Questions by David Powlison)

Pretty intense questions? I sure think so. But worth asking as we prepare for the new year. More to come tomorrow. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 17; Amos 7-9; Revelation 8

Great Quote: I would rather play with forked lightning, or take in my hand living
wires with their fiery current, than speak a reckless word against any servant of Christ, or idly repeat the slanderous darts which thousands of Christian are hurling on others. -- A. B. Simpson

Christmas in Heaven

Christmas in Heaven

"But as it is written, "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." 2 Corinthians 2:10

We walked into the first Christmas shop on our recent trip to Branson. There it was -- a beautiful Christmas ball with a saying that gripped our hearts: "Please don't miss me -- I am spending this Christmas with Jesus!"

Tears welled in our eyes and we know that we needed to purchase the Christmas ornament. It was a reminder that this Christmas, our precious little Lindsay was going to celebrate Christmas like none of us could even begin to imagine.

I have no clue what people in heaven know or don't know about their loved ones here on earth. But I do know this -- Lindsay's Christmas will be truly amazing because she's spending it with Jesus.

After having the real deal, why would anyone every want the substitute! The angels cannot fully comprehend why the Father gave His Son -- His only Son -- for all of us! Yet He did -- and His love is eternal!

There won't be Christmas trees in heaven! Sorry! There will be trees according to the book of Revelation -- but you know what is really neat -- the One who hung on Calvary's tree will bear the nail prints in His hands for all eternity to remind us of His love for us. Every time we see Him -- I think we will notice those hands!

Today marks Lindsay's seventh month in heaven. In the Scriptures, seven is the perfect number. How fitting that her seventh month is the month we celebrate Christmas. So many of you have sent notes, cards and emails telling us that you will be praying for us especialy this Christmas. We cannot thank you enough for those prayers. I know our kids are experiencing the pain of loss, but even greater, the comfort that God, and God alone showers upon His kids during times like these.

The good news is that one day, we will all be gathered round the throne. I wonder if we will sing:

"O come let us adore Him!
O come let us adore Him!
O come let us adore Him -- Christ, the Lord.

We'll give Him all the glory!
We'll give Him all the glory!
We'll give Him all the glory -- Christ, the Lord.

For HE alone is worthy!
For HE alone is worthy!
For HE alone is worthy -- Christ, the Lord."

Thank You, Lord -- that despite the pain, Lindsay is enjoying her best Christmas yet! And it is only the beginning of what You have prepared for her and for all those who love You. Merry Christmas, Lindsay. Pop-pop loves you a bushel and a peck! -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 16; Amos 4-6; Revelation 7

Think About This: A saint's life is in the hands of God as a bow and arrow in the hands of an archer. God is aiming at something the saint cannot see; He stretches
and strains, and every now and again the saint says, I cannot stand any more. But God does not heed; He goes on stretching until His purpose is in sight, then He lets fly. -- Oswald Chambers

Check out our brand new website: www.americaskeswick.org as well as this week's STEWARDSHIP INSIGHT BY GEORGE -- http://www.americaskeswick.org/363836.ihtml#h_5978

Humility At It's Best

Humility At Its Best

"For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith." Romans 12:3

This weekend I had the honor to be a groomsman for a very dear friend. This man has enriched my life in so many ways, and I am thankful to the Lord for his friendship.

My friend's wedding was truly one of those lifetime experiences that I will never forget. His bride's family have made wonderful friendships over the years with a number of prominent Christian leaders.

Friday I had the wonderful privilege of meeting three very high profile Christian leaders: Dr. James Dobson, Dr. Tim LaHaye and Beth Moore. There was one common thread that I observed in all three of these servants of the Lord Jesus Christ -- humility.

I've rubbed shoulders with some "heavy-hitters" during my years of ministry at America's KESWICK and Sandy Cove. I have often joked that I would write a book that would paint the "other side of the story" of certain high profile Christian leaders. Some of the "biggest" names have demonstrated grace and charm in the pulpit or on the concert stage, but "off camera" have been some of the most arrogant and unreasonable people I have ever met.

However, I was so humbled to witness the humility of these three servants. All three have had national, and some world-wide recognition. All three could not have been more gracious and warm, as well as just down right humble.

During the rehearsal, one of the groomsmen was sitting next to Dr. Dobson. Adrian inquired about how Dr. Dobson was doing. I overheard Dr. Dobson say, "I have been pretty busy, as I work for a ministry called Focus on the Family."

Quite honestly, Dr. Dobson could have said, "Yo Adrian -- you DO know who I am? I am THE Dr. James Dobson. I'm the guy that founded Focus on the Family." But that was not the case -- he was so matter-of-fact about being a part of the ministry, not the founder and President.

Paul reminds us that because of the grace of God in our lives, that there is level ground at the foot of the cross. Because we are all on level ground and have experienced God's grace -- something we don't deserve -- we are not to think more highly of ourselves that we should -- we are to be humble -- humble -- and more humble.

If the "big guys "can do it -- so can I. What great role models for us. It was a good lesson for me as President and CEO of America's KESWICK -- I am just a part of the ministry team that serves people from all walks of life who need Jesus. How about you? Are you living a life of humility? I am re-memorizing this verse -- will you join me? Congratulations, Beth and Bernie. Thanks for allowing us to be a part of your very special day! -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 15; Amos 1-3; Revelation 6

Think About This: If I crave hungrily to be used to show the way of liberty to a soul in bondage, instead of caring only that it be delivered; if I nurse my disappointment when I fail, instead of asking that to another the word of release may be given, then I know nothing of Calvary love. Amy Carmichael

The Third Sunday of Advent

The Third Sunday of Advent (Titus 2:11-14)

How is God breaking into your life and mine during this Advent season? I remind you again of Robert Webber’s statement about the season. “Advent is a time when God disturbs the waters of our lives.” That “disturbing” has past, present and future implications. The primary message of Advent is simple: God chooses to walk in our world and work in our world. Advent reminds us to wait for the work and for His imminent appearing.

Paul talks about the waiting in his epistle to Titus. “ . . .looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ . . ..” He reminds Titus and us to live in the anticipation of Jesus next appearance. That anticipation prompts us to live godly lives in an ungodly world.

I urge you to live in “watch mode.” Choose to listen for God’s voice in your life as He shows you His work in your life and your world. Let the Advent season renew you and remind you that you live for more than now. As followers of Jesus, all of us live with an eye toward heaven. We watch for His work and His second coming into our world. We know our world is a hostile environment for the person who follows Jesus. To live in the expectation of Jesus’ return demands willingness to live “against the flow” for as long as it takes. We’ll wait for Him for as long as is needed.

The problem for most of us is that we don’t like waiting. We don’t do well in the patience practice. Scripture teaches us, however, that patience is part of the Christian life. If we don’t see God work today, we wait patiently for the day when He does work. If we look for Him to return today and He doesn’t, we wait patiently for the day to come. We know He will. We just don’t know when. So, we wait. And, while we wait we live our lives in the expectation that He could some today or tomorrow or the next day. It’s always too soon to quit waiting with expectation.

The Advent wreath with its five candles reminds us of the waiting. Each week we light another candle and remember that we’re waiting for the full reality of Christ’s work to invade our world. The third week we light the “Joy” candle. It reminds us to rejoice at the first coming of Jesus into our world and to take joy in the promise that He will come again. So far the Advent candles have reminded us that we have HOPE, we’re LOVED and we can live with JOY because Jesus has come into our world and into our lives.

I pray the spirit of Advent—Hope, Love and Joy--will fill your soul this week. -- Pastor John is Senior Pastor of First Baptist Toms River

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 14, Joel; Revelation 5

Think About This: What, then, is the biblical basis for social concern? Why should Christians get involved? In the end there are only two possibleattitudes which Christians can adopt towards the world: Escape and Engagement...'Escape' means turning our backs on the world in rejection,washing our hands of it ... and steeling our hearts against its agonized cries for help. In contrast, 'engagement' means turning our facestowards the world in compassion, getting our hands dirty, sore and worn in its service, and feeling deep within us the stirring of the love ofwhich cannot be contained. John R. W. Stott

The Fruit of Belief

The Fruit of Belief (Exodus 4:31)

The Children of Israel spent four hundred years in bondage. Life was getting worse, rather than better. They saw no end to their misery, and hope was in very short supply. Then God showed up! He heard their cries for a deliverer and sent them Moses and Aaron. For the first time in a long time, God’s people had a glimmer of hope.

Upon their arrival in Egypt Aaron and Moses met with the leaders of the Children of Israel. They told them everything God told Moses, and Aaron performed some signs to confirm the message. The leaders knew that God had taken notice of the oppression and affliction under which they were living. As word spread among the people, they, too, believed that God had shown up to help them. Listen to the description of their response as given to us by Moses: “So the people believed, and when they heard that the Lord had visited the children of Israel and that He had looked on their affliction, then they bowed their heads and worshiped.” (Exodus 4:31)

Belief and worship go together. As I read these words it occurred to me that we can know something of our belief by the way we worship—or don’t worship. We can assume that the worship the Children of Israel offered God flowed from what they believed. Had they NOT believed, they would not have worshiped. Worship really is the fruit of belief.

So, I asked myself this question: Does my worship adequately reflect what I believe about God? My concern is that the shallowness of our worship in church and in private is a reflection of weak beliefs that won’t really sustain us throughout our lives. Real worship flows from genuine belief. That belief in God and His concern for us that touches us deeply and permanently will move us to bow our heads (and our hearts) in true worship. That worship will focus on God, not ourselves. It will reflect our love for God, not our own preferences and tastes.

Does your belief in God, and mine, move us to bow our heads and worship the true and living God? Anything less gives us reason to question the sincerity of our beliefs and the quality of our worship. We have no better time of the year than Advent to reflect on God’s work in our lives, our trust (belief) in that work and our response to His work in us and for us. I pray that reflection will move us to stronger faith and more genuine worship. God deserves both! -- John Strain is Senior Pastor of First Baptist Toms River

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 13; Hosea 12-14 Revelation 4

Think About This: Satan loves the gullible Christian, who likes sensations and thespectacular; he provides the spectacle and sensation, with which he cankeep them off the true track. Anonymous

Enlarge Your Tent

"Enlarge the place of your tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; Do not spare: Lengthen the cords, and strengthen your stakes." -- Isaiah 54:2



Good morning! Surprise! I trust that you are excited about our new look. I am very proud of Brian Bitler, our Director of Marketing and Technology, Dina Seaton (Brian's assistant) and our good friends from Susquehanna Design, for the new look that they are providing for our blogs.


If this daily ministry is an encouragement to you, send it on to a friend and encourage them to join us on the journey.


Today's devotional was written by Dr. Henry Blackaby in his daily devotional, EXPERIENCING GOD -- The Devotional:


"When God comes to a life in power, it is always a time of rejoicing and expectation of the future! Isaiah described this experience as similar to that of a child born to a previously barren woman. The child's arrival changes everything! Life cannot continue as usual! Whereas the dwelling place might have been large enough for two, not it must be made bigger. The child's presence causes the parents to completely rearrange the way they were living.


Isaiah proclaimed that when God comes, you must make room for Him in your life. You must 'enlarge the place of your tent' because God's presence will add new dimensions to your life, your family, and your church. YOU DO NOT SIMPLY "ADD CHRIST ON" TO YOUR BUSY LIFE AND CARRY ON WITH BUSINESS AS USUAL.


Whereas before you may not have expected good things to come through you or in your life, now you have a spirit of optimism. You ought to expect your life to become richer and fuller. You can anticipate God blessing others through your life. You can look for God to demonstrate HIS power through your life in increasing measure.


As a Christian, how do you make room for Christ in your life? You repent of your sin. You allow Christ the freedom to do what He wants IN you. You watch eagerly for His activity in your life with the expectancy that Christ will fill you with HIS power in the days to come and will 'stretch' you to do things in HIS service that you have never done before!"


How about it, my brothers? Are you willing to let the Lord enlarge YOUR tent? If you are, hold on! You are going on the ride of your life! -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK


God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 12; Hosea 9-11; Revelation 3


Think About This: "You can never pray "the prayer of faith" if you look at the person who is needing it; there is only one place to look and that is to Jesus." Smith Wigglesworth

God's Gift of Love

God's Gift of Love "The expression of love is to care"

Gifts originate from some form of love. Even God's gift comes from His great love. He so loved us that He gave His only Son. So says John in his gospel.(3:16) We can not originate love. We need love to generate love. That is the reason the Word says, "We love Him because He first loved us." (1 John 4:10)

Since God is the source of love, when did love begin?

God showed His love in His constant caring. When He made man He put him in the garden that He had provided. Daily man knew of God's care when they awoke to new fruits and vegetables to eat. Because man was forbidden to eat ALL of the fruit it was the forbidden fruit that he wanted.

When man ate of the tree that God kept from him, he lost the home of God's care but not the care of God. Man was given labor to keep him from boredom. God cared for those who cared not for Him. He provided an ark to protect those few who remained faithful.

He cared for both Abraham and Lot. He cared enough for us to call Moses to write His rules for us to follow. In the "fullness of time," He gave us the gift of His love wrapped in swaddling cloths and laid in a manger. That gift was hung on a tree. His body was ripped open on the cross so that we could see the magnitude of God's great love.

When the beloved pastor, Frank Ellsworth Graeff (1860-1919)
penned the words to his hymn, "Does Jesus Care?" it was due to all of the tragedies in life that he saw. He asked,

Does Jesus care when I've tried and failed
To resist some temptation strong?
When for my deep grief I find no relief,
Tho my tears flow all the night long?

O yes, He cares- I know He cares!
His heart is touched with my grief;
When the days are weary, the long nights dreary,
I know my Savior cares.

When Peter writes of our burdens too heavy to bear (in 1 Peter5:7) he says, "Casting all your cares upon Him for He cares for you!" The word casting means when you can not handle your problems, you can roll them over onto Him. He is able to take care of them but most of all He cares for you.

The Poet's Thoughts

When the road ahead is dark and I can not see
I can trust in Your great love to take care of me
I need but to call your name in some secret place
You will give me the strength to finish my race

For when there is no other who truly cares
I will trust the one who answers prayers
Because His love is pure and His love is strong
It puts into my heart this song.

Though all may forsake me and from me depart
I can trust in our God for I know His heart! -- Pastor George VanSandt

God's Word for YOU: Proverbs 11; Hosea 5-8; Revelation 2

Think about this: In the same manner in which we clean and prepare our homes in the anticipation of welcomed guests and family members this Christmas season, let us also prepare our hearts in anticipation of the Lord's coming. Christ, our most honoured and eagerly anticipated guest, desires to meet with us in a heart prepared for his arrival. So eager is he to meet with us that he offers to help us with our spiritual housecleaning, working with us; creating a resting place for Himself within our hearts. -- Katherine Walden

The Time Dimensions of Heaven and Prayer

The Time Dimensions of Heaven and Prayer

I read this sometime ago and thought it would be a blessing to you today. It is from the book., A MINUTE OF MARGIN by Dr. Richard A. Swenson (NavPress).

The elasticity of time is not a spiritual apparition but rather a proven fact of physics. In physics we know the elasticity of time is related to both velocity and gravity. The faster the velocity or the greater the gravity, the slower time passes. This effect is not simply an observational phenomenon. It really happens! It is called time dilation. The time dilation effect maximizes at the speed of light when the passage of time stops altogether.

What does this tell us about God? If time can be influenced by velocity and gravity, imagine how it can be influenced by the Creator of velocity and gravity. In fact God stops time.

When we arrive in heaven we will discover some very liberating ideas regarding the nature and experience of time. We will discover how dramatically we underestimated the true nature of time simply because our earthbound imaginations could never rise that high.

Even more, for the first time we will understand God's own radical power over the time dimension. When His mastery over time is fully displayed, we will wonder what we could have been had we not so foolishly limited Him during our short stay on earth.

Try to conceive of the extreme facility with which God operates within time. He lives in the past, the present, and the future all the same time. "God does not 'foresee' you doing things tomorrow; He simply see you doing them now," wrote C. S. Lewis, "because, though tomorrow is not yet there for you, it is for Him."

Some people balk at prayer because they can't get beyond the time issues involved. They wonder, "How can God listen to a million people praying all at once?" Actually, there are no obstacles in physics that would prevent God from hearing a billion prayers simultaneously. As a matter of fact, God can listen to an infinite number of prayers at the same time and take an infinite amount of time in answering each - all within the bounds of both theological and scientific orthodoxy. A pilot crashing into a mountain can shoot a last minute prayer to God, and God has an infinite amount of time to consider His answer.

Life on planet earth is full of time stress. Life in heaven is devoid of time stress. In His calm power, God patiently waits for His children to look up. The doctors prescription? Pray! Realizing just how effortlessly and powerfully God moves around within time encourages the habit of prayer. God has no difficulty whatsoever hearing your prayer, considering it, and answering it. If there is any defect in prayer, it is always from the human side related to faith and never from the divine side related to time or power. - Dr. Richard A. Swenson

I thought this devotional would encourage your hearts today. It did mine. Thank You, Lord, for the privilege of prayer. - Bill Welte is President and CEO of America' Keswick

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 10; Hosea 1-4; Revelation 1

Think About This: Pray, pray very much; but beware of telling God what to do. - French Proverb

A Giant of the Faith

A GIANT OF THE FAITH

"But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work." 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

Tonight we will have the privilege to honor of our God's choices servants, Dr. Eric Crichton, for his service on the Board of Trustees of America's KESWICK for the past 14 years. Dr. Crichton is one of those amazing men that God brought into my life, ever too briefly, but for "such a time as this."

He is one of those "giants of the faith" that has made a huge impact on the kingdom during his many years of ministry. Now in his mid-eighties, Dr. Crichton is still a lover of God's Word and skilled expositor of the Scriptures.

He was born in Scotland and grew up in Canada, having cut his teeth in the business world serving in the field of accounting and office management. He was called by God to attend Moody Bible Institute, and during that time, he knew God was calling him into full-time ministry.
In 1993 he was honored as "Alumnus of the Year" by Moody Bible Institute at the annual Moody Founders Week.

He would go on to serve as the Associate Pastor of the infamous Moody Church, serving with the late Dr. Alan Redpath. From Moody, he went on to serve the Willowdale Baptist Church in Toronto, Canada, and then was called to serve as Senior Pastor at Calvary Church in Lancaster, PA for twenty-three years.

In addition to his pasturing, Dr. Crichton has preached around the globe at various conferences and Keswick conventions, and has ministered on the mission fields of thirty-six countries in Central and South America, Africa, Europe and the Far East.

Dr. Crichton served as the interim Executive Director of America's KESWICK prior to my coming as President and CEO, and has been a faithful mentor and friend. He is a man of prayer and deep love for the lost of the world. He is a man who loves his family and has modeled a life of integrity and dignity which is so lacking in our world today. I often refer to him as a "gentle giant."

Seasons of life bring changes, and Dr. and Mrs. Crichton have made the decision to cut back on their schedules. We will miss their "physical" activeness at America's KESWICK, but we appreciate their continuing prayer for our ministry. On this day when we will honor them for their faithful service to the Lord, I echo Paul's words to "appreciate and esteem them very highly in the Lord." Dr. and Mrs. Crichton - we love you and thank God for you. May God give you many more years of faithful service to Him. - Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 9; Daniel 11-12; Jude

Think About This: The present is very precious; these are the days of salvation; now is the acceptable time. How sad that you do not spend the time in which you might purchase everlasting life in a better way. The time will come when you will want just one day, just one hour in which to make amends, and do you know whether you will obtain it? -- Thomas a Kempis

Check out this week's STEWARDSHIP INSIGHT by George. It's a good one:
http://keswickgeorge.blogspot.com/ on Christmas budgeting.

Have you ordered your copy of Bill's first piano CD, JESUS LED ME ALL THE WAY? Fourteen piano hymn favorites including, Day By Day, Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus, and What a Friend We Have in Jesus. This will make a great Christmas present for family and friends. Cost is $15 including shipping and handling. To order, reply to this email and we will ship today.

What is a Gift?

What is a gift?
allowance, alms, award, benefaction, benefit, bequest, bestowal, bonus, boon, bounty, charity, contribution, courtesy, dispensation, donation, endowment, fairing, favor, giveaway, goodie, grant, gratuity, hand, hand-me-down*, handout, honorarium, lagniappe, largesse, legacy, libation, oblation, offering, offertory, philanthropy, pittance, premium, present, presentation, provision, ration, relief, remembrance, remittance, reward, souvenir, subscription, subsidy, tip, token, tribute, write-off

These are the words that mean GIFT. But they do not tell us what a GIFT means. The following is to help us think deeply about the GIFT that God Gave Us.

Some of us are "Gift People" and some of us are "Card People". They often find each other and they often find that Christmas and Valentine's Day becomes rather sad.

You see, the card person goes from store to store to find the perfect card to attach to a gift, while the gift person goes from store to store to find the perfect gift to attach a card to. When they exchange, that which should make the other happy, here is what happens.
The card person takes the gift, removes the card and opens it and reads it forgetting the gift. The gift person takes the gift only to open the gift while sometimes forgetting the card. Givers are offended when, what they spent most of their time on is put aside for that which was less important to them.

As to God's Gift
He spent a great deal of time on His Gift and His Card. He composed a card to attach to His gift. The card is what we call The Bible. It took Him thousands of years to compose it and to be sure that it expressed His love for us. It is easy for us to concentrate on His gift (His Son) and to neglect His Card (the Bible) that is attached to it.

The Poets Thought
Thank you, God for the gift that men have marred!
Help us to not neglect your very special card.
Thank you for the years you took as you thought of us
Help us not to lose sight (amid the Christmas fuss) Of the value of the card that makes up your precious Book
May we take the time today(and every day) to just to look!
Thank you, again, for as we have often heard,
Your Gift and Card are both called THE WORD. (John 1:1)

A gift is not some trinket, bought at the last moment, in a gift shop at an airport. It begins with a heart of caring. Caring long before the gift was chosen, purchased, and wrapped. Think today about how much God cared, to take such time and to pay such a price and to prepare the Gift that He gave to us at Christmas time. -- Pastor George Van Sandt is a friend of the ministry of America's KESWICK and has been an instructor for the Keswick Institute of Biblical Studies

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 8; Daniel 8-10; 3 John

Think About This: The most glorious promises of God are generally fulfilled in such a wondrous manner that He steps forth to save us at a time when there is the least appearance of it.-- C. H. von Bogatzy

The Second Sunday of Advent

The Second Sunday of Advent (Mark 1:9-15)

Do you remember the quote about Advent that I shared with you last week? It was from Robert Webber, one of America's finest thinkers about worship before he went to heaven. He said Advent is "a time when God disturbs the waters of our lives." God addressed every need man has by sending His Son, Jesus, into our world. And He walks into our lives to make sure we don't miss His work.

Unfortunately, too many people in Jesus' day and ours do miss His arrival and His desire to work in our lives. More people missed Jesus' birth than noticed it. I preached a series of messages one year during Advent that I called "The People Who Missed Christmas." Those who missed it then and those who miss it now, do so for the same reason. They're not paying attention!

John the Baptist came to prepare the way for Jesus' public ministry. The first words Jesus spoke as He began His public ministry announced what so many were missing. "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe the gospel." (Mark 1:15) People weren't watching and waiting. Even with all we know (Hindsight is always 20-20!), many in our churches aren't watching and waiting. The kingdom work continues, but too many live with little or no awareness of that work.

That's why Advent is so important. The emphasis reminds us to live watchful lives. Watchfulness may be the lost art of the 21st century! We live in the moment, with little thought of "big picture" issues. We don't see Jesus at work in our lives or our churches. Instead of living with watchfulness and anticipation, we live without focus and everything blends together. Advent encourages us to slow down, to pay attention to what is really important.

Part of the Advent celebration in many churches is the Advent wreath with its candles. We thought about the "Candle of Hope" last week. Today Christians will share in lighting the "Candle of Love," reminding us that God loved us enough to send us Jesus, the Light of the World. The light of the candle is an aid to our watchfulness; lighting the way and helping us remember to watch for Jesus' love in our lives and in the lives of those around us.

I urge you to live in "watch mode." Choose to listen for God's voice in your life as He shows you His work in your life and your world. Let the Advent season renew you and remind you that you live for more than now. As followers of Jesus, all of us live with an eye toward heaven. We watch for His work and His second coming into our world. -- Pastor John Strain is Senior Pastor of First Baptist of Toms River

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 7; Daniel 5-7; 2 John

Think About This: The most important prayer in the world is just two words long: "Thank you".

Join us today at 4:00 PM for a special Christmas concert with the Christian Community Choir of Allentown, NJ. The concert will be a benefit for the Colony of Mercy. The concert will be held in the Activity Center. Come and enjoy the Christmas Tree Exhibit before the program. For information, call 732-350-1187.

Surviving the Twists and Turns of Life

Surviving the Twists and Turns of Life (Isaiah 55:8-9)

Years ago, my wife heard a lady speak at conference about her "Survival Scriptures." She went on to explain that God had worked into her life some particular scripture verses that helped her through various kinds of difficult circumstances. She carried them in heart and mind and had them typed onto a piece of paper which was taped to the inside cover of her Bible.

Bobbie liked the idea, and over time she discovered her own set of "Survival Scriptures." They have encouraged her through the years. God has also allowed her to share them with other women, encouraging them and challenging them to let God lead them to their own set of "Survival Scriptures."

After seeing how the process brought blessing to Bobbie, I decided to ask God for my own "Survival Scriptures." I've hardly ever shared them with others; they're just very personal to me. God may someday give me freedom to share them, but so far they've just helped me through those twists and turns of life.

You may need to work through the process of finding your own "Survival Scriptures." We all discover curves in the road we hadn't expected. Things come at us that we don't understand and may not know how to handle. Sometimes we just don't have answers. When we can't explain what's going on, we need to know that someone does and that He's there to guide us through the bumps and potholes life throws in our way. Don't expect that you won't have those bumps and potholes. "If" they will come isn't the issue. "When" they'll come better defines life for us.

Isaiah saw those days when life didn't make sense. He couldn't see God at work. God helped him understand, however. Here's what God gave Isaiah-I wonder if it became a "Survival Scripture for him! "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,' says the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts."

That isn't one of my personal "Survival Scriptures," but it could be. Let God prepare you for the twists and turns of life by giving you some "Survival Scriptures" that will sustain you when life just plain doesn't make sense. -- John Strain is the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Toms River

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 6; Daniel 3-4; 1 John 5

Think About This: The boundless stores of Providence are engaged for the support of the believer. Christ is our Joseph, who has granaries full of wheat; but He does not treat us as Joseph did the Egyptians, for He opens the door of His storehouse and bids us call all the good therein our own. He has entailed upon His estate of Providence a perpetual charge of a daily portion for us, and He has promised that one day we shall clearly perceive that the estate itself has been well-farmed on our behalf and has always been ours. The axle of the wheels of the chariot of Providence is Infinite Love, and Gracious Wisdom is the perpetual charioteer. Charles Haddon Spurgeon

Join us tomorrow at 4:00 PM for a benefit concert with the Christian Community Choir from Allentown, NJ. The offering will be taken for the Colony of Mercy. The concert will be held in the Activity Center.

Don't Miss Out

Don't Miss Out

"And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son." But the father said to his servants, "Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to celebrate." Luke 15:20-24 (ESV)

For the past month and a half my son and I would go over to my parent's house and do some odd jobs and the most recent of them being installing a wood burning fire place in my father's work shop. He had one in there made from two fifty five gallon drums and a kit and it was the second one he had built to in there. But he was getting an upgrade this time and with his declining health I wanted to make this one easy for him to use. Just an honorable mention here my brother-in-law found this fire place at no cost to my parents. Thank you Pablo!!

The project was finally completed a week before Thanksgiving and my father had assured me he was going to go into his shop and give it his final inspection. This past Tuesday morning my father passed away without being able to give me the final thumbs up. And I ask myself if this is the end of a tough season in time where I have watched my father wither away.

As I have shared with you all in the past my father's health had not been very good. There were some nights I would go to bed and just wonder if the phone would ring and it would be that "call". Well I wonder no more. I'll still praise Him who is most worthy to be praised. Did my father know of Jesus and the power of His redeeming blood? I told him what it meant to me but .........

Before my family says their final goodbye's at my father's burial I will be sharing this parable with them. It has a whole new meaning to me now. I was the Prodigal at one time but that is no more and this coming Friday night at my father's viewing I'm sure there will be some who are the older brother that will remind me with a "remember when." I'll miss my earthly father but without Jesus I'll miss my heavenly Father. Don't miss out either Brethren. - Chris Hughes is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a frequent Freedom Fighter Contributor

God's Word for You: Proverbs 5; Daniel 1-2; 1 John 4

Think About This: I urge upon you communion with Christ; a growing communion. There are curtains to be drawn aside in Christ that we never saw, and newfoldings of love in him. I despair that I shall ever win to the far end of that love, there are so many aspects to it. Therefore dig deep, and sweat and labor and take pains for him, and set by as much time in the day for him as you can. We will be won in the labor. -- Samuel Rutherford

Just Released -- "JESUS LED ME ALL THE WAY" 14 Piano Hymn Arrangements by Bill Welte, President and CEO of America's KESWICK. This will make a great Christmas present! Cost is $15. To order a copy please respond to this email and supply your mailing address information.

And Your House

AND YOUR HOUSE

"And they said, 'Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." Acts 16:31

I have the privilege of being a part of a ministry where we see transformation of lives every day. It is downright exciting to see God at work in miraculous ways.

Addiction impacts not just the person in bondage - it impacts at least 10 other people. When a man comes to Christ through the ministry of the Colony of Mercy, so often the transformation in his life impacts his family as well.

Last night we heard one of the incredibly miraculous stories. Craig came to the Colony in bondage to drugs and alcohol. His life was transformed and during his 120-days, I had the wonderful delight of leading his Dad to Christ. God used these two men to meet a need for our ministry. We get invitations to take the men to churches to sing and testify, but transporting them is a challenge. We don't own a bus, and so one Sunday morning, Chaplain Jack Noel asked the people who were in the morning chapel service to pray that God would somehow provide transportation. This Dad raised his hand and said, "I own a bus company and I will provide the bus at no cost." And he has graciously done that for several years.

Recently, Craig's brother Chris, came to the Colony. His life too has been transformed. Last night Chris graduated having completed his 8-month pastoral covenant. During the graduation ceremony, Chris shared that God has restored his relationship with his own wife and kids, but he also gave praise to the Lord that after 16 years of separation, God has restored the marriage relationship of his Mom and Dad!

It was an amazing night of celebration to realize what Christ can do in not only the life of a man, but how He impacts an entire family. The jailer that Paul led to Christ the night the jailhouse rocked, discovered the same truth - Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved! Not only was his life transformed - it had a ripple effect in the lives of his families.

When we allow God to transform our lives, the transformation can have an impact on our families. The reverse is true as well, and that is a good reminder for us to live our lives in a way that is pleasing and honoring to the Lord. Thank You, Lord for the transformation that has taken place in Craig and Chris' family. - Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 4; Ezekiel 487-48; 1 John 3

Think About This: In heaven, God will not ask us why we sinned; He will ask us why we didn't repent. - Anonymous

What Are You Worried About

Today's devotional is from our devotional, REAL VICTORY FOR REAL LIFE. This is a great Christmas present! We are running a special -- buy one at $14.95 and get one free. If you'd like to purchase this special, respond to this email. It will be a great blessing in YOUR life and in the life of someone you want to see experiencing victory!

WHAT ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT?

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28)

I was thigh deep in the murky waters of the Brazos River a few weeks ago fly-fishing for large-mouth bass. As I worked my way around a brushy dead fall protruding into the river, I flipped my fly carefully under the branches hoping for the trademark attack of a violent and angry fish. Instead, what I saw gave my heart a start. The largest Water Moccasin I have ever encountered slithered its gray-black body off of the dead fall and into the water with me.
Worry. Anxiety. Fretting. The Bible explicitly instructs us to avoid these enemies. "Do not be anxious," Paul writes in Philippians 4:6. "Do not worry," Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:31. "Do not fret," David says in Psalms 37:8. I can't help but wonder if any of the three were ever thigh deep in the murk of a muddy river with a poisonous snake.
What are you worried about? It may not be a cold, gray reptile slithering toward you, but it can be just as scary nonetheless. When it comes down to it, I must decide if I am going to let God carry His responsibilities or if I am going to carry them for Him and be guilty of worry.
It has been my experience that letting God have what is His to carry is easier said than done. It is as if I believe massaging and manipulating the stress that plagues me is a noble calling, a duty I must fulfill in order to be diligent.
Just last night I lay awake tossing and turning, and I don't just mean on the bed. I tossed between giving my burdens to Father and then turning them back toward my mind. I'm not sure if I ultimately won or just wore out! All I know is the clock was reading single digits the last time I looked.
Worry is assuming responsibility for something that is God's responsibility. He is explicit about carrying burdens that are not ours to tote. Yet, I find myself laboring under loads that I was never designed to carry. Is it any wonder that I struggle and ache inside when I stress myself beyond my Maker's design and intended use? -- Preston Gillham is the former President of Lifetime Guarantee and the son of Bill and Anabell Gillham

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 3; Ezekiel 45-46; 1 John 2

Think About This: If you knew that there was One greater than yourself, who knows you better than you know yourself, and loves you better than you can love yourself; One who gathered into himself all great and good things and causes, blending in his beauty all the enduring color of life, who could turn your dreams into visions, and make real things you hoped were true; and if that One had done one unmistakable thing to prove, even at the price of blood - his own blood - that you could come to him, would you not fall at his feet with the treasure of your years, your powers, your love? And is there not One such? Would you not fall at his feet with the treasure of your years, your powers, service, and love? And is there not one such, and does he not call you? A. E. Whitham

The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength

THE JOY OF THE LORD IS OUR STRENGTH

"And do not be grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold." Nehemiah 8:10b (The Amplified Bible)

Nehemiah is one of my heroes. He gives me encouragement to keep on keeping on. Nehemiah, the cupbearer to the king, is given the monumental task of rebuilding the walls that have been broken down and destroyed.

He is a gifted leader and motivator and is able to rally the troops, partnering people together to accomplish a feat that many of his critics thought nigh near to impossible. Despite the criticism and accusations from the "peanut gallery," Nehemiah forges ahead and in 52 days the wall is rebuilt.

At the completion of the wall, Nehemiah gathers the people together to celebrate and worship their great God. Ezra the scribe is asked to bring the Book of the Law of Moses and to read it to the people. Not get this: he read from morning till noon while the people were standing! (Wow can you see that happening in church today! Yikes!)

In the middle of the celebration Ezra declares: "And do not be grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!" Nehemiah 8:10b. Why did he make this statement at the end of this amazing adventure?

I have discovered that after some of the greatest times of victory and accomplishment, some of us feel the let down of the weeks and months of ministry, and then comes the crash. I have found in my life that after a week or so, and sometimes more, of intense ministry and seeing God work in amazing ways, days after comes the emotional crash. The adrenaline surge that has sustained us during the glory days wanes, and down you go. Instead of rejoicing in the victory and all the good things that God has done, despair and depression seem to raise their ugly head pulling us down into the pit of self-pity.

I was there yesterday. After several weeks of intensity, I was just plain pooped. I found myself grumbling, grouchy and ungrateful. I found myself in the middle of a big pity party. I looked at the week ahead of me and all that I need to accomplish, and I was overwhelmed and discouraged. And then during the night, the Holy Spirit reminded me - "Welte, the joy of the Lord is your strength." Wow!

So by God's grace, today starts a new day. The same pile is looming in front of me. My day off seems weeks away (it's coming Friday and Saturday ...) but I face the week with a new perspective: the joy of the Lord is my strength! And when I am weak, Paul reminds me that this is when HE shows up - His strength is made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

How about you, guy? Are you needing this reminder? "And do not be grieved or depressed - for the joy of the Lord is your strength!" - Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK.

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 2; Ezekiel 42-44; 1 John 1

Think About This: God has promised forgiveness to your repentance, but He has not promised tomorrow to your procrastination. Augustine

Forty First Day?

FORTY FIRST DAY?

This weekend America's KESWICK hosted our annual Single's Weekend and our speaker was Dave Edwards. He shared a powerful message on Friday night and shared something from the Word that I had never heard before. It was such an encouragement, that I thought I would pass in on to you this morning.

He was teaching about the life of Joseph from Genesis 40. At the conclusion of his message he shared that for many of us, life gets stuck in the 40's! Joseph's life was not the easiest, yet God was up to something God. He was molding and shaping Joseph's life for something better -- and life for Joseph turned around in Chapter 41. In God's economy, there is always a 41 after 40.

Think about it: Noah and his family were on the ark for 40 days and 40 nights -- and on the 41st day -- life turned around! Moses and the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness for 40 days and on day 41 they entered the promised land. The Philistines taunted and messed with the Israelites for 40 days and on the 41st day, a little shepherd boy slew Goliath.

The Lord Jesus did battle with Satan in the wilderness for 40 days, but on the 41st day He came out of the wilderness victorious! After Jesus came out of the grave, He appeared to His disciples and was seen by many and on the 41st day, He ascended back in heaven where He now sits at His Father's right hand interceding for you and me!

During our Branson trip we heard comedian Yakov Smirnoff use this phrase: "Bet you never thought about it like that before -- you will now!" Well that's how I felt hearing this message. Have you felt like life has been stuck in the 40's of life? Hold on, men -- the 41st day is coming! God's is up to something special in your life. Allow Him to continue the molding, shaping and refining process -- then wait to see what He is going to do in and through you. Remember 41 is coming!!! -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK

God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 1; Ezekiel 40-41; 2 Peter 3

Think About This: The event of Christ is the only event in human history that promises relocation and centering, meaning and purpose. This promise and its fulfillment evoke passionate and heartfelt praise and thanks, especially for those aware of their own brokenness and the healing which Christ brings into their lives. -- Robert Webber