Correction: In yesterday's Freedom Fighter entry I said that Neil Fichthorn was the one who asked for the new piano. It was Dr. Dan Betzer, who served as a pastor in Florida, not Neil. Neil relayed the story to me.
HOW THIRSTY ARE YOU?
“…whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst” (John 4:1-6;14).
Decisions we make each day can turn around and make us! In a study at the University of Minnesota, Dr. Eric Klinger found out that we made anywhere from 300-1700 decisions every day of our lives. Many are simple decisions; some are complex, but often they can make for a good or not so good start for the day.
Scripture tells us that Jesus decided to go through Samaria – He had to or “must needs go through!” Was it comfortable for Him? Could He have decided otherwise? It made the route to Galilee twice as long. But He came to do the will of the Father and it was His will to meet a woman at the well. To her the meeting looked like an accident. It wasn’t. It never is when Jesus meets us.
No Jew should be associating with a Samaritan (v. 9 & 10). Jesus had a different end in view that quenching His thirst. He wanted to excite a spiritual desire in the Samaritan woman’s mind. As she debates about how and where to worship, Jesus compels her to understand internal worship. Jesus knows what is in each of us (John 2:25) and He approached this woman with her thirst – a thirst only He would fill.
He sees your unsatisfied longings. Give Him your discontent, what you lack, your frustrations, and He will meet you where you are. He is water to our souls. He tells you today, “I will pour water on him who is thirsty, I will pour floods upon the dry ground” (Isaiah 44:3). A twentieth century hymnwriter, Lucy J. Rider, wrote, “Come to the fountain, there’s fullness in Jesus, all that you’re longing for: come and be glad!” -- Rev. John Hibbard serves on the Board of Trustees at America's KESWICK and is the Sunday morning chapel service speaker at the Colony of Mercy Chapel. Services at 10:30 AM each Sunday morning.
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 31; 2 Chronicles 13-14; John 12:1-26
Great Quote: How many Christians are there who pray every Sunday in church, "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done!" without ever realizing the spiritual implications of such intercession! What are we praying for? Should we edit that prayer so that it becomes a confrontation: "My kingdom go, Lord; let Thy kingdom come!" Certainly His kingdom can never be realized in my life until my own selfish kingdom is deposed. It is when I resign, when I am no longer king of my domain that Jesus Christ will become king of my life. A. W. Tozer
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Give God Your Best
Give God Your Best
"They received from Moses all the offerings the Israelites had brought to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. And the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning." Exodus 36:3 (NIV)
My dear friend, Neil Fichthorn shares the story that a lady called the conference center where he was serving as Director. She was buying a new piano and wanted to donate her old one to the conference center.
Neil went to look at the piano, which in her words, "Is a really good piano ..." Of course if it is good, than why are you replacing it with a brand new one! And of course the piano was not in good shape and need much work and repair. He boldly suggested that God deserves our best, so why not donate the new one!
I don't think he had any clue based on her response that she would even consider doing something like that. But as the story goes, several weeks later, the piano company truck pulled in the driveway, and indeed, she donated the brand new piano!
I was appalled walking into the missionary closet of our church. Most of the clothes were worn and years out of date. Some of the appliances had broken handles and missing parts. When we inquired about the condition of the "stuff," we were told, "Hey, they are missionaries. They should be thankful that people are willing to part with this stuff. This has to be much better than what they'd have on the field."
God gives us HIS very best. Doesn't He deserve the best too? Your church or favorite missionary agency may be in need of things like computers, printers, cameras. Instead of us giving away our old stuff, ever consider giving something that is in really good condition? Think of the way that you could bless the ministry that you cherish and love.
Now that is a HUGE set up for something I would like to ask you to consider. We are in desperate need of some computer upgrades. We get "stuff ..." -- you know ... the stuff that doesn't work anymore and "you can fix it ..." Or "It worked fine for me ..." We want to give God our best service ... maybe you have some computer equipment that is in excellent condition, or maybe you'd even consider donating a newer computer. I realize that this is a bold ask, but as I was praying about our need, the Lord tugged at my heart to share the need with you.
If you would like to help or have questions, please contact Bill Pruitt, our Director of Development 732-350-1187 ext 17) or Brian Bitler, our Director of Marketing and Technology (732-350-1187 ext 29). Thanks for you consideration. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU; Proverbs 30; 2 Chronicles 10-12; John 11:30-57
Great Quote: A providence is shaping our ends; a plan is developing in our lives; a supreme and loving Being is making all things work together for good. In the sequel of our life's story we shall see that there was a meaning and necessity in all the previous incidents, save those which were the result of our own folly and sin, and that even these have been made to contribute to the final result. Trust Him, child of God: He is leading you by a right way to the celestial City of Habitation; and as from the terrace of eternity you review the path by which you came from the morning-land of childhood, you will confess that He hath done all things well.Frederick Brotherton ( F. B. ) Meyer
"They received from Moses all the offerings the Israelites had brought to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. And the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning." Exodus 36:3 (NIV)
My dear friend, Neil Fichthorn shares the story that a lady called the conference center where he was serving as Director. She was buying a new piano and wanted to donate her old one to the conference center.
Neil went to look at the piano, which in her words, "Is a really good piano ..." Of course if it is good, than why are you replacing it with a brand new one! And of course the piano was not in good shape and need much work and repair. He boldly suggested that God deserves our best, so why not donate the new one!
I don't think he had any clue based on her response that she would even consider doing something like that. But as the story goes, several weeks later, the piano company truck pulled in the driveway, and indeed, she donated the brand new piano!
I was appalled walking into the missionary closet of our church. Most of the clothes were worn and years out of date. Some of the appliances had broken handles and missing parts. When we inquired about the condition of the "stuff," we were told, "Hey, they are missionaries. They should be thankful that people are willing to part with this stuff. This has to be much better than what they'd have on the field."
God gives us HIS very best. Doesn't He deserve the best too? Your church or favorite missionary agency may be in need of things like computers, printers, cameras. Instead of us giving away our old stuff, ever consider giving something that is in really good condition? Think of the way that you could bless the ministry that you cherish and love.
Now that is a HUGE set up for something I would like to ask you to consider. We are in desperate need of some computer upgrades. We get "stuff ..." -- you know ... the stuff that doesn't work anymore and "you can fix it ..." Or "It worked fine for me ..." We want to give God our best service ... maybe you have some computer equipment that is in excellent condition, or maybe you'd even consider donating a newer computer. I realize that this is a bold ask, but as I was praying about our need, the Lord tugged at my heart to share the need with you.
If you would like to help or have questions, please contact Bill Pruitt, our Director of Development 732-350-1187 ext 17) or Brian Bitler, our Director of Marketing and Technology (732-350-1187 ext 29). Thanks for you consideration. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU; Proverbs 30; 2 Chronicles 10-12; John 11:30-57
Great Quote: A providence is shaping our ends; a plan is developing in our lives; a supreme and loving Being is making all things work together for good. In the sequel of our life's story we shall see that there was a meaning and necessity in all the previous incidents, save those which were the result of our own folly and sin, and that even these have been made to contribute to the final result. Trust Him, child of God: He is leading you by a right way to the celestial City of Habitation; and as from the terrace of eternity you review the path by which you came from the morning-land of childhood, you will confess that He hath done all things well.Frederick Brotherton ( F. B. ) Meyer
Friday, May 29, 2009
Vision and Reality
Vision and Reality
"and the parched ground shall become a pool." Isaiah 35:7
We hear a lot of talk in the business world and in ministries about having a vision for what we do. Today's devotional was written many years ago by the author of the classic devotional, "MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST," Oswald Chambers.
Listen to his compelling thoughts about vision:
We always have visions before a thing is made real. When we realize that although the vision is real, it is not real in us, then is the time that Satan comes in with his temptations. and we are apt to say it is no use to on. Instead of the vision becoming real, there has come the valley of humiliation.
God gives us the vision, then He takes us down to the valley to batter us into the shape of the vision, and it is in the valley that so many of us faint and give way. Every vision will be made real if we will have patience! Think of the enormous leisure of God! He is never in a hurry. We are always in such a frantic hurry. In light of the glory of the vision we go forth to do things, but the vision is not real in us yet; and God has to take us into the valley, and put us through fires and floods to batter us into shape, until we get to the place where He can trust us WITH the veritable reality.
Ever since we had the vision God has been at work, getting us into the shape of HIS ideal, and over and over again we escape from HIS hand and try to batter ourselves into our OWN shape.
The vision is not a castle in the air but a vision of what GOD wants YOU to BE [notice not DO]. Let Him put you on His wheel and whirl you as HE likes, and as sure as God is God and you are you, you will turn out exactly in accordance with the vision.
Don't lose heart in the process. If you have ever had the vision of God, you may try as you like to be satisfied on a lower level, but God will never let you. -- from Called of God
Wow! Let that one sink in. Do you have a vision from God? -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 29; 2 Chronicles 9; John 11:1-29
Great Quote: Satan gives Adam an apple (fruit), and takes away Paradise. Therefore in all temptations let us consider not what he offers, but we shall lose. Richard Sibbes
"and the parched ground shall become a pool." Isaiah 35:7
We hear a lot of talk in the business world and in ministries about having a vision for what we do. Today's devotional was written many years ago by the author of the classic devotional, "MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST," Oswald Chambers.
Listen to his compelling thoughts about vision:
We always have visions before a thing is made real. When we realize that although the vision is real, it is not real in us, then is the time that Satan comes in with his temptations. and we are apt to say it is no use to on. Instead of the vision becoming real, there has come the valley of humiliation.
God gives us the vision, then He takes us down to the valley to batter us into the shape of the vision, and it is in the valley that so many of us faint and give way. Every vision will be made real if we will have patience! Think of the enormous leisure of God! He is never in a hurry. We are always in such a frantic hurry. In light of the glory of the vision we go forth to do things, but the vision is not real in us yet; and God has to take us into the valley, and put us through fires and floods to batter us into shape, until we get to the place where He can trust us WITH the veritable reality.
Ever since we had the vision God has been at work, getting us into the shape of HIS ideal, and over and over again we escape from HIS hand and try to batter ourselves into our OWN shape.
The vision is not a castle in the air but a vision of what GOD wants YOU to BE [notice not DO]. Let Him put you on His wheel and whirl you as HE likes, and as sure as God is God and you are you, you will turn out exactly in accordance with the vision.
Don't lose heart in the process. If you have ever had the vision of God, you may try as you like to be satisfied on a lower level, but God will never let you. -- from Called of God
Wow! Let that one sink in. Do you have a vision from God? -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 29; 2 Chronicles 9; John 11:1-29
Great Quote: Satan gives Adam an apple (fruit), and takes away Paradise. Therefore in all temptations let us consider not what he offers, but we shall lose. Richard Sibbes
Thursday, May 28, 2009
"It is He that doth go before thee ..."
It Is He That Doth Go Before Thee ..."
You have heard me quote Deuteronomy 31:8 many times in my Freedom Fighter writings. Today was one of those Deuteronomy 31:8 days.
We have been working through a very difficult situation with a staff member that is in trouble. Up until today, I have never experienced any fear about being on grounds with men who are in our Colony program. Today could have been one of those days.
This morning I read the following verses in my quiet time:
"The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him."
"God IS our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
"I will say of the Lord, 'He IS my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust."
"Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord, the shield of your help and the sword of your majesty!"
"The solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: THE LORD KNOWS THOSE WHO ARE HIS!"
"Be anxious for nothing, but IN everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all human comprehension, will guard your HEARTS and MINDS through Christ Jesus."
Little did I know that at 6:30 AM that would all be put to the test. Had God not shown up, we could have faced a very challenging day that could have ended in people getting physically hurt.
But God showed up, brothers. He reminded me that there was a giant named Goliath that taunted and teased the Israelites for 40 days and nights. And then the little shepherd guy walked on the stage, and reminded Goliath -- with his little sling shot -- "The battle is not YOURS -- the battle belongs to the LORD.
One of my staff members, not knowing what was transpiring, placed this verse in my box and the following two prayers:
For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, "Do not fear, I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
Lord Jesus, I am thankful that you watch over my life. When I have no place to turn for help, I have you. I always have you. And you are the best place to turn for help. Thank you for hearing my cries and for rescuing me. What would I do without you? You are the one who saves me when no one else can!
Mighty God, you have delivered me from situations for which I had no answers or resources. You are the one who helps the helpless. Please teach me to wait on you when I don't know what to do. Remind me in my helplessness that you will always open up the path before me and help me see it and walk on it. And best of all, you always walk with me. I give you praise! In Jesus' name, Amen!
Deuteronomy 31:8 was true. It is for you too. Thank You, Lord for being my stronghold in the day of trouble. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 28; 2 Chronicles 4-6; John 10:24-42
Great Quote: Silence, as someone has said, is the mother of prayer and the nurse of holy thoughts. Silence cuts down on our sins, doesn't it? We can't be sinning in so many different ways if we are being quiet before God. Silence nourishes patience, charity, discretion. Elisabeth Elliot
You have heard me quote Deuteronomy 31:8 many times in my Freedom Fighter writings. Today was one of those Deuteronomy 31:8 days.
We have been working through a very difficult situation with a staff member that is in trouble. Up until today, I have never experienced any fear about being on grounds with men who are in our Colony program. Today could have been one of those days.
This morning I read the following verses in my quiet time:
"The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him."
"God IS our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
"I will say of the Lord, 'He IS my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust."
"Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord, the shield of your help and the sword of your majesty!"
"The solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: THE LORD KNOWS THOSE WHO ARE HIS!"
"Be anxious for nothing, but IN everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all human comprehension, will guard your HEARTS and MINDS through Christ Jesus."
Little did I know that at 6:30 AM that would all be put to the test. Had God not shown up, we could have faced a very challenging day that could have ended in people getting physically hurt.
But God showed up, brothers. He reminded me that there was a giant named Goliath that taunted and teased the Israelites for 40 days and nights. And then the little shepherd guy walked on the stage, and reminded Goliath -- with his little sling shot -- "The battle is not YOURS -- the battle belongs to the LORD.
One of my staff members, not knowing what was transpiring, placed this verse in my box and the following two prayers:
For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, "Do not fear, I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
Lord Jesus, I am thankful that you watch over my life. When I have no place to turn for help, I have you. I always have you. And you are the best place to turn for help. Thank you for hearing my cries and for rescuing me. What would I do without you? You are the one who saves me when no one else can!
Mighty God, you have delivered me from situations for which I had no answers or resources. You are the one who helps the helpless. Please teach me to wait on you when I don't know what to do. Remind me in my helplessness that you will always open up the path before me and help me see it and walk on it. And best of all, you always walk with me. I give you praise! In Jesus' name, Amen!
Deuteronomy 31:8 was true. It is for you too. Thank You, Lord for being my stronghold in the day of trouble. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 28; 2 Chronicles 4-6; John 10:24-42
Great Quote: Silence, as someone has said, is the mother of prayer and the nurse of holy thoughts. Silence cuts down on our sins, doesn't it? We can't be sinning in so many different ways if we are being quiet before God. Silence nourishes patience, charity, discretion. Elisabeth Elliot
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
EXPOSURE TO TEMPTATION
EXPOSURE TO TEMPTATION
I have been reading through an old Keswick book about missionaries, John and Betty Stam. As some of you know, Betty dedicated her life to Christ at a Keswick conference, and she and John were martyred on the mission field in China.
In a chapter about John's college years, there was a "nugget" concerning temptation that was very, very practical. I know that even though it was written many, many years ago, it will be very helpful for all of us:
He writes: There is a platform known as "EXPOSURE TO TEMPTATION," and all men stand there. From it, each one either goes UP or DOWN.
I have been reading through an old Keswick book about missionaries, John and Betty Stam. As some of you know, Betty dedicated her life to Christ at a Keswick conference, and she and John were martyred on the mission field in China.
In a chapter about John's college years, there was a "nugget" concerning temptation that was very, very practical. I know that even though it was written many, many years ago, it will be very helpful for all of us:
He writes: There is a platform known as "EXPOSURE TO TEMPTATION," and all men stand there. From it, each one either goes UP or DOWN.
Seven Awful Steps Downward
1. Trifling with sin.
2. Yielding to sin.
3. Habitual yielding to sin.
4. Abandonment to sin: Ephesians 4:19
5. Abandoned of God to sin: Romans 1:28
6. Entering into alliance with the devil to tempt others to sin.
7. Hell: and you do not have to die in order to get there. Hell is character as well as location. The man who hates everything that God loves is in hell now, and hell is in him.
Seven Glorious Steps Upward
1. Resistance as an attitude: determining that sin shall not have dominion over you.
2. Overcoming sin, by faith in Christ.
3. Habitual victory over sin. The strength that comes from one victory helps in overcoming the next temptation.
4. Learning the secret of a victorious life, a life "hid with Christ in God."
5. Taken up by God into deeper fellowship. You trusted God, and now God trusts you. "O Daniel, greatly beloved," yet he was only a man!
6. Made a helper of others: like "the shadow of a great rock in a weary land."
7. Heaven: and you do not have to die in order to get there. Heaven is character as well as location. The man who devotedly loves everything that God loves is in heaven now, and heaven is in him!
"I think, sometimes, we excuse ourselves when we fail, because we realize that the flesh is weak. If we could really see sin as God sees it, what a fight would be put up." -- John Stam
We need to nail this one to our foreheads, guys! This is good stuff. He concludes this section saying, "Reckon, reckon, reckon rather than feel -- YOU take care of the reckoning, and God will make it real!"
Powerful words from a man who deeply understood the message: THINK VICTORY! -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 27; 2 Chronicles 1-3; John 10:1-23
Great Quote: Are you weak? Weary? Confused? Troubled? Pressured? How is your relationship with God? Is it held in its place of priority? I believe the greater the pressure, the greater your need for time alone with Him. --Kay Arthur
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
How Can I Truly Be Happy
HOW CAN I BE TRULY HAPPY?
Do you want to be really happy? Content? Glad? Cheerful? Or would you rather be depressing, gloomy, miserable, sad and unhappy.
1 John 2:12-14 I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
The World of God tells use that if you know Jesus:
Your sins are forgiven
You are no longer guilty
You will not be condemned or judged
You know the true and living God.
So happy are those who realize what Jesus has done for them. A question we might ask ourselves is, “How should I respond to such a great love as God has shown me?” Well, the Apostle John goes on to tell us.
1 John 2:15-17 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world-the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does-comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.
Why should I not love the World? Because God said: do not love this world. Then John said beside God commanding us not to love the world here are two more reasons: First, that hungering after the things of this life shows that the love of the Father is not in us; and secondly, it is foolish because the things in this world are going to pass away. Why invest your life chasing after things that rust and break?
Be devoted to and love the one who gives eternal life. -- Pastor Tony Taylor is the Senior Pastor of Faith Church, Worcester, PA
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 26; 1 Chronicles 28-29; John 9:24-41
Great Quote: We implore the mercy of God, not that He may leave us at peace in our vices, but that He may deliver us from them. Blaise Pascal
Do you want to be really happy? Content? Glad? Cheerful? Or would you rather be depressing, gloomy, miserable, sad and unhappy.
1 John 2:12-14 I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
The World of God tells use that if you know Jesus:
Your sins are forgiven
You are no longer guilty
You will not be condemned or judged
You know the true and living God.
So happy are those who realize what Jesus has done for them. A question we might ask ourselves is, “How should I respond to such a great love as God has shown me?” Well, the Apostle John goes on to tell us.
1 John 2:15-17 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world-the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does-comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.
Why should I not love the World? Because God said: do not love this world. Then John said beside God commanding us not to love the world here are two more reasons: First, that hungering after the things of this life shows that the love of the Father is not in us; and secondly, it is foolish because the things in this world are going to pass away. Why invest your life chasing after things that rust and break?
Be devoted to and love the one who gives eternal life. -- Pastor Tony Taylor is the Senior Pastor of Faith Church, Worcester, PA
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 26; 1 Chronicles 28-29; John 9:24-41
Great Quote: We implore the mercy of God, not that He may leave us at peace in our vices, but that He may deliver us from them. Blaise Pascal
Monday, May 25, 2009
Hot Potato Questions
Happy Memorial Day. Join us at 9:30 AM for our Memorial Day Celebration. Visit our website:www.americaskeswick.org
HOT POTATO QUESTIONS
“The LORD said unto my Lord, sit Thou on my right hand until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool.” (Psalm 110:1)
A hot potato question is one that is meant to put a person on the horns of a dilemma. That was exactly what the religious leaders were trying to do with Jesus as He was nearing the completion of His earthly ministry. Matthew 22 relates that three different groups of leaders sought to trip Him up with three questions. They figured that whatever He answered would get Him in trouble.
The first question had to do with paying Roman taxes. Jesus responded by saying they should pay Rome what was his due and God what was His due. Then they asked Him a ridiculous question about the resurrection to which He replied that their problem was that they did not know God’s Word or God’s power. Finally they asked Him which was the greatest commandment, to which He replied that all were wrapped up in total love to God and love to fellow mankind.
Then it was Jesus’ turn to throw them a hot potato. He asked them whose son was the Messiah and they answered, the son of David. Then quoting our text to them, He asked them why David referred to the Christ as his LORD, meaning deity. Then Jesus asked them how the Christ could be both David’s son as well as his Lord. The critics were silenced and realized that it was they who were now cornered. The reason they were silenced was because they would have had to acknowledge that Jesus was both David’s offspring and David’s God, thus confirming the deity of Christ.
In Revelation 22:16, Jesus testifies that He is both the root (beginning) and the offspring (descendant) of King David. Thus, He is the God Man. You see, the only answer to life’s hard questions is to acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the creator of all things and also the redeemer of mankind. Thus, we need to surrender our lives to Him. The alternative would be to follow the leading of those religious leaders and turn away from Him to their own destruction. Have you acknowledged Him as your Lord, even as David did? May He bless you as you seek to serve Him daily whenever you can. -- Rev. Thomas D. Murray was mentor to many, many men and women through his various ministries. During his retirement years, he frequently ministered at America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 25; 1 Chronicles 25-27; John 9:1-23
Give God your all. He doesn't ask us to give Him only what we would consider perfect. Give Him everything, every scrap, every part of us, everything you've kept hidden on the back shelf of your heart. Give him those things that you judge as not good enough. Hand over those areas of your life that appear to be too broken to be used. God can and will transform the good, the bad, what you deem the ugly. Let Him sift and sort things through. You'll be amazed at what the Master Creator can make out of what you might consider the shambles of your heart. Katherine Walden
HOT POTATO QUESTIONS
“The LORD said unto my Lord, sit Thou on my right hand until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool.” (Psalm 110:1)
A hot potato question is one that is meant to put a person on the horns of a dilemma. That was exactly what the religious leaders were trying to do with Jesus as He was nearing the completion of His earthly ministry. Matthew 22 relates that three different groups of leaders sought to trip Him up with three questions. They figured that whatever He answered would get Him in trouble.
The first question had to do with paying Roman taxes. Jesus responded by saying they should pay Rome what was his due and God what was His due. Then they asked Him a ridiculous question about the resurrection to which He replied that their problem was that they did not know God’s Word or God’s power. Finally they asked Him which was the greatest commandment, to which He replied that all were wrapped up in total love to God and love to fellow mankind.
Then it was Jesus’ turn to throw them a hot potato. He asked them whose son was the Messiah and they answered, the son of David. Then quoting our text to them, He asked them why David referred to the Christ as his LORD, meaning deity. Then Jesus asked them how the Christ could be both David’s son as well as his Lord. The critics were silenced and realized that it was they who were now cornered. The reason they were silenced was because they would have had to acknowledge that Jesus was both David’s offspring and David’s God, thus confirming the deity of Christ.
In Revelation 22:16, Jesus testifies that He is both the root (beginning) and the offspring (descendant) of King David. Thus, He is the God Man. You see, the only answer to life’s hard questions is to acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the creator of all things and also the redeemer of mankind. Thus, we need to surrender our lives to Him. The alternative would be to follow the leading of those religious leaders and turn away from Him to their own destruction. Have you acknowledged Him as your Lord, even as David did? May He bless you as you seek to serve Him daily whenever you can. -- Rev. Thomas D. Murray was mentor to many, many men and women through his various ministries. During his retirement years, he frequently ministered at America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 25; 1 Chronicles 25-27; John 9:1-23
Give God your all. He doesn't ask us to give Him only what we would consider perfect. Give Him everything, every scrap, every part of us, everything you've kept hidden on the back shelf of your heart. Give him those things that you judge as not good enough. Hand over those areas of your life that appear to be too broken to be used. God can and will transform the good, the bad, what you deem the ugly. Let Him sift and sort things through. You'll be amazed at what the Master Creator can make out of what you might consider the shambles of your heart. Katherine Walden
Sunday, May 24, 2009
How Great is God's Power
How Great is God’s Power?
“and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.” (Ephesians 1:19-21)
J. P. Phillips translates this text, “How tremendous is the power available to us who believe in God. That power is the same divine energy which was demonstrated in Christ when He raised Christ from the dead and gave Him the supreme honor in heaven – a place that is infinitely superior to any conceived command, authority, power or control and which carries with it a name far beyond any name…”
The Apostle Paul writes with a view that we understand the means to and the result of joy and comfort in this life. On November 13, 1959, a train traveled 22 miles without a pilot. However, it did not accomplish anything worthwhile by itself. Jesus said, “All power is given unto me, go ye…I’ll be with you.”
God has all power and He is in control! That power was revealed in the Old Testament when parting the Red Sea, the Jordan River and when Elijah prayed down fire in the prepared sacrifice. In the New Testament, Jesus raised the dead and healed the sick. In modern times
God calls a shoe salesman to become an evangelist; a baseball player becomes evangelist Billy Sunday, a Christian Scientist hears Billy Graham and is saved. T
he power of God is so great it changes the sinner from his sin to life in Christ. Furthermore, that saved sinner discovers the new life of victory that produces joy and peace. God’s power produces forgiveness when needed and freedom from the shackles of sin and fullness of life in Christ forever. Rev. William H. Blackley was a Chaplain at the Colony of Mercy for many years.
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 24
Great Quote: The most vital question to ask about all who claim to be Christian is this: Have they a soul thirst for God? Do they long for this? Is there something about them that tells you that they are always waiting for His next manifestation of Himself? Is their life centred on Him? Can they say with Paul that they forget everything in the past? Do they press forward more and more that they might know Him and that the knowledge might increase, until eventually beyond death and the grave they may bask eternally in 'the sunshine of His face?' That I might know him!' Martyn Lloyd-Jones
“and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.” (Ephesians 1:19-21)
J. P. Phillips translates this text, “How tremendous is the power available to us who believe in God. That power is the same divine energy which was demonstrated in Christ when He raised Christ from the dead and gave Him the supreme honor in heaven – a place that is infinitely superior to any conceived command, authority, power or control and which carries with it a name far beyond any name…”
The Apostle Paul writes with a view that we understand the means to and the result of joy and comfort in this life. On November 13, 1959, a train traveled 22 miles without a pilot. However, it did not accomplish anything worthwhile by itself. Jesus said, “All power is given unto me, go ye…I’ll be with you.”
God has all power and He is in control! That power was revealed in the Old Testament when parting the Red Sea, the Jordan River and when Elijah prayed down fire in the prepared sacrifice. In the New Testament, Jesus raised the dead and healed the sick. In modern times
God calls a shoe salesman to become an evangelist; a baseball player becomes evangelist Billy Sunday, a Christian Scientist hears Billy Graham and is saved. T
he power of God is so great it changes the sinner from his sin to life in Christ. Furthermore, that saved sinner discovers the new life of victory that produces joy and peace. God’s power produces forgiveness when needed and freedom from the shackles of sin and fullness of life in Christ forever. Rev. William H. Blackley was a Chaplain at the Colony of Mercy for many years.
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 24
Great Quote: The most vital question to ask about all who claim to be Christian is this: Have they a soul thirst for God? Do they long for this? Is there something about them that tells you that they are always waiting for His next manifestation of Himself? Is their life centred on Him? Can they say with Paul that they forget everything in the past? Do they press forward more and more that they might know Him and that the knowledge might increase, until eventually beyond death and the grave they may bask eternally in 'the sunshine of His face?' That I might know him!' Martyn Lloyd-Jones
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Impact Craters
Impact Craters
“So you, son of man, I have made a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me. If I say to the wicked, O wicked one, you shall surely die, and you do not speak to warn the wicked to turn from his ways, that wicked person shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand. But if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way, that person shall die in his iniquity, but you will have delivered your soul.”
Ezekiel 33:7-9 (ESV)
I had been going through life and never paid any attention to how I impacted people. Like a horse with blinders on I went down life’s wide open road without a care in the world. Whenever I crashed into the ditch, I would stagger to my feet and head on to what I perceived as forward. That meant going back down the road in the wrong direction at times and crashing into those going the other way. Now keep in mind this road was wide open so the right direction was anyone’s guess.
But now things have changed. Jesus Christ has taken the blinders off and that wide open road has gotten slimmer. And since I can see better the impact craters are easier to see. Case in point, what I say and do at work these days have an impact on how people feel about their jobs. Being the production manager puts me in a position where my words, as well as my actions, are paid attention to by those who work above/under me.
It was at the Colony Reunion where I discover the impact craters that aren’t so “case in point”. They are happening to those men who have read the Freedom Fighters that are sent by e-mail. It is very humbling to have someone approach you about something you have written about and have them say how it has touched them in some way. I didn’t know how well I had been serving the Lord until this past Mother’s Day weekend.
Another impact crater was at the church that I attend. I serve behind the sound system along with my son. I serve under Pastor Paul Ort who is great when it comes to changing our Sunday mornings around to fit the Message the Lord has laid on his heart. He is an equal bus-thrower-under when it comes to special projects. This past Sunday evening our church was blessed by the Pilgrim Academy choir and our sound system had been altered. My son and I spent a good part of Saturday afternoon re-doing what had been done but the end result is DVD’s for all who ask. SANTO!!
But the big impact crater is in my home. When I was an intolerable father/husband, the impact was not good to say the least. But now coming home from work is a joy. I don’t mind the long drive to get home knowing that the house I live in serve’s God. I feel at peace in the house where my wife runs it like a Proverb’s 31 woman and my children want to share with me how their day has been, even if it is only a one word answer.
This morning Brothers think about how you are impacting the road you travel. Let Jesus take off the blinders and get that 180 degree view. And since the winter has past it is even getting kinda green to look at. Do yourself a favor and heed the call of the Watchman. -- Chris Hughes is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a frequent Freedom Fighter contributor.
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 23;
Great Quote: Worship makes costly demands on our time and energies. It calls us from the inertia of self-centredness. Anonymous
Join us tomorrow morning at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM for our conference sessions, and then again at 7:00 PM for our patriotic cantata, I LOVE AMERICA: www.americaskeswick.org
“So you, son of man, I have made a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me. If I say to the wicked, O wicked one, you shall surely die, and you do not speak to warn the wicked to turn from his ways, that wicked person shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand. But if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way, that person shall die in his iniquity, but you will have delivered your soul.”
Ezekiel 33:7-9 (ESV)
I had been going through life and never paid any attention to how I impacted people. Like a horse with blinders on I went down life’s wide open road without a care in the world. Whenever I crashed into the ditch, I would stagger to my feet and head on to what I perceived as forward. That meant going back down the road in the wrong direction at times and crashing into those going the other way. Now keep in mind this road was wide open so the right direction was anyone’s guess.
But now things have changed. Jesus Christ has taken the blinders off and that wide open road has gotten slimmer. And since I can see better the impact craters are easier to see. Case in point, what I say and do at work these days have an impact on how people feel about their jobs. Being the production manager puts me in a position where my words, as well as my actions, are paid attention to by those who work above/under me.
It was at the Colony Reunion where I discover the impact craters that aren’t so “case in point”. They are happening to those men who have read the Freedom Fighters that are sent by e-mail. It is very humbling to have someone approach you about something you have written about and have them say how it has touched them in some way. I didn’t know how well I had been serving the Lord until this past Mother’s Day weekend.
Another impact crater was at the church that I attend. I serve behind the sound system along with my son. I serve under Pastor Paul Ort who is great when it comes to changing our Sunday mornings around to fit the Message the Lord has laid on his heart. He is an equal bus-thrower-under when it comes to special projects. This past Sunday evening our church was blessed by the Pilgrim Academy choir and our sound system had been altered. My son and I spent a good part of Saturday afternoon re-doing what had been done but the end result is DVD’s for all who ask. SANTO!!
But the big impact crater is in my home. When I was an intolerable father/husband, the impact was not good to say the least. But now coming home from work is a joy. I don’t mind the long drive to get home knowing that the house I live in serve’s God. I feel at peace in the house where my wife runs it like a Proverb’s 31 woman and my children want to share with me how their day has been, even if it is only a one word answer.
This morning Brothers think about how you are impacting the road you travel. Let Jesus take off the blinders and get that 180 degree view. And since the winter has past it is even getting kinda green to look at. Do yourself a favor and heed the call of the Watchman. -- Chris Hughes is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a frequent Freedom Fighter contributor.
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 23;
Great Quote: Worship makes costly demands on our time and energies. It calls us from the inertia of self-centredness. Anonymous
Join us tomorrow morning at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM for our conference sessions, and then again at 7:00 PM for our patriotic cantata, I LOVE AMERICA: www.americaskeswick.org
Friday, May 22, 2009
Weakness vs. Strength
Weakness Vs. Strength
One of the things we struggle with as men is not wanting to be weak. Being strong is manly -- we don't like feel inadequate or not in control. It does a number on our pride and psyche.
However, strength and weakness in Scripture is one of those paradoxes. Today I read these verses about strength:
My brothers, be strong IN THE LORD and in the power of HIS might.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for MY strength is made perfect in weakness.
Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
I will go in the strength of THE LORD GOD; I will make mention of YOUR righteousness, of Your's only.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
I also labor, striving according to His working which works in us mightily.
We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be OF GOD and not of us!
The joy of the Lord is your strength.
Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy.
But David strengthened himself in the Lord His God.
Ephesians 6:10; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Psalm 71:16; Romans 1:16; Philippians 4:13; Colossians 1:29; 2 Corinthians 4:7; Nehemiah 8:10; Colossians 1:11
Wow. When I am weak -- that is when HE steps in and does what HE does best -- gives strength! He gives it to the weary -- See Isaiah 40:31
Are you "feeling" weak? Allow His strength to be made perfect in YOUR weakness. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 22; 1 Chronicles 16-18; John 7:28-53
Great Quote: Christ was born in a stable; He was obliged to fly into Egypt; thirty years of His life were spent in a workshop; He suffered hunger, thirst, and weariness; He was poor, despised, and miserable; He taught the doctrines of heaven, and no one would listen. The great and the wise persecuted and took Him, subjected Him to frightful torments, treated Him as a slave, and put Him to death between two malefactors, having preferred to give liberty to a robber, rather than to suffer Him to escape. Such was the life which our Lord chose; while we are horrified at any kind of humiliation, and cannot bear the slightest appearance of contempt.Francois Fenelon
Can't attend our Memorial Day Weekend? Watch the service live by webcam. Visit our website for times of services and to view the services LIVE! -- www.americaskeswick.org. Disclaimer: We are not responsible for the ads that might be run during our simulcast.
One of the things we struggle with as men is not wanting to be weak. Being strong is manly -- we don't like feel inadequate or not in control. It does a number on our pride and psyche.
However, strength and weakness in Scripture is one of those paradoxes. Today I read these verses about strength:
My brothers, be strong IN THE LORD and in the power of HIS might.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for MY strength is made perfect in weakness.
Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
I will go in the strength of THE LORD GOD; I will make mention of YOUR righteousness, of Your's only.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
I also labor, striving according to His working which works in us mightily.
We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be OF GOD and not of us!
The joy of the Lord is your strength.
Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy.
But David strengthened himself in the Lord His God.
Ephesians 6:10; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Psalm 71:16; Romans 1:16; Philippians 4:13; Colossians 1:29; 2 Corinthians 4:7; Nehemiah 8:10; Colossians 1:11
Wow. When I am weak -- that is when HE steps in and does what HE does best -- gives strength! He gives it to the weary -- See Isaiah 40:31
Are you "feeling" weak? Allow His strength to be made perfect in YOUR weakness. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 22; 1 Chronicles 16-18; John 7:28-53
Great Quote: Christ was born in a stable; He was obliged to fly into Egypt; thirty years of His life were spent in a workshop; He suffered hunger, thirst, and weariness; He was poor, despised, and miserable; He taught the doctrines of heaven, and no one would listen. The great and the wise persecuted and took Him, subjected Him to frightful torments, treated Him as a slave, and put Him to death between two malefactors, having preferred to give liberty to a robber, rather than to suffer Him to escape. Such was the life which our Lord chose; while we are horrified at any kind of humiliation, and cannot bear the slightest appearance of contempt.Francois Fenelon
Can't attend our Memorial Day Weekend? Watch the service live by webcam. Visit our website for times of services and to view the services LIVE! -- www.americaskeswick.org. Disclaimer: We are not responsible for the ads that might be run during our simulcast.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The Rock That Is Higher Than I
The Rock That is Higher Than I
"From the ends of the earth I will call to you. I call as my heart grows faith; lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe." Psalm 61:2-3
This devotional written by Joni Eareckson Tada is very fitting for so many of us:
The world seems a little less crazy after a couple of days on top of a mountain. Those high country panoramas have a way of clearing my head and giving me fresh perspective. The world and its problems seem a little less overwhelming. Pressures seem somehow less pressing. Life begins to look manageable.
That's why Psalm 61 remains a real favorite for me. I love it when David says, "lead me to the rock that is higher than I."
God is the Rock higher than you and I. And when our world presses in on us, when deadlines circle like vultures, when commitments cut into our shoulders like a ninety-pound pack, we need renewed perspective. We need a vantage point.
By spending time with God in the high places of His power and love, we can gain a better, wider view of our lives. He is the Mountain towering over our smoggy horizons. Life viewed from His heights can clear our minds, help us sort through priorities, and allow us to see how our days can be managed after all.
Maybe, like me, you've had a whirlwind of a month. You face demands from your family, frustrations at work, commitments at church, and expectations from friends. You feel your heart growing fainter with each added pressure.
You may not be able to take time off and head for the mountains. But you can still climb that Rock so much higher than you. Investing solid, concentrated time with your understanding Lord will give you a whole new outlook. From the summit of His love, you will see things as they really are. -- From How Great Thou Art -- Multnomah Press
America's KESWICK doesn't have mountains, but we have special places prepared by God where you can get alone and enjoy time with him. We have two weekends in June that we are offering at a reduced rate. Come on down (or up) and take some time to be refreshed. Call the Raws Guest Services Desk for information: 732-350-1187
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 21; 1 Chronicles 13-15; John 7:1-27
Great Quote: “He is a physician good to all diseases, especially at the binding up of a broken heart. He died that He might heal our souls with the plaster of His own blood, and by that death save us. Shall our sins discourage us when He appears only for sinners?” Richard Sibbs, 1630 Puritan pastor.
Check out this weeks STEWARDSHIP INSIGHT FROM GEORGE. It's a must-read. http://keswickgeorge.blogspot.com/
"From the ends of the earth I will call to you. I call as my heart grows faith; lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe." Psalm 61:2-3
This devotional written by Joni Eareckson Tada is very fitting for so many of us:
The world seems a little less crazy after a couple of days on top of a mountain. Those high country panoramas have a way of clearing my head and giving me fresh perspective. The world and its problems seem a little less overwhelming. Pressures seem somehow less pressing. Life begins to look manageable.
That's why Psalm 61 remains a real favorite for me. I love it when David says, "lead me to the rock that is higher than I."
God is the Rock higher than you and I. And when our world presses in on us, when deadlines circle like vultures, when commitments cut into our shoulders like a ninety-pound pack, we need renewed perspective. We need a vantage point.
By spending time with God in the high places of His power and love, we can gain a better, wider view of our lives. He is the Mountain towering over our smoggy horizons. Life viewed from His heights can clear our minds, help us sort through priorities, and allow us to see how our days can be managed after all.
Maybe, like me, you've had a whirlwind of a month. You face demands from your family, frustrations at work, commitments at church, and expectations from friends. You feel your heart growing fainter with each added pressure.
You may not be able to take time off and head for the mountains. But you can still climb that Rock so much higher than you. Investing solid, concentrated time with your understanding Lord will give you a whole new outlook. From the summit of His love, you will see things as they really are. -- From How Great Thou Art -- Multnomah Press
America's KESWICK doesn't have mountains, but we have special places prepared by God where you can get alone and enjoy time with him. We have two weekends in June that we are offering at a reduced rate. Come on down (or up) and take some time to be refreshed. Call the Raws Guest Services Desk for information: 732-350-1187
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 21; 1 Chronicles 13-15; John 7:1-27
Great Quote: “He is a physician good to all diseases, especially at the binding up of a broken heart. He died that He might heal our souls with the plaster of His own blood, and by that death save us. Shall our sins discourage us when He appears only for sinners?” Richard Sibbs, 1630 Puritan pastor.
Check out this weeks STEWARDSHIP INSIGHT FROM GEORGE. It's a must-read. http://keswickgeorge.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Utterly Delightful
Utterly Delightful
"Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God." -- Psalm 100:2-3
One of my very favorite devotional writer's is the late A. W. Tozer. This morning's devotional is from the book HOW GREAT THOU ART -- published by Multnomah:
God is so vastly wonderful, so utterly and completely delightful that He can, without anything other than Himself, meet and overflow the deepest demands of our total nature, mysterious and deep as that nature is. Hearts that are "fit to break" with love for the Godhead are those who have been in the Presence and have looked with open eye upon the majesty of Deity,
Men of breaking hearts had a quality about them not known to or understood by common men. They habitually spoke with spiritual authority. They had been in the Presence of God, and they reported what they saw there. They were prophets, not scribes, for the scribe tells us what he has read, and the prophet tells what he has seen.
The distinction is not an imaginary one. Between the scribe who has read the prophet and the prophet who has seen there is a difference as wide as the sea. We are today overrun with orthodox scribes, but the prophets, where are they? The hard voice of the scribe sounds over evangelicalism, but the church waits for the tender voice of the saint who has penetrated the veil and has gazed with inward eye upon the Wonder that is God. And yet, to penetrate, to push in sensitive living experience in the holy Presence, is a privilege open to every child of God.
The world is perishing for lack of the knowledge of God, and the church is famishing for want of His Presence. The instant cure of most of our religious ills would be to enter the Presence, to become suddenly aware that we are in God and that God is in us. This would lift us out of our pitiful narrowness and cause our hearts to be enlarged.
Powerful words for our consideration this morning. Is HE utterly delightful to you this morning?-- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 20; 1 Chronicles 10-12; John 6:45-71
Great Quote: The Christian soldier must avoid two evils-he must not faint or yield in the time of fight, and after a victory he must not wax insolent and secure. When he has overcome, he is so to behave himself as though he were presently about to be assaulted. For Satan's temptations, like the waves of the sea, do follow one in the neck of the other. George Downame
"Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God." -- Psalm 100:2-3
One of my very favorite devotional writer's is the late A. W. Tozer. This morning's devotional is from the book HOW GREAT THOU ART -- published by Multnomah:
God is so vastly wonderful, so utterly and completely delightful that He can, without anything other than Himself, meet and overflow the deepest demands of our total nature, mysterious and deep as that nature is. Hearts that are "fit to break" with love for the Godhead are those who have been in the Presence and have looked with open eye upon the majesty of Deity,
Men of breaking hearts had a quality about them not known to or understood by common men. They habitually spoke with spiritual authority. They had been in the Presence of God, and they reported what they saw there. They were prophets, not scribes, for the scribe tells us what he has read, and the prophet tells what he has seen.
The distinction is not an imaginary one. Between the scribe who has read the prophet and the prophet who has seen there is a difference as wide as the sea. We are today overrun with orthodox scribes, but the prophets, where are they? The hard voice of the scribe sounds over evangelicalism, but the church waits for the tender voice of the saint who has penetrated the veil and has gazed with inward eye upon the Wonder that is God. And yet, to penetrate, to push in sensitive living experience in the holy Presence, is a privilege open to every child of God.
The world is perishing for lack of the knowledge of God, and the church is famishing for want of His Presence. The instant cure of most of our religious ills would be to enter the Presence, to become suddenly aware that we are in God and that God is in us. This would lift us out of our pitiful narrowness and cause our hearts to be enlarged.
Powerful words for our consideration this morning. Is HE utterly delightful to you this morning?-- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 20; 1 Chronicles 10-12; John 6:45-71
Great Quote: The Christian soldier must avoid two evils-he must not faint or yield in the time of fight, and after a victory he must not wax insolent and secure. When he has overcome, he is so to behave himself as though he were presently about to be assaulted. For Satan's temptations, like the waves of the sea, do follow one in the neck of the other. George Downame
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Iron Sharpens Iron
Iron Sharpens Iron
"As iron sharpens iron, so a many sharpens the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 27:17
I want to get you think about your friends today. There are several types of friends:
1. There are causal acquaintances that we have made over the years that we refer to as "friends." These are the friends that we see occasionally or maybe frequently. While we enjoy their company or fellowship, we've never gone beyond the surfacy kinds of things with them.
2. There are our "fair-weathered" friends. These are the people that I describe as "when I need you, or when I need something from you, you are my "friend." But when I don't -- well, don't bug me.
3. There are those deep friendships that have been tested and tried over the years. These are people you may not have seen for years, but the moment you reconnect, you pick up exactly where you left off. These are the people that you really have a heart connection with. They are the ones that bring you great value.
4. Some friends are brought into our lives to help us grow and bloom where God has planted us. They are the ones that aren't afraid to say the tough things to us. They will pat us on the back, applaud our victories, but will also be willing to get in our face and tell us when we are off base or need to readjust our thinking. They will often do that even though it makes them uncomfortable.
I have several friends that have recently been used by the Lord to tell me things I really didn't want to hear, but were necessary for my growth. While the hard stuff hurts -- they actually helped me in an area where I had a huge blind spot.
I like what Dr. Blackaby says about friends: "According to Scripture, a friend is one who challenges you to become all that God intends. Jonathan could have succeeded his father to become the next king of Israel. But he loved his friend David, and he encouraged him to follow God's will, even though it meant Jonathan would forfeit his own claim to the throne. (1 Samuel 19:1-7)
The mark of biblical friends is that their friendship draws you closer to Christ. They 'sharpen' you and motivate you to do what is right. True friends tell you the truth and even risk hurting your feelings because they love you and have your best interest at heart (Proverbs 27:6)"
Are you thankful for your friends today? When was the last time you thanked your friends for sharpening you? Holding you accountable? Getting in your face (in love) and telling you the hard stuff? Why not drop them an email or pick up the phone and say, "Thanks for being my friend." -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 19; 1 Chronicles 7-9; John 6:22-24
Great Quote: Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest thing right and doing it all for love...Remember that nothing is small in the eyes of God. Do all that you do with love. Therese of Lisieux
"As iron sharpens iron, so a many sharpens the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 27:17
I want to get you think about your friends today. There are several types of friends:
1. There are causal acquaintances that we have made over the years that we refer to as "friends." These are the friends that we see occasionally or maybe frequently. While we enjoy their company or fellowship, we've never gone beyond the surfacy kinds of things with them.
2. There are our "fair-weathered" friends. These are the people that I describe as "when I need you, or when I need something from you, you are my "friend." But when I don't -- well, don't bug me.
3. There are those deep friendships that have been tested and tried over the years. These are people you may not have seen for years, but the moment you reconnect, you pick up exactly where you left off. These are the people that you really have a heart connection with. They are the ones that bring you great value.
4. Some friends are brought into our lives to help us grow and bloom where God has planted us. They are the ones that aren't afraid to say the tough things to us. They will pat us on the back, applaud our victories, but will also be willing to get in our face and tell us when we are off base or need to readjust our thinking. They will often do that even though it makes them uncomfortable.
I have several friends that have recently been used by the Lord to tell me things I really didn't want to hear, but were necessary for my growth. While the hard stuff hurts -- they actually helped me in an area where I had a huge blind spot.
I like what Dr. Blackaby says about friends: "According to Scripture, a friend is one who challenges you to become all that God intends. Jonathan could have succeeded his father to become the next king of Israel. But he loved his friend David, and he encouraged him to follow God's will, even though it meant Jonathan would forfeit his own claim to the throne. (1 Samuel 19:1-7)
The mark of biblical friends is that their friendship draws you closer to Christ. They 'sharpen' you and motivate you to do what is right. True friends tell you the truth and even risk hurting your feelings because they love you and have your best interest at heart (Proverbs 27:6)"
Are you thankful for your friends today? When was the last time you thanked your friends for sharpening you? Holding you accountable? Getting in your face (in love) and telling you the hard stuff? Why not drop them an email or pick up the phone and say, "Thanks for being my friend." -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 19; 1 Chronicles 7-9; John 6:22-24
Great Quote: Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest thing right and doing it all for love...Remember that nothing is small in the eyes of God. Do all that you do with love. Therese of Lisieux
Monday, May 18, 2009
Feelings Follow Actions
FEELINGS FOLLOW ACTIONS
My good friend, Pastor Van, sent this to me last night. It is good.
July 3, 1998
Dear FRIEND
Here is my advice to those who are depressed. Repeat the following daily until
you do not need this paper.
1. I will read Ephesians 4 every day in every translation until I
understand it. Especially verse 14.
2. I will question every negative thought I have.
3. I will never question any positive thought at all.
4. I will not use up the present worrying about the future.
5. I will not waist the present regretting the past.
6. I will invest all of my energy using the present to it fullest.
7. I will meet as many new people as is possible today.
8. I will not try to impress anyone at all.
9. I will say, "Yes" only if I mean yes.
10. I will say, "No" only if I mean no.
11. I will trust other people because I know that I can be trusted.
12. I will not assume that I am better than other people.
13. I will not assume that other people are better than I am.
14. I will trust God because He is able to cause all things to work out.
15. I will trust God because there is no other.
16. I will trust God as I trust the instruments in the aircraft.
17. I will believe that each day can be better than the last.
18. I will lie down and sleep because I cannot protect myself, God can!
19. I will not remake any reasonable decision I have made.
20. I will trust God with my life as I trust Him with my soul.
We have lived too long with the bumper sticker, If it feels good do it, instead of Do right no matter how it feels even if it feels wrong. -- Dr. Van is a Christian counselor and friend of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 18, 1 Chronicles 4-6; John 6:1-27
Great Quote: Salt seasons, purifies, preserves. But somebody ought to remind us that salt also irritates. Real living Christianity rubs this world the wrong way. Vance Havner
My good friend, Pastor Van, sent this to me last night. It is good.
July 3, 1998
Dear FRIEND
Here is my advice to those who are depressed. Repeat the following daily until
you do not need this paper.
1. I will read Ephesians 4 every day in every translation until I
understand it. Especially verse 14.
2. I will question every negative thought I have.
3. I will never question any positive thought at all.
4. I will not use up the present worrying about the future.
5. I will not waist the present regretting the past.
6. I will invest all of my energy using the present to it fullest.
7. I will meet as many new people as is possible today.
8. I will not try to impress anyone at all.
9. I will say, "Yes" only if I mean yes.
10. I will say, "No" only if I mean no.
11. I will trust other people because I know that I can be trusted.
12. I will not assume that I am better than other people.
13. I will not assume that other people are better than I am.
14. I will trust God because He is able to cause all things to work out.
15. I will trust God because there is no other.
16. I will trust God as I trust the instruments in the aircraft.
17. I will believe that each day can be better than the last.
18. I will lie down and sleep because I cannot protect myself, God can!
19. I will not remake any reasonable decision I have made.
20. I will trust God with my life as I trust Him with my soul.
We have lived too long with the bumper sticker, If it feels good do it, instead of Do right no matter how it feels even if it feels wrong. -- Dr. Van is a Christian counselor and friend of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 18, 1 Chronicles 4-6; John 6:1-27
Great Quote: Salt seasons, purifies, preserves. But somebody ought to remind us that salt also irritates. Real living Christianity rubs this world the wrong way. Vance Havner
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Using Trials Redemptively
Using Trials Redepmtively
The God of All Comfort -- 2 Corinthians 1: 3-11
3. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4. who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort. 8. We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. 9.Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11. as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.
Today's passage of Scripture is longer than I normally post on this blog, but one that is important. For the past two days I have reflected on what our family went through this time last year.
When we face the trials of life, we often are perplexed and confused about why God allows us to walk through these dark valleys. Sometimes people never catch a glimpse of how God could ever use their pain and suffering redemptively.
But Paul in this passage teaches a powerful principle: one of the byproducts of trials is that we can share with others how God has worked in our lives during the suffering. God will often bring across our paths other men and women who are suffering so that we can bring comfort and encouragement.
I am sure that you have been in situations where someone has said, "Here is what I am going through -- you can't possibly understand." Then God opens the door for you to share what you have learned through your trial and suffering.
Several weeks ago, Laura, Jon and Tanner went back to Children's Hospital Boston to deliver baskets of goodies that they had put together for families on Eight South were Lindsay spent the last six weeks of her life.
One of the doctors told Laura that she was so wanting to give out her name and phone number to other parents of patients who were experiencing the pain and hurt that they experienced. Laura has been ministering to other parents through Lindsay's blog that is now over 69,000 hits.
While we may never understand all the whys and hows of life, we can be confident of this -- God will use your trials redemptively to help other hurting people. Will you make yourself available? If you are willing, you will be amazed at the doors of ministry that will open for you. Allow God to use you in the process. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 17; 1 Chronicles 1-3; John 5:25-47
Great Quote: Salt seasons, purifies, preserves. But somebody ought to remind us that salt also irritates. Real living Christianity rubs this world the wrong way.Vance Havner
The God of All Comfort -- 2 Corinthians 1: 3-11
3. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4. who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort. 8. We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. 9.Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11. as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.
Today's passage of Scripture is longer than I normally post on this blog, but one that is important. For the past two days I have reflected on what our family went through this time last year.
When we face the trials of life, we often are perplexed and confused about why God allows us to walk through these dark valleys. Sometimes people never catch a glimpse of how God could ever use their pain and suffering redemptively.
But Paul in this passage teaches a powerful principle: one of the byproducts of trials is that we can share with others how God has worked in our lives during the suffering. God will often bring across our paths other men and women who are suffering so that we can bring comfort and encouragement.
I am sure that you have been in situations where someone has said, "Here is what I am going through -- you can't possibly understand." Then God opens the door for you to share what you have learned through your trial and suffering.
Several weeks ago, Laura, Jon and Tanner went back to Children's Hospital Boston to deliver baskets of goodies that they had put together for families on Eight South were Lindsay spent the last six weeks of her life.
One of the doctors told Laura that she was so wanting to give out her name and phone number to other parents of patients who were experiencing the pain and hurt that they experienced. Laura has been ministering to other parents through Lindsay's blog that is now over 69,000 hits.
While we may never understand all the whys and hows of life, we can be confident of this -- God will use your trials redemptively to help other hurting people. Will you make yourself available? If you are willing, you will be amazed at the doors of ministry that will open for you. Allow God to use you in the process. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 17; 1 Chronicles 1-3; John 5:25-47
Great Quote: Salt seasons, purifies, preserves. But somebody ought to remind us that salt also irritates. Real living Christianity rubs this world the wrong way.Vance Havner
Saturday, May 16, 2009
That They May Marvel (Part 3) -- First Year in Heaven
That They May Marvel (Part 3) -- First Year in Heaven"The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all thing that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works, that you may marvel." John 5:19-20
On the morning of May 16th, we arrived early at Lindsay's room. As we walked down the corridor of the CICU, we could tell by the look on the faces of the nurses that something was very wrong.
Lindsay condition deteriorated during the night and the surgery was postponed. The evaluation from her doctors indicated that Lindsay's little body was shutting down. The doctors and nurses began to prepare the kids that Lindsay's life was quickly ebbing away.
The next couple hours were bittersweet. I will never forget the wonderful care that the staff at Children's Hospital Boston provided to our kids. They did everything humanly possible to make this difficult situation a memorable time.
Surrounding the kids as they held Lindsay for the first time in almost four weeks, we all had a opportunity to love on Lindsay and say "good-bye." There were tears, hugs, kisses, prayers and singing.
While Jon's Dad and I were on our knees saying goodbye to Lindsay Bear, we began to hear harp music. We looked at each other with amazement. We heard AMAZING GRACE, HOW GREAT THOU ART. We made an assumption that the hospital called this harpist when a child was dying. What we found out was that this was "the day" that this volunteer harpist was scheduled to be outside the cubicle that was Lindsay's temporary home for the past several weeks. Coincidence? Not at all. God sent that lady at JUST THE RIGHT TIME.
During the process of disconnecting the ECMO (heart and lung machine), a doctor came into the cubicle and was observing what was happening. While the kids had seen him, they had not had interaction with him prior to this day.
When it was obvious that Lindsay was "absent from the body and home with the Lord," this doctor lovingly put her on the bed and rather than "pronouncing her death," he said to the kids, "Lindsay is home with the Lord!" Coincidence? No way! He gave the time -- 1:00 PM. Through tears Laura looked at Jan and said, "God was faithful to HIS Word -- He healed Lindsay at 1:00 PM.
Through the tears and broken hearts, God flooded that room and together we sang the Doxology. We experienced the promise that "God IS our refuge and strength, an ever present help in time of trouble." Psalm 46:1
So much has happened since Lindsay's homegoing. Tear? Disappointments? Grief? Absolutely. But we have all experienced God's amazing comfort and peace that has enabled us all to get THROUGH. Without God? Impossible!
I am so very proud of Laura and Jon. They have bravely and valiantly worked through the many ups and downs of grief this year. They have remained victorious in their faith, strong in sharing God's grace with others, and resting in the promise that they will one day be reunited with Lindsay.
In just a few days and prior to Lindsay's 3rd birthday on June 14th, Laura and Jon will have the joy of welcoming a brand new baby to their family. God has blessed them with a healthy pregnancy.
Thank you for your prayers, encouragement and support! -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
If you would like to write a note to encourage Laura and Jon today, I want to encourage you to visit Lindsay's blog and leave a message: http://lindsaykeswick.blogspot.com/
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 16; 2 Kings 24-25; John 5:1-24
Great Quote: Salt seasons, purifies, preserves. But somebody ought to remind us that salt also irritates. Real living Christianity rubs this world the wrong way. Vance Havner
Friday, May 15, 2009
That They May Marvel (Part 2)
That They May Marvel (Part 2)
Yesterday I shared with you some illustrations of ways that God has recently showed up in ways to make us marvel.
On this day last year, Jan, Zach and me were gathered with some of our family at Children's Hospital in Boston. Our little granddaughter not progressing after six weeks in the CCIU. She was hooked to a heart and lung machine, and the doctors met with our kids to share with them that the only hope for her "possible" survival was to proceed with an artificial heart. The surgery was a huge risk! There was not statistic for survival.
That morning during my quiet time, everything that I read from the Word to devotionals indicated to me that God was going to take Lindsay Bear home. My heart was heavy and filled with fear, disappointment, frustration, but yet peaceful that God was in control.
Later on in the day, Jan and Laura (my daughter) "just happened" to be in different corners of the room with their Bibles. The Holy Spirit led them to the same chapter -- John 4. The story is of the man who came to Jesus to come heal his son who was ill. Jesus told the man to go home because his son was already healed. The man inquires of Jesus, "What hour?" Jesus told him that he healed him at the sixth hour. The girls looked at the footnote in their Bibles and the sixth hour is 1:00 PM.
Jan and Laura were filled with excitement. They were sharing the same passage. The same hope. Could it be that on May 16th the Lord would finally heal Lindsay? Her surgery was scheduled for 1:00 PM.
We have taught our kids since they were young to go to the Word for His promises. Could it be that this was false hope? How could God tell me one thing and Laura and Jan something else. In fact, Pastor Chris Thompson's devotional that day was even called "Going Home?"
God what are you doing? Is this some sick joke? I don't understand. I was willing to be wrong. I was willing to be the one misreading the verses. But don't disappoint my girls. Romans 5 says that HOPE DOES NOT DISAPPOINT ... Could I trust Him to be true to His Word? Could they?
Well what God did was something that caused us to marvel! I will tell you about it tomorrow. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 15; 2 Kings 22-23; John 4:31-54
Great Quote: Poor souls are apt to think that all those whom they read of or hear of to be gone to heaven, went thither because they were so good and so holy...Yet not one of them, not any man that is now in heaven (Jesus Christ alone excepted), did ever come thither any other way but by forgiveness of sins. And that will also bring us higher, though we come short of many of them in holiness and grace.John Owen
Yesterday I shared with you some illustrations of ways that God has recently showed up in ways to make us marvel.
On this day last year, Jan, Zach and me were gathered with some of our family at Children's Hospital in Boston. Our little granddaughter not progressing after six weeks in the CCIU. She was hooked to a heart and lung machine, and the doctors met with our kids to share with them that the only hope for her "possible" survival was to proceed with an artificial heart. The surgery was a huge risk! There was not statistic for survival.
That morning during my quiet time, everything that I read from the Word to devotionals indicated to me that God was going to take Lindsay Bear home. My heart was heavy and filled with fear, disappointment, frustration, but yet peaceful that God was in control.
Later on in the day, Jan and Laura (my daughter) "just happened" to be in different corners of the room with their Bibles. The Holy Spirit led them to the same chapter -- John 4. The story is of the man who came to Jesus to come heal his son who was ill. Jesus told the man to go home because his son was already healed. The man inquires of Jesus, "What hour?" Jesus told him that he healed him at the sixth hour. The girls looked at the footnote in their Bibles and the sixth hour is 1:00 PM.
Jan and Laura were filled with excitement. They were sharing the same passage. The same hope. Could it be that on May 16th the Lord would finally heal Lindsay? Her surgery was scheduled for 1:00 PM.
We have taught our kids since they were young to go to the Word for His promises. Could it be that this was false hope? How could God tell me one thing and Laura and Jan something else. In fact, Pastor Chris Thompson's devotional that day was even called "Going Home?"
God what are you doing? Is this some sick joke? I don't understand. I was willing to be wrong. I was willing to be the one misreading the verses. But don't disappoint my girls. Romans 5 says that HOPE DOES NOT DISAPPOINT ... Could I trust Him to be true to His Word? Could they?
Well what God did was something that caused us to marvel! I will tell you about it tomorrow. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 15; 2 Kings 22-23; John 4:31-54
Great Quote: Poor souls are apt to think that all those whom they read of or hear of to be gone to heaven, went thither because they were so good and so holy...Yet not one of them, not any man that is now in heaven (Jesus Christ alone excepted), did ever come thither any other way but by forgiveness of sins. And that will also bring us higher, though we come short of many of them in holiness and grace.John Owen
Thursday, May 14, 2009
That You May Marvel
That You May Marvel
"The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all thing that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works, that you may marvel." John 5:19-20
I think one of the things we miss as men is seeing the wonder of it all. God is always at work around us, yet for some reason we just miss so many of the marvels that are right before our very eyes.
They come in shapes and sizes. They are packaged in so many different ways. Let me name just a few that have touched me in recent days:
1. We had our first Family Freedom Walk fundraiser for the Colony of Mercy. All week long the weather forecasters predicted rain and thundershowers for Saturday. God blessed us with an absolutely beautiful day despite the forecast on the day of the event which still called for a high percentage of thunderstorms.
2. Our Director of Development, Bill Pruitt (a Colony grad) had what I believe were high hopes for the amount of money that would come in for this event. When he said, $30,000 -- my flesh was saying, "yeah right" and my heart was saying, "Please honor Bill's faith." Guess who was wrong -- ME! The Lord brought in over $35,000 and the funds are still coming in.
3. Today was our Spring Ladies Day with Allison Durham Speer. She was scared to death to speak to 700 ladies, but there were numerous times that God spoke in a "marveling" way. She shared an illustration about a friend who had committed suicide. Significance? Little did Allison know that there were five ladies who have all had someone commit suicide in the past six months!!!
During the next several days, I want to share with you some of the amazing ways we have seen God at work since this time last year when we walked through our granddaughters going to heaven. Many of you followed with us on the journey. It has been an incredible ride -- and we MARVEL at what the Lord has done. I would encourage you to take a look at Lindsay's blog -- since this time last year, there have been 68,856 visits to her blog: http://lindsaykeswick.blogspot.com/
Guys: open your eyes and heart. God is at work all around you. Can you see Him? Hear him speaking? He's real! He's there! He wants to show Himself in ways that you cannot even begin to imagine. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 14; 2 Kings 19-21; John 4:1-30
Great Quote: I did not know my savage thirst until You led me to Your well. I did not know I lived in chains until You freed me. Randy Stonehill
"The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all thing that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works, that you may marvel." John 5:19-20
I think one of the things we miss as men is seeing the wonder of it all. God is always at work around us, yet for some reason we just miss so many of the marvels that are right before our very eyes.
They come in shapes and sizes. They are packaged in so many different ways. Let me name just a few that have touched me in recent days:
1. We had our first Family Freedom Walk fundraiser for the Colony of Mercy. All week long the weather forecasters predicted rain and thundershowers for Saturday. God blessed us with an absolutely beautiful day despite the forecast on the day of the event which still called for a high percentage of thunderstorms.
2. Our Director of Development, Bill Pruitt (a Colony grad) had what I believe were high hopes for the amount of money that would come in for this event. When he said, $30,000 -- my flesh was saying, "yeah right" and my heart was saying, "Please honor Bill's faith." Guess who was wrong -- ME! The Lord brought in over $35,000 and the funds are still coming in.
3. Today was our Spring Ladies Day with Allison Durham Speer. She was scared to death to speak to 700 ladies, but there were numerous times that God spoke in a "marveling" way. She shared an illustration about a friend who had committed suicide. Significance? Little did Allison know that there were five ladies who have all had someone commit suicide in the past six months!!!
During the next several days, I want to share with you some of the amazing ways we have seen God at work since this time last year when we walked through our granddaughters going to heaven. Many of you followed with us on the journey. It has been an incredible ride -- and we MARVEL at what the Lord has done. I would encourage you to take a look at Lindsay's blog -- since this time last year, there have been 68,856 visits to her blog: http://lindsaykeswick.blogspot.com/
Guys: open your eyes and heart. God is at work all around you. Can you see Him? Hear him speaking? He's real! He's there! He wants to show Himself in ways that you cannot even begin to imagine. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 14; 2 Kings 19-21; John 4:1-30
Great Quote: I did not know my savage thirst until You led me to Your well. I did not know I lived in chains until You freed me. Randy Stonehill
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
God's Requirement
GOD’S REQUIREMENT
“But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: We ought to obey God rather than man.” (Acts 5:29)
What would you consider to be the most important principle in the Christian life? Some would say love or faith. Others would say prayer. Still others would say giving or some other vital part of the Christian life.
We must ask ourselves what unlocks love or faith or prayer or giving or any of the other Christian principles. What is key to the function of any aspect of the Christian life? The answer is obedience to God. The Christian life moves forward in direct proportion to our obedience to the revealed truth of God’s word.
What does it mean to obey God? It means to obey His will. We are to obey God’s will generally. There are aspects of God’s will that are general in nature. This simply means that they apply to all Christians. There are other aspects of God’s will that are specific. This means that God has a specific plan for each individual Christian. Obedience is required in both areas of God’s will.
In the model prayer Jesus instructed us to pray, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is done in heaven (Matthew 6:10). How do you think God’s will is done in heaven? I will tell you! It is done immediately and exactly! Many, many times I have heard Dr. Stephen Olford say in his lectures to preachers, “Delayed obedience is disobedience.”
We are to obey the will of God, but we are to also obey the word of God. What do you do with all those passages of Scripture that talk about loving your neighbor, forgiving your enemies, sacrificing your life, giving your time and resources, worshipping God, and living pure and holy lives. Remember, our Christian life moves forward in direct proportion to our obedience to the revealed truth of God’s word.
You hold the key to a successful, victorious Christian life. The key is obedience to the will of God and the word of God. Obedience is not always easy, but it is always right.
Obey God! -- Dr. Roger D. Willmore
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 13; 2 Kings 17-18; John 3:19-36
All the paths of the Lord are loving and faithful" Psalm 25:10 I have pondered this verse lately, and have found that it feeds my spirit. All does not mean "all - except the paths I am walking in now," or "nearly all - except this especially difficult and painful path." All must mean all. So, your path with its unexplained sorrow or turmoil, and mine with its sharp flints and briers - and both our paths, with their unexplained perplexity, their sheer mystery - they are His paths, on which he will show himself loving and faithful. Nothing else; nothing less.A my Carmichael
“But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: We ought to obey God rather than man.” (Acts 5:29)
What would you consider to be the most important principle in the Christian life? Some would say love or faith. Others would say prayer. Still others would say giving or some other vital part of the Christian life.
We must ask ourselves what unlocks love or faith or prayer or giving or any of the other Christian principles. What is key to the function of any aspect of the Christian life? The answer is obedience to God. The Christian life moves forward in direct proportion to our obedience to the revealed truth of God’s word.
What does it mean to obey God? It means to obey His will. We are to obey God’s will generally. There are aspects of God’s will that are general in nature. This simply means that they apply to all Christians. There are other aspects of God’s will that are specific. This means that God has a specific plan for each individual Christian. Obedience is required in both areas of God’s will.
In the model prayer Jesus instructed us to pray, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is done in heaven (Matthew 6:10). How do you think God’s will is done in heaven? I will tell you! It is done immediately and exactly! Many, many times I have heard Dr. Stephen Olford say in his lectures to preachers, “Delayed obedience is disobedience.”
We are to obey the will of God, but we are to also obey the word of God. What do you do with all those passages of Scripture that talk about loving your neighbor, forgiving your enemies, sacrificing your life, giving your time and resources, worshipping God, and living pure and holy lives. Remember, our Christian life moves forward in direct proportion to our obedience to the revealed truth of God’s word.
You hold the key to a successful, victorious Christian life. The key is obedience to the will of God and the word of God. Obedience is not always easy, but it is always right.
Obey God! -- Dr. Roger D. Willmore
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 13; 2 Kings 17-18; John 3:19-36
All the paths of the Lord are loving and faithful" Psalm 25:10 I have pondered this verse lately, and have found that it feeds my spirit. All does not mean "all - except the paths I am walking in now," or "nearly all - except this especially difficult and painful path." All must mean all. So, your path with its unexplained sorrow or turmoil, and mine with its sharp flints and briers - and both our paths, with their unexplained perplexity, their sheer mystery - they are His paths, on which he will show himself loving and faithful. Nothing else; nothing less.A my Carmichael
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Comfortable in Our Bondage
Comfortable in Our Bondage
"And they said to them, 'Let the Lord look on you and judge, because you have made us abhorrent in the sight of Pharaoh and in the sight of his servants, to put a sword in their hand to kill us." Exodus 5:21
Serving in the ministry of addiction recovery has been a real eye-opener in many ways. There are some folks that from the moment that they trust Christ, they are free from their bondage. Others work through their "besetting sins" and continue to put to death their bondage (I die daily ...).
There are some guys that just struggle and struggle and struggle. I had a conversation with a friend last week who said, "Bill, I just don't know why I can't get victory over this area ..."
Well Dr. Henry Blackaby's insight really nailed the problem -- for some of us -- we are just more comfortable in our area of bondage. Listen to his practical words of wisdom:
It is possible for [us] to become so accustomed to our bondage, that we resist efforts to free us. The Hebrews had been slaves in Egypt for four hundred years. Slavery mean that they were not free to do God's will or to go where they wanted.
Moses had come to tell the Israelites how they could experience freedom, yet they were more concerned about the reaction of their taskmasters than they were about please God. For them to be free would mean that the Pharaoh they were serving would be angry! It would mean that the Egyptians that they had served all their lives might attack them. Freedom from their slavery did not seem to be worth he hardships they would inevitably endure.
When God sets out to free us, there will often be a price we will have to pay. Grief can be a terrible form of bondage, yet we can become comfortable with it. We can grow so comfortable with fear that we don't know how to live without it.
As destructive as our sinful habits and lifestyle might be, we may prefer living with the familiar, rather than being freed to experience the unknown. We may recognize the harmful influence of a friend but choose to reject God's will rather than offend our friend.
As incredible as it seems, the Israelites were angry at Moses for disrupting the life of slavery to which they had grown accustomed. Have you been lulled into a comfortable relationship with your bondage? Do you fear change more than your fear God? Are you willing to allow God to do what is necessary in order to free you? " -- Experiencing God -- the Devotional
Brother (sister) ... is there an area on bondage that must go? Are you too comfortable with it? Purpose in your heart to surrender it and experience His power and forgiveness. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 12; 2 Kings 15-16; John 3:1-18
Great Quote: The church has spent so much time inculcating in us the fear of making mistakes that she has made us like ill-taught piano students; we play our songs but we never really hear them because our main concern is not to make music, but to avoid some flub that will get us in dutch...I have now heard the strains of grace, and I grieve for my friends who have not". Philip Yancey, What’s So Amazing About Grace?
"And they said to them, 'Let the Lord look on you and judge, because you have made us abhorrent in the sight of Pharaoh and in the sight of his servants, to put a sword in their hand to kill us." Exodus 5:21
Serving in the ministry of addiction recovery has been a real eye-opener in many ways. There are some folks that from the moment that they trust Christ, they are free from their bondage. Others work through their "besetting sins" and continue to put to death their bondage (I die daily ...).
There are some guys that just struggle and struggle and struggle. I had a conversation with a friend last week who said, "Bill, I just don't know why I can't get victory over this area ..."
Well Dr. Henry Blackaby's insight really nailed the problem -- for some of us -- we are just more comfortable in our area of bondage. Listen to his practical words of wisdom:
It is possible for [us] to become so accustomed to our bondage, that we resist efforts to free us. The Hebrews had been slaves in Egypt for four hundred years. Slavery mean that they were not free to do God's will or to go where they wanted.
Moses had come to tell the Israelites how they could experience freedom, yet they were more concerned about the reaction of their taskmasters than they were about please God. For them to be free would mean that the Pharaoh they were serving would be angry! It would mean that the Egyptians that they had served all their lives might attack them. Freedom from their slavery did not seem to be worth he hardships they would inevitably endure.
When God sets out to free us, there will often be a price we will have to pay. Grief can be a terrible form of bondage, yet we can become comfortable with it. We can grow so comfortable with fear that we don't know how to live without it.
As destructive as our sinful habits and lifestyle might be, we may prefer living with the familiar, rather than being freed to experience the unknown. We may recognize the harmful influence of a friend but choose to reject God's will rather than offend our friend.
As incredible as it seems, the Israelites were angry at Moses for disrupting the life of slavery to which they had grown accustomed. Have you been lulled into a comfortable relationship with your bondage? Do you fear change more than your fear God? Are you willing to allow God to do what is necessary in order to free you? " -- Experiencing God -- the Devotional
Brother (sister) ... is there an area on bondage that must go? Are you too comfortable with it? Purpose in your heart to surrender it and experience His power and forgiveness. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 12; 2 Kings 15-16; John 3:1-18
Great Quote: The church has spent so much time inculcating in us the fear of making mistakes that she has made us like ill-taught piano students; we play our songs but we never really hear them because our main concern is not to make music, but to avoid some flub that will get us in dutch...I have now heard the strains of grace, and I grieve for my friends who have not". Philip Yancey, What’s So Amazing About Grace?
Monday, May 11, 2009
God's Power to Keep
GOD’S POWER TO KEEP
“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless
before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.” (Jude 24, 25)
As Jude concludes a letter of warning about false doctrine and false practices, he adds an encouraging note in the form of one of the greatest benedictions in the Bible. The key to the purity of his readers does not lie in their ability, but in God’s. He does not offer a self-help strategy but a divine provision. This is found in the person and power of God.
One of the essential elements of the benediction is the simple phrase, who is able. Our omnipotent God is able. Regardless of the demand or difficulty, God is able. The old axiom is still true, “Our extremities are God’s opportunity.” This fact is found throughout scripture.
A question was asked of Daniel by Darius the king, calling to him from the mouth of the lions den, “Has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?” Daniel replied, “My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths, so they have not hurt me.” God is able to deliver.
In the New Testament there are other declarations of His ability. “He is able to save…to the uttermost” (Hebrews 7:25). “He is able to aid those who are tempted” (Hebrews2:18). “He is able to establish you” (Romans 16:25-26). “He is able even to subdue all things to Himself” (Philippians 3:21). “He is able to make all grace abound toward you” (2 Corinthians 9:8). “He is able to keep what I have committed to Him” (1 Timothy 1:12).
The Apostle Paul seems to sum up all of these statements in one of his benedictions, “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20).
Obviously there is no power shortage with God. Whey they are we Christians so poverty stricken and powerless? Is there no connection between His ability and our need? The missing element is faith. My believing that His is able does not make Him able; He is able. But it connects His ability to my inadequacy and victory results. -- William A. Raws --
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 11; 2 Kings 13-14; John 2
Thou sentest Thine hand from above, and drewest my soul out of that profound darkness - my mother, that faithful one, weeping to Thee for me, more than mothers weep the bodily deaths of their children. For she, by that faith and spirit which had form Thee, discerned the death wherein I lay, and Thou heardest her, O Lord; Thou heardest her, and despiseth not her tears, when streaming down, they watered the ground under her eyes in every place she prayed; yea Thou heardest her...Thine ears were towards her heart. O Thou God omnipotent, who caredst for every one of us, as if Thou carest for him only; and so for all, as if they were but one!Augustine
This Thursday night is our Father Daughter night with Christian comedian, Gordon Douglas. Why not plan to come share the evening with your daughter. Call today for reservations: 732-350-1187.
“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless
before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.” (Jude 24, 25)
As Jude concludes a letter of warning about false doctrine and false practices, he adds an encouraging note in the form of one of the greatest benedictions in the Bible. The key to the purity of his readers does not lie in their ability, but in God’s. He does not offer a self-help strategy but a divine provision. This is found in the person and power of God.
One of the essential elements of the benediction is the simple phrase, who is able. Our omnipotent God is able. Regardless of the demand or difficulty, God is able. The old axiom is still true, “Our extremities are God’s opportunity.” This fact is found throughout scripture.
A question was asked of Daniel by Darius the king, calling to him from the mouth of the lions den, “Has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?” Daniel replied, “My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths, so they have not hurt me.” God is able to deliver.
In the New Testament there are other declarations of His ability. “He is able to save…to the uttermost” (Hebrews 7:25). “He is able to aid those who are tempted” (Hebrews2:18). “He is able to establish you” (Romans 16:25-26). “He is able even to subdue all things to Himself” (Philippians 3:21). “He is able to make all grace abound toward you” (2 Corinthians 9:8). “He is able to keep what I have committed to Him” (1 Timothy 1:12).
The Apostle Paul seems to sum up all of these statements in one of his benedictions, “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20).
Obviously there is no power shortage with God. Whey they are we Christians so poverty stricken and powerless? Is there no connection between His ability and our need? The missing element is faith. My believing that His is able does not make Him able; He is able. But it connects His ability to my inadequacy and victory results. -- William A. Raws --
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 11; 2 Kings 13-14; John 2
Thou sentest Thine hand from above, and drewest my soul out of that profound darkness - my mother, that faithful one, weeping to Thee for me, more than mothers weep the bodily deaths of their children. For she, by that faith and spirit which had form Thee, discerned the death wherein I lay, and Thou heardest her, O Lord; Thou heardest her, and despiseth not her tears, when streaming down, they watered the ground under her eyes in every place she prayed; yea Thou heardest her...Thine ears were towards her heart. O Thou God omnipotent, who caredst for every one of us, as if Thou carest for him only; and so for all, as if they were but one!Augustine
This Thursday night is our Father Daughter night with Christian comedian, Gordon Douglas. Why not plan to come share the evening with your daughter. Call today for reservations: 732-350-1187.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
God's Faithfulness
GOD’S FAITHFULNESS
Today is Mother's Day. Take some time today to honor that special Mother in your life!!!
“He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24)
One of the blessed characteristics or attributes of God is His faithfulness. Both Old and New Testament passages affirm this truth (e.g., Deuteronomy 7:9; Lamentations 3:22-23; 1 John 1:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13; etc.). Our theme text combines this fact with the truth of God’s effective call of believers. It declares that, having called a person to trust Him, this trust would not be in vain because He is absolutely trustworthy and dependable. The present tense is used with the word calls indicating that this is a process which is ongoing. It can be understood to indicate that God has been calling people through the ages. The believers in Thessalonica were respondents to His call.
What these folks needed was the assurance that the One who called could be depended on to do that which was prayed for in verse 23 – preserve them blameless at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Note, he didn’t prayer that they would be sinless but blameless. In other words, Paul knew that sin is always likely but blame was dealt with at the cross.
The final clause of verse 24 provides the key to the effectiveness of God’s call. He not only calls but He completes His purpose. The promise is given, “who also will do it.” Two verses from Philippians present this truth. “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). And, “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).
We must acknowledge that we cannot live the Christian life. God has known this all along, and therefore He places the responsibility on Himself, working in us the desiring and the doing of His good pleasure. You can trust Him to live His kind of life through you. -- Pastor William A. Raws
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 10; 2 Kings 10-12; John 1:29-51
Great Quote: The good news of the gospel is not that God will provide a way to make life easier. The good news of the gospel, for this life, is that He will make our lives better. We will be empowered to draw close to God and to love others well and to do both for one central purpose, to glorify God, to make Him look good to any who watch us live.” Larry Crabb, Shattered Dreams
Today is Mother's Day. Take some time today to honor that special Mother in your life!!!
“He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24)
One of the blessed characteristics or attributes of God is His faithfulness. Both Old and New Testament passages affirm this truth (e.g., Deuteronomy 7:9; Lamentations 3:22-23; 1 John 1:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13; etc.). Our theme text combines this fact with the truth of God’s effective call of believers. It declares that, having called a person to trust Him, this trust would not be in vain because He is absolutely trustworthy and dependable. The present tense is used with the word calls indicating that this is a process which is ongoing. It can be understood to indicate that God has been calling people through the ages. The believers in Thessalonica were respondents to His call.
What these folks needed was the assurance that the One who called could be depended on to do that which was prayed for in verse 23 – preserve them blameless at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Note, he didn’t prayer that they would be sinless but blameless. In other words, Paul knew that sin is always likely but blame was dealt with at the cross.
The final clause of verse 24 provides the key to the effectiveness of God’s call. He not only calls but He completes His purpose. The promise is given, “who also will do it.” Two verses from Philippians present this truth. “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). And, “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).
We must acknowledge that we cannot live the Christian life. God has known this all along, and therefore He places the responsibility on Himself, working in us the desiring and the doing of His good pleasure. You can trust Him to live His kind of life through you. -- Pastor William A. Raws
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 10; 2 Kings 10-12; John 1:29-51
Great Quote: The good news of the gospel is not that God will provide a way to make life easier. The good news of the gospel, for this life, is that He will make our lives better. We will be empowered to draw close to God and to love others well and to do both for one central purpose, to glorify God, to make Him look good to any who watch us live.” Larry Crabb, Shattered Dreams
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Everyone Wants to Be First
Everyone Wants To Be First
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of your selves; it is a gift from God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” Ephesians 2:8-9(NKJV)
There are days when I wake up and praise God that “I ain’t everybody!” but then I have my days that wind up with me saying that “I have behaved like everyone else “. It is in these times where Paul’s words “What a wretched man I am” come right to the fore front of my mind. And I wish these same words would find some other folks as well.
You see the economy was suppose to be in the dumper and no one, but no one had any money to spend. But then this weird thing happened where I work. Orders for fence and railing started coming in with no end in sight. And everyone wants their stuff before everyone else who wants their stuff. So when everyone finds out that everyone else is getting their stuff before everyone else, they all get mad……at me!
My brothers I’m asking you this morning, Where do you find grace under pressure? As for me, I am constantly looking up and asking What? What do you want me to do? I gave up on asking why. I don’t think I was being listened to. What I am suppose to say? What am I suppose to convey? WHAT? Oh…and is there fence and railing in Heaven, because if there is did Ezekiel cover those dimensions in his prophecy. Oopps, went off track for a moment.
So where am I going? The first place is Faith. Without it I’m done. I may not have a complete faith in my abilities but I have faith in Him who provides those abilities. The second place I am going is being saved by His grace. Without it I get what I deserve. Which these past few days I have had some of our customers make suggestions.
It is nice to be first, I guess? But knowing that what I have is a gift from a God who could have taken everything that I do have away does being first matter? Jesus said the first shall be last and the last shall be first. Try saying that to a secular world hell bent on getting anything first. But here is something that Jesus did that was a first. He surrendered His life for the same secular world who wants to be first. After saying that I wonder who wants to be second? --Chris Hughes is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a frequent Freedom Fighter contributor
"For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul."
Mark 8:35-36
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 9; 2 Kings 7-9; John 1:1-28
Great Quote: When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure. Peter Marshall
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of your selves; it is a gift from God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” Ephesians 2:8-9(NKJV)
There are days when I wake up and praise God that “I ain’t everybody!” but then I have my days that wind up with me saying that “I have behaved like everyone else “. It is in these times where Paul’s words “What a wretched man I am” come right to the fore front of my mind. And I wish these same words would find some other folks as well.
You see the economy was suppose to be in the dumper and no one, but no one had any money to spend. But then this weird thing happened where I work. Orders for fence and railing started coming in with no end in sight. And everyone wants their stuff before everyone else who wants their stuff. So when everyone finds out that everyone else is getting their stuff before everyone else, they all get mad……at me!
My brothers I’m asking you this morning, Where do you find grace under pressure? As for me, I am constantly looking up and asking What? What do you want me to do? I gave up on asking why. I don’t think I was being listened to. What I am suppose to say? What am I suppose to convey? WHAT? Oh…and is there fence and railing in Heaven, because if there is did Ezekiel cover those dimensions in his prophecy. Oopps, went off track for a moment.
So where am I going? The first place is Faith. Without it I’m done. I may not have a complete faith in my abilities but I have faith in Him who provides those abilities. The second place I am going is being saved by His grace. Without it I get what I deserve. Which these past few days I have had some of our customers make suggestions.
It is nice to be first, I guess? But knowing that what I have is a gift from a God who could have taken everything that I do have away does being first matter? Jesus said the first shall be last and the last shall be first. Try saying that to a secular world hell bent on getting anything first. But here is something that Jesus did that was a first. He surrendered His life for the same secular world who wants to be first. After saying that I wonder who wants to be second? --Chris Hughes is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a frequent Freedom Fighter contributor
"For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul."
Mark 8:35-36
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 9; 2 Kings 7-9; John 1:1-28
Great Quote: When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure. Peter Marshall
Friday, May 08, 2009
Better Late Than Never
Better Late Than Never
Well as of 1:00 PM yesterday, no official proclamation was issued by our President for the National Day of Prayer. Sometime around 3:00 PM it was posted on the Whitehouse.gov website:
Throughout our Nation's history, Americans have come together in moments of great challenge and uncertainty to humble themselves in prayer. In 1775, as the Continental Congress began the task of forging a new Nation, colonists were asked to observe a day of quiet humiliation and prayer.
Well as of 1:00 PM yesterday, no official proclamation was issued by our President for the National Day of Prayer. Sometime around 3:00 PM it was posted on the Whitehouse.gov website:
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary----------------------------------------------For Immediate Release May 7, 2009
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER, 2009- - - - - - -BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA PROCLAMATION
Office of the Press Secretary----------------------------------------------For Immediate Release May 7, 2009
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER, 2009- - - - - - -BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA PROCLAMATION
Throughout our Nation's history, Americans have come together in moments of great challenge and uncertainty to humble themselves in prayer. In 1775, as the Continental Congress began the task of forging a new Nation, colonists were asked to observe a day of quiet humiliation and prayer.
Almost a century later, as the flames of the Civil War burned from north to south, President Lincoln and the Congress once again asked the American people to pray as the fate of their Nation hung in the balance.
It is in that spirit of unity and reflection that we once again designate the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer. Let us remember those who came before us, and let us each give thanks for the courage and compassion shown by so many in this country and around the world.
On this day of unity and prayer, let us also honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. We celebrate their commitment to uphold our highest ideals, and we recognize that it is because of them that we continue to live in a Nation where people of all faiths can worship or not worship according to the dictates of their conscience.
Let us also use this day to come together in a moment of peace and goodwill. Our world grows smaller by the day, and our varied beliefs can bring us together to feed the hungry and comfort the afflicted; to make peace where there is strife; and to lift up those who have fallen on hard times. As we observe this day of prayer, we remember the one law that binds all great religions together: the Golden Rule, and its call to love one another; to understand one another; and to treat with dignity and respect those with whom we share a brief moment on this Earth.
The Congress, by Public Law 100-307, as amended, has called on the President to issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a "National Day of Prayer."NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 7, 2009, as a National Day of Prayer.
I call upon Americans to pray in thanksgiving for our freedoms and blessings and to ask for God's continued guidance, grace, and protection for this land that we love.IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third. -- BARACK OBAMA
Since making an issue of this, I felt it responsible and fair to also share the text of the proclamation. I shared with our folks today, we don't have to like our President. We don't have to agree with ideals and philosophies. But Scripture tells us we are to love him and to pray for him. Let's not be critical if we are going to love him and pray for him first. May God bless America. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 8; 2 Kings 4-6; Luke 24:36-53
Great Quote: The God who created, names and numbers the stars in the heavens also numbers the stars of my head. He pays attention to very big things and to very small ones. What matters to me matters to Him, and that changes my life. Elisabeth Elliot
Thursday, May 07, 2009
We've Come A Long Way -- Have We?
We've Come a Long Way -- Have We?
The following prayer was written in George Washington’s own handwriting in a prayer journal that he kept for the various days of the week. In honor of George Washington’s birthday (which advertisers succeeded in the 1980’s in renaming President’s Day for purposes of sales promotions), I want to post this prayer. It is said that George Washington’s character was the “wonder of the world”. With an abiding faith in his Savior, it is easy to see why the Father of our country had such a reputation.
O eternal and everlasting God, I presume to present myself this morning before thy Divine majesty, beseeching thee to accept of my humble and hearty thanks, that it hath pleased thy great goodness to keep and preserve me the night past from all the dangers poor mortals are subject to, and has given me sweet and pleasant sleep, whereby I find my body refreshed and comforted for performing the duties of this day, in which I beseech thee to defend me from all perils of body and soul.
Direct my thoughts, words and work, wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the Lamb, and purge my heart by thy Holy Spirit, from the dross of my natural corruption, that I may with more freedom of mind and liberty of will serve thee, the ever lasting God, in righteousness and holiness this day, and all the days of my life.
Increase my faith in the sweet promises of the gospel; give me repentance from dead works; pardon my wanderings, and direct my thoughts unto thyself, the God of my salvation; teach me how to live in thy fear, labor in thy service, and ever to run in the ways of thy commandments; make me always watchful over my heart, that neither the terrors of conscience, the loathing of holy duties, the love of sin, nor an unwillingness to depart this life, may cast me into a spiritual slumber, but daily frame me more and more into the likeness of thy son Jesus Christ, that living in thy fear, and dying in thy favor, I may in thy appointed time attain the resurrection of the just unto eternal life.
Bless my family, friends and kindred unite us all in praising and glorifying thee in all our works begun, continued, and ended, when we shall come to make our last account before thee blessed Saviour… -- President George Washington
As of the writing of today's Freedom Fighter (9:20 PM 5/6/2009) there was no official proclamation from our President endorsing or calling the nation to pray as a part of the day of prayer. Personally, that speaks volumes. I am very disappointed. This does not mean that I will not continue to pray for our President, but I believe this is another indication of his agenda. May God bless America. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 7; 2 Kings 1-3; Luke 24:1-35
Great Quote: The God who created, names and numbers the stars in the heavens also numbers the stars of my head. He pays attention to very big things and to very small ones. What matters to me matters to Him, and that changes my life. Elisabeth Elliot
The following prayer was written in George Washington’s own handwriting in a prayer journal that he kept for the various days of the week. In honor of George Washington’s birthday (which advertisers succeeded in the 1980’s in renaming President’s Day for purposes of sales promotions), I want to post this prayer. It is said that George Washington’s character was the “wonder of the world”. With an abiding faith in his Savior, it is easy to see why the Father of our country had such a reputation.
O eternal and everlasting God, I presume to present myself this morning before thy Divine majesty, beseeching thee to accept of my humble and hearty thanks, that it hath pleased thy great goodness to keep and preserve me the night past from all the dangers poor mortals are subject to, and has given me sweet and pleasant sleep, whereby I find my body refreshed and comforted for performing the duties of this day, in which I beseech thee to defend me from all perils of body and soul.
Direct my thoughts, words and work, wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the Lamb, and purge my heart by thy Holy Spirit, from the dross of my natural corruption, that I may with more freedom of mind and liberty of will serve thee, the ever lasting God, in righteousness and holiness this day, and all the days of my life.
Increase my faith in the sweet promises of the gospel; give me repentance from dead works; pardon my wanderings, and direct my thoughts unto thyself, the God of my salvation; teach me how to live in thy fear, labor in thy service, and ever to run in the ways of thy commandments; make me always watchful over my heart, that neither the terrors of conscience, the loathing of holy duties, the love of sin, nor an unwillingness to depart this life, may cast me into a spiritual slumber, but daily frame me more and more into the likeness of thy son Jesus Christ, that living in thy fear, and dying in thy favor, I may in thy appointed time attain the resurrection of the just unto eternal life.
Bless my family, friends and kindred unite us all in praising and glorifying thee in all our works begun, continued, and ended, when we shall come to make our last account before thee blessed Saviour… -- President George Washington
As of the writing of today's Freedom Fighter (9:20 PM 5/6/2009) there was no official proclamation from our President endorsing or calling the nation to pray as a part of the day of prayer. Personally, that speaks volumes. I am very disappointed. This does not mean that I will not continue to pray for our President, but I believe this is another indication of his agenda. May God bless America. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 7; 2 Kings 1-3; Luke 24:1-35
Great Quote: The God who created, names and numbers the stars in the heavens also numbers the stars of my head. He pays attention to very big things and to very small ones. What matters to me matters to Him, and that changes my life. Elisabeth Elliot
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
National Day of Prayer
National Day of Prayer
"if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 1 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
I am breaking my promise. I promised not to use Freedom Fighter as a vehicle to push a political agenda. I would address this issue whether or not our President was a Republican or Democrat.
Thursday marks the 58th observance of the National Day of Prayer. As of the moment, our new President has not written a Presidential Proclamation in recognition of the day. In fact, the atheist political machine, along with so many other anti-religion groups, have been pushing hard to have our President not only ignore the Day of Prayer, but ban it as well.
It saddens me that our new President appears to be caving to the special interest groups who want to deny the proven beliefs of our founding fathers. From George Washington to our previous President, prayer has been an integral part of their daily lives.
We are losing our freedoms and privileges in an alarming matter. For example, if the proposed Hate Crime Legislation is passed, graduates from the Colony of Mercy like our own Bill Pruitt, could be censored and forbidden to share how the Lord set them free from their sexual sin.
Let's not bury our heads in the sand, brother. We must speak up. In relation to the National Day of prayer, I want to encourage you to contact your Senator and Congressman and let your voice be heard. Tell them you are urging them to direct the President to support the National Day of Prayer.
I called my State Senator's office today and was told politely that my "suggestion" would be passed on to the Senator. I told the young man on the phone that this was not a suggestion, but a strong recommendation as a citizen of the State of New Jersey. At that point he asked for my name and phone number.
One woman was able to get prayer out of the schools. Are we willing to sit back and have this important day banned? Here is the number for the White House: Comments: 202-456-1111.
Thanks for your consideration. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
If you would like to join in our celebration of the National Day of Prayer on Thursday, you can watch live by visiting our website: www.americaskeswick.org. We will begin broadcasting at 10:00 AM
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 6; 1 Kings 21-22; Luke 23:26-56
Great Quote: It is true that the faith, which I am enabled to exercise, is altogether God's own gift; it is true that He alone supports it, and that He alone can increase it; it is true that, moment by moment, I depend upon Him for it, and that, if I were only one moment left to myself, my faith would utterly fail... George Muller
God's W
"if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 1 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
I am breaking my promise. I promised not to use Freedom Fighter as a vehicle to push a political agenda. I would address this issue whether or not our President was a Republican or Democrat.
Thursday marks the 58th observance of the National Day of Prayer. As of the moment, our new President has not written a Presidential Proclamation in recognition of the day. In fact, the atheist political machine, along with so many other anti-religion groups, have been pushing hard to have our President not only ignore the Day of Prayer, but ban it as well.
It saddens me that our new President appears to be caving to the special interest groups who want to deny the proven beliefs of our founding fathers. From George Washington to our previous President, prayer has been an integral part of their daily lives.
We are losing our freedoms and privileges in an alarming matter. For example, if the proposed Hate Crime Legislation is passed, graduates from the Colony of Mercy like our own Bill Pruitt, could be censored and forbidden to share how the Lord set them free from their sexual sin.
Let's not bury our heads in the sand, brother. We must speak up. In relation to the National Day of prayer, I want to encourage you to contact your Senator and Congressman and let your voice be heard. Tell them you are urging them to direct the President to support the National Day of Prayer.
I called my State Senator's office today and was told politely that my "suggestion" would be passed on to the Senator. I told the young man on the phone that this was not a suggestion, but a strong recommendation as a citizen of the State of New Jersey. At that point he asked for my name and phone number.
One woman was able to get prayer out of the schools. Are we willing to sit back and have this important day banned? Here is the number for the White House: Comments: 202-456-1111.
Thanks for your consideration. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
If you would like to join in our celebration of the National Day of Prayer on Thursday, you can watch live by visiting our website: www.americaskeswick.org. We will begin broadcasting at 10:00 AM
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 6; 1 Kings 21-22; Luke 23:26-56
Great Quote: It is true that the faith, which I am enabled to exercise, is altogether God's own gift; it is true that He alone supports it, and that He alone can increase it; it is true that, moment by moment, I depend upon Him for it, and that, if I were only one moment left to myself, my faith would utterly fail... George Muller
God's W
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
God Chooses Earthen Vessels
GOD CHOOSES EARTHEN VESSELS
“We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.” (2 Corinthians 4:6-10)
God calls ALL of His children to be His witnesses (Acts 1:8). But, too often, we think that anyone who sincerely desires to serve the Lord has to possess certain qualities. However, no one is born into this world fully qualified to be a useful servant. Rather, in His own way, God takes that which is inherent in each person and makes that one a valuable instrument. God selects the experiences that fit into His perfect plan for each life.
History reveals that many of the “most unlikely to succeed” have become ones that God has used in a powerful way. Verse 7 in 2 Corinthians 4 reminds us that the TREASURE – the Gospel of the glory of Christ – is hidden in EARTHEN VESSELS (clay pots). Much molding is often needed to prepare them for that priceless privilege of sharing the Gospel of His love.
Among several things mentioned in the Bible that were broken was the alabaster box which Mary of Bethany broke when she poured that costly ointment on Jesus’ head (Matthew 26:7). In order for that treasure inside to be enjoyed by all in the house, the box had to be broken! The value was not in the box, but in what it contained. And when the ointment was poured out, the house was filled with its fragrance!
God chooses earthen vessels, easily broken, yes, needfully broken, so that the incomparable treasure of Christ’s life within us may flow out from us to others. His soul-satisfying sweetness can become theirs. But the “excellency of the power” is ALL of God, not of us (2 Corinthians 4:5-10).
When we realize how “earthen” we are, verse 10 tells us the only way in which the life of Jesus may be displayed through us: “always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus.” God asks nothing less than our constant reckoning on the fact that “we have died and our lives are now hidden with Christ in God.” For as we have died with Christ we also are alive in Him.” Only in this way can He get all the glory. (Psalm 115:1, 2) -- Ruth D. Raws was the daughter of Addison Raws and Pastor Bill's sister. She was a missionary nurse in Guatemala and then served for many years at America's KESWICK directing our prayer ministry. She is with the Lord.
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 5; 1 Kings 21-22; Luke 23:26-56
Great Quote: The foundation of the Christian's peace is everlasting; it is what no time, no change can destroy. It will remain when the body dies; it will remain when the mountains depart and the hills shall be removed, and when the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll. The fountain of His comfort shall never be diminished, and the stream shall never bedried. His comfort and joy is a living spring in the soul, a well of water springing up to everlasting life. Jonathan Edwards
Please check out this week's STEWARDSHIP INSIGHT BY GEORGE. It is a good one!
http://keswickgeorge.blogspot.com/
“We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.” (2 Corinthians 4:6-10)
God calls ALL of His children to be His witnesses (Acts 1:8). But, too often, we think that anyone who sincerely desires to serve the Lord has to possess certain qualities. However, no one is born into this world fully qualified to be a useful servant. Rather, in His own way, God takes that which is inherent in each person and makes that one a valuable instrument. God selects the experiences that fit into His perfect plan for each life.
History reveals that many of the “most unlikely to succeed” have become ones that God has used in a powerful way. Verse 7 in 2 Corinthians 4 reminds us that the TREASURE – the Gospel of the glory of Christ – is hidden in EARTHEN VESSELS (clay pots). Much molding is often needed to prepare them for that priceless privilege of sharing the Gospel of His love.
Among several things mentioned in the Bible that were broken was the alabaster box which Mary of Bethany broke when she poured that costly ointment on Jesus’ head (Matthew 26:7). In order for that treasure inside to be enjoyed by all in the house, the box had to be broken! The value was not in the box, but in what it contained. And when the ointment was poured out, the house was filled with its fragrance!
God chooses earthen vessels, easily broken, yes, needfully broken, so that the incomparable treasure of Christ’s life within us may flow out from us to others. His soul-satisfying sweetness can become theirs. But the “excellency of the power” is ALL of God, not of us (2 Corinthians 4:5-10).
When we realize how “earthen” we are, verse 10 tells us the only way in which the life of Jesus may be displayed through us: “always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus.” God asks nothing less than our constant reckoning on the fact that “we have died and our lives are now hidden with Christ in God.” For as we have died with Christ we also are alive in Him.” Only in this way can He get all the glory. (Psalm 115:1, 2) -- Ruth D. Raws was the daughter of Addison Raws and Pastor Bill's sister. She was a missionary nurse in Guatemala and then served for many years at America's KESWICK directing our prayer ministry. She is with the Lord.
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 5; 1 Kings 21-22; Luke 23:26-56
Great Quote: The foundation of the Christian's peace is everlasting; it is what no time, no change can destroy. It will remain when the body dies; it will remain when the mountains depart and the hills shall be removed, and when the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll. The fountain of His comfort shall never be diminished, and the stream shall never bedried. His comfort and joy is a living spring in the soul, a well of water springing up to everlasting life. Jonathan Edwards
Please check out this week's STEWARDSHIP INSIGHT BY GEORGE. It is a good one!
http://keswickgeorge.blogspot.com/
Monday, May 04, 2009
Afraid of What?
Afraid of What?
"The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I not be afraid?" Psalm 27:1
Fear. It seems like fear is quickly becoming the word of the day. Instead of using a color-coded alert system for terror, we could many would welcome a color-coded fear alert.
Think about some of the fears that we are facing just in the past several weeks: Swine Flu. Deeper Recession. Increased taxes. Job losses. Al Quaeda possibly compromising Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. Iran and North Korea moving ahead with their nuclear programs. Increase in Islamic Jihad threats.
We are seeing an increase in men and women losing their lives for their faith around the globe. In recent days and man walked into a church sanctuary and fired a gun at the pastor, killing the pastor and injuring several parishioners.
God's children need never to allow fear to rule and reign in their lives. It is not that we will never have fears -- we should not allow these fears to cripple us.
One of my favorite bloggers is Tim Challies. In his weekend blog, he shared a poem that was written by Presbyterian missionary E.H. Hamilton following the recent martyrdom of one of his colleagues, J.W. Vinson, at the hands of rebel soldiers in northern China. Challies writes that " small Chinese girl who escaped from the bandits related the incident that provided the inspiration for Hamilton’s poem."
“Are you afraid?” the bandits asked Vinson as they menacingly waved a gun in front of him.
“No,” he replied with complete assurance. “If you shoot, I go straight to heaven.”
His decapitated body was found later.
Afraid? Of what?
To feel the spirit’s glad release?
To pass from pain to perfect peace,T
he strife and strain of life to cease?
Afraid? Of that?
Afraid? Of what?
Afraid to see the Saviour’s face,
To hear His welcome, and to trace,
The glory gleam from wounds of grace,
Afraid? Of that?
Afraid? Of what?
A flash - a crash - a pierced heart;
Brief darkness - Light - O Heaven’s art!
A wound of His a counterpart!
Afraid? Of that?
Afraid? Of what?
To enter into Heaven’s rest,
And yet to serve the Master blessed?
From service good to service best?
Afraid? Of that?
Afraid? Of what?
To do by death what life could not -
Baptize with blood a stony plot,
Till souls shall blossom from the spot?
Afraid? Of that?
Is there something you are fearing today? Are you crippled by fear? Run to Jesus. Let Him move you from fear to faith. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 4; 1 Kings 16-18; Luke 22: 47-71
Great Quote: We may not preach a crucified Saviour without being also crucified men and women. It is not enough to wear an ornamental cross as a pretty decoration. The cross that Paul speaks about was burned into his very flesh, was branded into his being, and only the Holy Spirit can burn the true cross into our innermost life.... A. B. Simpson
"The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I not be afraid?" Psalm 27:1
Fear. It seems like fear is quickly becoming the word of the day. Instead of using a color-coded alert system for terror, we could many would welcome a color-coded fear alert.
Think about some of the fears that we are facing just in the past several weeks: Swine Flu. Deeper Recession. Increased taxes. Job losses. Al Quaeda possibly compromising Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. Iran and North Korea moving ahead with their nuclear programs. Increase in Islamic Jihad threats.
We are seeing an increase in men and women losing their lives for their faith around the globe. In recent days and man walked into a church sanctuary and fired a gun at the pastor, killing the pastor and injuring several parishioners.
God's children need never to allow fear to rule and reign in their lives. It is not that we will never have fears -- we should not allow these fears to cripple us.
One of my favorite bloggers is Tim Challies. In his weekend blog, he shared a poem that was written by Presbyterian missionary E.H. Hamilton following the recent martyrdom of one of his colleagues, J.W. Vinson, at the hands of rebel soldiers in northern China. Challies writes that " small Chinese girl who escaped from the bandits related the incident that provided the inspiration for Hamilton’s poem."
“Are you afraid?” the bandits asked Vinson as they menacingly waved a gun in front of him.
“No,” he replied with complete assurance. “If you shoot, I go straight to heaven.”
His decapitated body was found later.
Afraid? Of what?
To feel the spirit’s glad release?
To pass from pain to perfect peace,T
he strife and strain of life to cease?
Afraid? Of that?
Afraid? Of what?
Afraid to see the Saviour’s face,
To hear His welcome, and to trace,
The glory gleam from wounds of grace,
Afraid? Of that?
Afraid? Of what?
A flash - a crash - a pierced heart;
Brief darkness - Light - O Heaven’s art!
A wound of His a counterpart!
Afraid? Of that?
Afraid? Of what?
To enter into Heaven’s rest,
And yet to serve the Master blessed?
From service good to service best?
Afraid? Of that?
Afraid? Of what?
To do by death what life could not -
Baptize with blood a stony plot,
Till souls shall blossom from the spot?
Afraid? Of that?
Is there something you are fearing today? Are you crippled by fear? Run to Jesus. Let Him move you from fear to faith. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 4; 1 Kings 16-18; Luke 22: 47-71
Great Quote: We may not preach a crucified Saviour without being also crucified men and women. It is not enough to wear an ornamental cross as a pretty decoration. The cross that Paul speaks about was burned into his very flesh, was branded into his being, and only the Holy Spirit can burn the true cross into our innermost life.... A. B. Simpson
Sunday, May 03, 2009
I Thank God and Pray for You
I Thank God and Pray for You
In quoting from Romans 12:2 yesterday from the Phillip's Translation, I was reminded of how much I loved this translation of the New Testament.
I am very grateful for our Freedom Fighter family, and want you to know that I pray regularly for you. I couldn't help but think of all of you when I read through Ephesians 1:15 --
Since, then, I heard of this faith of yours in the Lord Jesus Christ and the practical way in which you are expressing it toward fellow Christians, I thank God continually for you and I never give up praying for you; and this is my prayer:
That God, the God of our Lord Jesus Christ and the all-glorious Father, will give you spiritual wisdom and the insight to know more of him: that you may receive how great is the hope to which he is calling you -- the magnificence and splendor of the inheritance promised to Christians -- and how tremendous is the power available to us when we believe in God.
That power is the same divine energy which was demonstrated in Christ when he raised Him from the dead and gave him the place of supreme honor in Heaven -- a place that is infinitely superior to any conceivable command, authority, power of control, and which carries with i a name far beyond any name that could ever be used in this world or the world to come.
God has placed everything under the power of Christ and has set him up as head of everything for the Church. For the Church is his body, and in that body lives fully the one who fills the whole wide universe." Great prayer from the Apostle Paul. This is my prayer for you. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 3; 1 Kings 14-15; Luke 22:31-46
Great Quote: We all agree that forgiveness is a beautiful idea until we have to practice it.(Clive Staples) C. S. Lewis
Brothers -- we have several opportunities for your consideration:
1. Are you into Southern Gospel music? Join us next Tuesday for our FOUR DIVAS concert with Joyce Hayes, Diane Susek, Sue Dodge and Allison Durham Speer (5/12/09) Call the office for ticket information: 732-350-1187 or check out the website: http://www.americaskeswick.org/
2. SPRING LADIES DAY -- May 13th -- Our speaker is Allison Durham Speer. Great present for your wife. There is package rate for the concert and the Ladies Day. Call the office: 732-350-1187.
We are here to serve you -- now pick up the phone and make your reservation today!
In quoting from Romans 12:2 yesterday from the Phillip's Translation, I was reminded of how much I loved this translation of the New Testament.
I am very grateful for our Freedom Fighter family, and want you to know that I pray regularly for you. I couldn't help but think of all of you when I read through Ephesians 1:15 --
Since, then, I heard of this faith of yours in the Lord Jesus Christ and the practical way in which you are expressing it toward fellow Christians, I thank God continually for you and I never give up praying for you; and this is my prayer:
That God, the God of our Lord Jesus Christ and the all-glorious Father, will give you spiritual wisdom and the insight to know more of him: that you may receive how great is the hope to which he is calling you -- the magnificence and splendor of the inheritance promised to Christians -- and how tremendous is the power available to us when we believe in God.
That power is the same divine energy which was demonstrated in Christ when he raised Him from the dead and gave him the place of supreme honor in Heaven -- a place that is infinitely superior to any conceivable command, authority, power of control, and which carries with i a name far beyond any name that could ever be used in this world or the world to come.
God has placed everything under the power of Christ and has set him up as head of everything for the Church. For the Church is his body, and in that body lives fully the one who fills the whole wide universe." Great prayer from the Apostle Paul. This is my prayer for you. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 3; 1 Kings 14-15; Luke 22:31-46
Great Quote: We all agree that forgiveness is a beautiful idea until we have to practice it.(Clive Staples) C. S. Lewis
Brothers -- we have several opportunities for your consideration:
1. Are you into Southern Gospel music? Join us next Tuesday for our FOUR DIVAS concert with Joyce Hayes, Diane Susek, Sue Dodge and Allison Durham Speer (5/12/09) Call the office for ticket information: 732-350-1187 or check out the website: http://www.americaskeswick.org/
2. SPRING LADIES DAY -- May 13th -- Our speaker is Allison Durham Speer. Great present for your wife. There is package rate for the concert and the Ladies Day. Call the office: 732-350-1187.
We are here to serve you -- now pick up the phone and make your reservation today!
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Do Not Be Conformed to This World
Do Not Be Conformed to This World
"Don't let the world around you squeeze you into it's mold, but let God remold your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves toward the goal of true maturity." Romans 12:2 (Phillips Translation)
I have told you before that I battle in my mind and heart the concept of imitating the culture in order to reach people with the Gospel. I am becoming increasingly convinced that we possibly cross a dangerous line in the steps we take to reach people for the kingdom.
I have often said that I am most upset with the trendsetters who years out predict what people will want and expect. We tend to buy into their thinking, and before we know it, we end up tailoring our programs and outreach only to find that those fads and trends quickly fade because the trends have shifted in another direction.
There are some bright lights -- some men and women that are taking a stand. One young man is the grandson of Dr. Billy Graham, Tullian Tchividjian, the successor to the late Dr. D. James Kennedy's church, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church.
In a recent Christianity Today article about Tullian, he states, "Younger generations don't want trendy engagement from the church; in fact they're suspicious of it ... Instead they want truthful engagement with historical and theological solidity that enables meaningful interaction with transcendent reality. They want desperately to invest their life in something worth dying for, not some here-today-gone-tomorrow find."
Tullian pastored New City Church prior to taking over Coral Ridge, and he said, "If you want your friends to know New City, come and watch her worship her Lord. You'll know much more about us when you see the God we worship and how we respond to him in worship than if you were to come and the kids get their faces painted."
I think it is important for us to remember that in trying to reach the culture too often we have tried to initiate them to the point of our undoing. Paul exhorts the church at Roman to "not allow the world around you (the culture) to squeeze you into its mold."
I would encourage you to step back and ask yourself the question, "Am I being squeezed in the wrong mold?" The world is starved for answers. I believe God's WORD still has those answers. While some believe that truth isn't truth any more, and that stories are more important than precepts, we at America's KESWICK are committed to teaching the truth from God's WORD. For a complete list of Bible teachers who will be on campus this summer, please visit our website: www.americaskeswick.org. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 2; 2 Kings 12-13; Luke 22:1-30
Great Quote: The most authentic witnesses of any man's character are those who know him in his own family, and see him without any restraint or rule of conduct, but such as he voluntarily prescribes to himself. If a man carries virtue with him into his private apartments, and takes no advantage of unlimited power or probable secrecy; if we trace him through the round of time, and find that his character, with those allowances which mortal frailty must always want, is uniform and regular, we have all the evidence of his sincerity that one man can have with regard to another; and, indeed, as hypocrisy cannot be its own reward, we may, without hesitation, determine that his heart is pure. Samuel Johnson
"Don't let the world around you squeeze you into it's mold, but let God remold your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves toward the goal of true maturity." Romans 12:2 (Phillips Translation)
I have told you before that I battle in my mind and heart the concept of imitating the culture in order to reach people with the Gospel. I am becoming increasingly convinced that we possibly cross a dangerous line in the steps we take to reach people for the kingdom.
I have often said that I am most upset with the trendsetters who years out predict what people will want and expect. We tend to buy into their thinking, and before we know it, we end up tailoring our programs and outreach only to find that those fads and trends quickly fade because the trends have shifted in another direction.
There are some bright lights -- some men and women that are taking a stand. One young man is the grandson of Dr. Billy Graham, Tullian Tchividjian, the successor to the late Dr. D. James Kennedy's church, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church.
In a recent Christianity Today article about Tullian, he states, "Younger generations don't want trendy engagement from the church; in fact they're suspicious of it ... Instead they want truthful engagement with historical and theological solidity that enables meaningful interaction with transcendent reality. They want desperately to invest their life in something worth dying for, not some here-today-gone-tomorrow find."
Tullian pastored New City Church prior to taking over Coral Ridge, and he said, "If you want your friends to know New City, come and watch her worship her Lord. You'll know much more about us when you see the God we worship and how we respond to him in worship than if you were to come and the kids get their faces painted."
I think it is important for us to remember that in trying to reach the culture too often we have tried to initiate them to the point of our undoing. Paul exhorts the church at Roman to "not allow the world around you (the culture) to squeeze you into its mold."
I would encourage you to step back and ask yourself the question, "Am I being squeezed in the wrong mold?" The world is starved for answers. I believe God's WORD still has those answers. While some believe that truth isn't truth any more, and that stories are more important than precepts, we at America's KESWICK are committed to teaching the truth from God's WORD. For a complete list of Bible teachers who will be on campus this summer, please visit our website: www.americaskeswick.org. -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 2; 2 Kings 12-13; Luke 22:1-30
Great Quote: The most authentic witnesses of any man's character are those who know him in his own family, and see him without any restraint or rule of conduct, but such as he voluntarily prescribes to himself. If a man carries virtue with him into his private apartments, and takes no advantage of unlimited power or probable secrecy; if we trace him through the round of time, and find that his character, with those allowances which mortal frailty must always want, is uniform and regular, we have all the evidence of his sincerity that one man can have with regard to another; and, indeed, as hypocrisy cannot be its own reward, we may, without hesitation, determine that his heart is pure. Samuel Johnson
Friday, May 01, 2009
Victory One Step at a Time
Victory One Step at a Time
And the Lord you God will drive out those nations before you little by little; and you will be unable to destroy them at once, lest the beasts of the field become too numerous for you. Deuteronomy 7:22
Do you find yourself frustrated that you are not walking in victory? Consistently? You go for weeks and then you blow it? My friend, YOU are trying too hard. You need to allow CHRIST to live HIS perfect life THROUGH you. And it happens one step at a time. As Pastor Bill Raws would say, "One step in front of the other -- trust and obey ... trust and obey."
Dr. Henry Blackaby writes: When God led His people into the Promised Land, He did so step by step. If He had allowed them to annihilate their enemies at once, the land would have been too difficult to manage. So He allowed some of the enemies to remain for a time in order to maintain the land and suppress the wildlife. In doing so, God taught His people to trust Him STEP BY STEP. He gave them only as much responsibility as they could handle at one time.
As God leads you in your Christian growth, He will allow challenges that match your character and relationship to Him. God will not totally change your character at once when you become a Christian. Rather, He will lead you through a process to become more like His Son.
He will keep working in an area in your life until it is totally controlled by the Holy Spirit. You may eagerly desire maturity in every area of your character, but steady, gradual growth is more lasting.
God will not take shortcuts in His process of making you like Christ. He sees your life from eternity and will take as long as necessary to produce lasting spiritual growth in you.
Do not become impatient while God is producing Christlikeness in you. Do not seek more responsibilities than those He has given you. Obey all that you know He has asked, and He will lead you at a pace that fits your present character and His purposes for you."
Good words from the author of EXPERIENCING GOD in his daily devotional, EXPERIENCING GOD -- THE DEVOTIONAL -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 1; 1 Kings 10-11; Luke 21:20-38
Great Quote: “Sometimes with great effort (most church members) can be maneuvered into some active role in the church's program, like a trained seal in a circus act, but their hearts are not fully in it. They may repeat the catchwords of the theology of grace, but many have little deep awareness that they and other Christians are 'accepted in the beloved.' Since their understanding of justification is marginal or unreal - anchored not to Christ, but to some conversion experience in the past or to an imagined state of goodness in their lives - they know little of the dynamic of justification. Their understanding of sin focuses upon behavioral externals which they can eliminate from their lives by a little will power and ignores the great submerged continents of pride, covetousness and hostility beneath the surface. Thus their phariseeism defends them both against full involvement in the church's mission and against full subjection of their inner lives to the authority of Christ." Richard Lovelace, Dynamics of Spiritual Life.
And the Lord you God will drive out those nations before you little by little; and you will be unable to destroy them at once, lest the beasts of the field become too numerous for you. Deuteronomy 7:22
Do you find yourself frustrated that you are not walking in victory? Consistently? You go for weeks and then you blow it? My friend, YOU are trying too hard. You need to allow CHRIST to live HIS perfect life THROUGH you. And it happens one step at a time. As Pastor Bill Raws would say, "One step in front of the other -- trust and obey ... trust and obey."
Dr. Henry Blackaby writes: When God led His people into the Promised Land, He did so step by step. If He had allowed them to annihilate their enemies at once, the land would have been too difficult to manage. So He allowed some of the enemies to remain for a time in order to maintain the land and suppress the wildlife. In doing so, God taught His people to trust Him STEP BY STEP. He gave them only as much responsibility as they could handle at one time.
As God leads you in your Christian growth, He will allow challenges that match your character and relationship to Him. God will not totally change your character at once when you become a Christian. Rather, He will lead you through a process to become more like His Son.
He will keep working in an area in your life until it is totally controlled by the Holy Spirit. You may eagerly desire maturity in every area of your character, but steady, gradual growth is more lasting.
God will not take shortcuts in His process of making you like Christ. He sees your life from eternity and will take as long as necessary to produce lasting spiritual growth in you.
Do not become impatient while God is producing Christlikeness in you. Do not seek more responsibilities than those He has given you. Obey all that you know He has asked, and He will lead you at a pace that fits your present character and His purposes for you."
Good words from the author of EXPERIENCING GOD in his daily devotional, EXPERIENCING GOD -- THE DEVOTIONAL -- Bill Welte is President and CEO of America's KESWICK
God's WORD for YOU: Proverbs 1; 1 Kings 10-11; Luke 21:20-38
Great Quote: “Sometimes with great effort (most church members) can be maneuvered into some active role in the church's program, like a trained seal in a circus act, but their hearts are not fully in it. They may repeat the catchwords of the theology of grace, but many have little deep awareness that they and other Christians are 'accepted in the beloved.' Since their understanding of justification is marginal or unreal - anchored not to Christ, but to some conversion experience in the past or to an imagined state of goodness in their lives - they know little of the dynamic of justification. Their understanding of sin focuses upon behavioral externals which they can eliminate from their lives by a little will power and ignores the great submerged continents of pride, covetousness and hostility beneath the surface. Thus their phariseeism defends them both against full involvement in the church's mission and against full subjection of their inner lives to the authority of Christ." Richard Lovelace, Dynamics of Spiritual Life.
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