The Real Deal by Dave Branon

Sometimes cleaning out Grandpa’s attic pays off. For an Ohio man, it paid off in the discovery of a more than 100-year-old set of mint-condition baseball cards. Appraisers placed the cards’ value at $3 million. One key to the high value of those cards was the fact that they were well-preserved. But beyond that, the true worth of the cards rested in the fact that they were authentic. If they had been fakes or counterfeits—no matter how good they looked—they wouldn’t have been worth the cardboard they were printed on. The apostle Paul had something similar to say about Christianity. He said that our faith would be completely worthless and counterfeit if Jesus’ resurrection were not the real deal. It took bravery and confidence in God’s plan for Paul to say, “If Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty” (1 Cor. 15:14) and “If Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!” (v.17). The Christian faith rests on the authenticity of this story: Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead. Praise God for the clear evidence of Jesus’ death and resurrection (vv.3-8). It’s the real deal, and we can stake our eternity and our total dependence on God on its truth. Lord, we’re eternally thankful for the truth confirmed in Your Word and in our hearts that You died and rose again for us. We love You, Lord, and lift our voices in praise! God is the only true God.

Dare to Be Different by Joe Stowell

"Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also." John 15:20 "Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also." John 15:20 My dad was a pastor, so I got stuck with the label known to every pastor’s kid: PK. But, much to the congregation’s disappointment, the title didn’t stop me from being my mischievous little self. I have to tell you, I would like to have a $5 bill for every time somebody came to me and said, “Little Joe, you’re the pastor’s son. You should be an example.” They wanted me to be different, but they didn’t understand. I didn’t want to be an example! I was only five—I wanted to have fun with my friends and get into all the mischief they got into. Nobody wants to be different. We want people to like us, and one of the safest ways to do that is to blend in, to be like them. But following Christ has never been about “blending in.” Following Him means to be like Him, to respond to life and relate to people the way He did. Inevitably, there are times when doing that makes you different. Granted, it can be risky and uncomfortable to be different. But that’s what being a follower of Jesus is all about—bringing the difference of your King to bear on the territory you’ve been assigned to: your home, your office, and your friendships. We need to keep in mind that Jesus never promised that following Him would be a cakewalk. In fact, He made it clear that following Him would often create tension in a world that is going in the opposite direction. Just before His death, He spoke candidly to His disciples: “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. . . . If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (John 15:18, 20). I’ll never forget the story of Abdul Rahman, the Afghani who accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and faced the outrage of Muslim clerics in the courtrooms of Afghanistan. Although his conversion was considered a capital crime and his life was at risk, his faith stood the test. Right now while we are talking about this, thousands of believers in places like China, the Sudan, and Vietnam are making the point that Jesus is more important than personal peace and comfort. But for those of us who don’t live in life-threatening environments, being a fully committed follower brings its own kinds of trouble. It may be the threat of being cut out of the group and losing a promotion when the boss takes you and your colleagues out to dinner and then takes everyone but you to the strip club for an after- dinner drink. Or when your evolution-promoting biology professor scoffs at your stance on creation and gives you a lower grade on your paper. Forgiving a serious offense may have other fellow travelers thinking that you are the “village idiot.” Refusing to enter a gossipy conversation and declining opportunities to speak in unloving ways about others may even cost you something with fellow believers. Yup, sad but true! Today, you will no doubt have opportunities to be different—to go against the flow. Don’t be intimidated. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble.” But then He said, “Take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). What an interesting thought: When I stick with Him through thick and thin, I may feel like I’ve lost, but in reality, I ultimately win! In retrospect, I can now see how my antics as a PK reflected poorly on my Dad. It’s motivating to remember that our non-Jesus attitudes and actions not only leave us on the losing side but also end up reflecting poorly on the One we love so much. Go ahead today. Make a difference by daring to be different for Jesus! YOUR JOURNEY… Read John 15:18-27. In what ways have you dared to be different for Christ and felt the tension? When was the last time you chose to blend in with the crowd rather than follow Christ? Why did you cave to the pressure? What can you do to stand for Jesus the next time you are in that situation? Making a plan for the next opportunity to follow Jesus is important. Be prepared! What does it mean personally for you that Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me”? Check out the whole story in Luke 9:21-26. Be specific, honest, and courageous in your answer. When was the last time you realized that in this upside-down world, it is followers who are willing to go into the face of adversity for Jesus who are truly blessed? (Don’t miss Matthew 5:10-12!) Set aside some time to look at the Voice of the Martyrs Web site: www.persecution.com and pray for those who are facing persecution today. Ask that God would continue to turn Satan’s attacks into victories, and that followers of Jesus around the globe would boldly stand for Him and rise to the challenge of being different for His sake. Categories: Attitudes, backsliding, Character, Christian life, Christlikeness, courage, Obedience, Relating To God, Relationships, Sin, Submission, worldliness Tags: backsliding, Christlikeness, courage, Obedience, submission, worldliness

The Gift Of Light by Bill Crowder

Sir Christopher Wren designed and built more than 50 church buildings in London during the late 1600s. His design style had two prominent features—the first of which was sturdy, tall steeples. The second, however, was more profound. Wren was convinced that all of the windows in his churches must use clear glass as opposed to the stained glass so popular in churches of that era. In part, his reason for the clear glass is found in words attributed to him: “God’s greatest gift to man is light.” Allowing light to bathe people as they worshiped was, to Wren, a celebration of that gift. In the Genesis account, on the first day of creation God made light (1:3). The light God created is even more than just a means by which to see. It’s a picture of what Christ brought when He entered this darkened world. In John 8:12, our Lord said, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” To the follower of Christ, light is one of the great reminders of the character of our Savior and the quality of the life He has given us through His sacrifice on the cross. Wren was right. God’s greatest gift to man is light—Jesus Christ, the Light of the world! Creator God, I thank You that You spoke light into the darkness of the universe, and I thank You that You brought light into the darkness of my heart through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus came to give light to a dark world.

A prayer to know God

A Prayer to Know God Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. —Proverbs 22:6 (TNV) Ever since my daughters became teenagers, with minds and desires of their own—minds that questioned every truth they’d ever been told and desires that rejected the church they’ve attended from babyhood I’ve wakened each morning with the same prayer: “Father, let them turn to You. Let them know You.” As soon as I pray these words, though, I unpray them. “How can God make them turn to Him?” another voice in me asks. “Surely, if any aspect of faith is up to us, it’s that initial impulse to know one’s maker.” This year I attended a faculty workshop in spiritual formation. We returned repeatedly to the questions at the root of my morning prayer struggle. Does God make us believe, or are we on our own? Can our strategies as teachers or parents—can our prayers—inspire spiritual growth in another? I like to think of believing as work. The only work of God, in fact. When asked what work God requires, Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent” (John 6:29, TNIV). After the workshop, a colleague offered a devotion about Peter’s unsettling dream in which God deemed permissible all the foods forbidden in the law. “This story isn’t about food or even the law,” he told us. “It’s about Peter’s growth as a believer.” And he showed us how, in the story—before, after and even while Peter dreamed—a stranger named Cornelius was praying on Peter’s behalf. My colleague’s teaching—his prayers—grew me, and I have prayed confidently for my daughters’ spiritual development ever since. Father, let the ones I love come to know You and love You. Thank You for hearing my prayers. By Patty Kirk

The Dump by Rod Parsley

The Dump He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap, he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor. For the foundations of the earth are the Lord's; upon them he has set the world. 1 Samuel 2:8 I walked through the filth and decay of a garbage dump and watched three small boys scavenging through the dump trucks for anything to eat. I thought, "Surely, God does not want His people living in a dump. He wants to lift them out and bring them to a higher place." I felt compassion for the young ones and their families who live there. Then my mind went to all those others who are also living in dumps. Have you considered if you might be living in another kind of garbage dump? Perhaps you're living in a situation that is less than God's best for you. Maybe it is what is going on inside you... the secret sin that has turned your spiritual life into its own dump. Maybe you've even convinced yourself that a dump is all you deserve or that you'll never have anything better. Maybe you've lived there for so long you're used to it. Know that God doesn't want you to stay there. Today He's offering you a better life. Are you ready to move? Further Reading 1 Samuel 2:9 Galatians 4:9 Galatians 5:1

Thumbs Up by Marvin Williams

Pandora is one of the musical marvels of the Internet age. It helps you create your own personal radio station by allowing you to “customize” your music. It plays a song and you then click a thumbs up or thumbs down sign to indicate whether or not you like it. You end up with a grouping of only songs that you like. Unfortunately, sometimes we do that with the Bible too. People may choose some Scripture passages they especially like and ignore others, and so they “customize” it to their preferences. The psalmist looked at God’s Word this way: “The entirety of Your Word is truth” (Ps. 119:160). And the apostle Paul told Timothy, a young pastor, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable” (2 Tim. 3:16). The Scriptures were important to Jesus (Matt. 5:17-18), but He looked at them differently than the religious leaders of His day. To Him, “You shall not murder” was on the level of being “angry with [a] brother without a cause” (vv.21-22). Far from customizing Scripture, He was concerned about the motivation of people’s hearts in applying all of it. As we embrace God’s Word more fully, we’ll know Him more deeply and desire to honor Him. Lord, I don’t want to treat Your Word lightly or to dismiss what seems too difficult. Show me my heart and help me to obey from the heart whatever You tell me. In Jesus’ name, amen. When you open your Bible, ask the Author to open your heart.

Is Jesus Exclusive? by Joe Stowell

Jesus said . . . , “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” —John 14:6 I once saw Billy Graham’s daughter Anne Graham Lotz on a popular news talk program. The interviewer asked, “Are you one of those who believe that Jesus is exclusively the only way to heaven?” He added, “You know how mad that makes people these days!” Without blinking she replied, “Jesus is not exclusive. He died so that anyone could come to Him for salvation.” What a great response! Christianity is not an exclusive club limited to an elite few who fit the perfect profile. Everyone is welcome regardless of color, class, or clout. In spite of this wonderful reality, Christ’s claim in John 14:6 to be the only way to God continues to offend. Yet Jesus is the only way—the only option that works. All of us are guilty before God. We are sinners and cannot help ourselves. Our sin had to be dealt with. Jesus, as God in the flesh, died to pay the penalty for our sins and then rose from the dead. No other religious leader offers what Jesus provides in His victory over sin and death. The gospel of Christ is offensive to some, but it is the wonderful truth that God loves us enough to come and take care of our biggest problem—sin. And as long as sin is the problem, the world needs Jesus! No one could enter heaven, Our many sins stood in the way; So God in love sent Jesus, For He alone sin’s debt could pay. —D. De Haan Embrace the good news: Jesus is a non-exclusive Savior. Categories: Basics Of Faith Tags: cross, death, Grace, Jesus Christ, salvation

Wandering from Wisdom by Joe Stowell

Wandering From Wisdom Aug 21 2013 Give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. —1 Kings 3:9 If God offered you anything you wanted, what would you ask for? When Solomon was given that choice, he asked for the wisdom to discern good from evil so that he might lead God’s people well (1 Kings 3:9). “Because you have asked this thing,” God told Solomon, “I have done according to your words.” He even promised to give him “both riches and honor” (1 Kings 3:11-13). To this day, Solomon is remembered for the great wisdom God gave him. Solomon began his rule with devotion to wisdom and a deep ambition to build a magnificent temple to honor God. But something happened along the way. His passion for living by God’s wisdom was displaced by the allures of the wealth and position God had given him. His marriage to foreign women who worshiped pagan gods eventually led him—and ultimately the nation—into idolatry. The lesson is clear. Keeping our love for Christ and His wisdom preeminent is a primary objective for those of us who want to live to satisfy God throughout the course of our life. A commitment to following the riches of God’s wisdom will enable us to avoid the drift that destroyed Solomon. Keep your heart in tune with God’s wisdom and obey His voice. That’s the way to finish well. Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, Prone to leave the God I love; Here’s my heart, O take and seal it, Seal it for Thy courts above. —Robinson Monitor your heart daily to avoid wandering from God’s wisdom. Categories: Character, Christian life, Thinking, Wisdom Tags: character, thinking, wisdom

Living Beyond The Odds by David C. McCasland

Many of us make daily decisions based on the odds. If there’s a 20 percent chance of rain, we may ignore it. If there’s a 90 percent chance, we’ll take an umbrella. The greater the odds, the more our behavior is affected because we want to choose wisely and be successful. Acts 12:1-6 describes a situation in which Peter’s odds of survival were very low. He was in prison, “bound with two chains between two soldiers” while others guarded the door (v.6). Herod had already executed James, one of Jesus’ closest followers, and he had the same fate in mind for Peter (vv.1-3). A gambler would not have put any money on Peter getting out of this alive. Yet God’s plan for Peter included a miraculous deliverance that even those who were interceding for him found hard to believe (vv.13-16). They were astonished when he showed up at their prayer meeting. God can operate outside the odds because He is all-powerful. Nothing is too hard for Him. The One who loves us and gave Himself for us is in charge of our lives. In ordinary circumstances and impossible situations, God can reveal His power. Whether we are showered with success or sustained in sorrow, He is with us. Dear God, we’re so thankful that nothing is too difficult for You. You can do amazing things! Help us to trust that You are always with us and always in control. We love You, Lord. God is always in control behind the scenes.

Image Conscious by Julie Ackerman Link

When going through old family photos, my cousins and I joke about which physical characteristics we’ve inherited. We notice primarily the negative ones: short legs, crooked teeth, unruly cowlicks. All of us can easily identify in our ancestors our own least favorite body part. In addition to physical attributes, we also inherited character traits—some good, some not so good. But we don’t always pay as much attention to those. According to my unscientific observations, people try all kinds of methods to overcome physical imperfections—exercise routines, weight-loss programs, makeup, hair coloring, cosmetic surgery. But instead of trying to overcome our character flaws, we tend to use them as an excuse for behaving badly. I suppose this is because changing our looks is easier than changing our character. But imagine how much better off we’d be if we put our energy into character development. As God’s children, we’re not limited by our genetic makeup. We can surrender our flaws to Him and allow Him to fulfill the potential He had in mind when He created us as unique expressions of His love. The power of God’s Spirit and the life of God’s Son are at work in us, conforming us to His image (2 Cor. 3:18). I know, Lord, that You’re more interested in the condition of my heart than my outward appearance. Please make me into the person You want me to be— filled with kindness, patience, integrity, and love. The Spirit develops in us the clear image of Christ.

Hope for Tomorrow by Rod Parsley

Hope for Tomorrow Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God. 1 Peter 1:21 I'm sure the disciples felt hopeless the day they watched Jesus die. I'm sure they wondered, "How can this be?" They must have despaired as they watched His body being placed in the tomb. From an earthly perspective, it was hopeless (Matthew 27:57-61). God is more powerful than the disciples ever imagined. Jesus came back to life, taking the most frightening of human experiences-death-and turning it inside out! Scripture is full of hope. The Psalmist writes, "May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you" (Psalms 25:21), and says again in Psalms 43:5, "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." We are called to hope for a better future, for life in death and for miracles in an unbelieving world. Put your hope in Jesus, knowing that He has conquered death to bring you life. What better hope can you have? Further Reading Psalms 9:18 Ephesians 1:18 1 Thessalonians 1:3 God Bless,

All You Need Is (Real) Love By Elizabeth Peale Allen, Pawling, New York

“Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). It sounds so simple, but it’s the biggest challenge we face. Not everyone is easy to love. A friend complained the other day, “My boss should have been a porcupine. She prickles at every little thing!” But every encounter we have with another member of God’s creation gives us new opportunities to draw closer to Him. My friend doesn’t have to be fond of her “porcupine” to love her. Biblical love is about compassion, about what we do and how we treat others. “If you love me, you will obey what I command,” Jesus tells us (John 14:15). “Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me” (John 14:21). Fortunately, God understands that loving others isn’t always easy. He stands right behind us, giving us all the support we need. When we don’t know how to love, He who is love can teach us how to win against fear, anger and hate. Featured Product Navigate: How the Bible Can Help You in Every Aspect of Your Life Navigate Best-selling author and pastor, Dr. Peale uses the Bible as a guide for navigating through life's problems. Prickly people like my friend’s boss bring out a lot of surprising feelings in us. Anger, frustration, envy and resentment are just a few of the things that get in the way of living out our faith. Experts tell us not to ignore these feelings, or our neglected emotions will fester in a dark corner of our hearts. We need to acknowledge how we feel—and then let go of our feelings and move on. No matter how difficult others may be, we’re responsible for how we act and react. Jesus tells us to pluck the plank from our own eye before we focus on the sawdust elsewhere (Matthew 7:3). But what if all we can see is sawdust? How can we see the plank? My quick ‘vision test’ of what’s in my heart is to turn to 1 Corinthians 13: Have I been patient? Really patient? Patient the way Jesus would be? Was I kind? Do I envy this person? If so, why? Am I boasting in any way, even silently in my heart? Do I look down on this person? Is my pride getting in the way of loving this person? Was I rude, or did I speak sharply? Am I seeking the best for this person, or is there an element of self-seeking in my heart? Do I find myself easily angered by this person? Why? Do I keep a record of the person’s wrongs? Do I secretly delight when evil happens to her? Do I continue to trust and hope that God’s will for this person will prevail? None of us wants to see our own faults...especially when we think 99 percent of the blame lies with someone else. But that’s what Christ asks of us. Humility is the first step we have to take if we’re going to love others as Christ loved us.

The Lonely Hearts Club by Joe Stowell

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 Three men were stranded on a desert island. A genie appeared and promised to grant each of them just one wish. So the first guy says, “I want to go back to my job with the brokerage firm.” Shazam, he’s back in the office behind his desk. The second guy says, “I’d like to be back in Chicago with my family.” Instantly, he’s zapped back to the Midwest. So the genie turns to the last guy and says, “What’ll it be for you?” He looks around and says, “It’s so lonely here. I wish my friends were back.” Actually, the pain of loneliness is no laughing matter. And, sad to say, there is no magic-genie cure for the loneliness so many of us struggle with. After God created Adam, He said that it is not good for man to be alone and created Eve for companionship and mutual encouragement. So, it’s no wonder that we hurt when we are disconnected from others who could be a source of satisfaction and joy. Yet, in one sense, even the loneliest among us is not truly alone. In fact, Jesus not only assures us of His presence but can empathize with the agony of our loneliness. He was brutally cast off by His own people, the object of criticism and scorn, abandoned by His best friends in His hour of need, and betrayed by a trusted colleague. Still, in the midst of this loneliness He was not truly alone. John 8:29 records Christ’s strong confidence in the midst of His standing alone when He says, “The one who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone.” And even though He realized His teaching was rejected by men, He said, “If I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent Me” (John 8:16). The only true loneliness is the aloneness of being disconnected from God. When we live disconnected from Him, we scramble to fill the void with food, sex, alcohol, shopping, drugs, or meaningless activity. Many of us will do anything to medicate the emptiness we feel without God. In its advanced stages, this aloneness from God fogs our outlook with a cloud of cynicism until our only response to life is “Who cares?” or “Whatever.” The only real way out is to cling to Jesus, the one who will never leave or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5) and the one who promises to give you life, in fact life more abundantly (John 10:10). Maybe you know this, but you’ve been afraid to put all your eggs in the basket of all Jesus has to offer. Maybe your fear is reflected in the words of the poet who wrote, “lest having Him I would have nothing else beside.” But let me assure you that Christ will never let you down. Jesus is certainly no magic genie. He does not exist in a foggy vision only to vanish in a puff of smoke. In fact, it’s just the opposite—we have the assurance that He is constantly with us. Jesus said, in Matthew 28:20, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Because of this promise, you can trust that God will never leave you stranded alone on the desert island of life without Him, but will satisfy you with His presence and peace. YOUR JOURNEY… Are you connected to God through a relationship with Christ, or are you alone in your soul? If you are alone, pray and ask Christ to become your Savior. Find someone who needs to hear that Christ is the cure for his or her aloneness. Use God’s Word to encourage that person today! Aloneness can carve a hollow in your soul that alters your tone and perspective on life. In your journal, write down comforting thoughts that God provides from the following Scripture (Psalm 139:7-10; Isaiah 49:13-16; Romans 8:35-39; Hebrews 13:5). Categories: Attitudes, burdens, Christian life, Encouragement, Fellowship With, Loneliness, Personal Crisis, Relating To God, Relationships Tags: burdens, encouragement, Fellowship with, Loneliness

Built on the Rock by Rod Parsley

Build on the Rock Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. Matthew 7:24 There was once a man who built a beautiful house on the ocean. One day a storm came. The water rushed up the beach and into the man's home, destroying the beautiful floors and walls. The house soon began to slide away into the ocean as the sand underneath it gave way. The man survived, but wondered how his seemingly sturdy home had fallen apart so easily. There was another man who, like the first, built a beautiful house, but this man was wiser and knew the only place to build was on sturdy rock. When the storms came, the man watched the storm from the safety of his sturdy house. The world will tell you that you have a secure future if you've saved enough or built enough success, but what do people do when tragedies happen, when the rains begin to come and the ocean threatens to wash away their homes? The Bible tells us to build treasure in heaven and build on God, who is "a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble" (Psalms 9:9). Jesus tells us to be like the wise man who built his house on solid rock. Trust in God and He will never let you down. Further Reading Matthew 6:19-20 Revelation 21:4 Matthew 7:24-27 God Bless

Always an Upgrade by Joe Stowell

When I’m about to leave the house, sometimes my wife, Martie, stops me and says, “You can’t go to the office dressed like that!” It’s usually something about the tie not matching the jacket or the color of the slacks being out of sync with the sportcoat. Though being questioned about my fashion choices may feel like an affront to my good taste, I have realized that her correcting influence is always an upgrade. Scripture often calls us to “put on” attitudes and actions that match our identity in Christ. Sometimes we are known by the clothes we wear, but we can make Jesus known by wearing attitudes and actions that reveal His presence in our lives. The apostle Paul advised us to set the fashion standard by modeling the wardrobe of Jesus’ compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, and forgiveness (Col. 3:12). And, he added, “above all these things put on love . . . . And let the peace of God rule in your hearts” (vv.14-15). Clothing ourselves in Jesus’ likeness begins with spending time with Him. If you hear Him say, “You can’t go out like that!” let Him lovingly take you back to the closet so He can clothe you with His likeness. It’s always an upgrade! Lord, help us to see ourselves the way You see us. By Your Spirit teach us to adorn our lives with the attitudes and actions You have designed for us as a public statement about our identity with You. Clothing ourselves with Jesus’ attitudes and actions shows His presence in our lives.

Got Any Neighbors? by Joe Stowell

“Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:39 Jesus’ life and ministry dramatically demonstrated that the word prejudice is not in His vocabulary. In fact, He hates prejudice in any form. He detests racism, classism, and religious snobbery. Why? Because it defies who He is and what He came to do. No one escaped the embrace of His love and concern. And He calls us to love as He did—without limits. But prejudice blocks our ability to love as he did and denies us the privilege of being like Him in our world. When the Pharisee hoped to embarrass Jesus by asking Him to name the greatest commandment, Jesus answered that we should love God with the totality of our being. And although it was more than the scheming lawyer had asked for, Jesus added the second most important command: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). Not “second” meaning less important, but sequentially. In other words, the authenticity of our love for God is measured by our attitudes and acts of love for others. Ironically, the Pharisees prided themselves in mastering their love for God but were dreadfully lacking in love for their neighbor—which, in Jesus’ book, would break the first command. Their prejudices—often supported by their self-constructed theology and traditions—reduced their circle of involvement to people who were a lot like themselves. When the “expert in the law” asked Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29), Jesus’ concern was not identifying who our neighbor is, but whether or not we are acting in a “neighborly” way to others regardless of who they are. The important dynamic in the story Jesus told about the Good Samaritan is not that the religious passersby were too busy to help the dying victim. It is rather that they were the true victims. The priest and Levite, trying to avoid ceremonial defilement, were victims of a distorted view of righteousness. And that distorted view disabled them from keeping the law’s most fundamental command about loving those in distress regardless of who they are. Which should give us modern folk pause about any thoughts or attitudes that might blind us to the needs of others outside our usual circle of concern. Because quite simply, if we can’t love them, we can’t love Jesus! Lord, as difficult as it may be, I pray that you would bring to mind any prejudice that keeps us from loving others the way you love us. We want to love the way that Jesus loved—to be like the Good Samaritan in our willingness to tangibly care for those outside our usual circle. Please give us the strength, grace, and courage to love our neighbors. Amen. YOUR JOURNEY… Do you struggle with prejudice against a particular person? Against a group of people? What traditions or beliefs might stand in the way of being a good neighbor? What action steps could you take to demonstrate love to others? Categories: Criticism, Judging, Love For, Relating To Others, Relationships Tags: criticism, Judging, Love For

Sermon by Frederick Goins 8/17/13

Revelation 21:1-7 In Revelation 22:15, why did God refer to the people as dogs that couldn't enter heaven's gates? Because dogs return to their vomit. People claim they wanted to change and are repenting of their sins but continually returning to those sins. Jesus is the only way to change those sins that keeping you from entering heaven's gate. Prayer is the communication to help with those "special" sins. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 is the scriptures that explains what is not entering into heaven's gate. Galatians 5:19-21 explains what the works of the flesh are. Romans 1:24-27 explains what happens when you play church. Confess but not believing Jesus is the Lord. That is how and why homosexuality desires comes in a person's life.

Escape to Wisconsin by Joe Stowell

“Each man’s work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire.” 1 Corinthians 3:13 If you live near a big city, no doubt you’ve been caught in the torturous experience of creeping along in bumper-to-bumper traffic. This can be particularly annoying if you are in a hurry to get somewhere—to say nothing of how revealing it can be about our true spiritual condition. As a Christian, I have to admit that I don’t have enough gestures to express my true feelings when traffic gets really bad! So the only way to relieve the tension is to spend the time reading the interesting bumper stickers that reveal the political and personal irritations of the drivers nearby. Among the more interesting ones: “As a matter of fact I do own the road!” and “If a woman’s place is in the home, why am I always in this SUV?” I particularly like the one that says, “You can’t scare me. I’ve got triplets!” I’m reminded of Paul Harvey, who once reported seeing two bumper stickers on a car in Chicago: on one side, “Jesus is coming!” and on the other side of the bumper, an invitation by the Wisconsin Department of Tourism to “Escape to Wisconsin!” Well, Jesus is coming again, but when He does, no one will be able to escape to Wisconsin—or anywhere else for that matter. The most despicable pagans, the most vocal scoffers, the most intelligent deniers, the most thoughtful agnostics, and the most ardent atheists will not be able to find refuge. Instead, as Paul tells us in Philippians 2:10-11, they will join the great final worship service and, with all humanity, they too will bow their knees and confess with their mouths that Jesus is indeed the Lord. No doubt it will be a humbling and scary event for them. For those of us who have been worshiping the worthy name of Jesus long before His return, it is good to know that. Though we have often been ridiculed for such a naïve and retro view of life, it’s reassuring to know we were right about Jesus all along! But I need to add: though grace will prevail for those of us who have believed, and our sins and failures will be remembered no more, there is some jeopardy for us as well. The apostle Paul writes that we will be saved, but “with fire.” At His appearing, the flame of His glory will burn away all the wood, hay, and stubble from our lives, leaving only the gold, silver, and precious jewels. The wood, hay, and stubble, interestingly enough, is not necessarily our sins, but rather all we spent our time doing that had no use for eternity. Francis Schaeffer used to talk about the tragedy of what he called “ash-heap Christians.” He was talking about those of us who had lived our lives for the fleeting pleasures and pursuits of earth-side stuff and gain. Think of standing there in His glorious presence knee-deep in ashes with nothing of eternal significance to present to Him. You’ll wish you could be in Wisconsin! So, what have you done lately to make His return a happy event for you? Got any gold to offer Him when He appears? Believe me, seeing Him face-to-face after having lived a productive life for eternity’s gain will be lots better than seeing Wisconsin! YOUR JOURNEY… How often do you consider the reality that Jesus could come back at any moment? How does that reality impact your task list for today? What should be added to your to-do list? What could be taken off the list? Take a minute to pray that God will bring some worthy investment options to mind—places for you to put your time and talents to good use for eternity. Then pick one of them and pursue it! Categories: Basics Of Faith, Character, Christ's Return, Christian life, Future Prophecy, Jesus Christ, Priorities, Role Of Tags: Christ's return, Priorities, role of

The Pearl of Great Price by Rod Parsley

The Pearl of Great Price Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. Matthew 13:45-46 There is a children's book, The Precious Pearl, based on the verse above. In the story, a wealthy man sees a rare pearl in a shop. Unfortunately, it costs more than the man has-he would have to sell everything to buy the beautiful pearl. He eventually sells everything, except his favorite hat with a floppy feather, and returns to the shop. When he still comes up short, the merchant says he will sell him the pearl if the man also forfeits his favorite hat. The man hands it over and receives the pearl. Jesus said, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me" (Matthew 19:21). Jesus is like the pearl. If we want to follow Him, we can't be stuck on the things of this world. Like the precious pearl, it costs everything to follow Jesus, but once we do, we realize He is worth more than anything else. Nothing this world offers will ever fulfill you as much as a relationship with Jesus Christ. Will you give up everything, even your most treasured possession, to have that pearl? Further Reading Matthew 19:16-24 2 Chronicles 1:11 Proverbs 28:11 God Bless,

Evidence of a miracle by Kenneth Copeland

FROM FAITH TO FAITH -- DAILY DEVOTIONALSEARCH August 15, 2013 Evidence of a Miracle Kenneth Copeland Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1 Don't ever short-circuit a miracle by trying to see it in progress! So many believers do that. They'll lay hands on someone and pray for healing or deliverance and then, when they don't see any immediate, outward change take place, they'll withdraw their faith and assume nothing happened. The Lord taught me an unforgettable lesson about that once when I was in Jamaica. I was preaching to a group of about 150 people in a church that was lighted only by a single kerosene lantern. It was so dark I couldn't see anyone's face. All I could see was my Bible and the feet of the man right in front of me. Suddenly I realized that I'd always depended on the facial expressions of the people to whom I was preaching to determine how my sermon was being received. Knowing what I did about faith, I knew that was dangerous. So I made a quality decision at that moment never to preach another sermon except by faith. I would not be swayed by the expressions of people. Before that series of meetings was over, I saw just how important that decision could be. The Jamaicans, who tend to show very little expression anyway, sat through every sermon without any outward reaction at all. One lady was completely healed of blindness during one of those meetings. She never let on that anything had taken place. She was almost rigid when she found me outside and said simply, "Brother Copeland, I was blind, but now I can see. Thank you." That was all! A miracle had taken place, and by watching, you wouldn't have been able to tell anything had happened at all. Next time you're tempted to evaluate what God is doing by the looks of things, don't do it. Remember instead that it is faith, not appearances, that makes miracles happen. It's the only real evidence that you need! Scripture Reading: Hebrews 11:1-13 © 1992 Eagle Mountain International Church aka Kenneth Copeland Publications All rights reserved.

Go Therefore by Rod Parsley

Go Therefore Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 Jesus was kingdom-minded. He began His earthly ministry by announcing that the kingdom of God was at hand (Matthew 4:17), and He ended it by speaking of things pertaining to the kingdom (Acts1:3). The expansion of the kingdom of God was in Christ's heart when He commissioned His apostles to go forth to all the nations. From America to Africa and South America, we are to deliver the message of the kingdom of God. In the midst of poverty, starvation, misery and despair, we are to lift the curtain to another world marked by abundance, wellness, joy and peace. As Christians, we all have a responsibility to extend God's rule over circumstances and situations on earth. Through our prayers and our giving, we can traverse borders of time and space and impact destinies of people who otherwise would never have an opportunity to know God's love and good intentions toward them. God commissioned us all to go forth; if we cannot go forth, it is our duty to help those who do. Will you lend a hand today? Further Reading James 2:5 Acts 14:22 Habakkuk 2:14 God Bless,

The Joy of Disappointment by Bill Crowder

While in Bible college, I auditioned for one of the school’s traveling musical teams. I was excited about the thought of being able to be involved in that ministry, but was crushed when I failed to make the team. In my disappointment, I could only trust that God’s purposes were greater than mine. Months later, I had the opportunity to join a different musical team, but as the Bible teacher. The results were more than I could have imagined. Not only was my future wife a part of that team, allowing us to serve Christ together, but it also gave me many opportunities to preach over the next 3 years—priceless preparation for a life of ministry in the Word. Many times we struggle with the reality that our Father knows what is best. We assume our way is right. But, as we rest in Him, His purposes always prove to be for our good and His praise. To be honest, that’s easy to see when the outcome is better than we had hoped, but difficult when we can’t see the good right now or maybe won’t till heaven. As wise King Solomon said, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:5-6). Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah, Pilgrim through this barren land. I am weak, but Thou art mighty; Hold me with Thy powerful hand. —Williams God’s purpose for today’s events may not be seen until tomorrow.

Set Apart From Evil by Rod Parsley

Set Apart From Evil What fellowship can light have with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14 Draw a spiritual line. "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). Notice this verse doesn't say "the devil is a roaring lion"... it says "he walks about as a roaring lion," which means he cannot find you if you stay out of his territory. A lady came forward during one of Dr. Sumrall's services. She was a junior church teacher and was asking for deliverance. As Dr. Sumrall prayed, a man's voice came out of that little teacher's body and said, "I don't have to leave. She wants me here. She came on my territory. She gave me the right to be here!" The voice told how she went to an R-rated movie containing pornography and profanity. She became bound because she went into the devil's territory. We must set ourselves apart from the world. The Bible says, "Anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him" (1 John 5:18). The Word of God also says, "It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret" (Ephesians 5:12)-and yet Christians have chosen to be entertained by these things. Turn to Him and ask Him to lead you in what is pure. He will not fail you, but will honor your request. Further Reading 1 Peter 5:5-11 James 4:6-10 Psalms 26 God Bless

Friends in High Places by Rod Parsley

Friends in High Places ...There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24 Mother Theresa once said that the most common disease in this world is not cancer or AIDS or heart disease. She said the most common disease was loneliness! Do you feel alone, lost and forsaken? So did the Psalmist David. He often cried out to the Lord for comfort. "Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted" (Psalms 25:16). The Psalms are full of laments and cries to God...and God always responded. God's taken note of the tears you've shed, the prayers you've prayed and the seed you've sown. You are not alone-you are never alone! God's going to help you get through this season of trials and loneliness. He is bringing you out stronger, better and wiser than you were before! Knowing that He will prosper you and bring you out of your despair, adopt a spirit of thankfulness today. As Philippians 1:19 says, "I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance." Know that whatever trials you face, you are never alone. Further Reading Joshua 1:5 John 15:15 Leviticus 20:24 God Bless,

Looking Down by Anne Cetas

After I had minor eye surgery, the nurse told me, “Don’t look down for the next 2 weeks. No cooking or cleaning.” The last part of those instructions was a little easier to take than the first part! The incisions needed to heal, and she didn’t want me to put any unnecessary pressure on them by looking down. C. S. Lewis wrote about another kind of looking down that we may have a problem with: “In God you come up against something which is in every respect immeasurably superior to yourself. . . . As long as you are proud you cannot know God. A proud man is always looking down on things and people: and, of course, as long as you are looking down, you cannot see something that is above you” (Mere Christianity). Jesus told a parable about a Pharisee who felt superior to others. In a prideful prayer, he thanked God that he was not like other men (Luke 18:11). He looked down on extortioners, the unjust, adulterers, and the tax collector who was also praying in the temple. By contrast, the tax collector knew he was a sinner before God and asked for His mercy (v.13). Pride can be an issue for all of us. May we not look down on others but instead see the God who is far above us all. When I survey the wondrous cross On which the Prince of Glory died, My richest gain I count but loss, And pour contempt on all my pride. —Watts Spiritual pride is the most arrogant of all kinds of pride.

The Blessed Hope by C.P. Hia

So many predictions of the end of the world have come and gone. Those predictions are unsettling and often fill people with fear. Yet the Bible does refer to a time called “the day of the Lord” when He will return. It will happen, but only God knows when. It’s a day that Jesus’ followers can look forward to. In light of that time to come, the apostle Peter tells us how the believer can live with a joyful purpose (2 Peter 3:10-18). We can look upward by living Christ-honoring lives (v.11). We can look inward by making every effort to be found at peace with God (v.14). And we can look outward by being on guard so we aren’t carried away by the wrong influence of others (v.17). How do we do this? By “grow[ing] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (v.18). When we grow in character through His written Word, we begin to relate more closely to Jesus, the Living Word. The Holy Spirit takes God’s Word and guides us in the way to live. The day of the Lord shouldn’t be a fearful day for Jesus’ followers. Our King will return to make all things right and to rule forever. We wait for that time with great anticipation. It is our “blessed hope” (Titus 2:13). And for the hope of His return, Dear Lord, Your name we praise; With longing hearts we watch and wait For that great day of days! —Sherwood One day Jesus will return to rule and reign!

Supremely Significant by Joe Stowell

“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:5 Modern counseling and psychology focus a lot of attention on obsessive behaviors—whether it’s an obsession with food, tobacco, alcohol, pornography, drugs, or even work. But perhaps one of the most overlooked addictions is our obsession with personal significance. Think about the amount of time and energy you spend in maintaining, advancing, expanding, and protecting your sense of significance. You know, making yourself look good, staying on top of the heap, protecting your ego, and living to be more successful than the next guy. And while it seems like everyone is signed up for this rat race, we need to face up to the reality that the search for significance is a treacherous pursuit personally. Count the costs. Significance is often gained at the expense of our character as we are willing to lie and cut ethical corners to be viewed well by others. It makes us defensive when someone seeks to improve us through criticism. The pursuit embitters our hearts against God over disappointing and unchangeable personal issues like our size, shape, or color. Pursuing our own significance makes us vulnerable to a host of verbal sins, such as gossip, slander, boasting, lying, and immoral chatter. It’s why we are quick to violate basic principles of stewardship by burdening ourselves with debt in order to accumulate things that supposedly enhance our significance socially and materially. The warning label on being obsessed with your own significance is long and serious. And, I need to add, being driven to protect and advance our sense of significance renders us unable to serve others unless there is an advantage to be gained; unable to sacrifice for a cause that is not our own and unwilling to suffer for that cause if necessary; unable to surrender to any agenda that impedes the progress of our personal persona. In short, it cripples our ability to love God more than ourselves and to live to bring glory to God since, when we are compelled to glorify ourselves, we are unable to exalt His worthy significance. So let’s see what we can do about this. At the start of his letter to the Colossians, Paul notes that Jesus is the only truly significant Person: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. . . . All things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. . . . He is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy” (Colossians 1:15-18). Yet, as Paul wrote to the Philippians, Jesus did not live to hold on to these things but rather poured himself out for our benefit by humbling himself in obedience to His Father (Philippians 2:6-7). Don’t miss the point! Jesus—who had every right to celebrate and advance His own significance—chose to serve, surrender, suffer, and sacrifice in order to bring glory to His Father and to rescue us from the grip of hell. And if you have accepted this gift of surrender on His part, you are now a child of God. You already are significant! God is your Father. Significance is no longer a search but a secured reality. And once you are significant in Him, you are free to refocus your obsession to living to glorify His significance and not your own. So, let the attitude of Christ be in you. It’s a significant pursuit worthy of your obsession! YOUR JOURNEY… Read Philippians 2:1-11. How can you transition from verses Philippians 2:3-4 to live with the attitude of Christ? Can you believe that, as it says in 1 Peter 5:6, when you humble yourself to Him, He will exalt you “in due time”? Make a list of things that make you feel significant. Is there anything on that list that competes with making Jesus significant through your life? Think through why you want to feel significant. Do you really think that elevating yourself is more worthy than living to elevate Him? What are some warning signs that might indicate whether or not you are obsessed with your own significance? If you’re not sure, ask a trusted friend to help you evaluate this area of your life. Categories: Attitudes, Basics Of Faith, Character, Christian life, Christlikeness, Humility, Jesus Christ, Life Example, Meekness, Pride, Relating To God, Relationships, Self Images, Submission Tags: Christlikeness, Humility, Life Example, Meekness, Pride, self-images, submission

“I’m . . . Uh . . . Sorry” by Dave Branon

The news is quick to report all the details of famous people’s wrongdoings and their subsequent confessions. Perhaps it’s an athlete who was arrested for driving while drunk. Or it could be a politician caught in an indiscretion. Only God knows the heart, but when we hear a stuttered “I’m . . . uh . . . sorry,” we may wonder if they are truly repentant or just sorry they got caught. When we read the confession of the famous King David we see what looks like genuine contriteness. In his public discussion of his sins in Psalm 51, this disgraced monarch—who had an embarrassing record of flagrant sins which he had kept hidden (2 Sam. 12:1-13; Ps. 32:3-5)—pleads for mercy. He recognized that his sin was an affront to God—not just to people—and that God alone can judge him (Ps. 51:1-6). He realized that he must be cleansed by God (vv.7-10), and he celebrated his restoration through service and worship (vv.11-17). All of us sin and fall short of God’s glory. When we feel the heavy burden of sin weighing us down, we have the blessing of confession and forgiveness (1 John 1:9) to lift us up. Isn’t it just like our great God to turn even our sins into an opportunity to grow in His grace and power and love! Dear Lord, please give me a humble heart and the courage to confess my sins before You and others. Thank You for Your promise to be faithful to forgive my sins and to cleanse me. Confession is agreeing with God about our sin.

Godspell Cast

These are the cast members. Love the clothes and songs were awesome. It was based on the gospel of Saint Matthew.

Birthday

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A Living Example of Love by Gloria Copeland

A Living Example of Love Gloria Copeland And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. – Romans 5:5 Don't ever worry about not having enough love inside you. The Word says God's love is shed abroad in your heart by the Holy Ghost. God's love is in you. What you need to do is make a decision to let it flow. Pray this prayer today. "In Jesus' Name, I make a fresh and strong commitment today to live the life of love, to let the tenderness of God flow through me and heal the wounded hearts of those I meet. "Father, teach me to love even when things go wrong. To be patient and kind when the children are underfoot. To overlook the spiteful words of an angry spouse. To rejoice when someone at the office gets the raise that I thought I needed. Teach me to talk in love, to lay gossip quietly aside and to take up words of grace instead. "Lord, Your Word says that Your love is already inside me...that it has been shed abroad in my heart. So today, I resolve to remove every obstacle that would keep that love from flowing freely into the lives of others. I put resentments behind me, and I forgive all those who've done me wrong. "In the days ahead, cause me to increase and excel and overflow with Your love. Cause me to be what this world needs most of all...a living example of love. Amen." Scripture Reading: 1 John 4:7-17

Heavenly Protection by Rod Parsley

Heavenly Protection He will cover you with his feathers and under his wings you will find refuge. Psalms 91:4 Every born-again believer has access to heavenly protection, but not all of them enjoy it. Wouldn't you like to be in a place where you're protected, where sickness and discouragement cannot touch you, because you're resting in God's presence and power? When God covers you, He puts insulation between you and the hand of your adversary. First Kings 5:4 says, "But now the Lord my God has given me rest on every side, and there is no adversary or disaster." God is covering you to survive the perils of perilous times. God will not only cover you, He will also bring you into a place in Him where the evil one can't touch you. Psalms 5:11 says, "But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." God is covering you so that you can survive anything and everything, if you just trust in Him and hold steadfast to His Word. Rejoice-for you've got heavenly protection from all your earthly foes! Further Reading Psalms 91 Psalms 92 Deuteronomy 1:30

Pharisee in All of Us by Joe Stowell

“Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.” Luke 7:47 I’ll never forget hearing the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir in concert. The sincerity and depth of feeling the singers brought to the music showed that it was more than a mere performance. When they sang “I’m Not Afraid Anymore,” you could tell that many of the singers identified with the experience of living in constant fear before they met Jesus—fear of violence, fear of not having enough money, fear of what might happen to their children, fear of not being able to get the drugs needed to feed their addictions, fear of every tomorrow. As the soloist, Calvin Hunt, sang, the spotlights showed tears flowing down his cheeks. No wonder—Calvin spent years as a crack cocaine addict on the streets of Brooklyn before being transformed by the life-saving power of the gospel. That’s why he could sing with such passion; each word of the song flowed from the heart of one who had been forgiven much. It reminds me of the woman who poured perfume on Jesus’ feet. The drama unfolds for us in Luke 7:36-50, when she crashed the dinner party at Simon the Pharisee’s home. She knew that Jesus was there. This was her chance to express adoring worship to her Savior. He was worth the risk for her, the town prostitute, to show up uninvited, worth the embarrassment to step from the crowd and approach Him, worth the price of the valuable perfume and the kisses and tears that she poured out at His feet. But as moving a moment as that was, Simon the Pharisee was not impressed. He was indignant about the “waste” of perfume (Mark 14:4-5) and thought, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner” (Luke 7:39). I suppose we shouldn’t expect the proud Simon, in bondage to his unbending tradition, to understand this kind of extravagant, self-effacing worship. But before we come down too hard on him, let’s consider the fact that there might just be a Pharisee in all of us. Unfortunately, it seems that over time we grow accustomed to what we have been rescued from and what we really deserve. Without a continuing awareness of why grace is so necessary for us, we are lulled into forming an exaggerated perspective of our own worth before God. It’s no wonder, then, that our worship is often lacking the kind of passion that Calvin Hunt and the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir display in their love for the Savior. Jesus, knowing what Simon was thinking, rebuked him for his graceless, self-righteous attitude and for the pride that put his interests above the needs of others. In fact, Simon thought so well of himself that he felt it was too risky to honor Jesus as the guest of honor at his dinner. Yet Jesus commended this town prostitute for her extravagant worship. He told Simon, “I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little” (Luke 7:44-47). Let’s take the lesson personally. True ongoing love for Jesus flows from a heart that is gripped by the awareness of how much we have been forgiven. When we grasp both the depth of our sin and the depth of God’s grace in Jesus Christ, then we’ll be looking for ways to join this woman at his feet to extravagantly express our love and gratitude to Him! YOUR JOURNEY… Carefully review the following questions to see if there might be a little bit of Pharisee lurking in your heart. Then begin to celebrate the fact that you have been forgiven much, and look for extravagant ways to show your love for Jesus today! Would the “worst of sinners” feel loved by you, or would they sense that you are more likely to condemn and ostracize them? Has your goodness become a habit, or does it thrive as a response of love and gratitude for all that Jesus has done for you? Do you ever feel a twinge of jealousy when others are more “noticed” than you? Do you feel like you have been forgiven much? Why, or why not? Are you genuinely touched when you sing the words, “He saved a wretch like me,” or does it refer to someone else? When was the last time you worshiped Jesus with a costly expression of love? Have you ever loved Jesus in the face of intimidating circumstances? Are you willing to be vulnerable in your expression of love for Jesus? Think of some specific ways that you can “color outside the lines” of your comfort and convenience when it comes to expressing your love and gratitude to Jesus.

When Tempests Rage By Rod Parsley

When Tempests Rage He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. Psalms 107:29-30 Hurricane Ike was the third most destructive hurricane ever to make landfall in the United States. Blamed for at least 195 deaths, it left damages totaling $32 billion in the United States, Cuba, the Bahamas, and elsewhere. Even before Hurricane Ike roared into the Texas coast, our Bridge of Hope trucks were on the way. We knew the scene that awaited us. We took a step of faith and loaded our trucks with diapers, fresh food, clean water and more-life-giving, lifesaving, basic supplies that are rare commodities in devastated areas. I'll never forget the woman who embraced me hours after Hurricane Katrina destroyed so much of New Orleans four years ago. She wept openly, "Pastor Parsley, I knew I could count on you to be the first one here to help." This is what the Church is supposed to be known for-it is how we will win the world for Jesus. Job 29:16 says, "I was a father to the needy; I took up the case of the stranger." God calls us to be there for others in times of trouble. Will you answer His call today? Further Reading Isaiah 4:6 Isaiah 25:4 2 Samuel 22:3

Lessons from Jonah by Joe Stowell

[Written by Joe Stowell for Our Daily Bread.] Aug 07 2013 I cried out to the Lord because of my affliction, and He answered me. —Jonah 2:2 The story of Jonah is one of the most discussed and fascinating accounts in the Bible. But for all the debate, one thing is sure: Jonah did a lot of soul-searching in that smelly underwater hotel. All of us can identify. Sometimes life just goes badly. When it does, like Jonah we need to ask ourselves some hard questions. Is there sin in my life? In light of Jonah’s blatant disobedience, God had to do something drastic to catch his attention and lead him to repentance. What can I learn from this situation? The wicked people of Nineveh were enemies of God’s people. Jonah thought they should be judged and not given a second chance. He obviously needed a lesson in sharing God’s compassion for the lost. “God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God relented from the disaster” (Jonah 3:10). Can I display God’s glory in this? Often our suffering is not about us but about people seeing the power of God working through our weakness. Jonah found himself in a helpless situation, yet God used him to lead a pagan nation to repentance. Next time you find yourself in a “belly-of-a-whale” problem, don’t forget to ask the hard questions. It could mean the difference between despair and deliverance. For Further Study For an in-depth study of the fascinating account of Jonah, read The Failure Of Success: The Story Of Jonah We learn lessons in the school of suffering that we can learn in no other way.

The Standoff by Jennifer Benson Schuldt

When a local bookstore rearranged its shelves, I noticed an increase in the number of titles relating to sorcery and witchcraft. In fact, the religion section had become a virtual “standoff” between light and darkness. Christian titles flanked one side of the aisle, while roughly the same number of occult books lined the other side. Sometimes we may think of God and Satan in the same way I thought of the books in that bookstore. We see them as opposing but equal forces with the same unlimited power. However, God is God and Satan is not. God is stronger than any force of darkness. He does what He pleases (Ps. 135:6), while Satan’s power is limited to what God allows. When Satan supposed that misfortune would make Job curse God, God told Satan, “Behold, all that [Job] has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person” (Job 1:12). Satan had to play by God’s rules. Because God is in charge over everything, as Christ’s followers we don’t need to be paralyzed by fear of Satan’s power over our lives or the lives of the believers around us. He tempts us and tries to influence us, but the Bible assures us, “He who is in [us] is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). All hail the pow’r of Jesus’ name! Let angels prostrate fall; Bring forth the royal diadem, And crown Him Lord of all! —Perronet The powers of evil around you are no match for the power of Jesus within you.

A Matter of Trust by Rod Parsley

A Matter of Trust! Don't be afraid; just believe. Mark 5:36 In the book of Joshua, God told the children of Israel to march for seven days and then the walls of Jericho would fall down. Why seven days? Because God was trying to tell the children of Israel that it is only when you come to the end of yourself, your strength and your abilities, will you see the hand of God move on your behalf. Is that your case today? You have done everything you possibly can but you still have no breakthrough. That is good news! Why? When you get to the end of yourself, when you understand that the doctor can't help you, and the lawyer doesn't have your answer, when your husband has walked out the door, and there's nothing in the cupboard to feed your children, you know at that moment your trembling hand is going to reach out for a hand that is bigger than yours. Do just that today-reach out for his nail-scarred hands. Do not look at your circumstances and cave in! Joshua 6:16 says, "The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the people, 'Shout! For the Lord has given you the city!'" Trust in the Lord and you will see things beyond what you could ever imagine! Further Reading Psalms 23 Mark 5 Luke 8 God Bless,

Watch and Pray by Gloria Copeland

FROM FAITH TO FAITH -- DAILY DEVOTIONALSEARCH August 5, 2013 Watch and Pray Gloria Copeland Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. – Matthew 26:41 Have you ever been frustrated with the weaknesses of your flesh? Have you ever resolved never more to yield to a particular sin, yet when the temptation came, you fell right back into it? It's happened to all of us. Even the disciple Peter. He swore he would never deny Jesus...but he did it anyway, time and time and time again. There is, however, something we can do to keep from falling prey to temptations like that. We can "watch and pray." That's what Jesus told Peter and the other disciples to do in the Garden of Gethsemane. He knew they were about to be tempted, and He knew that the weakness of their flesh would overcome them if they didn't strengthen their spirits through prayer. That's true for you and me too. That's why in Jude 20 and 21, God tells us much the same thing that Jesus told the disciples that night. He says, "But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith... praying in the Holy Spirit: Guard and keep yourselves in the love of God" (The Amplified Bible). God knows even better than we do that our flesh has been trained to flow with the world's stream. He knows that even though our born again spirits are reaching for God, our untrained flesh will always have a tendency to fall into sin. So, He's given us the ability to pray in other tongues, to strengthen our spirit and build it up until it takes ascendancy over our flesh. As we pray in the Spirit, Romans 8:26 tells us, the "(Holy) Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf" (The Amplified Bible). Is it any wonder the Apostle Paul said, "I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all!" (1 Cor. 14:18). It is one of the most powerful tools God has given us. So don't neglect to use it. Follow the instruction in Ephesians 6:18 and pray "always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit...watching thereunto with all perseverance." Don't make the mistake that Peter made. When temptation comes to your door, don't let it catch you sleeping. Be prepared. Make sure your spirit is strong enough to rise above it. Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:30-44

The Purpose of the Church Part 4, Don't let me lose my mind by Dr. Sam Afro on August 3, 2012

Matthew 21:12-16 Prince of Peace lost his cool.The ultimate phlegmatic became choleric. Church folks gave Jesus the most trouble. Criticism, etc.. My scriptures and thoughts God never said there was anything wrong with getting anger. It's what your reactions and actions when you get anger. Scriptures about anger He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that rules his spirit than he that takes a city. – Proverbs 16:32 A soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. – Proverbs 15:1 Yahweh is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. – Psalms 145:8 A wise man fears and departs from evil: but a fool rages, and is confident. He that is soon angry deals foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated. – Proverbs 14:16-17

Breathing Prayer:Devotions for Anxiety By Julia Attaway, New York, New York

Breathing Prayer: Devotions for Anxiety When anxiety’s got you in its grip, it’s hard to avoid worrying. But there's a technique that can help. I call it “breathing prayer.” By Julia Attaway, New York, New York Can we talk anxiety? You know what I mean: that roiling inner whirlwind, the blinding, gut-wrenching, confusion-making state of being that takes over our hearts and minds from time to time. When anxiety’s got you in its grip, it’s hard to avoid worrying about tomorrow. It’s difficult to adopt a Jeremiah 29:11 attitude. Sometimes it seems all we can do is shove our fears heavenward and hope God takes them away. I think there’s a better way. Anxiety works on a very primitive level. It has a physical component which we can counteract by applying a physical remedy. Several years ago I learned that there’s actually a right way to breathe to reduce anxiety and stress. The Harvard Health Blog calls it breath control. The technique has certain similarities with prayerful meditation, and since it’s completely compatible with faith, I personally call it “breathing prayer.” Try this: Close your eyes and inhale slowly, imagining pulling the Spirit in so fully that it fills every pore of your body. Make sure your stomach expands; you want to be pregnant with peace. Exhale slowly through your nose. You can pray while you do this (though if you’re anxious when you start, you probably won’t think of it until after a few breaths, when your head starts to clear). Simple prayers work best: While inhaling While exhaling Come Holy Spirit… fill my heart Lord Jesus… grant me your peace Lord Jesus… I love you If you practice when you’re not in the throes of wild anxiety, it will be easier to pray this way when you are. But “breathing prayer” is a good addition to any regular prayer time. Anything that clears the head and calms the body frees us up to hear God better. And that’s what prayer is all about.

Forgive as the Lord Forgave You By Elizabeth Peale Allen, Pawling, New York

Tips gleaned from Scripture to help you let go of anger and frustration and approach life with a forgiving heart. The New Testament is clear when it comes to how we’re supposed to treat those who have offended us. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you,” says Ephesians 4:32. Christ sets the standard, and we are to be like Him. “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13). Forgive as the Lord forgave you. What strength that requires! I have a young friend who is a ballet dancer. She is one of the most graceful creatures on the face of the earth. To get that way she has put in thousands of hours of work—and she continues to stretch and practice every day. Becoming a truly forgiving person requires the same level of commitment. Fortunately our days are filled with plenty of opportunities in which to grow stronger! Every little conflict we face gives us another chance to grow into forgiving people. We need to practice every chance we get. When we refuse to forgive, we surrender ourselves to anger and resentment. Anger is called one of the “seven deadly sins” for good reason. It either explodes and hurts others, or it eats us up inside. Anger hardens our hearts, making them impenetrable to God’s love and mercy. To escape from the prison it builds around our hearts, we must focus on healing instead of revenge. We must “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice” (Ephesians 4:31). Praying for people who have hurt or offended us is another important step toward healing. When we pray for someone it changes us as much as the other person. Our hearts can be transformed even if the other person never apologizes. We don’t have to judge. We don’t have to build our lives around collecting the debts others owe us. God is with us, and we can hand over the judgment and payment collecting to Him. “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord (Deuteronomy 32:35). Did you ever notice that the word give is part of forgive? Forgiveness is a precious gift we’ve received...and one we’re called to give others. But sometimes people get stuck by thinking that if we forgive it’s as if we’re saying that what the other person did didn’t matter. Not so! We can only forgive when there’s something to forgive. Forgiveness acknowledges that the other person has done something wrong, and is truly at fault. When Christ uttered, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:24), He knew every inch of the depth of the deep offense against Him. God, who is forgiving and good and abounding in love to all who call to Him (Psalm 86:5), is always ready to help us follow His ways. And forgiveness is His way. It is the reason Christ shed his blood, pouring it out “for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28). It is why we are called to forgive seventy times seven times (Matthew 18:22), and why we must reconcile ourselves with our brothers before presenting our gifts at the altar (Matthew 5:23-24). Let us ask our Lord daily to give us forgiving hearts!

Let it Flow-Gloria Copeland

FROM FAITH TO FAITH -- DAILY DEVOTIONALSEARCH August 3, 2013 Let It Flow Gloria Copeland Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. – John 4:14 Love. Joy. Peace. Patience. Gentleness. Goodness. Faith. Meekness. Temperance. Powerful forces the Bible calls the fruit of the Spirit. They're the character traits of God Himself and when the Holy Spirit came to dwell in you, He brought them with Him, so they could become your character traits too. They're designed to bubble up inside you, to gush forth like a powerful stream constantly protecting and cleansing you from the inside out. Have you ever noticed that you can't put any trash in the mouth of a flowing fountain? When it's shooting that water up, the force of its own outflow protects it and keeps it clear of any impurities from the outside. Well, the spiritual fountain within you works the same way. When you're allowing the forces of love and joy and peace and gentleness and all the others to flow out, the devil can't get any of his junk in. How do you keep the Spirit flowing? You pump your heart so full of the Word of God that the forces of eternal life start bubbling out. Just a little at first...and then stronger and higher. Choose to keep those forces streaming out of the fountain of your heart. Refuse to let selfishness and sin stop the flow. You have a fountain filled with unbeatable LIFE forces inside you and it's ready to come forth. Let it flow! Scripture Reading: Jeremiah 17:7-13

God's Battle by Rod Parsley

God will restore my 43.00 (this is the gas receipt in Jackson, MS at the Exxon Express at 4611 I-55 N Jackson, MS at 1:10:52pm), the popeyes I spent for both of us (14.15-Store phone number-601-362-6321, Cashier Earnest) next to Enterprise, the tire I replaced. God's Battle I will exalt you, O Lord, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. Psalms 30:1 There are some battles you are not supposed to fight! Sometimes all you have to do is hand the battle over to God and trust Him. It does not matter what your enemies plot and scheme, God has you covered. He can turn all evil into good. You might be facing a lawsuit, struggling with addictions or fighting cancerous cells that seek to destroy your body. The devil thinks he's got you this time-but God is not going to let him triumph over you. First Samuel 17:47 says, "All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord's, and he will give all of you into our hands." The next time you feel you are not going to make it, you need to get up and say to the devil out loud "I'm a fighter! You've picked the wrong person when you picked on me, devil, 'cause I'll run to the ark of safety. I'll run to the Rock that cannot fail. I'm not quitting, I'm not letting up, and I'm not giving up." Even when you are down and out and things look hopeless from the world's perspective, remember this: victory is assured for this battle belongs to the Lord! Further Reading Psalms 18 Psalms 42:11 Isaiah 10:27

A Situation...

So I came up to Jackson, MS. My "friend" (known for about two years-don't really talk to that much on the phone) who supposed was "trying" to help me out by charging me money to get him a real tire to go back to Hattiesburg, MS, fill up his gas tank, and change his oil. We talked about this situation I was in while I was at Enterprise about 10am in the morning trying to rent a car. Why did he leave at his apartment at 7:30-he was suppose play at church at 7:00 but someone was already playing but he wanted to anyways and you are suppose to have me back in Hattiesburg at 9:30 and you also call yourself a Christian... Do not use the Lord's name in vain. You are far from a Christian and you really weren't rescuing me from anything but trying to get me to stay with you a couple of days and/or take advantage of me when you knew I was disable. This are the picture of just one of the rooms that nasty in his apartment-Nasty toothbrush and stopped up sink. Why can't you called the maintenance man? That's why I couldn't post yesterday because of drama Don't trust anybody who 1.)Lie for no reason 2.)Lies about their name on facebook 3.)Has two facebook profiles

Sovereign Lord by Rod Parsley

Sovereign Lord That the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:10-11 In the kingdom of Light, God is the One who gives the orders. He is the Lord-we are His disciples. He is the Master-we are His servants. We are called to do only what He says to do and not what we think should be done! In the last few years, a gospel of humanism has entered the Church. It says, "March up to the throne of heaven and tell Him, 'This is what the Bible says, and what I expect!'"-as if you have the right to tell God how you feel things should be and He is obligated to do whatever you desire. Look how ridiculous this is... the people who believe this faulty gospel are unknowingly bowing at the altar of self-indulgence and saying it is God. We, on our own, cannot know the right course of action unless we have Him guiding us there. The truth is: God is not dependent on us. You are the one dependent upon Him. He delivered you and chose you. He is the Potter and you are the clay. It is up to us to say, "You are the Lord and I will obey You... I will bear Your mark. Mold me and shape me." Further Reading Romans 6 Jeremiah 18:1-6 John 5:16-40