In The Service of the King

How do we KNOW we are Saved?

2011-04-23T15:14:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Pat Donahue for writing this one!

Many religious people say they know they are saved because they feel saved, or they have had some “better felt than told” experience. But I John 2:3 reads “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.” So we don’t know we are saved based upon our feelings, but instead it is based upon whether or not we are obeying God’s new covenant law.

Remember the story in Genesis where Joseph’s brothers smeared blood on his garment so their father (Jacob) would think Joseph had been killed by a wild animal (Genesis 37:31-34)? It worked - Jacob mourned, just as if Joseph was dead. But the reader knows Joseph was still alive. Jacob’s feelings were based upon false information, and were therefore unreliable. So might our feelings be unreliable about our own salvation – if they are not based upon the truth of God’s word – only the truth will make us free from sin (John 8:32).

Revelation 22:14 makes it clear that our salvation is dependent upon our obedience to God’s word, as it reads “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (referring to heaven). Our feelings are unreliable as they can be deceived. The only way to be sure of your salvation is to keep God’s commandments.

Back to I John 2, verses 4-5 read “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.” So keeping God’s commandments is how our love for God is completed, and is how we know that we are in (fellowship with, a saved relationship with) him.

For more information on how to be saved see links below

How to be Saved

What Must We do?

For more about Pat Donahue go here Bible Debates.info

Worry, Worry, Worry

2011-04-15T07:52:00.000-05:00

by Joshua V. Best

Everyone knows the signs: sleepless nights, sick stomachs, mental breakdowns, deep depression, hiding away, high blood pressure. turning to drugs and alcohol, etc... These are indicators an individual has fallen victim to his own worry.

Worry eats people alive, and Christians are not immune. It touches the lives of virtually every family and affects millions of people every single day, touching all walks of life in myriad circumstances: The educated worry because of everything they know, while the uneducated worry because they know so little. The rich worry because they have so much, while the poor worry because they have so little. The old worry because they aren't young, but the young worry because they aren't older.

Worry takes so much time for so many folks, interfering with everyday action, sometimes even making people physically ill. It remains, however, one of those silent problems few seem to want to talk about. This is not just a psychological issue, though, and there may be many who would be surprised to learn that worry is prohibited by God (Matthew 6:25-34). "Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life ..." (Matthew 6:25).

The unfortunate fact remains that many Christians do not consult the word of God for their daily problems, failing to realize that anything can be properly addressed using the wisdom and knowknowledge from. Yet, these same people will consult doctors, read worldly books, listen to what Oprah or Dr. Phil has to say, etc. We need to address worry from a biblical standpoint, realizing it as a problem and habit that can cause us to be lost eternally.

Fact About Worry

It Causes Physical Harm

In Psalm 32:3, we read: "When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long." David speaks here of sin he kept to himself, but anything bottled up inside can lead to "groaning bones." Most everyone has felt that pit in their stomach and feelings of real anguish over something impending, a sure sign that worry has taken control.

Worry Does Not Mean Being Thoughtless or Careless

Some have mistaken teaching against worry as an endorsement of indifference or carelessness. If we adopt an attitude of apathy, we are guilty of the opposite extreme and no better off than if we were worrying. In his teaching in Luke 14:28-32, Jesus talks about planning using a builder and a king as an example. We are reminded by this to be mindful of what is going on round about us and making the necessary arrangements to handle whatever undertaking. There must be balance between worry and apathy, and neither extreme pleases God.

Worry is Useless

I would suggest that people only worry about two things: Things you can't change, and things you can change. Everything falls into one of these categories, and neither represents a good reason to worry. After all, if there's nothing you can do to change something, there's simply no point in worrying about it. And if there is something you can do, heed the direction of Ecclesiastes 9:10: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going."

So how can we stop the sin of worry, and do so according to God's Word?

Forget the Past

Many spend their lives in past days. Some can't live today because of the greatness of yesterday, while others can't make it through today because of the problems and sins of days gone by. And while there is nothing wrong with fond memories or nostalgia, and certainly much can be learned from past mistakes, the Bible teaches against living in the past, regardless of the way we remember it.

Paul writes, "Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:13-14). In this passage, we are instructed to forget the past and look toward the goal, ahead to our goal of eternal life, not dwelling on those things gone by. How much better we would be if we took this advice and pressed forward? Instead, we offer excuses, saying we can't clear our minds of the past. We must be leery of such a line of thinking, though. The words of Philippians 3 are not suggestions, but commands of God, and we must forget what is past and move forward in Him. Imagine if the great Apostle Paul had dwelled on and worried about his past -- what a waste it would have been -- and his was a past full of horrible sin, much of which you and I have had no part. "Although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief" (I Timothy 1:13).

So, from yesterday we must learn from mistakes, we give thanks for our blessings, and then turn our attention to today.

Live One Day at a Time

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble" (Matthew 6:34).

Perhaps it is the speed of modern life with all its conveniences and fast pace. For some reason, people today have a difficult time taking one day at a time. Rather, they "live life in the lump," overwhelming themselves with everything at once. If you think about everything you have to do this week, it will depress you with worry about how you can possible get everything done, and you might not face your week. This kind of thinking is well illustrated in the following facts I recently came across: The average man's lifetime includes 20 years sleeping, 6 years watching television, 5 years shaving and dressing, 3 years waiting for others, 1 year on the telephone, and 4 months tying his shoes. It is overwhelming to me to think about standing in line for 3 years, but we all understand how unreasonable it would be to worry about such a thing. Why then must we consume ourselves over other matters? Good advice according to Jesus' teaching: Don't dwell on everything you have to do, set your mind on what you must do next!

Understand and Accept Yourself and Your Abilities

To really beat worry, we need to come to terms with who we are and what we can do. I'm not saying we should accept sin in our lives or be content with doing the bare minimum, but we must understand everyone is different. We have different degrees of ability and can do different things to serve God. The parable of the talents, comes to mind here (Matthew 25:14-30). Note the one talent man wasn't condemned for not being the five talent man, rather, for not using what he had. How unfortunate that some feel because they cannot do big things they cannot do anything.

You may not be cut out to be a preacher, teacher, song leader, elder, etc. But if you are, use that talent or ability to the glory of God. Don't waste time comparing your service to the service of others; they are not the standard by which we will be judged. We should spend our time seeing how we measure up to the word of God, His standard, looking into it to see how to apply it in our lives, and how we can use our abilities for the furtherance of the kingdom.

Count Your Many Blessings

Often we only want to notice our problems, what's wrong with us and all about us. For many, it is a constant gloom and doom outlook -- this is wrong and that is wrong. Instead of counting our blessings, many folks are busy counting their problems. The Bible speaks to the thankful attitude of the Christian:

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful" (Colossians 3:15).
"Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 5:20).

"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (I Thessalonians 5:18).

Here's something to think about: How would we feel when you put forth great effort and achieve great accomplishments, yet someone complains about what we didn't do? It's like that boss we all had at one time that always made us feel like nothing we did was good enough. Similarly how must God feel or think when we, the most blessed people in the world, both spiritually and physically, bellyache and moan about all our problems? Especially when what He has done for us so greatly outshines the earthly comparisons of what we might do.

If we count our blessings, instead of our problems, we will beat worry.

I really believe the reason people worry is because worry is easier than action. I came across a funny little quote that illustrates this pretty well:

"Worrying is less work than doing something to fix the worry. Everybody wants to save the earth; nobody wants to help Mom with the dishes."

Now, that's not in the Bible, but it reminds us of a biblical truth. Worry is the easy way out, as sin usually is.

"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 understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).

Anxiety-A Serious form of Worry

2011-03-17T15:08:00.000-05:00

Have you every heard someone say....."I'm feeling a little anxious about_________." What they mean is are uneasy about a situation or status. Maybe they are worried about loosing their job. Many first time parents are anxious about the delievery. This is not the kind of anxiety that causes so many to shut down, become homebodies, alcholoics, drug addicts...etc...

The anxiety we are talking about has a serious, foreboding type of apprehension at its root. It is not just being concerened with something, but having an intense uneasiness that controls your every move. Those who are anxious rarely, if ever feel at peace.

Let's open God's word and see what he has to tell us about anxiety....

Philipians 4:6
New International Verison.....
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

God's Word Translation.....
Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks

King James Version....
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

1 Peter 5:6,7: Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time, casting all your cares upon Him for he cares for you.

Philipians 4:7
And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Too Long to be Wrong!

2011-03-03T07:42:00.001-06:00

By Keith Sharp

I saw a great quote on a church sign last week: “Eternity - Too Long to Be Wrong!” How true!
This life is so brief, like the early morning fog over the river (James 4:13-14). But after this life is
over, you and I will either be in heaven or in h-e-l-l, and that forever and ever, either eternal joy or
unceasing misery (Matthew 25:46; Mark 9:43-48; 1 Peter 1:3-5). The statement correctly implies
there is both truth and error, that we must know and believe the truth to be saved (John 8:31-32;
14:6), and that believing falsehood will condemn us (Matthew 15:14; 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12).

Wouldn’t it be terrible to rest your hope for heaven on believing a lie? For example, many
believe the false doctrine of salvation by faith alone. What is the truth? “Not everyone who says
to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in
heaven” (Matthew 7:21). “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only”

(James 2:24). Likewise many cling to the lie of “Once Saved - Always Saved.” What is right?

“Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). “You are
severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace”

(Galatians 5:4, English Standard Version). Friend, eternity is too long indeed! Don’t rest your hope for heaven on lies

Thoughts from Psalms 31

2011-03-01T08:21:00.000-06:00

By Beth Johnson

When the Lord’s people suffer, whether from natural disasters or at the hands of an enemy, to whom should they turn? What should be their source of comfort?

Although Psalms 31 cannot be dated or linked to any particular event in King David’s life, we know that his heart was deeply troubled by something or somebody. Was it his experience with King Saul jealousy? Did he pray this prayer as he was fleeing the 3,000 soldiers deputed to take his life? Was this request made to God during personal trials he endured after his unfortunate sin with Bathsheba? Maybe it was during his flight from his own son Absalom or perhaps his son Adonija? No doubt many such requests were uttered during David’s lifetime, but by inspiration he writes this prayer of praise to God and begs his deliverance.

In David’s prayer, we see the same desperate plea for help that is spoken in two death scenes in the New Testament:

· David says, “Into thine hand I commit my spirit:…” (Psa. 31:5a).

· "And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit" (Luke 23:46).

· “And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” (Acts 7:59).

Such feelings can only be known by those who have come to the valley of the shadow of death.

What were his enemies saying about him?

· “For I have heard the slander of many: fear was on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life. But I trusted in thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my God. My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me for thy mercies' sake. Let me not be ashamed, O LORD; for I have called upon thee: let the wicked be ashamed, and let them be silent in the grave. Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous” (Psa. 31:13-18).

· “I was a reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours, and a fear to mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me” (Psa. 31:11).

Nothing can crush the spirit more thoroughly than rejection from people we love. David knew such rejection from his own “familiar friends.” He says, “Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me” (Psa. 41:9). This prophecy is fully understood when Christ spoke of Judas. “I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me” (John 13:18).

What is the conclusion to David’s prayer? He says, “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD” (Psa. 31:24). Let us all put our trust in our Heavenly Father and remember that only He can change the direction of our lives.

Be Careful Little Eyes

2011-02-28T15:39:00.000-06:00

One of the songs we teach little children reflected in the title of this article, warns them to be careful what they do with their eyes. All of us need to remember this lesson as we decide which TV shows and movies to watch, which books to read, which songs to listen to, and what to do on the Internet.
Recent Studies
U.S. News and World Report reported that teens who watch sex on TV are more likely to start having intercourse (USNews.com, 9/7/04).
Researchers at the RAND corp., the study referenced in the US News and World report above, found that it didn't matter if kids watched sexual behavior or if people just talked about sex on TV; the result was the same — kids who watch TV shows with sexual content are more likely to be sexually active.
The conclusion in the RAND study states that "watching sex on TV predicts and may hasten adolescent sexual initiation." Also that "reducing the amount of sexual content in entertainment programming, reducing adolescent exposure to this content, or increasing references to and depictions of possible negative consequences of sexual activity could appreciably delay the initiation" of sexual activities (PEDIATRICS, Vol. 114, No. 3, September 2004, pp. e280-e289).
A new study released in Pediatrics this month concluded that "exposure to sexual content in music, movies, television, and magazines accelerates white adolescents' sexual activity and increases their risk of engaging in early sexual intercourse" by as much as 2.2 times (PEDIATRICS Vol. 117 No. 4 April 2006, pp. 1018-1027).
Jesus Said It
These studies prove what we already know to be true. Jesus said, "The eye is the light of the body; so then if your eye is clear, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. . . ." (Matt. 6:22-23).
Jesus tells us that we will become what we watch with our eyes. If we view good things, this will help us be good. But if we view evil things, this will encourage us to be evil.
Evil Companions
Paul warns us, "Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals'" (1 Cor. 15:33).
If we watch evil entertainment, we are prone to imitate the evil things we see. If we watch sexual content, we are prone to imitate the sexual behavior we see. If we watch violence, we are prone to imitate the violent behavior we see.
All of us should determine to turn from the deception of Satan, turning away from wickedness that corrupts good morals.
Be Committed, Like David
David's commitment was, "I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes" (Ps. 101:3).
All Christians should make the same commitment. It's not possible for us to avoid all the evil that is in the world. But we can avoid evil in many respects, including TV, movies, the Internet, video games, books, magazines, and music.
If you haven't made the same commitment as David, why don't you make it today? Set no wicked thing before your eyes!

Anxiety-What is it?

2011-02-28T15:20:00.000-06:00

People relate to each other according to their own experiences. If you have never experienced anxiety or depression it can be hard to know what to say to those who are. Depression and anxiety seem to be a double sided coin. Most who have had to deal with depression end up having at least some anxiety. Those who deal with anxiety usually have to deal with depressionl.
How is anxiety different from depression?

People who are anxious have feelings of fear, nervousness, and are apprehensive. Those who are depressed feel empty, alone and sad

Anxiety causes one to always feel uptight. They have tense muscles, heart palpitations, nausea, diarrhea and a general feeling of agitation. Like an animal in a cage or a garment being tossed about in a washing machine.

Depression slows you down, makes you feel tired and sleepy. You feel as if you are in slow motion all the time. You may say to yourself "will this ever go away?"

An anxious person will always be on the edge of their seat, easily startled. You may become an perfectionist and worry if you can do the job right.

Those who are depressed will slump. They don't have the energy to sit up straight. They are no longer interested in hobbies they once enjoyed.

Anxiety causes one to have a very real fear of death. They may think of it often, but they do not think of suicide. They are afraid that they are not ready to meet God. They will often stay home for fear of an accident. They constantly worry what will happen to them, where will they do, what will their family do.....if they die.

Those who are deeply depressed only think of dieing. They believe that is all that is left for them and its the only way to stop feeling so bad. Those who are depressed often think of suicide. They just want it all to go away.

Over the next few days I hope to be posting more about anxiety and depression. I hope to take a Biblical look at it and see what we can do to overcome or help those we love to overcome these two debilitating issues.

Please feel free to comment or ask a question. If you would are more comfortable with a private discussion email me brandypack@charter.net

Teaching Your Children to be Reverant in Worship #1

2010-09-23T18:50:00.000-05:00

John 4:23,24- But the hour is coming and now is when the TRUE worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is a spirit, and those that worship him MUST worship him in spirit and truth.

If we are to teach our children to be reverant in worship, we must first be reverant ourselves. Despite what most people will tell you, God IS interested in the little details! In Old Testament times worship was very ritual and detailed. Today God looks at our character....where our heart is. He knows how many hairs are on your head. Details are still important!

1 Tim. 1:17- Now to the King Eternal, immortal, invisiable....be honor and glory forever and ever. How would you conduct yourself in worship with a great king were there, or the president? God is always with us! He is eternal, immortal and invisible. He deserves the best we can give!

John 3:16- For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son....That same King Eternal gave his only Son to save you. Do you think he deserves a TRUE WORSHIPPER?

Hebrews 12:28,29-let us have grace....serve God acceptable with reverance and godly fear.

I found three Greek definitions for reverance:

1. to feel respect for, defer to-much like we would a king or president

2. fear-as a wife does her husband-a good wife does things to please her husband because she is afraid of dissapointing him.

3. Caution- as used in Hebrews 12:28,29- If we love God we will use caution in our worship. We want to be sure that we worship Him in the way He wants to be worshipped.

A TRUE worshipper will serve God with complete devotion. A TRUE worshipper will show respect for God's word with it is being read, taught or sang.

Remember---"where two or three are come together in my name, there I am in the midst of them"

Once we have taught ourselves to worship God the way GOD wants to be worshipped, then we teach that same reverance to our children.

Part Two-Suggestions

Coming to the Defense of Sin and Error by Jonathan Perz

2010-09-14T14:20:00.003-05:00

A common problem that always seems to surround sin and sinners is the need for people to come to their defense. We see this clearly in the controversy surrounding President Clinton and we see it in churches and homes. Often times, people will soften the blows of truth to comfort those they deem afflicted. Too often, people will condemn the righteous while comforting the sinner. Many times, excuses are made for sin and error. Is this God’s wisdom or is it man’s? Is this what the Bible teaches we should do or do we have things backwards? What does the Bible have to say regarding the defense of sin and error?
Exposing Error
When one is steeped in sin and error, the last thing they want is someone to expose their error, even though it is what they need (Ephesians 5:11-12). In John 3:20-21, it is written, “For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
Clearly, when a person has sin in their life, their eternal soul is in jeopardy. We know sin separates man from his God (Isaiah 59:1-2). Therefore out of love, both for God and man, friends and loved ones must seek to expose those who are in error and save them from hell. In Galatians 6:1, the Bible says, “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, you who are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering yourself, lest you also be tempted” (see also James 5:19-20; Jude 22-23). These are the commands of God. Yet, this becomes extremely difficult when men come to the defense of sin and error.
Softening The Blows of Truth
Under the guise of love, defenders will seek to soften the chastisement of men who are speaking the truth in love. They themselves neglect to affirm the truth. Rather than admonish those in error, they comfort them. Rather than save them from eternal destruction, they let them fall headlong into it. This is tragic!
What defenders of error and sin fail to realize is that when a man speaks the words of God, it is the chastisement of God they reveal. In Revelation 3:19, the Bible says, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent” (read also Hebrews 12:5-11). This is what the word of God, which is sharper than any two-edged sword, has the power to do (Hebrews 4:12; Romans 1:16).
Yet, men dull the blades of truth by softening the blows of God. Defenders of sin and error use words like humbled, broken, crushed, distressed, and contrite to describe the sinner and pull emotion and pity from the hearts of those who must expose their error. Sometimes, such words are fitting and true and manifest themselves in godly sorrow and repentance (2 Corinthians 7:8-11). However, more often than not the sinner—when confronted and exposed—becomes angry, upset, puffed-up, prideful and defiant. These are not the fruits of humility. These are the fruits of a man lost in sin. These are the signs of a man who does not need watered down medication to cure the woes of his soul, but strong doses of truth to humble and heal him (James 4:4-10; 1 Peter 5:6-9).
Condemning The Righteous
He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both of them alike are an abomination to the Lord. (Prov. 17:15)
Another problem with those who defend sin and error is that they condemn those who are standing for truth and righteousness. Those who justify wickedness attribute names and motives to those who seek to uphold the word of God (1 Kings 18:17-18). They are called mean-spirited, evil, unloving, and unkind. They are likened unto bulldogs, vultures and carnivores. They are accused of attacking innocent people, making a big deal out of nothing, hitting men when they are down, and focusing on trifles and small vices of others. All of this, whether intended or not, clouds the waters of righteousness and diverts attention from those in sin. Why can’t men understand how God feels about such evasive and unrighteous maneuvering?The wise man wrote in Proverbs 17:15, “He that justifies the wicked, and he that condemns the just, even both are abomination to the Lord.” Again, in Proverbs 28:4, the Bible says, “They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them.” The apostle Paul asked of the Galatians in Galatians 4:16, “Therefore, have I become your enemy because I tell you the truth?”
This attitude needs to be likened unto one who despises a doctor for saving their life. Or a child who says ‘I hate you’ when they do not get their way. In a very physical sense, would I be despised of you for breaking your arm by pulling you out of the way of an oncoming car? It is the same thing as condemning the righteous.
Never Make Excuses
Sin and error do not need excuses, they need exposure. They do not need defense, they need truth. There is no excuse that will make sin and error right in the sight of God. For that matter, there will be no excuses or defenders in the judgment—only the Lord, yourself and the life you have lived. There will be no loopholes, gray area or confusion—only a righteous and just examination of your life and a speedy judgment.
When we make excuses for sin and error, we do a grave disservice to the guilty. The Bible says, “Let favor be showed to the wicked, yet will he not learn righteousness; in the land of uprightness will he deal wrongfully, and will not behold the majesty of Jehovah” (Isaiah 26:10). Again, in Jeremiah 23:14, the Bible says, “I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem an horrible thing: they commit adultery, and walk in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness: they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah.” Excusing sin now prolongs justice until the end, when it is too late.
Conclusion
It would be unfair to say that there are not cases of people suffering “unrighteous judgment.” It happens often. There are many false accusers who will give account of themselves before God. But, the apostle Peter gives the righteous man the correct attitude to bear in such cases (read 1 Peter 2:19-20).
Overall, in Ecclesiastes 8:11, the Bible summarizes the danger of defending sin and error in one statement: “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” Next time we decide to take up the fight for those who commit sin and teach error, let us think hard on these words.

My Daddy

2010-01-05T13:18:00.003-06:00

I just thought I would share this picture of my Daddy with everyone. My nephew made the picture. You can see other pictures he has made by going to http://photosbyforeveryours.com/

A Fall Poem

2009-09-23T10:14:00.003-05:00

In autumn when the trees are brown

The little leaves come tumbling down

They do not make the slightest sound

But lie so quietly on the ground

Until the wind comes puffing by

And blows them off towards the sky.

Thatcher Michael

2009-08-20T13:52:00.003-05:00

Our fourth child, Thatcher Michael, was born on Aug 12th at 11:02. He wieghed 8 pounds and was 21 inches long. He and I are both doing very well. He is such a blessing to our family.

Learning To Be More Frugal

2008-12-10T08:15:00.001-06:00

Money doesn't grow on trees does it? Some would love if it did. I know my children would.

I think on of the greatest dangers for a Christian these days is the desire to have more material possessions. An article I recently read in The Instructor stated that "covetousness and devotion to God and no more exist together than fire and water". How true it is! (see Luke 12:15)

One definition for covetousness is "a greedy desire to have more." It is not sinful to desire some material possession, but covetousness is an unlawful desire to have things for one's own self. It is a form of selfishness. It is a sin of the flesh. Covetousness is evident not just in ones improper desire to obtain more, but by the imprudent usage of that which is obtained.

A good steward will not be covetous but will be a good manager of household affairs. As a homemaker I believe this to be one of my greatest challenges. If I am to be a good stewards of what God has blessed me with then I must be frugal. What does being frugal really mean? Here is the definition below according to dictionary.com

Adjective-
1.economical in use or expenditure; prudently saving or sparing; not wasteful: a frugal manager.

2.entailing little expense; requiring few resources; meager; scanty: a frugal meal.

Personally I have not always tried to be a very frugal person, it is something I have to work hard to be good at. Now don't get me wrong, I have never been a big spender and I grew up learning from some very frugal parents! In fact my parents grew up in the 40's and 50's when no one really had much and frugal living was a way of life for everyone.

Now that the economy is making normal life more difficult for some of us I thought I would post a few things on being frugal. I would love if some of you can post in the comments your own frugal tips to share. I can use a lot of help in the area.

Here are some things I do to be a better steward of God's blessings:

1. When weather permits I hang towels on the close line

2. Hang up clothes to dry even if you just short their time in the dryer and hand them when damp.

3. Make your laundry soap.

4. Make your own window cleaner

These are really some very simple and basic ways to save on spending. I'm sure most of you already know these things, I am hoping to add to this list in the future with other post. I hope some of you will leave a comment about what you do to be good stewards too.

Love's Last Test

2008-10-12T16:49:00.004-05:00

The following was written by a friend or ours, Steve Klein. I hope it touches you as it did me!

I miss my Dad. He set my young feet on a straight path. In my adult life, he was a strong fellow-worker in the Kingdom. I miss my dad even though he is still here. My dad has Alzheimer's disease. My mom cares for him; an on going struggle which both tests and strengthens her love for him day by day.
Mom shared this poem with me the other day; it was written by Dorothy Gast on honor of O.J. Gast and is entitled:

"Will you Still Love Me?"

Will you still love me if I don't know your name,

When my eyes have failed and nothing is the same?

When I don't know the date or even my age,

Or what is this book and where is the page?

Will you take time to remember and cherish our past,

And make our shared moments gold as long as they last?

Will you hold me and touch me and wrap me in care,

And whisper reminders of the history we share?

Will you hold on to me when myself fades away,

And you are a face from a dim yesterday?

When I want to go home and home is where I stand,

Will you gently remind me and hold to my hand?

When I call you Mama and forget you're my wife,

Will you tease me and kiss me and rejoice in my life?

Will you hold on to my world when I cannot see,

Will you keep a sweet thought for our used-to-be?

Will you keep our familiy together and memories bright,

Reminding our children to seek for the right?

And when I can no longer hold up my share,

Will you still take time to show me you care?

Will you hold on to my worlds for me?

Love is truely the greatest of all abiding things. It "bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails" (1 Cor 13:7,8a) And love, real love, between a husband and a wife, bravely faces even its final test. As my Dad would say, "in the final analysis", love really is "as strong as death" (Song of Solomon 8:6) ---Steve Klien

Steves father died from complications of Alzheimers a few years back. Steve's mother, who introduced him to this poem, now suffers from it as well. Steve and his wife Sandi are now caring for her.

Be watching for the "Honor Your Husbands" Challenge!

Smokey Mtn. Vacation 08 Part 2

2008-10-10T20:10:00.001-05:00

A few miles past DollyWood, on a curving back road outside of Pigeon Forge you will find Parrot Mountain. I actually missed seeing the sign to turn into it and drove on past for a mile or so. The country side was beautiful. Parrot Mountain is a tropical bird sanctuary that is open in warm weather only. The property is decorated in what I would call Mediterranian style. A kind lady took a picture of the girls and I on the entrance steps.

Emily is pretty afraid of almost all God's creatures so I wasn't able to take a lot a pictures. I had to hold her hand most of the time. She did get have the courage to feed the birds you see above. These were the only ones she fed, but I was proud of her for doing it.

There was another area where visitors could feed Lori's some sugar water. Jordan and I did this. I ended up with two on my head, one or two on each shoulder and seveal on my arm that help the sugar water. Jordan had several on her as well. I wish I could have gotten a picture. One of the Lori's bit my arm for no reason... ha!

The colorful bird you see above is a type of pheasant. I believe it was called a Golden Pheasant. It along with a peacock and two or three other species were in an area called The Secret Garden. Beautiful stone walls were around this part of the tour. This area was magical to me. You passed through a lovely wooden door into a garden foyer of sorts. Along the pathways were plaques that quoted scripture from the creation story in Genesis.

If I remember correctly this beautiful bird is a type of McCaw. There were all kinds of colorful birds like this one there. Some you could feed and some were off limites and were only for veiwing. The Parrot Mountain nursery was a place Jordan really enjoyed. She came away begging for a Pocket Parrot (Parrotett? I think the are also called)! Do a seach on them. They are really very neat little birds.

Not only were the birds wonderful to see, but the grounds were landscaped with impatients, river rock, hemlock, ferns, and other beautiful plants. The waterfall here was at the summit of the sanctuary. To the right of the waterfall a path led to a prayer garden where a stone tomb had been biult to mimic Christ's tomb.

If you are ever in the Smokey's (except for winter) be sure to visit Parrot Mountain!

Smokey Mtn. Vacation 08 Part 1

2008-10-10T14:24:00.000-05:00

Last week our family took a vacation to the Great Smokey Mountains. We left early Sunday morning and traveled to Chatanooga to worship with the North Terrace Church of Christ for morning services. After services and a quick lunch we were on the road again. We arrived in Gatlinburg mid afternoon and went straigth to our Townhouse...of course that was right after we picked up a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts! YUM! We relaxed until time for church that night. We visited the Chapman Highway congregation Sunday night. It was the first time we had been there in several years. I am not sure what happened there, but the congregations size was much smaller than it used to be. The kids enjoyed a whilrpool bath Sunday night before bed! HA!

Monday we drove a motor trail called "Roaring Fork". I took the picture above at an overlook. I though it was awesome. We also stopped along the way to explore the "Ogle Homestead" and the surrounding nature tails. I will blog a separate post for that. I think it was my favorite part of the trip. After lunch we headed for DollyWood. Did you know that it you enter after 3:00 the next day ia FREE? That is what we did. I didn't take my cmaera so I didn't get pictures for it, but we had a lot of fun. DollyWood is very family oriented. This week was Harvest and Gospel week too. I really enjoyed watching craftman spin, weave, do tatting, carve wook, and make molasses! Jake and Jordan stunted the growth when the rode the Thunderhead roller coaster. We really enjoyed all the rides. Emily was tall enough for a few things too. She had never experienced anything quiet like that before.

It rained the whole day on Wednesday so we slept late and did a lot of relaxing. We did get out for lunch and spent some time a books store before going to church for Bible study. We actually saw a family there we know! Isn't it a small world?

Thursday the Shane and Jake left the townhouse early. They took the Jeep we rented and went to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail. The girls and I got all our things packed into the car and went shopping and to a bird sanctuary. I will blog about that separetly too.

Here is Jake hiking his way up to Charlies Bunion. Shane had to take most of the pictures so you won't see him in these. Shane did get in one picture that Jake took of him at the summit. It ended up being to dark to post. Below is Jake a the top of Charlies Bunion. Shane said the view was amazing! At the summit there was a rocky area, where Shane and Jake ate their lunch. Jake was pretty scared because of the shear drop down the side of the mountain there!
The leaves were just beginning to turn while we were there. This is one of the pictures from the top of Charlies Bunion. You can imagine how breathtaking it would have been to be up that high and see such a beautiful landscape.
They really did enjoy the hike. Our family loves to get out into nature and enjoy God's country side. Shane and Jake are hoping someday to hike all of the Appalachian Trial from Georgia to Maine!

1 Corinthians for Mothers

2008-08-05T07:12:00.000-05:00

If I live in a house of spotless beauty with everything in its place,but have not love,I am a housekeeper, not a homemaker.

If I have time for waxing, polishing, and decorative achievements,but have not love,my children learn cleanliness, not godliness.

If I scream at my children for every infraction,and fault them for every mess they make,but have not love,my children become people-pleasers, not obedient children.

Love leaves the dust in search of a child's laugh.Love smiles at the tiny fingerprints on a newly cleaned window.

Love wipes away the tears before it wipes up the spilled milk.Love picks up the child before it picks up the toys.

Love accepts the fact that I am the ever-present "mommy,"the taxi-driver to every childhood event,the counselor when my children fail or are hurt.

Love crawls with the baby, walks with the toddler, and runs with the child,then stands aside to let the youth walk into adulthood.

Before I became a mother I took glory in my house of perfection.Now I glory in God's perfection of my child.

All the projections I had for my house and my childrenhave faded away into insignificance,And what remain are the memories of my kids.

Now there abides in my home scratches on most of the furniture,dishes with missing place settings,and bedroom walls full of stickers, posters and markings,But the greatest of all is the Love that permeates my relationships with my children.

-Adapted by Jim Fowler

Curriculum for 2008-2009

2008-07-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd share what were studying this year with everyone... so here it is.....

A Beka Math K for Emily

A Beka Math 4 for Jordan

A Beka Math 5 for Jake

A Reason for Handwriting Cursive (E) for Jake and Jordan Manuscript (A) for Emily

Apologia Science- Flying Creatures of the Fifth Day (we do this together as a read aloud, all experiments are done together as well)

History- American- A Beka. We are also doing a lot of notebooking with this. Anytime Emily can participate she does. Jake and Jordan will be memorizing: The America's Creed, The first portion of The Declaration of Independance and some other documents as well.

Reading- (Jake and Jordan) We have no particulular curriculum...just lots and lots of reading. Among the books on the list this year are Little Women, Captians Courageous, Story of My Life by Helen Keller, The Hobbit by Tolkein, The Story of King Authur and His Knights, Swiss Family Robinson, Trial and Triumph by Richard Hannula, Florence Nightingale by Ruth Hume, Tanglewood Tales by Nathaniel Hawthorne

Reading (for Emily)- anything she wants to read basically. Our main focus with her is teaching her to read and reading a loud with her as often as we can. We are using Phonics Pathways and we absolutely LOVE IT!

Grammar: Gworing with Grammer for Jake and Jordan; Language and Thinking for Young Children (for Emily)

Writing Strands for Jake and Jordan and the LOVE IT! They ask to do it! Its really a wonderful program in my opinion.

Commnication and Interpersonal Relationships (same publisher as writing strands)- has some great lessons on improving your communication skills.

Abeka Health 4 and 5 for Jake and Jordan

Art--A Beka Art 5 for Jake and Jordan. They love it! Also we are doing Drawing with Children as a family.

Bible- So far I have been doing some character lessons I got the ideas from daniellesplace.com. In a couple of weeks we'll start a 5 year Chronilogical Study of the Bible we downloaded from the Embry Hills website. Emily will sit with Jake and Jordan for some of these lessons but she has her own Bible too. Right now for Emily we are doing Rod and Staffs "Bible Stories" to read and color. They are short lessons that explain things just right for her.

I would like to highly recommend starfall.com for anyone just teaching their children to read. We love Star Fall. All of my children have learned a lot of their phonics from the site. There are print offs available as well. Star Fall is something Emily does everyday as a part of her school work!

RYC 2008!!

2008-07-24T22:55:00.000-05:00

Russellville Alabama is home to Rustic Youth Camp (RYC).

Below is a picture of the group of kids I spent the week with. Of course my children were in that group as well, minus Emily. Emily went to "granny-maw camp". The kids had a great time. I had been sick and some other things were on my mind that week that kept me from being myself. When I look back at the week I wish I had laid those mental burdens aside and enjoyed the week more.

Here is a picture from the first day. Jordan and a couple of the children from the 3rd and 4th grade class found a beetle they were very interested in. The area around RYC Camp is home to a lot of animal and insect life. I promise those are NOT shorts Jordan is wearing. They ar culottes. She just wasn't being very good about keeping modest in the picture. I didn't notice until later how much of her leg was showing in this picture!

Here Jordan is holding on of many lizards found during our week at camp. This wasn't the prettiest one, but its the one I got a picture of! My Jordan is some what of a "tom boy". I am working very hard to may her more "girly". I am glad she enjoy's God's creatures as much as she does though.

Here the children were playing a game where they had to take cards with books of the Bible on them and put them in order faster. It was boys against girls.... I think the girls won, but I don't remember for sure.

This picture was taken of the children playing a water ballon game. Notice the beautiful backdrop.

To me this was on of the funniest things all week. The man in the picture was turning a year older this day. His grandson was there staying in the bunkhouse. The boys in the bunkhouse all cut off some of their hair (this is what I heard anyway) and glued it together to make side burns and hair for the man's "birthday gift". It was quiet funny!

Ahh... my sweet little Jake is playing in the infamous goldfish pond. There were no fish in the pond, instead it was home to many, many tadpoles. All the kids would save their cups at snack and catch tadpoles in them. It was a hot spot for most of the week. The camp owner came back and just smiled saying "at least they were having fun".

The last night, Friday night, all age groups compete in differnt relay games. After the games the parents and children enjoy a meal before the children perform the skits they have practiced all week. Here is Jake passing of a baggy of water to the next child in line.

Here is Jordan holding up her culottes getting ready for her turn at using her toes to pick marbles out of a 10 gallon bucket filled with ice water. HE HE!!

This group was not our group. It is the kindergardent group. I just couldn't resist getting a picture if their version of the Muffin Man! SO CUTE!

RYC camp is not only a lot of fun and games for kids, but it's a great opportunity for them (and adults) to gain new Christian friends and deepen the bond with old ones. My children and I are always encouraged to know that there really are other Christians striving for "the mark". Each morning the whole camp met for singing, devotionals and the Pleadge of Alligence. Each meal and snack was preceded by prayer. Every class had Bible study once or twice a day. The Bible and God's word was the center focus of each day. The "fun" was just an added bonus. I just hope that someday my hubby will get to enjoy the experience with us.

Psalm 90:2

2008-05-31T12:02:00.001-05:00

Before the mountains were brought forth,

Or ever You had formed the earth and the world,

Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.

We had a gospel meeting this week and on one of the nights, the preacher, R.J. Stevens, preached about the wonders of the Bible. In his message he quoted the verse above. For me the lesson was very encouraging. This verse is one of my favorites. It is very comforting and reassuring. It tells me that no matter what has happened here on earth, no matter what MAY happen in the future GOD IS THERE! He is there and he is unchanging. The preacher also quoted another verse this week that I had not thought about in a long time. 1John 4:4

Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.

As long as "HE" is in me I truly "can do all things!" (Phil. 4:13) He that is in me is stronger than Satan! So when life gets hard and things seem to be falling apart remember IF the "HE" is in you, you CAN NOT loose!

Here is the link for that sermon! The Wonders of the Bible