THANKSGIVING PAST

The turkey has been roasted eaten and deboned. Plastic bowls of stuffing, vegetables, white and sweet potatoes fill the refrigerator. The Chocolate Cheese Cake, pecan and pumpkin pie have all been sampled. Some have settled down for an afternoon nap while the football games continue; the Thanksgiving Day festivities are winding down as I reminisce of past Thanksgivings.

As a child we sometimes spent Thanksgiving Day at one of our Grandparents. There were always aunts, uncles, cousins to play with and mountains of food. The most memorable Thanksgivings were the ones spent at home with Dad, Mom, my brother and four sisters. Mom would get up early in the morning to make her special cornbread dressing, stuff the turkey and get it cooking in the roaster. The family would wake to the aroma of roasting turkey and baking pies. Breakfast usually consisted of a healthy slice of homemade pie with a glass of ice cold milk. Mom continued cooking all the dishes that made Thanksgiving special. Along with the turkey and dressing there were fluffy mashed potatoes that were really mashed with an old fashioned potato masher instead of whipped with a mixer. The sweet potatoes came from a garden instead of a syrupy can. Mom would slice the potatoes and sauté them until tender then serve them topped with butter and brown sugar. Dishes of green beans, corns and cranberry sauce rounded out the meal. The only concession to traditional and homemade was the dinner rolls. On Thanksgiving we had brown and serve rolls. It was my job to butter the tops before popping them in the oven then butter them for each of my sisters at the table. To this day my sisters will still ask me to butter their rolls, they assure me no one does it better!

As a child, Thanksgiving was about fun and feasting. Before eating, we always had to name one thing for which we were thankful. We would all name the usual things like, Dad, Mom, brother, sisters and of course, Mike was always thankful for the Turkey or something only he would think was hilarious. Fortunately, I have matured over the last 51 years. I still enjoy the food; the cooking and the eating, but now I have my priorities in much better order. I have learned to be truly thankful, not just on Thanksgiving, but for the benefits we are “loaded” with daily.

It is easy to thank God for the big, once-in-a-lifetime blessings, but what about waking up in the morning, the smell of freshly brewed coffee or a hot shower? A hug from a grandchild and sticky fingerprints on the glass door are blessings to be treasured any day of the year. On this Thanksgiving Day, 2008 enjoy feasting with your family, watching football, or playing games but set aside a few minutes to be thankful. Ignore the colorful advertisements of tomorrow’s super sales and take a walk. Thank God for the fresh air, healthy lungs to breathe in and out, and strong legs to carry you around the block. Take the time to read the storybook to your grandchild for the tenth time and thank God for that grandchild’s unconditional love and the little life you have been entrusted to help mold and point in the right direction. Take the time to really listen to what your loved ones are saying and rejoice in their successes and incredible wisdom. Finally, as you sit down to rest after the food has been eaten and the dishes washed, thank God that everyone had more than they needed and the cornbread dressing was once again, a success.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

BECAUSE OF GOD'S GRACE

The following is a devotional I received this morning. It left me with a feeling of uncertainty rather than hope. Any rebuttal that I can write would be sorely inadequate, so I asked one of my favorite thinkers and writers to stand in my place. Below the devotional is the commentary written by my son Steven who is much more eloquent then I am. I am so thankful we have all been chosen for salvation and that God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

Amazing Grace or Random Grace
Tim Challies

A while ago I received an email from a father, concerned about the task of sharing the gospel with his children. Here is what he sent to me:

I have such a hard time grasping the notion of election as a father. I struggle with why so much of Bible addresses us as decision making/choice making creatures, appealing to us to recognize something and depart from sin and accept Christ.
Yet if God is simply "zapping" us with irresistible Grace, it seems to me that our efforts for others to turn away sin and accept Christ is really not genuine. It seems rigged.
Is there anything that can assure me that I have an influence in whether my child's number is called?

I certainly understand the heart behind this question. I, too, am a father and one who is deeply concerned about the eternal welfare of my children. I love them so deeply and desire nothing greater than that they would turn to Christ in repentance and faith
Like this reader, I am sometimes tempted to express frustration with the way God has chosen to save a people for Himself. But through it all I know that his ways are not only good; his ways are best.

Here's the 3-part answer I gave this father:

First, I think we need to have much greater confidence in God's sovereignty than in the ability of our children to choose God without his foreordaining grace. Without God's grace, none of us could ever turn to him. So we need to take refuge in God's sovereignty and not make it an occasion of fear or dread.

Second, I think it is helpful to see predestination as something that is of far greater concern to God than to us. While we see from Scripture that God has predestined his elect to eternal life, I'm not sure that it is helpful for us to think too much about who is among the elect and who is not.

Third, we need to be careful in how we understand God's work of election. Scripture does not say that certain people "had their number called" and others did not. Instead, we read that God chose some because he had special love for them. There is nothing random about it.
Take adoption for example.

When a couple sets out to adopt a child, they have a large number of potential children available to them. But somewhere in the process of adoption they set their heart on a particular child. It is not that they have chosen this child randomly, but rather that they did so because their affections were set upon him.

Their selection of a particular child is not unfair to the other children. One child was graciously selected for the special blessing of adoption while many others were not. Giving a gift to one person does not make it unfair to withhold a gift from another.

While God has, indeed, ordained who will be saved, he has not told us who he will save. And so we are called us to take the gospel message far and wide, preaching it to all men and allowing God to work the gift of faith into those whom he has chosen for life.

Our task in evangelism is not ultimately to win people to Christ but to faithfully preach the gospel message. If we preached that message, we have done what God calls us to.
As believers, we must learn to rejoice in his goodness as well a sin his sovereign choice and grace. His grace is not random.

It is amazing.

HERE IS STEVEN'S COMMENTARY:

The view expressed in the devotional is a most unfortunate viewpoint. Not only does it do nothing to assuage the fears the father has for his children, it paints a picture of God who is anything but sovereign. True sovereignty rises above emotion and reaction.

1. A sovereign God does not fear that some will not choose Him...He cannot have His pride hurt. Though this is not stated outright, the concept of God fearing that He will lose control is underlying in Calvinism and that is why we as mere humans cannot possibly have free choice. God will never lose control regardless of the decisions we make. His sovereignty means that we must play by His rules no matter what. God's sovereignty is not in the least bit threatened by our choices.

2. The metaphor of adoption is poor because it makes God passive. God is always active, because He is the highest power and nothing can act upon Him making Him passive. A couple wanting to adopt is given a choice from what is available. They are passive in that they have no control over the range of selection. They did not create the children and then select which ones would gain their "special love". God is the Creator. He is active in Creation, not a passive bystander. He does not pick and choose out of a fixed set over which He had no control, and then pour out "special love" based upon some inherent, attractive quality that we possess. Instead, He created each individual with the same opportunity and elements of spirit required to come to Him.

If he did not create us equally, then God must be a vindictive creator that is simply toying with our lives. He then would have created those who have no choice or opportunity to worship Him, to praise Him, and to call Him Father. Likewise, there would be no value in our praise because it would not come out of a recognition of God's sovereignty and worth, but would rather come out of obligation to our nature. Following that line of reasoning, Calvinism falls apart because it states that we are in a state of Total Depravity. If it is our created nature to worship, then we are not in Total Depravity. This causes acts of sin and righteousness to differ none at all...they are simply destiny and foreordained of God. We, as the created, have no choice in the matter of our actions. All of this leaves creation without value, worship without value, and, on the other side, sin without a negative value. It removes moral consequence from our actions. A consequence is the result of a sequence of actions. If created without choice, there exists no consequence dependent upon action; instead, there is simply destiny. No matter the choice, all actions lead to the same end. Given that knowledge, there is now no guilt to be found in acting in sin because you are either chosen or not chosen. Of course, you can see the slippery slope and danger of thinking too coherently about Calvinism. Calvinists would try to deny this line of reasoning by talking about God's sovereignty and justice, but it all ends up being double speak.

3. God is no respecter of persons; therefore there can be no single, inherent quality that one possesses that will gain God's love. God's love is universal, as well as equal for all. His grace is also universal, as well as equal for all. The concept of grace is misunderstood by Calvinists. They view it more as a force that God uses to pull us to Him. Grace is simply the unmerited favor of God. It is not a force; it is the state in which each of us lives. It is by the grace of God that we live though we have sinned. It is by the grace of God that He provided Himself a sacrifice for our sins. It is by the grace of God that we have the opportunity to be saved. It is by the grace of God that we receive blessing. God's grace is available to all that are willing to receive it, but it does not actively force us toward God. God's grace entices us to Him, but does not push us.

4. If Calvinists are correct, then God has acted against His own will. The Bible states that it is God's will that none should perish. If it is God's will that none should perish and we have no choice to make (since God has made it for us), then none will perish. Calvinists will say that "none of God's chosen" will perish, but that is not what the Bible says. If God is sovereign as Calvinists define it, then nobody will suffer hell since God doesn't want anyone there.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that this guy is confused in his concept of God's self-revelation to man. Jesus is the revelation of God to man. He came to seek and save that which is lost. Do we not all fall into that category, even those not "chosen"?

Steven Niswonger
sdniswonger@foremosteng.com
Feel free to send any comments to Steven. I’m sure he will be happy to reply.

It is up to each one of us to accept what God offers as a free gift by obedience to His Word. Make the right choice today!

STILL THE GREATEST NATION ON EARTH

The long political season culminated in a history-making election yesterday. The last battle of the hard fought campaign has been waged and the dust is starting to settle. Over the next few days there will be celebration, gloating, bitterness and microscopic analysis to determine why one side won and the other side lost.

As a Christian/Republican, I am sad that so many people voted their own self-interest rather than biblical principles, but as a Christian/American, I am hopeful. I am hopeful that all Americans will come together to preserve the ideals that make this the greatest nation on earth. I am hopeful that all Americans will not allow precious freedoms to slip away; the freedoms that allow us to disagree yet live in peace with each other. I am hopeful that one day we can finally put the race issue behind us and as Martin Luther King stated, actually judge one another not on the color of our skin but of the contact of our character. I am hopeful that the Republicans will finally get their act together, learn something from a “community organizer,” coordinate a ground game and win in 2012.

As you all know by now, my candidate did not win, but I refuse to repeat the behavior of the Democrats toward George Bush over the last 8 years. I refuse to show disdain and hatred toward the next leader of this great nation. Daniel 2:21 says, “And he changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and sets up kings.” When we understand that all power and authority come from God, it is not so difficult to show respect to all our leaders, regardless of party affiliation.

We need to push past the anger and disappointment and obey I Timothy 2:1-3 which instructs us to pray for those in authority. “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks, be made for all men. For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.” This verse commands us to pray, intercede and even give thanks for all men, without regard to party or agreement, so that we may lead peaceable lives. If for no other reason, be obedient because it is good and acceptable in the sight of God.

The sun will rise tomorrow morning; we will go to work and come home to our loving families; we will still live blessed lives because our hope is in the Lord.

PRAY ON MONDAY; VOTE ON TUESDAY

On Tuesday, Americans will go to the polls to cast their vote for the next President of the United States. I believe this will be the most important election in my lifetime. The people we choose to place in power will have lasting effects on our culture and liberties.

Our Constitution provides for three branches of government with distinctly different responsibilities. The Executive Branch is responsible for enforcing the laws. The Legislative Branch is to make the laws and it is the duty of the Judicial Branch to interpret the constitutionality of the laws. In today’s government, the duties have become skewed. We have the Legislative branch holding hearings and issuing subpoenas and the Judicial branch legislating from the bench making it impossible for the Executive branch to carry out its enforcement responsibilities. Many feel this president will possibly appoint up to 4 Supreme Court Judges. John McCain has stated that he will appoint strict constructionist’s judges. Judges who will interpret the law according to the wording laid down in the constitution by our founding fathers. Barack Obama has stated that he believes a judge has to bring in his or her own perspectives, ethics or moral bearings. He also believes that a judge should be sympathetic enough to those who are on the outside, those who are vulnerable, those who are powerless, those who can't have access to political power and as a consequence can't protect themselves from being dealt with sometimes unfairly. While the rhetoric may sound appealing, bringing your own moral bearings, ethics and sympathy into constitutionality decisions is not included in the powers of the Judiciary branch.

You are not just casting a vote for a personality; you are casting a vote based on your morals and core values. There are clear differences in philosophy that will affect many of the things we hold sacred; life, marriage, rewards for success, our children’s economic future, building a strong nation of achievers or producing a nation of government-dependent citizens.

Your vote on Tuesday cannot change your relationship with God but it can change the American way of life. Prayerfully consider your vote on Monday, then go to the polls on Tuesday and cast your vote as a proud American.

ELECTION BLUES

I was very disappointed with the debate last night. I am a staunch Republican because of moral issues. I am also a Fiscal Conservative, believing in low taxes and minimal government interference and intervention. I think the Bail Out package passed by Congress smells too much like a Government Takeover and one more step in the direction of Socialism. Now, I hear my candidate state that he thinks the government should revalue the mortgages of those who can’t keep their contractual obligations, thereby making it possible for them to keep the home they couldn’t afford in the first place. Has the idea that sometimes there are consequences to choices flown out the window? My house isn’t worth what we paid for it 3 years ago, I want in on this deal.

Failure can be one of life’s most valuable lessons. We all know parents that will not allow their children to fail, thereby creating selfish, egocentric little monsters. One Christian counselor made this observation, “Always bailing out our children and not allowing them to fail, whether moral or financial, prevents God from teaching them valuable lessons and molding their character.” Our intervention actually causes them to repeat the mistakes over and over until we finally run out of resources or the knowledge to help them. This seems to be the road that our government is traveling.

I read this on a website a few days ago. I found it encouraging in these uncertain times. I hope it lifts your spirits as it did mine.

(Author Unknown)TEN PREDICTIONS NO MATTER WHO WINS THE ELECTION:

This is something we need to remember...

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.

2. Prayer will still work.

3. The Holy Spirit will still move.

4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.

5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.

6. There will still be singing of praise to God.

7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.

8. There will still be room at the Cross.

9. Jesus will still love you.

10. Jesus will still save the lost.

ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS STILL IN CONTROL?

Amen

I am so thankful, now more than ever, that my hope is in the Lord, Creator of Heaven and Earth, my Savior, Jehovah Jireh, my Provider, my Soon-Coming King. If it were not for my unsaved friends and family, I could not refrain from pleading; Even so come quickly Lord Jesus.

THE ALARM CLOCK JUST BUZZED

Sleeping peacefully, snuggled under a cozy quilt, I was suddenly awaken by the shrill sound of an alarm clock. I am known in the family as an “early bird.” My eyes pop open at first light and I hit the floor running. I am the one who walks in the office with a cheery good morning but can barely whisper good night as I drag myself up the stairs at bedtime. Lately, however, the nights are cooler and the sun hasn’t quite made an appearance to signal that a new day has begun. This “morning person” is hearing the alarm on a more frequent basis.

As I reached to turn off the alarm, I was reminded of Luke 21:34, And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. This may seem like a strange verse with which to greet the new day, but the more I meditated on it, the stronger I felt that God had impressed this verse on my heart.

We are living in a time of great turmoil in the United States. During the 50 years that I have been alive, I cannot remember such a time of unrest, uncertainty, fear, confusion, and unanswered questions. Our minds and energies can become so caught up with Wall Street, Washington, our jobs, our possessions and paying for them, our families, and our recreational activities that we fail to see the day in which we are living. As Luke states, our focus is centered on overindulgence, satisfying our desires, or just getting by every day, ignoring the warning signs that are flashing before our very eyes. The alarm clock is sounding but we hit the snooze button and snuggle down to a few more moments of blissful sleep.

As a child, I remember fiery messages regarding the soon return of the Lord. People would run to the altar, afraid to leave the church without getting everything “right” with God. Today, if we can get them to the church, the yawns and furtive glances at the clock encourage the preacher to shorten his sermon and say a quick closing prayer. Actually, I find very few churches who even mention the rapture and even fewer churchgoers who are looking for it to happen any day.

Hebrews 9:28 tells us that Jesus will appear unto those that look for Him, II Timothy 4:8 speaks of the crown of righteousness that we who love His appearing shall receive and Titus 2:13 reminds us to look for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. I am struck by the fact that we are to be looking, longing and waiting with eager expectation for the return of the Lord. The early church would greet each other with “Maranatha” or “Oh, Lord Come.” Today our greetings in church have changed to the golf game we have scheduled at noon, the new restaurant that we can’t wait to try, or the latest movie we viewed last night.

A prophecy came forth in a sermon I was listening to last Sunday evening that said, “The things that are happening in the world have been given to shake us out of our slumber. The trumpet has already been lifted to the lips to be blown but God is giving us a little more time to reach one more lost soul.” God is trying to shake us from our slumber but we are simply turning over and snuggling under the covers. I fear the church world has entered a season of comfort where the room is darker because we have lost truth and the fire is missing from the sermons leaving the nights a little cooler. Let us awake from our slumber and arise before we hear the alarm; there is still much work to be accomplished.

THE CORE OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

I read this quote from J. Lee Grady, Charisma Magazine, this morning. I hope it blesses you as it did me.

“I believe the book of Psalms is in the middle of the Bible because praise must be at the core of the Christian life."

David was not reserved when He shut himself away with God. He prayed, sang, shouted, clapped his hands and danced. And he talked to himself. He said with confidence: “Though a host encamp against me, my heart will not fear; though war arise against me, in spite of this I will be confident” (27:3).

We normally think it strange when someone talks to himself. But the Bible actually encourages us to do so when we are praising the Lord. If you are fighting discouragement, one of the best things you can do is hide yourself in a room and begin to tell God how awesome He is. If you can’t sing well, put on some lively praise music and follow along. The important thing is that you open your mouth and speak—because by doing so you are canceling the enemy’s lies.
Many Christians only praise God in church once a week. No wonder so many of us are spiritually frail. We’ve also lost the art of true biblical confession. When our souls have been overwhelmed by bad news, we must counteract by declaring our faith out loud.

There is an old song that comes to mind, “It’s Amazing What Praising Can Do.” One line says, Now I don’t worry when things go wrong, Jesus fills my heart with a song. If you’ve tried everything; praise! If you are at the end of your rope; praise! If your prayers hit the ceiling and bounce back; praise! When you need a way made out of no way; praise! Sing, shout, dance and praise!!!

BE A LIFTER

Are you a doer or an advisor? We always seem full of words but lacking in the action category although most circumstances require action rather than words. The following is an excerpt from the devotional book, Encouragement Changes Everything by John Maxwell.

Years ago, I came across a piece about someone who fell into a pit and couldn’t get out—and how others treated that person.

A subjective person came along and said, “I feel for you down there.”

An objective person came along and said, “Well, it’s logical that someone would fall down there.”

A Pharisee said, “Only bad people fall into pits.”

A mathematician calculated how the individual fell into the pit.

A news reporter wanted an exclusive story on the person in the pit.

A fundamentalist said, “You deserve your pit.”

A Calvinist said, “If you’d been saved you would have never fallen in that pit.”

An Armenian said, “You were saved and still fell in that pit.”

A charismatic said, “Just confess that you’re not in that pit.”

A realist came along and said, “Now that’s a pit.”

A geologist told him to appreciate the rock strata in the pit.

An IRS worker asked if he was paying taxes on this pit.

The county inspector asked if he had a permit to dig the pit.

A self-pitying person said, “You haven’t seen anything until you’ve seen my pit.”

An optimist said, “Things could be worse.”

A pessimist said, “Things will get worse.”

Jesus, seeing the man, reached down and took him by the hand and lifted him out of the pit.

Which person do you most identify with? Oh, to be like Jesus!!! Lift someone out of the pit today, whether by word or deed.

INVESTMENTS DOWN? LOOK UP!!!

It has been quite a week!!! Anyone who read a newspaper, watched a newscast or listened to radio news or talk shows will agree that the world is in turmoil. Last Saturday, a hurricane cut a path of destruction from Texas, through Missouri and it even reached Michigan. In Los Angeles, there was a horrific train crash because an engineer was distracted, political candidates continue to snipe and throw mud at each other, scandalous stories of famous people were published, O.J. is on trial again, Russia is threatening, our embassy in Yemen was attacked, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan continue.

Of course, the news that took center stage this week was the financial news. There was a government takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac; Investment Giants were allowed to “go under” while others were shored up by mega billion dollar government loans. AIG, the big 3 auto companies, individuals who greedily had to have a bigger and better house were all given temporary hope based on billions of dollars to be confiscated from hard-working, responsible Americans.

One news network advertised a televised special this way, “Market madness, banks going bust, financial crisis grips Wall Street, Which candidate can clean up this mess?” It is not surprising that doctors are prescribing increasing amounts of nerve pills, ulcer pills, sleeping pills, anti-depressants, therapy sessions or anything that will help alleviate the fear and anxiety that threatens to overwhelm us on a daily basis. Americans are searching for answers.

I have a hope, I have an answer; it is Jesus Christ. Believers should not be caught unaware; the Bible is full of warnings regarding the headlines we read every day. In Luke 1:26, Jesus tells his disciples there would be Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. God never gives us a warning without giving us a promise of His faithfulness. The following are some of the precious promises we have been given.

Hebrews 12:27
And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: 29For our God is a consuming fire.

Lamentations 3:21
This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. 22It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.

Psalms 37:18
The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be forever.
19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.
20 But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away.
21 The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous showeth mercy, and giveth.
22 For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off.
23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.
25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
26 He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed

Psalms 37:39
But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.
40 And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

Economic experts will try to unravel our tangled financial state, the Presidential candidates will continue to offer a band aid to cover a gaping wound, and mankind will chase after every ungodly pursuit imaginable to quell the fear that grips them, but we can have hope. If you have placed your confidence in Jesus Christ and understand that all you possess is a blessing from God, you can stand strong in a chaotic world. You can have a smile on your face and a song in your heart knowing that, “All I have needed Thy hand hath provided; Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!”

CERTAIN DEATH

The nation has been consumed with Hurricane Ike for the last two days. For a few hours even politics and Sarah Palin reports were pre-empted. I was fascinated by the updates and progress reports. The forces of nature have a way of showing how helpless and vulnerable we are even with the latest technological advances. Especially entertaining are the brave, or is it foolish, reporters who stand outside in gale force winds so that we can experience the deadly storm in the safety of our family rooms. I watched as Geraldo was swept off his feet when a debris-filled wave hit him in the shins. Another reporter expressed shock that over 10,000 citizens had decided to stay on Galveston Island although the National Weather Service had issued the dire warning of “Certain Death” for anyone not leaving. “We heard the warning of Certain Death,” he added, “As we were driving in.” Am I the only one who saw the irony in this situation?

The scenario that sticks in my mind was captured on a cell phone and transmitted live to Fox News. The caller was a bartender at a local bar on the island. She said there had been 10 people lined up waiting to get in when she had opened earlier. By 3:00 p.m., Texas time, over 20 people had gathered to party, drink and wait out the storm. They were laughing, dancing, drinking from glasses and turning up bottles to keep the rowdy atmosphere rocking. The news anchor asked the caller if she had heard the warning of “Certain Death.” The bartender said, “I hope that doesn’t happen. We’ll pray and ask God to keep us safe.” The reporter then urged the bartender to warn the patrons and at least tell them that if they stayed in the bar, they would die. “Please tell them, they are going to die,” he said. The bartender said she would tell them and hung up. I heard on a later report that the customers had second thoughts and later dispersed. If only we could get the same response as we sound the alarm to a dying world.

Matthew 24: 38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, 39And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

Every day we encounter people seemingly unaware of the approaching storm. The warnings of “certain death” are being broadcast through world political events, natural disasters and God’s modern day prophets, yet sin continues. Let us take one more opportunity, as the reporter did, to plead again with a lost world. Can we sound the alarm a little louder, a little more forceful to let them know, “Please, you are going to die!” Would you be bold for 10 souls, for 5, for just 1? This week think of one person in your life that you need to warn of impending destruction and pray that God would open the door of opportunity to let them know one more time that they are traveling a road to “Certain Death.”

TODAY I BROUGHT MY SONS TO THE TEMPLE

Almost 31 years ago, God blessed me with a beautiful baby boy. Sixteen months later a second little boy arrived to complete our family. Both of my boys attended their first church service almost from birth; Steven at 4 days old and Philip at only 2 ½ days old. When they were only a few months old, we dedicated them to the Lord. I was determined that my children would love the Lord with all their heart and grow to be strong men of God. They learned all the worship songs, went to Sunday School and memorized Bible verses. I believed the Word of God when it instructed me to teach them in the morning and before they went to bed. I prayed with them before tests and when there were conflicts. It was my greatest joy when at a young age; they were baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost. As the years passed, they grew into the fine young men I had envisioned, married beautiful young ladies and started their own families. It sounds like the perfect story except I forgot an important step, I never brought them back to the temple.

I Samuel 1:24 Now when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bulls, one ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and brought him to the house of the Lord in Shiloh. And the child was young. 25Then they slaughtered a bull, and brought the child to Eli. 26And she said, “O my lord! As your soul lives, my lord, I am the woman who stood by you here, praying to the Lord. 27For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition which I asked of Him. 28Therefore I also have lent him to the Lord; as long as he lives he shall be lent to the Lord.” So they worshiped the Lord there.

Just as Hannah had promised to give Samuel to the Lord, I had vowed to teach them truth and prepare them for service. I nurtured them, provided them with all the necessary tools to live successful Christian lives, instructed them and encouraged them. Even after they were grown and raising their own families, I couldn’t let go of the responsibility of guiding them in the way they should go. When they would depart from the things I had taught them, I would grieve and plead their case before the Lord. This morning as tears flowed down my cheeks for my sons, God spoke to my heart and said, “You have to bring them back to the temple.”

Although Samuel was a promise from God and Hannah loved him with her whole being, she realized that Samuel could not fulfill God’s plan for his life if she did not bring him back to the temple. My deepest desire is that my sons will follow the leading of the Lord, that they would grown in their relationship with Him and be used mightily in the service of God. As long as I hold on to what I have envisioned for them, I will never appreciate what God is accomplishing in and through their lives. So today, I presented them both at the temple.

God may lead them down a different path and use them in a way that I can’t even imagine, but I will rejoice as they step into the will of God. Their methods and viewpoints will probably not mirror mine, but I am thankful that God allowed me to lay a strong foundation on which they can stand. I’m a little sad, it is a bittersweet separation, but today I brought my sons to the temple.

THREE STRIKES-YOU'RE OUT; SIX STRIKES - TOTAL VICTORY

Have you ever tried and failed; heard that “three times is a charm,” and it wasn’t; been told, “Three strikes you’re out” and believed it? If any of these statements apply to a situation in your life, it is a situation with which you are still struggling, but probably have given up on ever experiencing victory. A Bible study group was asked, “What keeps you from praying?” One honest lady replied, “Because I never get anything I ask for anyway.” Although our Heavenly Father knows what we have need of, we are to ask and knock and pray fervently. If you have presented your request three times, try a fourth; five times, go back one more time, six times may give you total victory.

In II Kings 13, Joash was distraught because Elisha had fallen ill and was dying. He was concerned that Israel would be defeated if the Prophet was no longer there to hear from God. Elisha told Joash to shoot an arrow toward the east. Then he was told to take the arrow which represented the Lord’s deliverance, and smite the ground. The king smote the ground three times and stopped. The prophet told him sadly, that he would only experience 3 victories over Syria and then they would be “out.” He was told further that if only he had struck the ground five or six times he would have experienced total victory.

It is easy to read the story of Joash and self-righteously declare that we would have struck the ground not five or six times but nine or ten. Of course, unlike Joash, we know the end of the story and what the strikes represented. Do we act differently in unknown situations? If we don’t get our answer within 15 minutes, do we assume God isn’t concerned and try to work it out on our own? After praying and fasting one or two days, do we allow fear and doubt to overshadow the faith that God will finish what He has started?

Do an assessment of your relationship with God. Is there something you want desperately enough to strike five or six times? Save your breath and energy if you are willing to only strike three times. Don’t settle for “three strikes you’re out.” Go for the gold; SIX STRIKES FOR TOTAL VICTORY.

WILL YOU GO TO HELL IF YOU VOTE FOR A DEMOCRAT?

The Democratic and Republican National Conventions are over and the stage for the next two months has been set. As you know if you read my blog from last January, I am a staunch Republican-American. I watched both conventions with equal interest and was struck by the stark contrast. They helped to confirm exactly why I vote for the Republican Candidate and fear for the future of America if the Democratic Candidate is elected.

I have been accused of believing that you will go to hell for not voting Republican. While I do not believe you will go to hell, I believe you will not live as rich a life with a Democrat in office and we will all cry “Come quickly Lord Jesus.” On a more serious note here are my observations after watching hours of convention coverage and listening to several speakers give voice to their Party’s platform.

1. The Democratic Party needs a constituency of powerless victims to authenticate their very existence. The Republican Party requires a constituency of victors with a visionary entrepreneurial spirit with whom no achievement is impossible when liberated from governmental interference. The Democratic Convention was based on a bad economy, citizens sitting around the kitchen table bemoaning the cost of gasoline, the lack of health care, unpaid mortgages and environmental issues which threaten to destroy the planet. We were told how the government will cause a utopia to arise out of all this chaos. They will provide you with health care, provide affordable, alternative fuels for you (of course you won’t be able to afford corn to eat), guarantee that if you get over your head in debt, you won’t have to take responsibility and provide free preschool (day care) for children 3 years and up, so that you not only don’t have to be concerned with the child you didn’t bother to abort, but you also don’t have to worry about filling their heads with your values and morals. Oh no, the government will take care of all of that for you.

The Republican Party on the other hand inspired hope and a better future for our children based on the greatness of America, The Land of Opportunity. We were encouraged to stand and fight for a cause greater than ourselves. We were urged to be successful, reach for the stars without fear of the government appropriating 50% of our success.

2. The Democrat’s answer to every problem is to take money from successful people and redistribute it to the unsuccessful. It is to tax corporations until they go out of business, thus depriving people of lucrative jobs and add to their base of constituents. Is it ignorance or deception that allows them to believe that business taxes are absorbed by the company and not passed onto the consumer in the form of higher prices?

The Republican Party believes that promoting a business-friendly atmosphere will attract new ventures and create more opportunity for everyone. They do not believe that wealthy Americans should be punished for their success but be encouraged to become more successful as they grow and generate more jobs. As it has been said, “No one ever got a job from a poor person.” The Conservative Republican position states that corporations should be encouraged to invest their profits in research and innovation to increase the American standard of living and there should be no penalty for an outstanding, productive year.

3. The Democratic Party was very concerned about “Women’s Reproductive Rights.” It is the height of selfishness to expect that there should be no consequences to our choice of behavior. Barak Obama stated that he could not define the beginning of life because it was above his “pay grade.” If the beginning of life cannot be defined, we cannot allow abortion lest we risk killing a life that may have begun.

The Republican Party was strong in their promotion of a culture of life. At the same forum, John McCain, with no hesitation, stated that “Life begins at conception.” It has become apparent in the last few days that McCain’s philosophy is more than just words but has been played out over the course of his life. Cindy McCain has made it her life’s mission to bring love and aid to “the least of these.” They even demonstrated their reverence for life by adopting a special needs infant from Bangladesh. His choice of Sarah Palin for Vice President, a mother of 5, including a baby with Down’s syndrome and a teenage daughter that made the choice to keep her baby gives further voice to McCain’s view that all life is precious.

4. The Democratic Party is about equal rights and freedom of speech for everyone unless of course you disagree with their viewpoint. Every fringe relationship should be afforded all rights and privileges formerly reserved for married couples. You can march, burn the flag, parade naked down the street, and yell obscenities but praying at public functions or wearing a cross to signify your faith can be interpreted as “hate speech.”

The Republican Party believes strongly in the sanctity of marriage and further defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman only. They believe that freedom of speech must include prayer and religious symbols as well as the profane. The see no conflict between church and state and believe that the Constitution guarantees Freedom of Religion not Freedom from Religion.

As originally stated I do not believe you will go to hell for voting for Obama/Biden. I do believe as a Christian, if you search your heart, get your priorities in order according to the Word of God, and prayerfully consider the moral issues, there is only one choice, McCain/Palin.

TOMORROW IT WILL BE YESTERDAY'S PROBLEM

I DON'T KNOW WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

BUT I KNOW WHO HOLDS THE FUTURE

AND HIS LIGHT WILL GUIDE THE WAY

For the past several years, Steve and I have felt the call of God on our lives for ministry. We have pastored, assisted in various ministries and attempted to build two churches. Ministry can be the most wonderfully, frustrating challenge you will ever face and starting a work with just 2 faithful people has to be number one on the list. For the last 5 years we have had successes and less than successes. Just when it seemed a breakthrough was on the horizon, our faith would once again be tested. In the last 6 months, we seemed to be gaining ground; we were rejoicing over one baptism and excited to see the spiritual growth taking place. God decided about a month ago that it was time for another test. Three of our most faithful members felt God leading them in another direction. A church of a hundred may not feel the loss of 3 people too deeply, while a church of 50 may feel the sting, but when you have 10 parishioners, it can be devastating.

I thank God for a spiritually strong husband. While I was crying and asking God why and where do we go from here, Steve was praying that God would restore what we had lost 10 fold. My first remark was, “You do realize that will be 30 people?” His answer, “Praise God.” I decided right then and there that I am not going to be left out of this blessing that God is about to pour out on Redemption Ministries. I made up my mind to agree with Steve and let God show His greatness. In the last 3 weeks we have had 5 new visitors, only 25 to go. God has been speaking new ideas and a new vision into our heart. I still have fleeting thoughts of yesterday but I am now able to pray God’s blessing on those who left and look with excitement every day to what God is doing and will do tomorrow. God will build an Apostolic Church in Saginaw, Michigan.

Several years ago, I sang with the Jr. High School Girls’ Chorus. I was introduced to a whole new genre of music. This little Pentecostal girl used to hearing southern gospel had never heard of Broadway show tunes and knew very little about a group called The Beatles. To this day I can still remember the songs and their words. One of the songs was Yesterday by Paul McCartney. The song begins, “Yesterday, all my troubles seem so far away, now it looks as though there here to stay. Oh I believe in yesterday.” I find most of the Beatles lyrics to be anti-biblical, yet if I allow it, I find myself applying the song to my situation.

In Philippians 3:14, it’s the Apostle Paul not Paul McCartney who writes so eloquently of where our yesterdays belong, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Yesterday can teach us valuable lessons and hold wonderful memories of God’s blessings but they are not the complete picture of God’s plan. The High Calling of God in Christ Jesus promises a prize if we will just press on. It may look like trouble is “here to stay” but if we keep our eye on the prize, tomorrow, the trouble will be yesterday’s problem.

THE FINE PRINT

Have you ever signed a contract or accepted an offer only to discover later you should have read the fine print? The 10 CD’s for $1.00 are not such a steal when you read further in the contract that you have signed up to purchase 10 additional CD’s at $12.95 each, plus shipping within the next year. If you had taken the time to read the fine print, you wouldn’t have wasted a trip to the grocery store to spend the $5.00 off coupon that expired yesterday. Because of my struggle with weight loss, I am always drawn to the ads that promise to give me “THE BODY I’VE ALWAYS WANTED.” I can eat all I want as long as I buy a $50.00 bottle of pills, after all they couldn’t say it on television or print it in a magazine if it weren’t true. The fine print tells me it only works with a healthy diet and exercise plan. In other words, eat all you want as long as it is celery washed down with water. Even reputable diet plans reel you in with glowing testimonials hoping you miss the tiny disclaimer at the bottom of the page; results not typical. We have all been embarrassed and disappointed because we were drawn in by the big letters, the glowing sales pitch and the mental image of how wonderful our lives will be because we were lucky enough to be given this opportunity.

Satan has a Master’s Degree in Marketing. From the beginning he has painted a beautiful picture of the pleasure of sin, hoping to distract us from the fine print. I have never witnessed someone returning a pack of cigarettes because they suddenly read the surgeon general’s warning, “It has been determined that smoking may cause cancer.” Most of us don’t suddenly put a hold on our tongue because a snippet of gossip may wound a brother or sister. We ignore the fine print of broken homes, ruined lives, hurting children as we pursue a path, following an elusive dream that leads us further from God’s purpose for our lives.

Unlike Satan, God has no need for slick marketing and fine print. Jesus declared, “I am the way, the truth and the life, no man cometh unto the Father but by me;” simple and to the point; no fine print necessary. From the beginning, God presented His offer in plain language, including all the expectations, the rewards for obedience and consequences for noncompliance. In Genesis, the “deal” presented to Adam included the benefits of the garden, a warning as to what would nullify the contract and the consequence of disobedience. The contract with the Children of Israel instructed them to put the blood on the doorpost; those who ignored the instruction would lose their first born son. There were no disclaimers and no fine print to be overlooked by anyone.

Our problem is we are always looking for a loophole or an exception. The Word tells us, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; he that believeth not shall be damned and the soul that sinneth shall surely die. We have a hard time believing that such a “loving God” could actually apply that clause to us since other people have done much worse than we have. Surely there must be a paragraph of fine print that we have missed. Then we remember He is the truth; there are no loopholes. II Corinthians 1:20, For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him amen, unto the glory of God by us. Lay hold of the promises of God today and rest assured they are yea and amen.

NO POWER

After conducting chapel services Monday morning, I decided to run all my errands on the way home so that I could enjoy the rest of a gorgeous day. I had to make one last stop at the credit union then the day would be all mine. I determined that it would take less time at the drive-thru especially since there was no one else waiting. Everything was falling into place. I pulled up to one of the outside “windows” only to find a hand written sign declaring “CLOSED, NO POWER.” In my haste to complete my tasks, I had failed to notice an empty parking lot and a dark building. Determined not to let this set back take one more minute of my time, I sped home. Then God began to speak.

Our credit union is a brand new beautiful building. Millions of dollars has been spent on the structure, furnishings, latest banking equipment, and landscaping. As you walk into the lobby, a smiling receptionist at a central desk greets you. If you turn to the right, you will find a flat screen television broadcasting today’s news, a conversation area complete with magazines, brochures, coffee and in the afternoon, fresh popcorn. To the left is a row of monitors complete with tubes that whisk away your transactions to a hidden room complete with more smiling faces. They have infused an impersonal business atmosphere with an aura of friendliness and comfort. On Monday, however, the beauty and the efficiency was all a waste because there was no power. The bank could not function as it was meant to function. I could not take anything out or put anything in my account. No loans could be arranged, no accounts opened or closed and no interest added to investments. The only light in the dim lobby was sunlight filtering through the shaded windows. It was nothing more than a dark, empty shell.

We were created for a specific purpose. God has made His power available to us so that we can function according to His plan. John 1:12 tells us, But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. The very first step we make in our spiritual journey requires power. It is only through belief in the Name of Jesus Christ that we have the ability to become sons of God. As God continues the construction, Acts 1:8 says “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” We are called to be witnesses, but we cannot be a witness to something we do not possess. It doesn’t end there, He fills us with joy, hope and peace through the power of the Holy Ghost, Romans 15:13, Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Fear is replaced with love and a sound mind, II Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. According to Luke 10:19 we have power over the enemy, Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. One of the most exciting Power Promises that God gives us is contained in Ephesians 3:20, Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.

I may look beautiful and holy on the outside, know the right words to say, sing the latest praise and worship songs, quote scriptures and smile invitingly but, I am a dark empty shell without the power of the Holy Ghost. Like the bank, I can take nothing in and I am unable to give out anything. Make sure you are connected to the power source. Let Him fill you with love, joy and peace. People will be drawn to the Light that shines forth and you will fulfill the purpose He created you to fulfill.

HOW I LOST 60 POUNDS

I would like to be able to tell you that I woke up one morning and the weight had magically melted off during the night. A recent study has found that you lose more weight if you get more sleep, unfortunately, I’m an early riser. I saw an ad in a magazine that said if I took a little pill, the fat would disappear and I would not even have to change my poor eating habits. I was assured this had to be true because they couldn’t print it in a magazine or say it on television if it were not; tempting, but not for me. I didn’t spend $3 a meal on packaged food or purchase any torturous gadgets guaranteed to help you lose flab and inches. While all of the aforementioned methods are tempting, my secret is much more mundane; I have been disciplined and consistent for 7 months.

I have struggled with flab and yoyo weight loss my entire life. I cannot recall a time when it was not a constant “thorn” in my side. Even at the age of 5, I remember smiling people remarking to my mom about my “chubbiness.” I went for a school physical at the age of 6, only to hear the doctor talk about I was getting too fat. To this day I would rather suffer extreme pain than to hear the scorn in the physician’s voice as he tells me all my problems could be solved by losing a few pounds. In grade school all students were put through the mental torture of getting on the scale twice every year. I would pray that the rapture would take place as the line moved swiftly along and the school nurse announced each student’s weight. Obviously, God didn’t answer this fervent prayer. I went on my first diet in 6th grade by limiting myself to 1000 calories per day. It lasted until I lost about 15 pounds; the calories increased and so did my weight. The dieting continued off and on in 7th, 9th and 12th grade. During the 32 years I have been married, I have lost major amounts of weight 5 times. They have all lasted around 2 years and the weight would begin to creep back up until I would reach a top limit and start the process over.

In October, 2007, I turned 50 years old. I hated being fat and fifty. I wanted to exchange the “A” for an “I” and wake up fit and fifty. However, that was not enough motivation. I dreaded going to bed every night because I couldn’t rest due to the loud wheezing as I tried to breathe. I was sick to my stomach regardless of what I ate and popped purple pills followed by an alka seltzer chaser daily. That was not enough to spur me to change my lifestyle. The acid reflux irritated my esophagus so much that my throat was dry and scratchy, my voice was hoarse and I coughed constantly. Although I coughed at embarrassing moments and could no longer sing a complete solo or lead worship, I continued to find comfort in food.

What happened January 3, 2008 that was different than the other 50 New Years Days I have lived through? It took more than wanting to feel or look good, it took a complete surrender to the Will of God. I was filled with the Holy Ghost at the age of 9. I always had a desire to live for God but on my terms with me controlling the situation. When Steve felt a call into the ministry, I was resentful because it did not fit into MY plan. I played the dutiful minister’s wife, followed him to Dekalb, IL, Saginaw, MI, St. James, MN and back to Saginaw, MI. I lived in big houses and small apartments, pinched pennies and enjoyed years of plenty, taught Sunday School, organized church events and learned to play the piano. On the inside, all my activities were performed under protest. Then it happened, a couple of years ago, God placed a special call on my life. Maybe it was there all along buried under my own willfulness and I just refused to listen.

God worked on my attitude, my desires started to change and I began to have a burden and a love for lost, hurting people. The change didn’t happen all at once, it has been a process that is still not complete. Late last year, I began to plead with God to do a work through me to reach the lost. God spoke to my heart about two necessary changes; I needed to begin to write and I needed to discipline my body. The writing was easy because I have never lacked for something to say and blogging gave me the necessary platform. Bringing my body under subjection has been a different kind of battle. It really is a spiritual battle. Food appeals to every emotion I possess. It is a form of celebration and comfort, appeals to my eye and taste buds and feeding people is even my “love language.” The battle involves saying NO, avoiding certain places and situations and having a strategy to combat the never ending temptations. I haven’t won the war yet but I am winning one battle at a time.

After 7 months, the weight has come off. I no longer wheeze at night, my pills have changed to a daily vitamin and I have put almost 300 miles on a pair of tennis shoes. I feel strong, energetic and much more confident. God is still smoothing a few rough edges but I am ready to walk through every door He opens. In October, I will be 51 and FIT because I finally let go of my will and surrendered to His.

STANDING IN THE HALLWAY

As a child in school, I never wanted to hear the words, “go stand in the hallway.” That was just one of the ways a teacher controlled unruly students. It meant you were disrupting the class, you were out of control and you would be dealt with later. Those were the “good old days” when children still feared and respected the teacher. Today I find myself standing in the hallway; not because I have been disruptive or unruly, but because a door has been shut and I’m waiting for a new one to open.

Hallways are dim and shadowy. There are usually no windows and only artificial light breaks the oppressive darkness. I cannot see a clear path in the hallway that I am standing in. The dim light creates intimidating shadows that fill up the emptiness, but “standing somewhere in the shadows you’ll find Jesus.” When I focus on the light of Him, the shadows began to fade away.

Hallways are narrow and constrictive until an open door is reached. Movement and activities are limited by the walls on either side. You may feel claustrophobic but your only option is to walk through an open door. What if no door is open or you don’t know where the door leads? You can begin to open every door until you find the right one, but what if the door leads to a closet, another hallway, or the boss’ private office. The uncertainty of what lies behind a closed door can be very intimidating. Sometimes the best thing to do is to wait and ask someone familiar with the hallway.

There may be times you find yourself with your back to a door that has just been shut, facing a wall of closed, unmarked doors. Be patient, wait on Jesus, he is familiar with the hallway. He will open the right door at the right time. Revelations 3:7 These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it:

In the midst of my frustration, God allowed the following song to reach me through Christian radio:

God is gonna finish

What He has started

Even though the waters

Got to be parted

Lift up your heads

Don't be broken hearted

God is gonna finish

What He started in you

Philippians 1:6 reminds us; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. We can be confident that the doors will not stay permanently shut because Jesus has promised to finish what he has started in every one of us if we stay faithful.

FOOLISH AND WEAK THINGS

I Corinthians 1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.

If you have never pastored, attended or been involved in a “starter” or home mission church, you have missed one of life’s greatest experiences. You have missed the excitement over one new visitor, the joy over one sinner bowing a knee, the anticipation over what God is going to do every Sunday morning and the discouragement Sunday afternoon because only your family was in attendance. You learn how to pick yourself up off your knees on Monday morning, how to encourage yourself, grab hold of hope and hear the voice of God. You discover the value of every individual, how to love the unlovable and allow God to send conviction and be the judge. You learn that you are nothing without God and it really IS GOD who gives the increase. Finally, God shows in little ways every day that He is faithful.

Steve and I have pastored such a church for five years. It started in our home with our family, and then God blessed us with a beautiful building. We have had as many as 30 and as few as 2 in attendance. When we began, we made up our mind to be faithful regardless of how things appeared. We promised God to sing, worship and preach no matter how many showed up. It has been hard to preach to 2 people and 30 voices blend so much better than 3; although I believe that God enjoys the 3 more than the 30 because we are worshiping Him despite the circumstances.

Sunday, July 20, 2008 was one of the occasions that make all the prayer, fasting, witnessing, and inviting worth all the effort. We had our first baptism in almost 3 years. Chris was working through many issues when he first stepped through the door of Redemption Ministries on Mother’s Day, 2008. He wasn’t sure he wanted to be at the service but as he has testified since, it was better than being lonely and just maybe we would have some available cute girls. Much to his surprise, he was the only one in attendance that did not have the last name, Niswonger. We have nurtured Chris and watched his spiritual growth with such delight. He progressed from “I’ve never been to a church like this” to raising his hands in worship to the Lord. A few weeks after his first visit, we watched Chris walk slowly up to the front and kneel at an altar of repentance. A couple of weeks after repenting, he suddenly announced one Sunday, during fellowship, “Pastor, I think I need to be baptized.”

At Redemption Ministries we are not blessed with a beautiful baptismal tank with faucets to fill it and a heater to keep the temperature just right, but we do have a blow-up swimming pool. So on July 20th in front of several of Chris’ friends and family, he was buried in the precious Name of Jesus. He had a look of joy on his face when he came out of the water and we all rejoiced as we sang, “It’s Because I’m forgiven.”

The beautiful thing about new converts is the excitement and freedom they feel once they have turned their life over to Jesus Christ. Last week, Chris came with a friend. Lori also is struggling with many issues, but Chris has experienced something that he knows is the answer to every problem in Lori’s life. Please help us pray for these hungry hearts. We trust this is just the beginning of a Holy Ghost outpouring in Saginaw.

WHEN YOU LEAST EXPECT IT

I Peter 15:3 says, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”

Have you ever noticed that when you least expect it, God will put you in a situation where He can use you? If we would begin to view every person we meet as an opportunity to share the love of Jesus Christ, we would be amazed at the things God would do. I want to be used by God. Every day I pray that God will not let me miss any opportunity, yet as the day wears on, too often the busyness of life gets in the way of sensitivity to the Spirit.

We were at the cottage Friday and Saturday making sure it was ready for our friends to use for the week. My husband loves the opportunity to sleep late, I have learned to enjoy the solitude rather than resent his laziness. Saturday, I awoke to a gorgeous morning. The sky was blue, no clouds in sight and there was a gentle breeze rustling through the trees. I could not resist. Out came the exercise clothes; I laced up my walking shoes, grabbed my pedometer, cell phone and sun glasses and hit my stride. I love walking at the cottage because there is so much to see. There are small hills to climb, a beautiful lake to walk by and thick woods full of small animals and birds a little further on. I walked at a brisk pace enjoying the freshness of the day, said good morning to a group of early morning bikers, an older man walking a dog and a woman I had seen at about the same time on Friday morning.

I continued by the lake, made a circle and was on the path toward home. I was feeling good, my muscles were warm and strong and I could feel the last calories of yesterday’s much awaited pizza burning at a high rate. The woman I had passed earlier was coming toward me. I smiled, fully intending to say “have a nice walk” without missing a step. She had other intentions. LeAnn, her name I learned later, walked across the road and asked where I lived, where I walked and seemed to want to chat. My expression was friendly, my demeanor was gracious, but on the inside all I could think about was my pedometer doesn’t work when I’m not moving, my time will be messed up, my muscles won’t stay warm, and that piece of pepperoni may turn to fat.

I chatted with LeAnn for a few seconds, found out that she lived in North Carolina, had been at Higgins Lake for the entire month of July and had been coming up here with several family members for 14 years. Then her eyes became teary as she told me her uncle had died this week. The Holy Ghost kicked in and I knew that somehow God would rev my exercise efforts in to high gear and supernaturally burn up the pepperoni, but at this moment, He needed me to speak comfort to a hurting heart.

I made the usual sympathetic comments as she shared her feelings regarding the family’s loss. We shared memories of loved ones who have gone on but I could tell there was an emptiness inside that needed to be filled. She told me of one particular memory of her uncle from last Thanksgiving that was especially precious to her. I mentioned how great God is to allow us to experience something so wonderful to sustain us in a time of loss. I noticed that this seemed to encourage her. Then I told her the same thing I told Uncle Jim when Granny died. When our loved ones die, there is a great big hole left inside of us that we think will never be full again because that space is reserved for that dear one who is no longer here. If we will allow God to comfort us, He will slowly fill that gaping hole with precious memories. Yes, there will be times when we miss them terribly; we will cry and feel lonely, but we will also laugh and feel comforted as we pull out a memory and hold it close.

She looked at me with tears in her eyes and said, “I’m so glad I met you today, my name is LeAnn.”

MAINTAINING YOUR STRIDE

I love to walk early on Saturday morning. There is very little traffic racing to start the work day, the houses are quiet with the drapes still drawn, the flowers are fresh and dew-kissed and if you listen very carefully you can hear all of nature sing praises to the Creator. It was one of those beautiful mornings that make you happy to be alive. The sky was blue, the birds were singing and a cool breeze blew softly through my hair. It was an absolutely perfect morning for a walk.

I laced up my favorite shoes and grabbed a bottle of water; with my favorite songs on the mp3 player I set off on a 3+ mile hike. About a quarter mile into my walk, I hit my stride, cruising to the beat at about 3.5 miles per hour. Once I hit cruising speed, my arms swing in a certain rhythm, my back is straight, shoulders relaxed, head back and eyes looking straight ahead. I have learned to observe and anticipate changes in my environment so that I can adjust for the unexpected without breaking my stride. It is important to be aware of uneven pavement, approaching pedestrian and bicycle traffic, intersections and cars who don’t respect crosswalks and of course the inevitable doggie deposits scattered here and there on the sidewalk.

Although Saginaw is mainly flat, there are rises and dips every once in awhile and adjustments have to be made. I know to lengthen my stride, lean forward and dig my heels a little deeper as I approach a rise and to shorten my stride at just the right time as I approach a curb or an uneven section of road. Usually the music on the mp3 player is all I need to help keep my focus, however, on this particular morning I was suddenly distracted. I’m not sure what caused the distraction. It could have been the truck at the intersection, the blare of music, the sound of voices or maybe a combination of all three. As I approached the intersection, I scanned the road for turning traffic, checked the traffic light and maintained my stride. Feeling confident, I crossed the street and stepped up on the curb. That’s when I lost focus. Misjudging the distance of the curb, I landed on the edge and stumbled. I felt a slight twinge in my ankle as I struggled to keep from falling. I couldn’t quit, my final destination was 2 miles ahead. Shaking and stretching my ankle, I continued on my journey and once again regained my stride.

So many times we are walking along life’s pathway. We have been praying, reading our Bible, going to every service and in general feeling very successful in our relationship with God. Suddenly, Satan throws up a distraction or places an unexpected obstacle in our path. If we do not keep our eyes on Jesus, we will stumble and sometimes fall. Although, we may feel a slight twinge, this is not the time to sit down and quit, our final destination is still ahead. We may have to stretch and shake ourselves to regain our focus and regain it we must. Get your eyes back on Jesus, continue doing all the right things you have been doing and find your stride once again.

By being consistent in my daily walks around the neighborhood, I have started to reap the benefits. I can breathe easier, my muscles have become stronger and more toned and the weight has come off at a much faster rate. If we continue on in our Christian walk, we are promised a benefit that eyes have not seen, ears have not heard and it has not even entered into our hearts what the Lord has prepared for us. Eternal life with Jesus Christ is the goal and Heaven is the prize. Don’t let Satan distract you, keep your focus and maintain your stride.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD

Happy Birthday Dad, I wish you were here to celebrate with us today. I can hardly believe that we have been without your steadiness and unique humor for almost 7 years. The spontaneous memories have become easier to handle but the longing to see you and take advantage of your “pearls” of wisdom never goes away.

The best 4th of July ever was the last one we spent with you. How could any of us fathom that in two short months we would return to Missouri to celebrate your life because you had finished the race. All of your children and grandchildren that had been born were there to tell what you and mom meant to us and share a few special memories that were personal to each family member. I loved the fact that you cried when each kid and grandkid read their letter, because it showed your tender heart. I loved when we gathered around and prayed for you, because it portrayed the most important thing to us as a family. I loved it as each one of us sang a special song we had prepared and that they were all praise to God. Finally, I loved it when you joined me in singing “Pity the Man” just like old times in church and then you sang that special song that each daughter and granddaughter thought had been reserved just for them. I’m sure you must have been tired and in so much pain but you were determined to enjoy every last minute and every activity we had planned.

I will never forget your arms around me as you held me and told me goodbye for the last time. Somehow it seemed as if you knew your time on earth was not going to be much longer. Dad I am so sorry I didn’t call you the night before you died. I would have loved to hear your voice one more time. Val told me even toward the end you had to make a joke and Mom said you told her you loved her not too long before you took your final breath. For now I will be content to believe that you knew how much you meant to me and someday I’ll be able to tell you again face to face.

Today on your 73rd birthday, I will pull out some precious memories, shed a few tears, smile as I think about one of your oft repeated jokes and see you in your grandsons’ personalities. The ache in my heart continues on and according to current events it won’t be long until will all be united where every tear will be wiped away. So Happy Birthday Daddy, I love you.

I HEARD THE RAIN

Friday night, Steve and I decided to watch a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie we had previously recorded but never found time to enjoy. With only 30 minutes of the movie remaining, we lost power. Thanks to my conscientious husband, the flashlight had working batteries and helped us find candles and matches. I fully expected the power to come back on at any minute, but the darkness continued. At 11:00, I called it a night and took a relaxing bath by candle light. Sound wonderful? Oh no, all I could do was complain.

It is amazing how many of our things require electricity. How did the pioneers ever survive? My first complaint, I lay down on my Select Comfort bed which had been freshly made that morning with soft 400 count pima cotton sheets and a light summer quilt, sound wonderful? On no, a Select Comfort bed requires ELECTRICITY to bring it to your personal firmness. My number is 40, the firmness was at 100, the only thing comfortable was my memory foam pillow. I felt like I was sleeping on hard ground and I complained.

Have you ever noticed how quiet a house without electricity becomes? There is no hum of the refrigerator, dishwasher, or clothes dryer. The incessant chatter from television and radio is suddenly silenced. Ok, I admit it; I am addicted to back ground noise. I cannot drive without my favorite radio station providing remote company, soft praise and worship music is an inspirational accompaniment to my daily devotions and Fox News keeps me focused on everything from housework to exercise. Every night before sinking into my personal firmness bed, I turn on a box fan. In the winter it blows air toward the wall, in the summer, the fan blows a soft breeze in my direction. Guess what? Background noise requires ELECTRICITY. So, there I lay on my “hard as a rock” bed with no background noise and I complained.

I tossed, I turned, I prayed that God, in His mercy, would give the electric company the wisdom to fix my problem. As the lonely pity party continued, I became aware of a sound that was faintly familiar. It stirred a long forgotten memory reaching back several years, when I could actually sleep on a floor pallet and didn’t require anything but a throw pillow and a blanket to settle in for the night. I HEARD THE RAIN. The steady drumming against the porch and roof became strangely soothing. Once the murmuring and complaining began to diminish, I began to notice other sounds; the soft breathing of my sleeping husband, the tinkling of chimes swaying gently in the breeze and the rustle of parched leaves drinking in each life-giving drop of rain. I slowly drifted off to sleep, a light mist riding on the gentle breeze cooling my face.

Psalm 89:15 Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance. How can we hear the joyful sound when we are surrounded by every other sound vying for our attention? Sometimes we need to turn off all the background noise in our life. It clutters our life to the point that we can no longer hear the Holy Spirit as it rains down around us. He is waiting to pour out “Showers of Blessings,” but we aren’t even aware of the gentle breath of God brushing against our face. I want to return to that place a little more often where I can drink the life giving water into my parched spirit and let all the problems and cares of life slowly melt away because I’m walking in the light of His countenance.

A song by Bart Millard and Pete Kipling says it best:
Verse 1
I'm finding myself at a loss for words and the funny thing is its okay.
The last thing I need is to be heard but to hear what You would say
Verse 2
I'm finding myself in the midst of You beyond the music beyond the noise
All that I need is to be with You and in the quiet hear Your voice
Chorus
Word of God speak would You pour down like rain
Washing my eyes to see Your majesty
To be still and know that You're in this place
Please let me stay and rest in Your holiness
Word of God speak

Around 3:00 A.M., the power came on, my bed was adjusted and the fan began its familiar whirr, but I HEARD THE RAIN.

I SURVIVED GRANDKID'S CAMP

I’m not sure how the grandkids are doing, but I survived Grandkid’s camp!!!! About a year ago a “brilliant” idea popped into my brain; during the month of June 2008, the first annual Niswonger Grandkid’s Camp would take place. This would give Grandpa and me an opportunity to spend quality time with our three grandkids, allow the cousins to get to know and love each other and at the same time start a family tradition. I had spread sheets of plans, sent out colorful reminders to each grandkid, and collected all the toys, activity materials and food for 4 days of fun. I was smart enough to bring easy, kid-friendly foods and plan activities that could be adapted to a 1 year old, 2 year old and 4 year old. The thing I forgot was Michigan weather. In Michigan we have sunny 85 degree weather one week and cloudy 50 degree rainy weather the next week. Guess which week I chose to schedule Grandkid’s Camp? Grandpa’s work picked up and he was so busy he could only come for two days, Caleb had a fever on Monday and the weather was cold and damp, but by Tuesday evening, Grandkid’s camp was in full swing.

It was just Girl’s Camp for the first 24 hours and you can’t stop 3 determined girls. Grandma, Mackenzie and Madison loaded the wagon and walked to the beach. On the way we saw several caterpillars, a dead squirrel and a live bluebird. We found seashells and wrote our names in the sand. Mackenzie was very adamant that since it was camp, we had to have a tent. Grandma set up a tent in the bedroom and we camped out. The next morning, there was more rain. After breakfast, we put puzzles together, watched videos, played ring-a-round the Rosie, the Hokey Pokey, colored some beautiful pictures and waited for the sun. Finally, we went outside and dug up pretty rocks, collected sticks and found caterpillars to put in our “bug keeper.” Grandpa arrived about 7 and we ate ice cream with chocolate syrup, whipped cream and a cherry on top.

Wednesday Morning, more rain. More videos, more games, played hide and seek, built towers with blocks; Grandma’s running out of ideas. Wednesday afternoon, the sun peeks out of the clouds for a brief visit. We bundled the kids in long pants, jackets, sun hats and sun block across the nose and headed for the beach. We weren’t there to show off the latest in fashionable beach wear, no, we had more important things to attend to. Grandpa helped make a sand castle, Mackenzie dipped her bucket in the water to make a moat, Madison kept a grip on all the sand buckets and Grandma kept a grip on Caleb to keep him from taking a swim in the chilly lake. We played tag, ate fruit snacks, drank juice, found more seashells, skipped stones and wiped noses. After cookies, chocolate milk, a funny book and bedtime prayers everyone was ready for a good night’s sleep.

Thursday was Zoo Day. The weather was cloudy and misty, so we began to pray. Mackenzie asked Jesus to please take the rain away in Jesus Name. The sun broke through; we went to the zoo and had a great time. We wore our matching “Grandkid’s Camp” t-shirts with our names on the back to the zoo. We were definitely the classiest group there. After dodging mud puddles, feeding and petting the animals, we settled down at the kid’s playground for a picnic lunch and to burn some pent up energy.

Friday dawned an absolutely gorgeous day. Blue skies, sunshine, 70 degrees; time to go home. Grandma took more pictures and packed up each kid. I’m not sure who was more excited to see Mommy; Madison and Mackenzie or Grandma. Grandma and Caleb arrive back in Saginaw, Grandma is exhausted. Caleb goes home; Grandma takes a long hot bubble bath and goes to bed.
The tiredness is gone, but the memories are still fresh. I can’t wait until next year!!!!