I read several devotionals each day. One today really spoke to my heart. I have posted it below. Hope it brings encouragement to any who may read it.
No Pruning, No Fruit
References:-->Romans 8:28And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Do you really believe God works for good in all things?
Being able to make that statement begins with acknowledging that God knows what He is doing. He is not only all-powerful, or sovereign, but also all-knowing. Even when pain and tragedy strike, we can trust God to know what is best for our good.
The problem is we don't know His plan. We would like to know the reason for our trials, but God doesn't always reveal it to us. We wonder how He could possibly cause this or that problem to work for good.
But through Scripture and the natural order, God gives us a hint that it can happen, even when we can't see how. Jesus said: I AM the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it, that it may bear more fruit (John 15:1,2).
During the last several years, our own family has endured several such prunings. Barbara has weathered major heart surgery, the removal of a benign lump in her breast, five debilitating sinus infections, sinus surgery and Lyme's disease. And I have previously told of our son Samuel's bout with muscular dystrophy.
I don't know about you, but sometimes I grow a little weary from so many snips from pruning shears in my life.
But I really love the fruit bearing. While I wish it could happen without the pruning, life just doesn't work that way. Our family has experienced growth from the pruning. It has enriched my ministry to other families who hurt.
Scientists don't fully understand the pruning/fruit-bearing connection in the plant world. Why should I insist on understanding it in human lives? It's more important to bear fruit than to understand the pruning process.
Prayer:
For the faith to believe that God can enable you to become "more than conquerors" over any hardship or tragedy in your life.
From Barbara and Dennis Rainey
Monday, September 29, 2008
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Profundities From the Apostle Paul
Romans 1:14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. KJV Romans 1:14 I have a debt to Greeks and to the nations outside; to the wise and to those who have no learning. BBE
The Apostle Paul's calling led him to many and varied individuals. In Philippi he ministered to the Jailor and those in his house, the young woman with a divination spirit, and the disciple Lydia. In Ephesus he ministered to "certain disciples" who had not received the Holy Ghost. In Corinth he joined Aquila and Priscilla who were also tentmakers. He reasoned with Jews and Greeks in the synogogue on the sabbath and persuaded many in Corinth to accept Christ as Savior and Lord. He preached to the Athens people with passion and compassion when he saw the "city wholly given to idolatry." Acts 17:16 He preached Christ in the Synogogue at Thessaloniki and devout Greeks and leading women of the city were converted to Christ ("not a few" says the scripture, Acts 17:4). God performed miracles through Paul on the island of Melita and he preached Christ to the "barbarians," says the scripture.
Everywhere he went, his message was Jesus Christ and Him crucified and risen from the tomb. He did not shun anyone and when he was in prison he continued to share Christ with those around him. I can imagine his testimony to each one as he would share how that he once persecuted Christians but Christ met him on the road to Damascus as he went to get others for persecution and transformed him into a genuine child of God and eventually, a dynamic Apostle. I can easily imagine this was part of his witness to Onesimus, who was a runaway slave. He pled with Philemon to forgive Onesimus for running and to receive Onesimus back as a beloved brother.
Do we feel the same burden for those we come in contact with? Do we realize each one we see or come in contact with has a "charge" against us that we owe. We owe a "debt of love" to each one that we see. The Apostle Paul did not forget that debt. Everywhere he went he taught and preached Christ. He said to the Corinthians, ". . .I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified." 1Co 2:2
Will you reach out? Who will you come in contact with today? Whose door will you knock on? Who will you meet at the supermarket? Who will you visit at the hospital, at the jail or pass on the street? Will you pay your debt? May God help each one of us who know Christ as Savior and Lord to pay our debt. . .
The Apostle Paul's calling led him to many and varied individuals. In Philippi he ministered to the Jailor and those in his house, the young woman with a divination spirit, and the disciple Lydia. In Ephesus he ministered to "certain disciples" who had not received the Holy Ghost. In Corinth he joined Aquila and Priscilla who were also tentmakers. He reasoned with Jews and Greeks in the synogogue on the sabbath and persuaded many in Corinth to accept Christ as Savior and Lord. He preached to the Athens people with passion and compassion when he saw the "city wholly given to idolatry." Acts 17:16 He preached Christ in the Synogogue at Thessaloniki and devout Greeks and leading women of the city were converted to Christ ("not a few" says the scripture, Acts 17:4). God performed miracles through Paul on the island of Melita and he preached Christ to the "barbarians," says the scripture.
Everywhere he went, his message was Jesus Christ and Him crucified and risen from the tomb. He did not shun anyone and when he was in prison he continued to share Christ with those around him. I can imagine his testimony to each one as he would share how that he once persecuted Christians but Christ met him on the road to Damascus as he went to get others for persecution and transformed him into a genuine child of God and eventually, a dynamic Apostle. I can easily imagine this was part of his witness to Onesimus, who was a runaway slave. He pled with Philemon to forgive Onesimus for running and to receive Onesimus back as a beloved brother.
Do we feel the same burden for those we come in contact with? Do we realize each one we see or come in contact with has a "charge" against us that we owe. We owe a "debt of love" to each one that we see. The Apostle Paul did not forget that debt. Everywhere he went he taught and preached Christ. He said to the Corinthians, ". . .I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified." 1Co 2:2
Will you reach out? Who will you come in contact with today? Whose door will you knock on? Who will you meet at the supermarket? Who will you visit at the hospital, at the jail or pass on the street? Will you pay your debt? May God help each one of us who know Christ as Savior and Lord to pay our debt. . .
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Fiber and the Food That KO's High Blood Sugar
Monday, September 22, 2008
Great Day In the Lord and for Him
Thank you Lord for a great day in You! So often I forget to thank You. Thank you for love, grace, faith, truth, healing, life, family, salvation, sanctification, Holy Spirit baptism, your church, friends, community, leaders, daily bread, provision, breath, so many things to thank you for. Most of all thank You for You, for Your Son, for the Holy Spirit and for all You are. Amen!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Visits and Prayer Requests
Continued prayer for revival, evangelization and discipleship are needed here at our church.
Sister Jennie Sanders continues to request prayer. She continues in Huntingdon Health and Rehabilitation Center. We enjoyed visiting with her today and had a time of prayer. She always encourages us with her spirit of prayer and uplifting words.
Brother Jimmie Davis has been having severe coughing to thepoint of loosing his breath and passing out. We visited and prayed with him today. He and Sister Virginia request prayer.
Sister Marie Moore continues to request prayer for her health. She is having severe pain and cramping in one of her hands.
Sister Susie Reynolds is sick and requests prayer. Her granddaughter, Celinas, has been sick as well and requests prayer.
My second child, Heather, requests prayer. Her husband, Sammy, will be laid off of work next week and is need of another emloyer. They have two small children along with all the bills of a young family - car, house, etc. etc.
Sister Jennie Sanders continues to request prayer. She continues in Huntingdon Health and Rehabilitation Center. We enjoyed visiting with her today and had a time of prayer. She always encourages us with her spirit of prayer and uplifting words.
Brother Jimmie Davis has been having severe coughing to thepoint of loosing his breath and passing out. We visited and prayed with him today. He and Sister Virginia request prayer.
Sister Marie Moore continues to request prayer for her health. She is having severe pain and cramping in one of her hands.
Sister Susie Reynolds is sick and requests prayer. Her granddaughter, Celinas, has been sick as well and requests prayer.
My second child, Heather, requests prayer. Her husband, Sammy, will be laid off of work next week and is need of another emloyer. They have two small children along with all the bills of a young family - car, house, etc. etc.
Super Saturday A Great Success
Despite the weather forecast for rain and several not coming, those who did come enjoyed a great day of fellowship at the property on Northwood Drive. The weather was awesome with only about a five minute rain that cooled things off a bit. The children loved the slide even more in the rain as they moved down the slide faster on the wet, slicker surface.
The children (ages 16 months to 59 years - not quite 2 to 92) enjoyed the huge air slide. We enjoyed watching the children as they slid and slid and slid and slid some more. We also enjoyed a game of volleyball. The pictures say the rest.
B. J. and company. . .
Macey. . .head first. . .
Ethan. . .laughing all the way to his Dad Casey. . .
Neighborhood friend. . .
Fellowship. . . . .
Riley and Macey. . .
Hayden. . .
Karen. . .one of the "older" children. . .
Vickie. . .another one of the "older" children. . .
More friends. . . .
The children (ages 16 months to 59 years - not quite 2 to 92) enjoyed the huge air slide. We enjoyed watching the children as they slid and slid and slid and slid some more. We also enjoyed a game of volleyball. The pictures say the rest.
B. J. and company. . .
Macey. . .head first. . .
Ethan. . .laughing all the way to his Dad Casey. . .
Neighborhood friend. . .
Fellowship. . . . .
Riley and Macey. . .
Hayden. . .
Karen. . .one of the "older" children. . .
Vickie. . .another one of the "older" children. . .
More friends. . . .Wednesday, September 17, 2008
JUANITA WEAKLEY PRAYER REQUEST
Sister Juanita Weakley has sent out this prayer request to all her family and friends and any who will pray for her.
Dear Family and Friends:
PLEASE be praying for me today. I go to Vanderbilt at 3:40, then I have a 4:30 appointment for a CT Scan and Pet Scan. I have trusted my Lord with it all, and I am wanting prayer especially for today. I have never had anything like this before, never had a surgery in my life. God is faithful, and I know he will see me through all of this turmoil I am going through right now.
Thanks to all of you Precious Ones,
Wonnie Weakley
Dear Family and Friends:
PLEASE be praying for me today. I go to Vanderbilt at 3:40, then I have a 4:30 appointment for a CT Scan and Pet Scan. I have trusted my Lord with it all, and I am wanting prayer especially for today. I have never had anything like this before, never had a surgery in my life. God is faithful, and I know he will see me through all of this turmoil I am going through right now.
Thanks to all of you Precious Ones,
Wonnie Weakley
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
SUPER SATURDAY
Huntingdon Church of God of Prophecy, Saturday, September 20th from 10 am to Dark at the Northwood Property. There will be a large air slide, a sno-come machine, grilled food, volley ball and other games. This event is especially for the young at heart from age 2 to age 92. We extend a warm invitation to everyone.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Profundities From the Apostle Paul
Ephesians 6:5 "Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free."
Each person needs an "atta boy" or "atta girl" every once in a while. Encouragement means a lot in the work of the Lord. There is enough criticism, skepticism and disparagement to go around for those who are sincerely and genuinely doing their best to serve the Lord.
Yet, there is that spirit, that attitude that gets a hold on a person that wants to see their name in lights, on the screen or written on the page with accolades. Further, when others are recognized or given commendation that attitude springs up with jealous feelings and, sometimes, even angry, vengeful feelings. Isn't it amazing how the fleshly, carnal mind becomes oblivious to the all-seeing eye of God? He does see, right down into the very depths of our hearts, motives, desires, delibertions, and contemplations.
"The Apostle Paul encouraged servants to serve their masters "as to the Lord, and not to men" and to "be obedient unto them as unto Christ." Whether he was dealing specifically with slavery or with the relationship between "employer" and "employee" is not critical. The critical point is, "Do we do what we do to be seen and lauded of men or do we do what we do to serve the Lord?"
Heavenly Father, forgive me when I have become jealous, angry and vengeful because someone received recognition and I didn't. "For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God." 1 Peter 2:20 It is when a person is done wrong and they take it with patience, love and forgiveness that you are glorified. Help me to serve you Lord and not serve with an attitude of wanting accolades and applaudes of man. Help me to encourage others and to encourage myself in you. . . .AMEN!
Each person needs an "atta boy" or "atta girl" every once in a while. Encouragement means a lot in the work of the Lord. There is enough criticism, skepticism and disparagement to go around for those who are sincerely and genuinely doing their best to serve the Lord.
Yet, there is that spirit, that attitude that gets a hold on a person that wants to see their name in lights, on the screen or written on the page with accolades. Further, when others are recognized or given commendation that attitude springs up with jealous feelings and, sometimes, even angry, vengeful feelings. Isn't it amazing how the fleshly, carnal mind becomes oblivious to the all-seeing eye of God? He does see, right down into the very depths of our hearts, motives, desires, delibertions, and contemplations.
"The Apostle Paul encouraged servants to serve their masters "as to the Lord, and not to men" and to "be obedient unto them as unto Christ." Whether he was dealing specifically with slavery or with the relationship between "employer" and "employee" is not critical. The critical point is, "Do we do what we do to be seen and lauded of men or do we do what we do to serve the Lord?"
Heavenly Father, forgive me when I have become jealous, angry and vengeful because someone received recognition and I didn't. "For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God." 1 Peter 2:20 It is when a person is done wrong and they take it with patience, love and forgiveness that you are glorified. Help me to serve you Lord and not serve with an attitude of wanting accolades and applaudes of man. Help me to encourage others and to encourage myself in you. . . .AMEN!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
JUANITA WEAKLEY PRAYER REQUEST
I received the following email from Juanita Weakley, wife of former Tennessee State Overseer, Eugene Weakley. They served Tennessee for fourteen years. They were great encouragers and prayer warriors during the times I went through cancer surgery.
"Thank you so much Brother Gordon. I just came in from the doctor in Nashville and I am scheduled for 9/30/08. Be sure to be praying for me at that time, the surgery is to be about 3 hours, per the doctor. I know that the Lord will be with me in the surgery, he always has and always will. I love you much," J Weakley
"Thank you so much Brother Gordon. I just came in from the doctor in Nashville and I am scheduled for 9/30/08. Be sure to be praying for me at that time, the surgery is to be about 3 hours, per the doctor. I know that the Lord will be with me in the surgery, he always has and always will. I love you much," J Weakley
Thursday, September 11, 2008
This Coming Sunday's Message
TEXT: Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
TITLE: "Love God With All Your Strength"
SUPPORTING SCRIPTURES,QUOTES, ILLUSTRATIONS, EXCERPTS:
"The unique contribution of the body to the whole person is that it is the mediator of moral action rather than the initiator. In a sense, it is the equipment for the heart. It does what the heart tells it to do; it is the heart's vehicle for concrete ministry and service in the material world. In this capacity, it is not the source of sin and is never called sinful. Instead, the body can be strong and healthy, physically weak (Greek:asthenia), ill fragile ("jars of clay"), decaying, and limited or physically dependent in that it has natural desires that want to be satisfied." From Blame It On The Brain by Edward T. Welch
1Corinthians. 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. "This is not asceticism or physical self-denial; rather, it is Paul's response to Satan's tendency to prey on the natural weaknesses and desires of the body." From Blame It On The Brain by Edward T. Welch
1Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Joshua 14:11 As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in.
Judges 16:17 That he told her all his heart, and said unto her, There hath not come a razor upon mine head; for I have been a Nazarite unto God from my mother’s womb: if I be shaven, then my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any other man.
Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.
Colossians 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
Mt 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh (sarx) is weak.
TITLE: "Love God With All Your Strength"
SUPPORTING SCRIPTURES,QUOTES, ILLUSTRATIONS, EXCERPTS:
"The unique contribution of the body to the whole person is that it is the mediator of moral action rather than the initiator. In a sense, it is the equipment for the heart. It does what the heart tells it to do; it is the heart's vehicle for concrete ministry and service in the material world. In this capacity, it is not the source of sin and is never called sinful. Instead, the body can be strong and healthy, physically weak (Greek:asthenia), ill fragile ("jars of clay"), decaying, and limited or physically dependent in that it has natural desires that want to be satisfied." From Blame It On The Brain by Edward T. Welch
1Corinthians. 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. "This is not asceticism or physical self-denial; rather, it is Paul's response to Satan's tendency to prey on the natural weaknesses and desires of the body." From Blame It On The Brain by Edward T. Welch
1Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Joshua 14:11 As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in.
Judges 16:17 That he told her all his heart, and said unto her, There hath not come a razor upon mine head; for I have been a Nazarite unto God from my mother’s womb: if I be shaven, then my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any other man.
Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.
Colossians 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
Mt 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh (sarx) is weak.
CRY OUT AMERICA PRAYER GATHERING
The "Cry Out America Prayer Gathering" met today. Ministers, Pastors and laity from different church organizations came togther to join together in prayer. Each presenter who led in prayer agreed that prayer one of the most needed disciplines in the church today. Several remarks were made concerning the attacks on 09/11/01 and how the people of the United States seemed to turn to God more then but have since become lax in seeking God. One statement by, Reverand Jimmy Furr seemed to get to the heart of the prayer gathering. He said, "Some have used this occasion to emphasize patriotism when prayer is the need of the hour."
We thank each participant who came and believe this is one part of a great prayer effort in our nation. Each one left with the assurance that prayer is more than a patriotic effort, it is a priority. Thank God for this time and His presence in our midst.
Ministers and laity came together for prayer. Baptist Hospital Chaplain Mike Osment in the light green shirt, Carroll County Firefighters Chaplain Jim Gentle in the blue shirt and Reverand Wayne Prater in the red shirt. Several laity are present as well.
In the far left in white shirts and ties, L-R, Pastor Jim Cooper and Pastor Lynn Stapleton.
Pastor Brian Oakes leads "Amazing Grace."
Reverand Jimmy Furr shares his heart on "Prayer for Repentance."
James Humphreys, eighty-five year old retired Baptist Pastor, shares his heart and leads in prayer for a "New Christ Awakening" in America.
We thank each participant who came and believe this is one part of a great prayer effort in our nation. Each one left with the assurance that prayer is more than a patriotic effort, it is a priority. Thank God for this time and His presence in our midst.
Ministers and laity came together for prayer. Baptist Hospital Chaplain Mike Osment in the light green shirt, Carroll County Firefighters Chaplain Jim Gentle in the blue shirt and Reverand Wayne Prater in the red shirt. Several laity are present as well.
In the far left in white shirts and ties, L-R, Pastor Jim Cooper and Pastor Lynn Stapleton.
Pastor Brian Oakes leads "Amazing Grace."
Reverand Jimmy Furr shares his heart on "Prayer for Repentance."
James Humphreys, eighty-five year old retired Baptist Pastor, shares his heart and leads in prayer for a "New Christ Awakening" in America.CRY OUT AMERICA PRAYER GATHERING
CRY OUT AMERICA PRAYER GATHER-ING SLATED AT THOMAS PARK ON SEPT. 11, 2008 FROM 12 NOON UNTIL 1 PM. THE PARK IS LOCATED DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM E. W. JAMES SUPERMARKET ON MAIN STREET. 
The "Cry Out America" Prayer Gathering will be held at Thomas Park directly across from E. W. James Supermarket. Various pastors and ministers have been included in the prayer time that is scheduled from 12 noon until 1 pm on September 11 (09/11). Awakening America is promoting the event throughout the 3000 plus counties in Amerca.Carroll County will gather at Thomas park for this momentous occasion. The courthouse will be very busy on that day and parking will be very limited. We have been asked to have the prayer gathering at another public place. Thomas Park is a public place open to all and has a war memorial on it. Pre-prayer has been emphasized and post-prayer will also be emphasized since this gathering will be a microscopic view of the prayer movement that has been and is now growing throughout America. Thousands of Christians are becoming more passionate in prayer. Churches are in need of revival and many in our nation are in need of Christ as Savior and Lord. Join us in prayer.
Monday, September 08, 2008
Prayer Requests
Prayer for the "Cry Out America" prayer gathering that we will sense God's presence and pray according to His passions and will. Prayer that God's presence will ingnite in our area a passion for prayer, for the lost and for continued growth in Him and His word.
Jennie Sanders continues to be in Huntingdon Health and Rehab. She desires continued prayer.
Darrell, who prayed the sinners prayer a couple weeks ago, called and wants another visit. Pray that our local church can continue to reach out to this young man.
Brandie and her two children desire continued prayer.
Former State Overseer of Tennessee wife, Juanita Weakley, requests prayer. Tests have showed a small cancer in her colon. Sister Weakly has prayed for many and has been a friend to many in this state.
Carl Morgan and family, from Crossroads church in White Bluff, TN, desire prayer. Sister Morgan died suddenly of a heart attack. He is a Deacon and she has been a member of the church for many years.
Several church members are requesting prayer. Sister Lilly Grooms, Sister Mildred Stacey, Sister Donna Crossno, Sister Marie Moore, Sister Mildred Lawerence and continued prayer for Sister Cathy Coleman as she goes through rehabilitation in the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.
My daughter, Sarah, has a special request. Her house cat that she had for three years had to be put down about an hour ago. He was beyond medical help. I helped her bury him. He was a friendly indoor cat and was a special friend to Sarah. She is going through a time of loss and grief.
Jennie Sanders continues to be in Huntingdon Health and Rehab. She desires continued prayer.
Darrell, who prayed the sinners prayer a couple weeks ago, called and wants another visit. Pray that our local church can continue to reach out to this young man.
Brandie and her two children desire continued prayer.
Former State Overseer of Tennessee wife, Juanita Weakley, requests prayer. Tests have showed a small cancer in her colon. Sister Weakly has prayed for many and has been a friend to many in this state.
Carl Morgan and family, from Crossroads church in White Bluff, TN, desire prayer. Sister Morgan died suddenly of a heart attack. He is a Deacon and she has been a member of the church for many years.
Several church members are requesting prayer. Sister Lilly Grooms, Sister Mildred Stacey, Sister Donna Crossno, Sister Marie Moore, Sister Mildred Lawerence and continued prayer for Sister Cathy Coleman as she goes through rehabilitation in the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.
My daughter, Sarah, has a special request. Her house cat that she had for three years had to be put down about an hour ago. He was beyond medical help. I helped her bury him. He was a friendly indoor cat and was a special friend to Sarah. She is going through a time of loss and grief.
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Raising the Bar. . .Quotes
The following quotes are from Sermon Central and/or are given credit by the person who said it. . .The first quote is interesting considering what was emphasized in the International Assembly by General Overseer R. A. Howard.
"The Top 10 Issues Facing Today’s Church 1-Prayer 2-Discipleship 3-Leadership 4-Evangelism 5-Doctrine /Worldview 6-Apathy 7-Marriage 8-Relevance 9-Homosexuality 10-Abortion." (Lifeway.com)
Luke 19:10 "For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." Jesus Christ
(This was said by Jesus after he asked Zacchaeus, a publican - tax collector despised by most - to come down from a tree to go home with him).
"Don't despair. Only the mediocre person is always at his best. " W. Somerset Maugham
"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. " Unknown
""Success is a ruthless competitor for it flatters and nourishes our weaknesses and lulls us into complacency. We bask in the sunlight of accomplishment and lose the spirit of humility which helps us visualize all the factors which have contributed to our success. We are apt to forget that we are only one of a team, that in unity there is strength." Unknown
"Voter apathy among Christians is alarmingly high. In the 2000 presidential election, more than 2 out of every 5 Christians failed to exercise their privilege to cast a ballot."
"The Top 10 Issues Facing Today’s Church 1-Prayer 2-Discipleship 3-Leadership 4-Evangelism 5-Doctrine /Worldview 6-Apathy 7-Marriage 8-Relevance 9-Homosexuality 10-Abortion." (Lifeway.com)
Luke 19:10 "For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." Jesus Christ
(This was said by Jesus after he asked Zacchaeus, a publican - tax collector despised by most - to come down from a tree to go home with him).
"Don't despair. Only the mediocre person is always at his best. " W. Somerset Maugham
"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. " Unknown
""Success is a ruthless competitor for it flatters and nourishes our weaknesses and lulls us into complacency. We bask in the sunlight of accomplishment and lose the spirit of humility which helps us visualize all the factors which have contributed to our success. We are apt to forget that we are only one of a team, that in unity there is strength." Unknown
"Voter apathy among Christians is alarmingly high. In the 2000 presidential election, more than 2 out of every 5 Christians failed to exercise their privilege to cast a ballot."
Friday, September 05, 2008
Tennessee Church of God of Prophecy Calendar of Events
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Quotes
"I am profitably engaged in reading the Bible. Take all of this Book upon reason that you can, and the balance by faith, and you will live and die a better man." - Abraham Lincoln, 1863
"Intelligence, patriotism, Christianity, and a firm reliance on Him, who has never yet forsaken this favored land, are still competent to adjust, in the best way, all our present difficulty." – Abraham Lincoln
"The inner cause is so much more precious than the outer effect." F. F. Bosworth
Excertp from "Today God Is First" by Os Hillman
"We've spent too much time equipping our businesspeople to do our ministries rather than equipping them to do the ministry God has called them to in the workplace," said a third-world pastor to a large group of businesspeople.
Over 70 percent of our time is spent in the workplace, yet our training and teaching focuses on areas where we spend much less time. The workplace is the greatest mission field of our day, yet we do not train businesspeople how to effectively integrate their faith into their workplace. The wall between Sunday and Monday still exists. Most businesspeople do not understand that all of life is spiritual, not just life on Sunday. . . .
. . .We are entering a new era in the Church when businesspeople are seen as a remnant of the Body of Christ who need to be mobilized and trained for the work of the ministry to their own mission field-the marketplace.
Read more at www.crosswalk.com Click on the link for daily devotions and go to "Today God Is First"
Over 70 percent of our time is spent in the workplace, yet our training and teaching focuses on areas where we spend much less time. The workplace is the greatest mission field of our day, yet we do not train businesspeople how to effectively integrate their faith into their workplace. The wall between Sunday and Monday still exists. Most businesspeople do not understand that all of life is spiritual, not just life on Sunday. . . .
. . .We are entering a new era in the Church when businesspeople are seen as a remnant of the Body of Christ who need to be mobilized and trained for the work of the ministry to their own mission field-the marketplace.
Read more at www.crosswalk.com Click on the link for daily devotions and go to "Today God Is First"
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Team Work
The word TEAM has no I in it.
(Noticed this on a sign posted in Lakeview Elementary School, Antioch, TN, not sure where it originated)
The word PRIDE has an I in the middle of it.
(Noted in several articles and places, origin uncertain).
Which word best describes your attitude and desires?
(Noticed this on a sign posted in Lakeview Elementary School, Antioch, TN, not sure where it originated)
The word PRIDE has an I in the middle of it.
(Noted in several articles and places, origin uncertain).
Which word best describes your attitude and desires?
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Visits and Prayer Requests
Karen and I visited the following yesterday, and offered prayer and each requests continued prayer.
Brandie and her two children.
Tyrone and his family.
Sister Ruth King has a special request for her daughter Rita.
Sister Mildred Stacey and her husband Ralph requests prayer.
Sister April Davis requests prayer for healing from some type of insect bite.
Brandie and her two children.
Tyrone and his family.
Sister Ruth King has a special request for her daughter Rita.
Sister Mildred Stacey and her husband Ralph requests prayer.
Sister April Davis requests prayer for healing from some type of insect bite.
From "Bible Pathways Devotional"
The fearful thing is that it is possible to call ourselves Christians, believe all the fundamental doctrines of the faith, attend religious services regularly, and go through the motions of worship because we feel it is our religious duty and, yet, never truly worship only Him. Our hearts and thoughts can be elsewhere, even during the worship service. How can we realize His presence if we refuse to read the Word of God to learn why He created us, how He expects us to live, and what He expects us to do?
For more go to www.crosswalk.com and find Bible Pathways Devotional
For more go to www.crosswalk.com and find Bible Pathways Devotional
Monday, September 01, 2008
Sunday, August 31, 2008 - Special Surprise Visit
Thank the Lord for another great Sunday. We were greatly blessed with God's presence. It was good to see James and Krystel with us again. They are the newest couple at our church and are engaged to be married.
Several were away with family gatherings and/or on vacation but the ones who were there were worshipping and hungry for God. He came in a marvelous way.
We were blessed with a surprise visit. Back about three months ago, Sister Cathy Coleman had a serious accident with moderate to severe traumatic brain damage on both sides of her brain. We have followed her progress and requested prayer all over the world for her recovery. We are thankful and proud to announce that Sister Cathy Coleman, her husband Mike and granddaughter, Mariah Hernandez came for the last part of the worship service. Sister Cathy is progressing daily. Mike shared with the congregation how that he believes that God is working a daily miracle in his wife's life. He stated that the miracle for him has been the many encouraging members and friends of the church and the medical staff where Cathy worked as an RN. He noted that seeing the compassion, care and encouragement of so many has been a miracle in his life.
He also explained that each one of the members and friends would need to re-introduce themselves since Sister Cathy's memory has been, for the lack of a better word, mostly erased. Each one came by and greeted Sister Cathy and introduced themselves. It was a special moment in time as each one expressed their love and care for Sister Cathy. We all came around and prayed with her, Mike and Mariah. Sister Cathy still has her same joyous countenance but needs to re-learn a lot of what she has lost.
We continue to pray for this family. . .God takes what seems to be a destructive tragedy and uses it for HIS purposes and for the benefit of HIS children. . .and for HIS GLORY!
Several were away with family gatherings and/or on vacation but the ones who were there were worshipping and hungry for God. He came in a marvelous way.
We were blessed with a surprise visit. Back about three months ago, Sister Cathy Coleman had a serious accident with moderate to severe traumatic brain damage on both sides of her brain. We have followed her progress and requested prayer all over the world for her recovery. We are thankful and proud to announce that Sister Cathy Coleman, her husband Mike and granddaughter, Mariah Hernandez came for the last part of the worship service. Sister Cathy is progressing daily. Mike shared with the congregation how that he believes that God is working a daily miracle in his wife's life. He stated that the miracle for him has been the many encouraging members and friends of the church and the medical staff where Cathy worked as an RN. He noted that seeing the compassion, care and encouragement of so many has been a miracle in his life.
He also explained that each one of the members and friends would need to re-introduce themselves since Sister Cathy's memory has been, for the lack of a better word, mostly erased. Each one came by and greeted Sister Cathy and introduced themselves. It was a special moment in time as each one expressed their love and care for Sister Cathy. We all came around and prayed with her, Mike and Mariah. Sister Cathy still has her same joyous countenance but needs to re-learn a lot of what she has lost.
We continue to pray for this family. . .God takes what seems to be a destructive tragedy and uses it for HIS purposes and for the benefit of HIS children. . .and for HIS GLORY!
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