The power of giving

I love to give. I wish there were enough words to describe how I feel about giving things away. I will not spend time on this blog sharing what I have given away, because frankly, it is no one's business. My purpose for giving is simple. God told me to do it. Why is giving needed more today than ever before? There are so many believers and non believers alike who have forgotten what it means to be charitable. We have forgotten that it is really a great feeling to give to others. Christ always gave. Let's give today.

Getting out of the Ministry

What is a Pastor? (Acts 20:27 ESV) for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.

A true pastor will be a good biblical teacher and do so without fearing the congregation when he/she wants to or needs to speak on certain subjects. He/she will proclaim it and preach on Hell just as much as on Heaven without fear of repercussion. He/she will not bow down to the schemes of members who use money or influence to try and gain favor to the Pastor.

So, why are so many pastors quitting the ministry today? Because they are tired of the junk that follows the ministry. There are too many complaints from people inside the church. A pastor can handle the outside forces because they are coming from lost people. However, the inside forces will make a man/woman quit the ministry because they are just tired of the bickering and backbiting and complaining and the whining that comes from within the church. AND all in the name of Christianity no doubt!

If the grass isn't cut the proper way. If the songs are sung this way or that way. If the pastor visits my relative but not my relative. If He/she doesn't..... There comes a time when people need to walk a mile in a Pastors tracks and they will see the many hours at night when he/she is up praying for them. The many hours away from their families because a church member needs them and no one is suppose to know the nature of that visit. The many,many, many "please don't repeat this" counseling sessions where you hear someone just cheated on their spouse and you can't say anything to anyone b/c you just said you wouldn't. The heart aches of people telling lies about you. Spreading vicious rumors about you. Not waving at you when you wave at them. Not speaking to you when you speak to them. Avoiding you in stores and restaurants b/c you challenged them to live a Godly life. All of this builds up and you just get tired of caring for people who at times don't care for you, and you know it is the truth. There are church members who literally hate their pastors and they will do everything in their power to try and destroy that man/woman b/c of such hatred.

Your always the one that gets the blame when people leave a church. Your always the one that "never feeds" them who say they are not getting fed. There just comes a time when you want to throw your hands up and say, "to heck" with it all and quit! Church members will criticize your sermons if they are too long, or too short, or if it steps on their toes or.....He is preaching to my sins or why preach that type sermon or...Well, listen to me Preacher. Who called you to preach. Man or God? Jesus was betrayed by a man that He hand picked to walk with Him for three years. Don't quit! You are man's servant and the Word of God says your feet are blessed. Listen to me church member. Get with the program. Pray for your pastor. Talk to your pastor. Share your thoughts and insights. Pray for the Man of God. Is he perfect? No, He/she isn't. Will he/she make mistakes? Yes they will! Do you make mistakes? Does the Pastor throw you out when you make mistakes?

Avoid them that cause trouble

What does it mean to avoid someone according to Romans 16:17? In the English Standard Version, we read this: "I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them." For you die hard skeptics that feel you can't get anything from any other translation but the King James Version, then look at that verse in the KJV: "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them."

Ok, now you have two different translations. Why are you afraid of that verse? The truth is that most preachers are afraid of it because when they do that, then they are considered traitors and they have no love. Then the good hearted folks who are stirring up trouble will throw the love verses around and make you feel like a moron. Here is reality in the actuality. If you are walking around stirring up trouble, then the Bible says for people to avoid you. You must either decide to get right or accept the consequences of your actions. God is tired of people who claim to be Christians spewing off at the mouth to hurt another Christian. This is totally wrong. I realize that "blood is thicker than water" and some people really hate it when someone goes against what they believe, but let's face it. You could be wrong! Every idle word you throw out there is recorded. Every gossip you give is recorded. Every slanderous remark is marked down and God holds the key to your fate. You choose to live for God and do right or keep living for yourself and keep sinning. Honestly, do you think Jesus loves it when you do that junk? You must choose today to do either what is right or not. The choice is yours. I just passed a bar and since the new law says you can't smoke inside the building, they created a fenced in shed with a top only so the patrons can go outside and smoke and drink. We as Christians are saying we are not causing trouble all in the name of trying to defend our point. There are two sides to each story. The side that is always talking is always what? The side that never defends themselves is what? You make that decision. So, I challenge you this day. Are you pleasing God with your slanderous statements? Now, it is in your hands.

30 Days spending God's money

The Lord moved upon my heart to give my money away. Now, don't be calling me asking for it. I want do it. :) However, I felt impressed to invest $60.00 plus over the next month buying one person a pop of their choice. Legal pop that is. I know that Malachi the third chapter tells us to test God. Matthew 23:23 teaches us that Jesus told us to give the tithe and more. I will take this challenge and invest my money and help at least one total stranger each day for the next 30 days and write about it. I think it will be a success, b/c the Bible says for us to do that.

DAY 1

So, today I went into store number 1 and there were several men in the store and I went to the counter and as I was paying for my diet pepsi, I gave the woman in front of me $2.00 and said would you please pay for that Gentlemen behind me soft drink. She said, "oh, ok." As I was leaving she told him that the preacher there wanted to pay for your drink. He said this, "why would a preacher pay for my soft drink when I work for Budweiser?"
I guess I know why today I had to buy his soft drink. Day 1 of 30 days giving away $2.00 was a success. I wonder what day 2 will bring.

DAY 2

I went to my favorite watering hole (notice the western tone), and scoured the place. (notice the word scoured, like I was a detective looking for my criminal). Well, anyway, I went to buy my a nice Diet Pepsi with crushed Ice. I noticed one woman getting her drink and without hesitation, the lady behind the counter said, I can check you out over here. She told me my total and I asked her to charge me for two. Then, it hit me. My scouring paid off. There was that lady I had seen earlier. I said, no wait, I wish to pay for hers. You see, I am the Pastor of the Assembly of God Church up the road and for the next 30 days I wish to purchase a total stranger a soft drink. So, would you tell her that hers has been paid in full. Well, let me tell you what happened next. Absolutely nothing! Nothing happened. No thank you, no mention of it, nothing. Not one word of thanks or gratitude. Not one word....Wait a minute. Why am I doing this? Am I doing this for my pleasure or for God's pleasure? I'm an idiot. I allowed the devil for just one second to creep up and mess with my mind. Shame on me. Yesterday I heard the man ask why I was doing it, so I assumed and when I was in the Navy, they never told us to assume b/c, well just assume you know what assume means. Back to my point. I don't want any recognition for doing this. That woman I bought this soft drink and it was a large root beer by the way, could have been going through a tough time and needed a drink. The person behind the counter could have been going through a tough time and needed to see people doing nice things. And it could be for none of those reasons other that God said to do it. The Word of God says to obey is better than sacrifice. So, today I encourage you to find someone and invest $2.00 of your money and buy them a soft drink or cup of coffee, or if you have no money to invest, then just invest some time with them. Go to your favorite watering hole and hang out with a total stranger that is sitting by themselves. Go to the hospital or nursing home. If you can't leave your house, get on the phone. Just this morning while waiting for my computer to restart for that thing Microsoft does every now and then, I called/text 7 people and said I pray you have a great day today in Jesus. Do something for someone else today and watch or not watch their face and see that if God tells you to do it, then something good will come from it.

DAY 2.5

This one is so funny, I hesitated about placing it here. My passion it seems like in the last few months has been to give away my money. Now, don't start calling me. You ain't getting it. I want to give away what God has given me. So, I am being a good steward with what God has blessed us with, but yet sensitive to the needs of people around me. Debra and I went into the Dollar General stored to buy a present for a girl in our church who just had her tonsils removed Wednesday morning. While there, I saw this elderly woman who was in her late 80's walking with a cane and the hand of what I was assuming was her child, who was up in years as well. We smiled and I nodded my head toward her and smiled. She smiled back. Her teeth were frail alongside her body. She was clean in appearance and she just looked so tired. Her daughter was up at the counter and she had three items left on the counter when Debra and I walked up to the counter to place our $5.00 worth of products for this girl. The Lord instantly moved upon my heart to pay for her items. I knew she had around $25.00 worth, but not exactly how much. I said, "Mam, I would like for you to allow me to pay for your purchase please." She said, "oh my, what for?" I said, well, mam, I just don't know what for. I just know that God said to do it, and I am going to do it if you will allow me the honor to be your servant." She then said, "oh my, thank you so much." Then her eyes welled up with tears as she turned to her mother(I assume) and told her and this is why I feel that Lord wanted me to do it. The 80 plus year old lady was the recipient of the products, not the younger one. You know what the majority of the products were? Cat food. Cat food, juice, and some crackers. Now, why am I telling you this? I bought thirty something dollars worth of cat food. Then it hit me. I was able to help a cat, and I absolutely loathe, despise, distaste, have no use for cats. Do you know that I honestly hate cats. Just so you would know that. But, anyway, I bought cat food. Now, once again, no fan fare, but the woman behind the counter said, "oh, that was nice of you, why did you do that." Well mam, I replied, "I don't know other than that the Lord wants me to do this, and I have to do it." She then said, "where do you go to church?" I told her and that is not the point of this my friends. The point is that if God tells you to do something, then do it. It doesn't matter if you buy cat food or food. Just buy the stuff and give God the glory. Now, this precious social security drawing woman can spend $32.47 on food now for herself.

I think tomorrow I will buy someone else a soft drink and try and make their day and find out their story. Why don't you try doing something nice to a total stranger tomorrow and see what happens.

DAY 3

Early this morning I entered my local diet Pepsi spot and scoured the place for a stranger. There were around 7 men sitting around the table and one of them I knew. I figured, I might have to postpone this adventure until another time. So, I went to the drink machine and filled up my $1.07 diet Pepsi and went to the counter. I was torn on what should happen next. No one was near me. I said to myself in a matter of a few seconds that I would leave $2.00 with the young lady behind the counter and ask her to pay for the next person that came up. Then I said, no, that defeats the purpose of me buying a total stranger one. So, I resolved to wait until later on in the day, when the young lady said, "will that be all?" I was about to say yes, when I saw out of the corner of my right eye a bright shining Mountain Dew flop down on the counter. I wanted to shout. I said, "no mam, I wish to pay for this Mountain Dew." The man, said, "no way." I said, and check this out. It was funny. "yes way." He said, "why?" "Well," I replied, "it is such a beautiful day outside not to help someone I don't know." I received my change back and said "sir, I pray you have a blessed day today." He said, "wow, thank-you sir." That was it. Nothing else was said. No mention of inviting to church. No nothing. I like the concept of giving God's money away(thanks C.T. for reminding me that it is God's money and not mine), and watching people being touched. I think if Jesus was around, he would purchase a total stranger a soda. Try it today and see the reaction on their face and bless someone else that you don't know.

DAY 4

Today is Sunday and I thought I was going to be in a pickle in my quest to help one person each day. However, I went back the second time to my spot and two gentlemen were sitting down. I went to my machine and filled up my cup with Diet Pepsi and while I was walking to the counter a tan color van pulled up. A middle age woman walked in and went straight to the drink machine. I had just paid for my two drinks and while I was watching her fill up her cup, I told the young lady behind the counter to let me pay for hers. The woman walked up and the counter person said, "do you need anything else?" The lady replied with, "no, this is all." The counter lady said, "have a good day, it is paid for." "what?" the counter lady said, "this man paid for it." She said, "thank you and why?" All with a smile, I patted her on her shoulder and said "just because I can do it to someone I have never met before, and you be blessed today." I invested $1.09 today and made a smile on their face. Man, this giving away God's money is a hoot! Try it tomorrow.

DAY 5

What a great day in the Lord. I went to my spot and there he was. Sitting all by himself drinking his coffee. I went to the counter lady and said, please give him a refill on me. She said, that is great! I walked past the man and smiled and nodded my head at him. Nothing fancy. Just to show a friendly face to a lone man sitting all by himself. What was he thinking? Does he have kids that live away from him? Do they come and visit him? Is this coffee break a chance to just talk to someone? I don't know. I probably should have walked over and introduced myself, but I didn't. Sometimes we question God on what we should or should not do. Why do we do that? Then the enemy makes you doubt and then you get depressed and the list goes on. Just be obedient to God and go for him. He will guide you. So, one old man gets a refill. What a great Day!

I decided to stop this afternoon at another place. I felt impressed to buy someone else a soft drink. I went to the cashier and said, "let me pay for this man's drink." He said, "well thank you sir." I said, "no problem. It is just a great day to buy a drink for someone that I have never met before." I walked out. I went to the truck and said to the man I was with, "hey, I just bought him a drink." He replied, "oh, that is ?" Don't want to mention names. Well, UPDATE, UPDATE, UPDATE: Two days later, at work this man told me that the man I bought the drink for that he knew said this to another man at this man's work. "You know something, (so and so), I just don't think I can believe anything negative you are saying against (so and so's) pastor, b/c he bought me a pop." The other man, just dropped his head and looked down. Isn't God good? A lost man preaching to another lost man. God is great!

DAY 6

Nothing, absolutely nothing happened with my buying a soft drink for a total stranger. Well, something happened and it wasn't what I wanted to happen. You see, when I started this journey 6 days ago, I was hoping for something to dramatically happen to someone. Well, I think that when we start the walk with God, we should not expect something dramatic to happen. We should just be obedient to Him, regardless of what happens. Well, I saw the man at the drink machine and when one cashier walked by me, I gave her two dollars and said, would you please pay for his and not tell who did it. She said, "ah, that is nice of you." I said, "na, just doing what I am suppose to do." Well, the man came up with his soft drink and then he bought a breakfast sandwich. She said, someone paid for your drink and so the price for your breakfast is so and so. He said, "really, well in that case, give me two of those tickets over there for this price($2.00). The same amount I gave her. She walked over and pulled two of those lottery type tickets. Man, did I just purchase some lottery type tickets? Why? (No matter how crazy things may look to those on the outside looking in...... Being obedient to GOD's will is what makes things of substance happen. ...) Our job is to be obedient to God regardless of what happens after the thought or act. If God tells you to do something, then do it.

I didn't buy a man a lottery ticket. I bought a man a soft drink. I did what God said to do. I fulfilled my task and this man will never know who bought it. Does it matter that people know when you do something nice to them? To this day, my wife and I don't know who bought us a washing machine back in 1993 when ours went bad. All of a sudden, one was placed on our front door of the parsonage. Do we know why they did it? Nope, we just know we needed one and God provided b/c someone or several people were obedient to Him and did what He said to do. Be nice to someone today and stay away from Negative people.

DAY 7

Day 7 was just like any other day. Nothing dramatic to write about. However, this day proved itself to be interesting in some ways, in that I cannot post it on Facebook, b/c I am taking a Facebook fast until the end of July. The negative things that are being posted about our church, etc. is just idiotic. So, I am staying away from it. Anyway, my plan today was simple. To still spend some of God's money to help total strangers without them knowing about it. The first act happened at breakfast. I had a Doctor's appointment(routine blood work) and Debra and I decided to try this new restaurant in Pratt. We did, and we liked it. Well, three men walked in one at a time and sat at the same table. It reminded me of a country song that was written by a Church of God Prophecy son in the late 80's called the old cafe. It was located around the men who came in and drunk their coffee and reminisced about the good old days. When we left, I told the waitress to put their coffee on my bill and please not tell them. She did. Well, we left and I assume she did.

Then I went to my drinking spot to get my Diet Pepsi and there were several people milling around and this one man came in. White hair, dressed in Starch pressed dry cleaners clothes. I got mine and told the cashier to add his to my ticket and please don't tell him I did it. So, I paid for my drink and his and walked out the door. When I opened the door, I heard her say, "sir, that man paid for your drink." Man, I didn't want him to know about it. When I got to my truck he walked out and lifted his Dr. Pepper up to me and nodded his head. I nodded mine back. Then he got into this huge, and I say huge SUV and drove the opposite way of me. That was so much fun.

You know, when you step out on faith and just do what God says to do, it doesn't matter who benefits from it. That man had more money according to what he was driving that most of us have. However, I don't know if that man was getting his last drink and then go do something terrible. All I know is this. If God tells you to buy someone a drink; buy it!

DAY 8

Today is a good day. Any day with Jesus is a good day. I went to get my Diet Pepsi(I should be a spokesperson) and saw the family of 4. Man, woman, two kids. They were buying their drinks and breakfast. Then I saw this lone woman buying a drink. I went to the counter and the lone woman was behind me. The cashier asked, "will there be anything else." I said, "no, thank you." Why not the lone woman Lord I mumbled? Then the other cashier beside me asked the family, "will there be anything else?" He said, "that sandwich." The cashier said, "that will be $13.62." I screamed inside. $1.09 over $13.62. You see, it is easier to give away $1.09 than $13.62 isn't it? When we are dealing with God's money, it isn't the amount. When we are dealing with our money, we wrestle against the amount. When you trust in God and listen to Him, He will guide you in the right path. I walked over to the man/woman and kids and slipped $15.00 on the counter and said, "hey guys, I would like to pay for your breakfast, and God bless." He replied, "wow, thanks sir." Who were these people? Their car showed they were poor people. Their clothes showed they were poor people. How much money do they have to survive on their destination. They were traveling. Normal families stop in a restaurant and eat breakfast. They stopped at a convenience store and got breakfast. They had no money. But, now they do. Be nice to a stranger today. Someone that you know you want ever see again. Someone that can't help you in return. It will do you good.

DAY 9

Went to my spot and seen this man and woman at the counter. They had their drinks and were getting their "biscuit" and other food items from the hot counter. I paid for my drink and gave the woman the money and said, "please use this to pay for their food." They were elated at the least and I heard the woman say, "that man paid for your breakfast." I walked out the door and just smiled. Thank you Jesus that you gave me some money so I can give it away. You are such a great God.

DAY 10

Boring, boring, boring seems to be the trend these last few days. Just walk in, buy me a diet Pepsi and pay for someone else's drink. Nothing spectacular happened. Just did it. I think the Lord is showing me that nothing spectacular has to happen. Just be obedient is the key.

DAY 11

A good day. Went to Pizza Hut with Elisabeth for our last Daddy/Daughter date before she flies back to Africa. During this time I noticed two teens sitting over there in another booth. When we got up to check out, they got up. The server was busy, and both Elisabeth and the other young lady were either in the restroom or beside the restroom. I was speaking with the young man. "What grade you in?" He replied, "I'm in the 10th grade in Kiowa." Well, then the conversation went to the meeting I had yesterday with Travis Dumond and Luke MacKinney in Kiowa about us doing something with both Medicine Lodge and Kiowa High Schools. I shared that with him and invited him and her to our youth program on Wednesday night. Then the server came up and I said, "let me pay for mine and their meal please." He said, "no you don't!" Well, I won. What a great day. Had the honor and I say honor to buy a young man and ?(sister, friend, cousin, girlfriend) a Pizza Hut lunch. Man, this spending God's money is a hoot! Try it tomorrow my friends and see what happens.

DAY 12

This was a very unique day. I stopped the garbage truck and asked the driver what kind of soft drinks him and the other man like. "Pepsi is what I like and he likes Mountain Dew." I said, "look on my garbage can when you come by and you will have you one." This is one that I have always wanted to do since my arrival into Medicine Lodge. These two men pick up my garbage each week. They are heroes!

DAY 13

Nothing again. Just plain ole buying a drink and that was it.

DAY 14

This was a good day. I met this man who was an overgrown hippie. He was old, and I use the term hippie with all due respect. He was dressed the part. A brother in Christ walked in the store with me today and this "overgrown"hippie was buying some ice and his soft drink. I told the person behind the counter to let me pay for mine, my Christian Brother and that man's drink and ice. I pointed to the man. I said, please tell him "God bless and have a great day." The Christian Brother and I walked out the door to never see him again. I pray he was blessed.

DAY 15

This visit today was kind of special to me. I saw a woman at my drinking hole and she had a purse that I instantly recognized as from Africa. So, needless to say, I struck up a conversation. Her mother had went over there and did some missions work. Therefore, this grown woman got a purse for her trouble. So, I purchased her pop for her. She was blessed.

DAY 16

A good day today. I saw a motorcycle pull in and and a man/woman walked in the store. They were decked out in their black leather with head band and all. They looked rough and I am being nice about it. I questioned my next moved, but I am glad I was sensitive to the Lord's move upon this scene. I went up to them and said, "where you guys from?" Man, I thought that man was going to rip my heart out with his stare. His woman was just as bad. But, then, he smiled and said, "hey man, we are just across the Oklahoma line. How about you?" Now, I didn't expect that coming from him. Why? His appearance deceived me. He looked rough. Now, after purchasing their water and chips, we walked outside and I found out they were in a Christian Bikers Association. What a hoot! If I had gone by looks, I would have missed a blessing. I'm telling you, that spending God's money is so much fun.

DAY 17

This was another day that was special. I saw this elderly man hobble up to the counter. He had to be 80 plus years old. He had his coffee cup and newspaper. I told the clerk to let me purchase his coffee and paper. She leaned over and said, "sir, that man is buying your coffee and paper." He replied, "I have money." I replied, "I know sir, but it is such a beautiful day to buy a stranger a cup of coffee. You be blessed." He smiled and said "thank you." A great day.

DAY 18

This day was also good. Bought a stranger a large pop. He smiled and walked out and said thanks so much, that was nice. It was a good day to have money to help a stranger. Try it tomorrow my friends and watch someone smile.

DAY 19

This day ended up as nothing until the night. We went to our favorite restaurant and ate supper. As I was walking to pay for our meal, I stopped by this table and grabbed the ticket of the man that was sitting there. I knew the other two Gentlemen, but not this one. He said, "what are you doing?" I replied, "I would like to buy your meal tonight." He replied, "why?" I replied, "it is such a beautiful night not to buy a stranger a meal." He said, "what is your name?" I replied and told him. He shook my hand. Then he inquired a religious question to the people that were with us. A great day. Buy a meal and share Jesus. Outstanding. UPDATE: THIS MAN CAME TO OUR CHURCH ON SUNDAY THE 22ND OF AUGUST FOR THE A.M. SERVICE. PRAISE THE LORD

DAY 20

Debra and I went back to the Grill today for lunch. I was about to get up and this man had his back to me. I walked by and grabbed his ticket and said, "excuse me sir, but, I would love to buy your lunch." He replied, "no, I can do that." I replied, "I know, but I want to. You have a great day." We paid for it and he walked up the counter and said, "thank you friend." I said, "no, thank you friend." Thank you for allowing me the pleasure to bless you, and God bless you." He smiled and walked out the door. I wonder who he was?

DAY 21

Nothing normal happen today. I purchased a pop for a young lady today. Nothing fancy. Just bought it and left. God is still good!

DAY 22

I met with someone from the church yesterday at Pizza Hut. I shared this philosophy of purchasing someone a pop or a meal. I told him that I was going to buy that man's lunch. I did. The man walked out and said nothing to me. Do you know why? I told the waitress to put his tab on my tab and not tell him it came from me. Do you know why I think God did it that way? To show that waitress, who probably makes enough to pay for her gas to come to work that people still care. Let's be caring today.

DAY 23

Debra and I went to breakfast. This couple came in and he had this huge Stanley thermos.He was going to get coffee in it. I felt impressed to buy his breakfast. The place was crowded. I walked over and said hello, and then picked up their ticket and said I was going to buy their meal and also pay for his thermos to be filled with coffee. He said, no, I said yes, and God bless and walked away. The men in the restaurant were watching. God is doing something in this town. The devil dislikes that.

Be nice to someone today and buy them a pop(soft drink, soda, coke, coffee, water).

DAY 24

A great day today. I bought this man's drink and told the lady behind the counter to let me pay for his. He was appreciative. Then the Lady behind the counter said this to me. "R U the 1 whose truck was messed with?" I replied, "yes mam, that is me." She said, "well, I need to come to your church since you are preaching the truth." I just smiled. By now the entire store was listening to what I was about to say. I just said this. "Pray for the one(s) that did it so they will be forgiven by God." Some good stuff going on in Medicine Lodge. Be nice today and buy someone something and watch them smile.

Day 25-Day 30 were all the same. Nothing spectacular.

RE-CAP

I invested over $50.00 in my endeavor to show you that God will honor His Word. In return, I was more blessed than what I deserved. However, one man found out who I was and came to the church and donated over $150.00 to the church for our outreach ministry. Yes, my friends, God does honor His Word.

Why I need Jesus

I was asked that question awhile back and I am still pondering in my heart the response to this. Why do I need Jesus? Well, I do want to spend eternity in heaven. I do desire to see our youngest child in heaven. I do desire...All of those are great reasons, but I need Jesus because I just can't seem to do right without Him. He loves me and I really believes He needs me too. I think that me and Jesus are a team that works pretty good together. I mess up and He fixes me back up. If I fall down, He is there to help me. Sure, I make mistakes. Who doesn't? I need Jesus because He first loved me. I visualize Him on the cross that day and I see my name being uttered from His lips when He said "Father, forgive Ron, for he doesn't have a clue..." I have met some interesting characters while at Youth camp and one in particular stands out. It is hot and this young man has gloves on his hands. A wool cap on his head and a light jacket. Naturally, I asked how come and he said, "the girls love it." I just smiled and said under my breath that I would have no girl then, but that is a 51 year old speaking. I am pretty sure that when I was 14, I probably did some dumb things to impress some girls. I watched this same young man in the altars last night. He wasn't worrying about girls at that time. He was getting it on with Jesus! How about it beloved, why do you need Jesus?

5 horrible truths about hell

HORRORS OF HELL

This is another one I copied from this website. It is tragic, and let me warn you that when you read it and you are a non-believer, you may be offended by it. If you are offended by it, I pray you will heed to the end of it where it shares how much Jesus loves you. Please come to Jesus my friends. http://www.stormtight.com/horrorsofhell.htm

"For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress,
a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat,
when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall."
{Isaiah 25:4}

1. FIRST REASON HELL WILL BE A HORROR - THE WICKED WILL BE THERE.

"Wicked shall be turned into Hell, and all the nations that forget God."
{Psalm 9:17}

Who are the wicked?

"And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, and which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshiped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone."
{Revelation 19:20}

"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
{Revelation 21:8}

• One third of the Angels.

"For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;"
{2 Peter 2:4}

• Satan.

"And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever."
{Revelation 20:10}

• Good people. (Those not found in the Lambs Book of Life.)

"Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:" {Matthew 25:41}

2. SECOND REASON HELL WILL BE A HORROR - TEMPERATURE

• Fire and Brimstone. (Brimstone is similar to what we know as sulphur.)

"And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone."
{Revelation 19:20}

• Literal fire.

"And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire."
{Matthew 18:9}

• Fire never quenched.

"Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched."
{Mark 9:44}

3. THIRD REASON HELL WILL BE A HORROR - ACTIVITIES

• Gnashing of teeth.

"And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth."
{Matthew 13:42}

• Shame (embarrassment).

"And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt."
{Daniel 12:2}

• Thirst never is quenched.

"And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented."
{Luke 16:24-25}

• Unsuitable sorrow (i.e., "get me out of here!")

"The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow."
{Psalms 116:3}

• No rest.

"And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name."
{Revelation 14:11}

• Continual torment.

"And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever."
{Revelation 20:10}

4. FOURTH REASON HELL WILL BE A HORROR - MEMORY

• Consider the rich man and Lazarus.

"There was a certain rich man, And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, . . . that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead."
{Luke 16:19-31}

The rich man:

> Was thirsty
> In flames
> Was tormented
> Wanted someone to warn living family members
> Was too late in warning others
> Prayed for his family member's destiny
> Remember God's Love.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
{John 3:16}

• Remember Gospel Sermons.

• Remember Scripture Verses.

"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world."
{Romans 10:17-18}

• Remember hearing about Jesus Christ, and rejecting Him.

"And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely."
{Revelation 22:17}

• Communications with Saints in Paradise.

• Know that all hope is gone.

"Then said Jesus again unto them, I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come."
{John 8:21}

5. FIFTH REASON HELL WILL BE A HORROR - IT IS FOREVER

• Enlarged to hold the multitudes.

"Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it."
{Isaiah 5:14}

• No exit for escape.

"And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence."
{Luke 16:26}

• Hell is everlasting, never comes to an end.

"And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal."
{Matthew 25:46}

• Darkness.

"And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
{Matthew 25:30}

Remember:

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."
{Romans 10:9}

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
{Romans 10:13}

The trouble with complaining

June 11, 2010

I got this from this website.

IT IS NOT MY WORDS. I AGREE WITH IT THOUGH.

http://www.stormtight.com/complainers.htm

COMPLAINERS

"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth,
but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."
{Ephesians 4:29}

The great danger of the Church lies in those members that seem to look for reasons to complain, to be discontent, or to be ungrateful. Complaining is actually quarrelling with God. By complaining, we are saying that God has not treated us well and that we deserve better from Him. Griping is a grievous offense against a gracious God.

What is the typical reaction when we encounter a friend, co-worker, or even Christian Brother or sister that always seems to be grumbling about something? Do we eventually become weary of their behavior, or get angry? Consider what Scripture says regarding God's feelings about those who murmur and complain.

"But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, and blasphemies:"
{Matthew 15:18-19}

"Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins?"
{Lamentations 3:39}

A dissatisfied spirit thinks it will find pleasure in things it doesn't have.

It prevents enjoyment of blessings God has already given us!

Consider Haman's attitude towards all of his prosperity when he focused solely on the single act of Mordecai's refusal to stand and tremble before him.

"And Haman told them of the glory of his riches, and the multitude of his children, and all the things wherein the king had promoted him, and how he had advanced him above the princes and servants of the king. Haman said moreover, Yea, Esther the queen did let no man come in with the king unto the banquet that she had prepared but myself; and to morrow am I invited unto her also with the king. Yet all this availeth me nothing, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king's gate."
{Esther 5:11-13}

A dissatisfied spirit shows that the mind needs to be regulated.

Grace will put desires or dissatisfactions in proper order. Consider all that God has provided and be content.

"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."
{Hebrews 13:5}

"Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:"
{Proverbs 30:8}

"And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt."
{Matthew 26:39}

"My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?"
{Psalms 42:2}

"But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet show I unto you a more excellent way."
{1 Corinthians 12:31}

Christians are to be examples to the world, and rejoice always.

"Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."
{Philippians 2:12}

"What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice."
{Philippians 1:18}

" For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me."
{Phil 2:13-18}

I wish he would not preach/teach to me

There will come a time in the life of a child of God that something will happen to them in church. Churches are made up of people and with that in mind, we must realize that people are not perfect. They do make mistakes. This pastor will be the first to say that he makes mistakes. Amen and Amen. However, the actions we make after something has happened are the determining factor as to whether we are saved or not. Dr. Joe McKeever is a Preacher, Cartoonist, and retired Director of Missions for the Baptist Association of Greater New Orleans, who said "The pastor who takes a stand on issues will find some disagreeing with him. When he preaches a controversial doctrine or calls for purity in the personal lives of leaders, some will be unhappy. There will come a time when the Pastor or Sunday School teacher or any leader in the church will preach on some topic that is a hot spot towards you and you will be offended. The Bible evens states this is to be true when someone wants to cover up their sin. King David walked out onto his balcony and saw a beautiful woman bathing. He took the second glance and instantly sought this woman out. After they had relations with each other, she became pregnant. In order to cover up his sin, he had her husband come in from battle hoping he would desire to sleep with her. He chose not to do this since his men were away. The King was still not going to have his sins found out, so he had this woman's husband sent to the front lines of the battle and as a result of this, he was killed. Sad isn't it? The King didn't want to make atonement for his own sin, so he had to hurt others to justify his actions.

We are seeing this today in our churches all over the world. The Pastor preaches on a topic and people take offense b/c they are living the life of sin. Check this out. When someone complains that the preacher is preaching about certain sins is due to that person living that type of sin. A great example would be when the Preacher preaches about gambling, or alcohol, or cheating on your spouse, etc. Those people who are not doing those things never say anything about the issue b/c they are not doing those sins. If the Preacher preaches about living a holy life and those who are not living a holy life will complain. Dr. Joe McKeever said this in relationship to people being hurt by other Christians in the church. "Often the biggest problem-makers will be their closest friends, those whom they have given their greatest trust.”And one will say to him, ‘what are these wounds?' Then he will say, those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.'" (Zechariah 13:6)”

It is so sad that when disgruntled church members can't face the music with their own sins, they have to tare down someone else to cover up their sins. How sad is that? It is much easier to blame someone else then say, "You know what, I am living in sin. I need to change." Think of this for just a moment. If you run out of gas and you are stranded on the side of the road, then it is most likely your fault b/c you failed to put gas in your vehicle. That is your fault, not the gas stations fault. If you are living in sin and the prophet Nathan comes to you like he did to King David, then that is your fault, not the Prophets fault. Friends; challenge your heart to live for Jesus in front of your friends, family, and neighbors. They are really watching you and they are absorbing everything you do and say. You friends may have been touched by the sermon or the lesson and your friend decides not to give up their sins. What is your answer to your friend? Are you afraid to tell them the truth or are you adding more fuel to the fire? One more from Dr. McKeever who said "If the pastor is effective at all, someone is always going to be unhappy with him. Mark it down. It's par for the course. Perfectionist pastors who carry an innate drive to please everyone cannot handle this. It drives them berserk, just lying in bed at night thinking someone might be less than thrilled with them. But if they last in the ministry, they have to get over it."

Always know that the Pastor or teacher who is instructing the lesson gets it twice; once when studying or preparing the lesson and the other time is when he/she delivers the message.

Givers and Takers

June 9, 2010

The givers and takers of this world are separated by several unique and interesting characteristics. Let’s talk about the takers first. I wish to associate them with a movie that starred Tim Allen in it. Tim was a Dentist that loved to ride his Motorcycle. He along with three other buddies called themselves the Wild Hogs. They decided one day to take off and explore their surroundings. After one stop they ran into another Motorcycle gang and a fight ensued. During this fight, the leader of the “bad” group called Tim and them posers. Tim responded after almost getting his brains kicked in that Ray Liota and the “bad” gang were the posers. Tim even stated that they wanted to be like them. How does that relate to takers?

Takers are people who drained the life out of someone or something. They are never happy. They are always complaining or griping about the situation that they are in. They never accept responsibility for their actions. It is always someone else’s fault. Takers can’t just fade away privately; they have to take someone else down with them. I associate them with someone who is caught driving drunk. The drunk will say the bartender sold him the booze. The bartender will say the distributor brought him the booze. The distributor will say the brewery made it. No one takes responsibility for their own action. Takers are always looking for a way out of their obligations. They do not put the team first, but their own agenda. In the church world, the church is the team and the individual members are the players. We all want to be the chief, but we can’t all be the chief. There still must be some Indians to follow the chief. When the chief makes them do something they don’t like, then the takers try to overthrow the chief. Takers will argue for their point even at the expense of someone else suffering. Well, enough of the takers. Let’s talk about the givers. Who are the givers?

The givers are Christ followers. They put their brother/sister first. They accept responsibility for their own actions. They feel compassion for their friends and neighbors. They will do whatever it takes in Christ to live peaceably with their neighbors. They will not add trouble when trouble is already happening.

Let's be givers today!

My views

I copied this from another blog: this is the site: http://www.dougbrittonbooks.com/onlinebiblestudies-godchristianityandchurch/churchdisappointmentsdivisionsandproblems1.php

Are you—or is someone you know—bitter, cynical, angry or depressed because of disappointments or wounds experienced in church? If so, that's not unusual. Here are some common complaints people make about church:

"People aren't friendly there."

"I don't like the sermons."

"It is just like high school, with cliques and in-groups."

"All the church is interested in is my money."

"People gossip about me."

"The pastor said something mean or untrue about me."

"The leaders are hypocrites."

"People snub me."

"I won't tithe because they spend the money wrong."

"The pastor (or a board member) had an affair."

"No one returns my phone calls."

"The people are judgmental."

How do people react to these disappointments? They often:

Become bitter, cynical or depressed.

Stay in church, but complain and gossip.

Lose faith or confidence in Jesus.

Go to a different church.

Stop attending any church.

Start a new church.

How to deal with hurts and disappointments in church

If you have felt wounded by church, don't let those hurts destroy your faith or drive you away from fellowshipping with other believers. Instead, ask God to help you deal with the wounds wisely and press ahead in your walk with him.

God says all Christians collectively are the "body of Christ" (1 Corinthians 12:27). Although he knows that we will face problems as we interact with one another, God tells us to function as a team and to respect each other (Romans 12 3-8 and 1 Corinthians 12:4-31).

May the following insights encourage and strengthen you!

1. Expect problems! Realize that everyone is imperfect.

We expect too much of our pastors, leaders and fellow Christians. We say things such as, "I expect mistreatment from non-Christians, but not Christians." But everyone is imperfect, including your pastor and fellow believers. Everyone makes mistakes from time to time. People won't always be the loving, wise, patient persons you would like.

Look at leaders in the early church. They too were imperfect.

Peter was guilty of hypocrisy (Galatians 2:11-12).

Barnabas gave in to peer pressure (Galatians 2:13).

Euodia and Syntyche argued (Philippians 4:2).

Many of Paul's helpers were selfish (Philippians 2:20-21).

Many were fearful (Acts 9:26).

Peter actually said "no" to God (Acts 10:14).

Accepting the fact that everyone is imperfect can make a tremendous difference in your attitude. Ask yourself, "What do you expect from imperfect people?" The answer is obvious: Expect that from time-to-time even the most godly person will blow it. That's just part of life. Plus remember that you too are imperfect, and that sometimes you hurt or disappoint others.

2. Realize there may be more to the picture.

When you disagree with a decision, realize that you may not know all the facts. If you hear gossip about someone, it may not be accurate. Or if the pastor fires a friend of yours, it may be for a good reason, although there may be personal or confidential information that can't be made public.

If you make a suggestion that church leaders don't go along with, don't take it personally. Remember that they hear many points of view, and that whatever decision they make will disappoint someone.

Be aware that someone who ignores or mistreats you may be going through a hard time in life or be exhausted, super-busy or under pressure. (Even if this isn't the case, don't allow yourself to slip into bitterness.)

3. Realize you may be wrong.

There have been times when I disagreed about a decision made by a church I attended, yet I later discovered the church's leadership had been right. This knowledge helps me not get too upset if some things don't go the way I think they should.

Along the same lines, if someone at church criticizes you, don't immediately discount what is said. Even if he or she speaks with a poor attitude, there may be things you can learn.

4. Agree to disagree—courteously.

It's highly unlikely that you will agree with everything that is said or preached in any church!

5. If you are sure you are right about a concern, respond with love.

Remember that people are imperfect! In our human nature, we take disappointments and wounds personally, and we get upset. Yet God shows us an entirely different way to respond:

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing (1 Peter 3:9).

Ask God to help you feel concern for someone who wounds or disappoints you. Then pray for him or her. Prayer can change things!

Expect problems and disappointments.

Are you bitter, cynical, angry or depressed because of disappointments or wounds experienced in church? If so, don't let those hurts destroy your faith or drive you away from fellowshipping with other believers. Instead, ask God to help you deal with the wounds wisely, and then press ahead in your walk with the Lord.

Let's review the five guidelines in Part 1 of this study. (Click here to read Part 1 of "Burned by Church?")

1. Expect problems! Realize that everyone is imperfect.

2. Realize there may be more to the picture.

3. Realize you may be wrong.

4. Agree to disagree—courteously.

5. If you are sure you are right about a concern, respond with love.

More guidelines on how to deal with church problems and disappointments

6. Look for the good in people. Focus on the positive.

It's easy to slip into a critical mentality and focus on others' faults. Yet people you are upset with undoubtedly do many things well. Don't slip into a condemning or judgmental attitude. See their gifts and strengths.

Honor your leaders, even if you sometimes disagree with them. Be sure to voice appreciation much more often than criticism. Remember that they undoubtedly have thrown much of their lives and energy into serving.

When you go to church, go with the attitude of, "What can I learn today? How can I grow in the Lord? How can I be a blessing to others?"

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things (Philippians 4:8).

7. Look at insults, disagreements and problems as opportunities to grow in the Lord.

Problems present us with opportunities to grow in love, patience and wisdom. If you are insulted or think you have been mistreated, thank God for the opportunity to stretch and grow in him. Learn to turn to the Lord for your affirmation, not to others.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (James 1:4).

8. Forgive others.

Even if those who wound us do not apologize, God tells us to forgive. Look at the example of Stephen: He forgave the crowd even as they stoned him to death (Acts 7:60).

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you (Ephesians 4:32).

9. Be part of the solution.

Pray for those with whom you are upset ... and for your attitude.

... Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you ... (Matthew 5:44).

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints (Ephesians 6:18).

Identify needs and offer to fill them.

If you see a need in the church, volunteer to help with it. See if there is something concrete you can do to help resolve a problem or meet the need.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others (Philippians 2:3-4).

Talk about problems—respectfully.

Don't bring up everything with which you disagree. However, when a problem comes up, be willing to talk about it with the appropriate person. Do so respectfully and lovingly. Be an instrument of reconciliation.

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17).

If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men (Romans 12:18).

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29)

Leave the results in God's hands.

Unless you need to take strong action (see below), once you have done what you think God has called you to do, put the results in God's hands. Continue to pray, but don't keep bringing the issue up.

Do not gossip.

He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is trustworthy conceals a matter (Proverbs 11:13).

If you think you need to take strong actions, do so gracefully.

It is appropriate to take action if someone joins a cult, embezzles money, has an affair or engages in other serious sins. But even then, maintain an attitude of concern and prayer. Don't give in to bitterness.

10. If you leave your church, find another one.

It's usually much better not to leave your church. Remember that you are a family, and sometimes families have to work through unpleasant times. However, at times leaving may be the best thing to do.

If you do leave, be sure to seek out and attend another church. We need fellowship, and we need to take advantage of the ministries God provides for our growth.

It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 4:13).

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:25).

11. Don't give up on Jesus.

Don't let disappointment in people cause you to be disappointed in Jesus. He loves you and is your best friend.

I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:17-19).

The Holy Spirit fell

June 6, 2010

Yesterday was something amazing for me for several reasons. The first and, what I feel is a valuable reason was the alone time that Debra and I had driving to Woodston Camp (Kansas Assemblies of God family camp). We had 3.5 hours of nothing but us and the sunshine and the bugs hitting the windshield to keep us company. The second reason was the fellowship with some of our church folks who are trendy campers and other “saints” who were camping that week. The third reason, which is tops is the spiritual aspect of the experience.

We arrived shortly before lunch and we were met by around 30 screaming kids playing some sort of game with the Children’s church pastors attached to the camp. We talked to one of our church folks and he came over and showed us where we needed to drive and set up our lodging. Let me say for next year just one word. Well maybe two words. Na, three. COLD AIR CONDITIONER. I will have one for next year when we spend the night. It was hot!

Debra and I unloaded our stuff and went to the lunch line. It was like standing in line at kids/youth camp. Waiting for camp food is a challenge in itself and a blessing. You get to swat mosquitoes, ants, and bugs while having fellowship with new friends. We ate lunch and then walked the grounds admiring History. We saw where someone had written on the floor in 1948 in the Tabernacle. What a powerful statement. I would have loved to have had the opportunity to sit with some of those Saints and hear the stories of how God moved back then.

We visited with the District Superintendent for about 30 minutes and then back to the shade tree to watch the young kids/teens walk around. So funny. One young lady in 90 plus temps was wearing a wool cap. I just laughed and rubbed my partly cloudy bald head and felt the sunburn and realized I didn’t have my hat on. We went to dinner/supper and had some great food and fellowship. Then it was off to the Tabernacle.

This is the point of my blog today. The Holy Spirit moved in a mighty way that night and I am still feeling the effect of what God did in my life. Now, the rest of the story. Debra got sick, so we had to leave the camp and head back home. For 3.5 hours I played one song on the CD player and it was in Spanish. The power of God moved in our hearts in my truck and we felt like we were riding on air. At any moment I was expecting to see His Angels carrying our truck the rest of the way. The overwhelming feeling that we had in that truck to know that God was with us was breathtaking. Tears of joy were flooding my eyes. The Spirit of God was stirring my soul to pray in tongues for what seemed like an hour while driving. At one time I had to stop just to get out of the truck! It was so awesome to be in His presences my friend.

God spoke to my heart to assure me that He is in control. The scriptures came to me “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” We don’t wrestle against flesh and blood my friends, but against the evil powers of darkness. The enemy is seeking to destroy God’s children, by using people. The devil knows he cannot hurt the child of God! But, he is sure trying to destroy what God is trying to do. When you are attacked by someone who claims to be a child of God, let me encourage you to do two things. Remember that they don’t know what they are doing. If they did know what they were doing, they wouldn’t do it. The other reason is just as simple. Pray for them and love them. I was reminded of that today when a church member called me and they went and shared the Word of God with someone who was doing some things. The Lord showed me James chapter 5, verse 20 that if we help a sinner with their problem, we are saving them and hiding a multitude of sins.

Listen friends and hear this cry. Keep serving Jesus and remember in the last days there will be a great falling away, but also know that His Spirit will also fall!