Q: What do millipedes and cyanide have to do with evolution?
A: One would think that cyanide-producing millipedes would be killed by their own poison. But surprisingly, they aren’t!
Located within the sides of each segment of this type of millipede are small chambers that produce a deadly cyanide liquid. The poison is activated when the millipede is threatened, and forms little droplets along the millipede’s side.
The cyanide is strong enough to make most predators seriously ill if they touch the millipede. And it’s strong enough to kill many small predators if they eat it. Since the cyanide gives off a peculiar odor, most animals will just avoid the millipede altogether.
The millipede has a special kind of mitochondria that helps prevent it from poisoning itself. But if evolution were true, then how many millipedes poisoned themselves before they developed the mitochondria that protect them? The system that produces the cyanide is extremely complex and would have had to evolve at the same time, otherwise none of it would have worked.
This type of millipede had to be specially designed to do what it does, and what it does do, it does do well.
We should always remember that merely rejecting evolution in favor of a generic notion of intelligent design does not go far enough. Our purpose as a ministry is not just to convince people that there is a Creator, but that He is far more than that—that the Creator is Christ, and that He is the only way to be saved. Please see It’s intelligent, but is that good enough?
Quote of the week
“Insect resistance to a pesticide was first reported in 1947 for the Housefly (Musca domestica) with respect to DDT. Since then resistance to one or more pesticides has been reported in at least 225 species of insects and other arthropods. The genetic variants required for resistance to the most diverse kinds of pesticides were apparently present in every one of the populations exposed to these man-made compounds.”
– Francisco J. Ayala. “The Mechanisms of Evolution,” Scientific American, Sept. 1978, p. 65.
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Friday, September 29, 2006
They have their reward
Years ago a man we'll call "Anthony" had gotten saved and thoroughly right with the Lord. While in this condition the Lord laid upon his heart to make right a situation that was wrong that he had had a part in back when he was lost (not legally wrong but certainly morally and ethically questionable). He did so. He even made a profit on doing the right thing though he stood to not gain as much as he could in the future had he not done what he said the Lord led him to do. During the next quarter of a century or so as Anthony backslid at times he would rub his previous actions in the face of those who benefited from his doing what he said the Lord led him to do. He alternately bragged and whined about how magnanimous he had been all the while still making a very good living off his continued part in the situation. He bragged about how generous he had been (how he gave, in reality he sold, so much. He whined about how much more he could have made had he not done what he said the Lord led him to do. No doubt, from his own testimony, Anthony did what God wanted him to do. No doubt, from his own actions, Anthony didn't keep the spirit of what he had been led to do. May we not only do what God leads us to do but let us do so in the spirit He would have us show.
Matthew 6
1Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
2Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
3But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:
4That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
5And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
Matthew 6
1Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
2Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
3But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:
4That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
5And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
CONSIDER THE LORD
Deuteronomy 4:39-40, 8:5-6, 1 Samuel 12:23-24
I. CONSIDER GOD'S PERFECT TIMING
1. It prepares us (Ps. 37:23, message prepared me for cultists that came by later)
2. It protects us (I Sam. 23:24-29)
3. It prefers us (Gal. 4:4ff, Eph. 1:6-10ff.)
II. CONSIDER GOD'S PROVEN TRUTH
1. It builds us (Acts 20:32, Jude 17-20)
2. It blesses us (Matthew 13:10-17)
3. It binds us (Ps. 147:2-5, 15-20, Is. 61:1)
III. CONSIDER GOD'S PROPHETIC TRIUMPH
1. It emboldens us (Heb. 13:6)
2. It involves us (Titus 2:11-15)
3. It includes us (Rm. 8:31-39)
I. CONSIDER GOD'S PERFECT TIMING
1. It prepares us (Ps. 37:23, message prepared me for cultists that came by later)
2. It protects us (I Sam. 23:24-29)
3. It prefers us (Gal. 4:4ff, Eph. 1:6-10ff.)
II. CONSIDER GOD'S PROVEN TRUTH
1. It builds us (Acts 20:32, Jude 17-20)
2. It blesses us (Matthew 13:10-17)
3. It binds us (Ps. 147:2-5, 15-20, Is. 61:1)
III. CONSIDER GOD'S PROPHETIC TRIUMPH
1. It emboldens us (Heb. 13:6)
2. It involves us (Titus 2:11-15)
3. It includes us (Rm. 8:31-39)
Background
This is me in our truck at the end of our driveway. In the background is the house where I grew up. Up until 9-13-2005 my mother lived there. On that day she moved to Hallelujah Blvd. Now my niece and her family live there.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Quotes of the week
Ronald Reagan's Wisdom
"Here’s my strategy on the Cold War: We win, they lose."
"The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I’m here to help."
"Of the four wars in my lifetime none came about because the U.S. was too strong."
"I have wondered at times about what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the U.S. Congress."
"The taxpayer: That’s someone who works for the federal government but doesn’t take the civil service exam."
"Government is like a baby: An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other."
"If we ever forget that we’re one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."
"I’ve laid down the law, though, to everyone from now on about anything that happens: no matter what time it is, wake me, even if it’s in the middle of a Cabinet meeting."
"It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first. Government’s view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it."
"Politics is not a bad profession. If you succeed there are many rewards, if you disgrace yourself you can always write a book."
"No arsenal, or no weapon in the arsenals of the world, is so formidable as the will and moral courage of free men and women."
"Here’s my strategy on the Cold War: We win, they lose."
"The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I’m here to help."
"Of the four wars in my lifetime none came about because the U.S. was too strong."
"I have wondered at times about what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the U.S. Congress."
"The taxpayer: That’s someone who works for the federal government but doesn’t take the civil service exam."
"Government is like a baby: An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other."
"If we ever forget that we’re one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."
"I’ve laid down the law, though, to everyone from now on about anything that happens: no matter what time it is, wake me, even if it’s in the middle of a Cabinet meeting."
"It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first. Government’s view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it."
"Politics is not a bad profession. If you succeed there are many rewards, if you disgrace yourself you can always write a book."
"No arsenal, or no weapon in the arsenals of the world, is so formidable as the will and moral courage of free men and women."
Sunday, September 24, 2006
WHAT'S IN A NAME?
JOSHUA 7
There are 3 primary names for God in the Old Testament. Usually when you read "G-o-d" in the O.T. it is "Elohim", "L-o-r-d" is "Adonai" and "LORD" and/or "GOD" is "Jehovah" or more correctly, "Yahweh."
There are 3 secondary names compounded with "El" the root of "Elohim" meaning "God". El Shaddai, El Elyon, and El Olam.
There are also 9 names compounded with Yahweh. Which, Lord willing, we will discuss as a later time. But is is from the 3 basic names for God that we get the other names for God. All 3 of these names are given to us in JOSHUA 7.
7 And Joshua said, Alas, O Lord (Adonai) GOD (Yahweh), wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? would to GOD we had been content, and dwelt on the other side Jordan!
13 Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow: for thus saith the LORD (Yahweh) God(Elohim) of Israel, There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you.
I. ELOHIM
Translated "God" in the KJV it appears at least 2500 times in the O.T., 32 times in Genesis 1. Elohim is derived from two root words
1. "El" meaning unlimited energy, might, power , strength (Gn. 1:1) It celebrates the divine attribute known as Omnipotence. (Heb. 1:3, Ps. 19:1)
2. "Alah" meaning "to swear". It celebrates the divine attribute of truth and activity of giving His Word. The covenant making and keeping God. (Num. 23:19, Heb. 6:17-18, Jn. 14:6, 17:17)
3. "Elohim" is a plural noun. (Gn. 1:26, 3:22, 11:7) This fits in perfectly with the doctrine of the Trinity expounded in the O.T. and N.T. alike (Ps. 2, Mt. 28:19, II Cor. 13:14)
II. YAHWEH (JEHOVAH)
Translated "LORD" about 6000 times and "GOD" about 300 times and thus is used more than any other name. The actual pronunciation was lost due to the Jews interpretation of Lev. 24:16
"And he that blasphemeth the name of the LORD, he shall surely be put to death, and all the congregation shall certainly stone him: as well the stranger, as he that is born in the land, when he blasphemeth the name of the Lord, shall be put to death."
1. Derivation- It is derived from the Hebrew word "havah" meaning "to be" or "being" speaking of existence or rather, self-existence. Thus Yahweh is the eternal, self-existent One without beginning or end. (Heb. 13:8, Rev. 4:8)
2. Revelation- This is how He revealed Himself to Moses in Ex. 3:14, tied it with "Elohim" in 3:15 and with Jesus as revealed to the Jews in John 8:58.
3. Explanation- Ex. 6:2-3 doesn't say that they had never heard the name "Yahweh" before that time but it had not been explained to them fully until then. No use for JEDP (of documentary hypothesis infamy)
III. ADONAI
Translated "Lord" it occurs about 300 times in the O.T.
1. Plurality- Like Elohim it is plural attesting to the Trinity
2. Duality- it can be used of men(singular=adon) or God (differentiated in the KJV by the capital "L" when referring to God) and refers to one (or One) who exercises authority (Gn. 15:1-2)(Gn. 24:34-35 master=adon)
3. Morality- term or relationship in marriage, wife to husband, headship (Gn. 3:16, I Tm. 2:14, Ez. 16:8ff, 59-63, Eph. 5) We are to be faithful to Him as a wife is to be to a husband, the Lord, unlike men, is always faithful)I Jn. 1:9
There are 3 primary names for God in the Old Testament. Usually when you read "G-o-d" in the O.T. it is "Elohim", "L-o-r-d" is "Adonai" and "LORD" and/or "GOD" is "Jehovah" or more correctly, "Yahweh."
There are 3 secondary names compounded with "El" the root of "Elohim" meaning "God". El Shaddai, El Elyon, and El Olam.
There are also 9 names compounded with Yahweh. Which, Lord willing, we will discuss as a later time. But is is from the 3 basic names for God that we get the other names for God. All 3 of these names are given to us in JOSHUA 7.
7 And Joshua said, Alas, O Lord (Adonai) GOD (Yahweh), wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? would to GOD we had been content, and dwelt on the other side Jordan!
13 Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow: for thus saith the LORD (Yahweh) God(Elohim) of Israel, There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you.
I. ELOHIM
Translated "God" in the KJV it appears at least 2500 times in the O.T., 32 times in Genesis 1. Elohim is derived from two root words
1. "El" meaning unlimited energy, might, power , strength (Gn. 1:1) It celebrates the divine attribute known as Omnipotence. (Heb. 1:3, Ps. 19:1)
2. "Alah" meaning "to swear". It celebrates the divine attribute of truth and activity of giving His Word. The covenant making and keeping God. (Num. 23:19, Heb. 6:17-18, Jn. 14:6, 17:17)
3. "Elohim" is a plural noun. (Gn. 1:26, 3:22, 11:7) This fits in perfectly with the doctrine of the Trinity expounded in the O.T. and N.T. alike (Ps. 2, Mt. 28:19, II Cor. 13:14)
II. YAHWEH (JEHOVAH)
Translated "LORD" about 6000 times and "GOD" about 300 times and thus is used more than any other name. The actual pronunciation was lost due to the Jews interpretation of Lev. 24:16
"And he that blasphemeth the name of the LORD, he shall surely be put to death, and all the congregation shall certainly stone him: as well the stranger, as he that is born in the land, when he blasphemeth the name of the Lord, shall be put to death."
1. Derivation- It is derived from the Hebrew word "havah" meaning "to be" or "being" speaking of existence or rather, self-existence. Thus Yahweh is the eternal, self-existent One without beginning or end. (Heb. 13:8, Rev. 4:8)
2. Revelation- This is how He revealed Himself to Moses in Ex. 3:14, tied it with "Elohim" in 3:15 and with Jesus as revealed to the Jews in John 8:58.
3. Explanation- Ex. 6:2-3 doesn't say that they had never heard the name "Yahweh" before that time but it had not been explained to them fully until then. No use for JEDP (of documentary hypothesis infamy)
III. ADONAI
Translated "Lord" it occurs about 300 times in the O.T.
1. Plurality- Like Elohim it is plural attesting to the Trinity
2. Duality- it can be used of men(singular=adon) or God (differentiated in the KJV by the capital "L" when referring to God) and refers to one (or One) who exercises authority (Gn. 15:1-2)(Gn. 24:34-35 master=adon)
3. Morality- term or relationship in marriage, wife to husband, headship (Gn. 3:16, I Tm. 2:14, Ez. 16:8ff, 59-63, Eph. 5) We are to be faithful to Him as a wife is to be to a husband, the Lord, unlike men, is always faithful)I Jn. 1:9
Saturday, September 23, 2006
THE NEXT GREAT EVENT--- THE RAPTURE
I CORINTHIANS 15:50-58
the Rapture...
I. WILL CAUSE IMMEDIATE CONFUSION
1. Accidents (consider drivers, pilots, engineers, etc. -instantly missing)
2. Activity (consider policemen, firemen, EMTs, etc. -instantly missing)
3. Anxiety (consider the above) Is. 26:3 (none of these left)
II. WILL CAUSE INTERNATIONAL CONSEQUENCES
1. USA will likely lose prominence (President, much of the military, many leaders gone, those left are likely to be anti-God, anti-Israel)
2. Israel will face many problems (Ez. 38-39)
3. Anti-christ will rise to power (Rev. 13:1-8)
III. WILL CONTINUE INSPIRATIONAL CERTAINTY
1. God's children are secure (I Th. 4:13-18, Titus 2:13)
2. God's control is sure (Ps. 2:1-9)
3. God's cure is the Saviour (Ps. 2:10-12)
the Rapture...
I. WILL CAUSE IMMEDIATE CONFUSION
1. Accidents (consider drivers, pilots, engineers, etc. -instantly missing)
2. Activity (consider policemen, firemen, EMTs, etc. -instantly missing)
3. Anxiety (consider the above) Is. 26:3 (none of these left)
II. WILL CAUSE INTERNATIONAL CONSEQUENCES
1. USA will likely lose prominence (President, much of the military, many leaders gone, those left are likely to be anti-God, anti-Israel)
2. Israel will face many problems (Ez. 38-39)
3. Anti-christ will rise to power (Rev. 13:1-8)
III. WILL CONTINUE INSPIRATIONAL CERTAINTY
1. God's children are secure (I Th. 4:13-18, Titus 2:13)
2. God's control is sure (Ps. 2:1-9)
3. God's cure is the Saviour (Ps. 2:10-12)
Answers in Genesis Q: Are humans just animals?
A: People who accept evolution are more inclined to believe that there’s not much difference between cats and children. After all, they believe we’re all just animals. Sadly, this has had an enormous influence on the way people view abortion.
If evolution is true—and if man is just an animal—then what is in a mother’s womb is just another animal. If you are willing to get rid of spare cats, why not get rid of unwanted kids in the same way?
What’s so sad—and inconsistent—in our culture today is that people will spend a lot of time and money trying to find a home for a cat, or they’ll protest against animal research and demand animal rights, but many of these same people think nothing of having an abortion to get rid of an unwanted child!
Evolutionary indoctrination has led people to abandon the absolutes of God’s Word. Since our Western society has largely turned from the truths of Scripture, we have lost an absolute morality. Instead, all becomes relative, and society forgets that man is made in the image of God. The solution is returning to the absolute authority of the Word of God.
While all life is valuable (within the proper perspective of stewardship), a human is made in the image of God and worthy of even greater respect and protection. To read more on this topic, see Get Answers: Morality and Ethics.
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
If evolution is true—and if man is just an animal—then what is in a mother’s womb is just another animal. If you are willing to get rid of spare cats, why not get rid of unwanted kids in the same way?
What’s so sad—and inconsistent—in our culture today is that people will spend a lot of time and money trying to find a home for a cat, or they’ll protest against animal research and demand animal rights, but many of these same people think nothing of having an abortion to get rid of an unwanted child!
Evolutionary indoctrination has led people to abandon the absolutes of God’s Word. Since our Western society has largely turned from the truths of Scripture, we have lost an absolute morality. Instead, all becomes relative, and society forgets that man is made in the image of God. The solution is returning to the absolute authority of the Word of God.
While all life is valuable (within the proper perspective of stewardship), a human is made in the image of God and worthy of even greater respect and protection. To read more on this topic, see Get Answers: Morality and Ethics.
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Ponderisms
I didn't write these but I wish I had thought of a few of them.
I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learned that most people die of natural causes.
Gardening Rule: When weeding, the best way to make sure you are removing a weed and not a valuable plant is to pull on it. If it comes out of the ground easily, it is a valuable plant.
The easiest way to find something lost around the house is to buy a replacement.
There are two kinds of pedestrians: the quick and the dead.
Some people are like Slinkies. Not really good for anything, but you still can't help but smile when you see 'em tumble down the stairs.
Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing.
Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.
How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire?
Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things here, and drink whatever comes out?"
If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares, why is there a song about him?
Do illiterate people get the full effect of Alphabet Soup?
Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he doesn't like it, but when you take him on a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?
Does pushing the elevator button more than once make it arrive faster?
Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle?
I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learned that most people die of natural causes.
Gardening Rule: When weeding, the best way to make sure you are removing a weed and not a valuable plant is to pull on it. If it comes out of the ground easily, it is a valuable plant.
The easiest way to find something lost around the house is to buy a replacement.
There are two kinds of pedestrians: the quick and the dead.
Some people are like Slinkies. Not really good for anything, but you still can't help but smile when you see 'em tumble down the stairs.
Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing.
Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.
How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire?
Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things here, and drink whatever comes out?"
If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares, why is there a song about him?
Do illiterate people get the full effect of Alphabet Soup?
Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he doesn't like it, but when you take him on a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?
Does pushing the elevator button more than once make it arrive faster?
Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle?
Thursday, September 21, 2006
ANGRY IGNORANCE
Nobody told me this was Rick Jackson's week to be yelled at by angry ignorance. If they had I might have stayed home.
Scenario #1- I was going to a local bank and saw a pull-in parking spot open to the left of a Grand Marquis. As I started to pull in the driver of the car started to back out... at an angle! I had to honk or he would have backed right into me. Fortunately he stopped in time. Then he turned to me angrily motioning furiously with his left fist with thumb extended for me to back out of his way. I am not sure why he was mad at me. I had the right of way and I just saved him a repair bill and a possible ticket for his carelessness. Was he ignorant of the situation or arrogant enough to think the rules of driving didn't apply to him? I don't know but if his wife figured out it was his fault I am sure he got an earful after he drove off in a huff! I am not sure what he was mouthing at me but I'm sure I was better off not hearing it!
Scenario #2- Several days later I am driving on a side street towards the light when a person comes off the main road but taking up my lane! Then the woman driver proceeds to yell at me! Fortunately her windows and mine were up so once again I can only guess at what she was saying. I chose not to guess. I did figure out her problem. Until about a month ago that road had been designated "One Way", a rather short experiment the city had ended. The fact that it had been changed back was in the local paper and all the "One Way" signs had been removed. The road was painted for two-way traffic and I was once again clearly in the right (literally this time) but had inspired the anger of the obviously ignorant. I was right, they were wrong, and yet they were mad at me. I wasn't even mad at them. Somewhat bemused and slightly annoyed but not mad.
In the grand scheme of things these two incidents don't amount to much but what of a similar scenario? What about when people get mad at God for something that is not His fault? All the trouble in the world is due to man and man's sins. Even the weather (hurricanes, etc.) is due to the sin principle working on the Creation since Adam's fall. I have known people to smoke all their lives and then get mad at God because they get cancer. Or those who drink blame God for accidents they are in due to their sin. Even when death takes a loved one they are angry at God. Death is a result of sin (Rm. 6:23) and God doesn't sin, He doesn't even tempt man to sin (James 1:13). God has paid for sin in the person of Christ and has even offered man eternal life if he would call upon the Name of the risen Lord Jesus Christ. Don't be angry in ignorance. Trust the only truly Righteous One.
Scenario #1- I was going to a local bank and saw a pull-in parking spot open to the left of a Grand Marquis. As I started to pull in the driver of the car started to back out... at an angle! I had to honk or he would have backed right into me. Fortunately he stopped in time. Then he turned to me angrily motioning furiously with his left fist with thumb extended for me to back out of his way. I am not sure why he was mad at me. I had the right of way and I just saved him a repair bill and a possible ticket for his carelessness. Was he ignorant of the situation or arrogant enough to think the rules of driving didn't apply to him? I don't know but if his wife figured out it was his fault I am sure he got an earful after he drove off in a huff! I am not sure what he was mouthing at me but I'm sure I was better off not hearing it!
Scenario #2- Several days later I am driving on a side street towards the light when a person comes off the main road but taking up my lane! Then the woman driver proceeds to yell at me! Fortunately her windows and mine were up so once again I can only guess at what she was saying. I chose not to guess. I did figure out her problem. Until about a month ago that road had been designated "One Way", a rather short experiment the city had ended. The fact that it had been changed back was in the local paper and all the "One Way" signs had been removed. The road was painted for two-way traffic and I was once again clearly in the right (literally this time) but had inspired the anger of the obviously ignorant. I was right, they were wrong, and yet they were mad at me. I wasn't even mad at them. Somewhat bemused and slightly annoyed but not mad.
In the grand scheme of things these two incidents don't amount to much but what of a similar scenario? What about when people get mad at God for something that is not His fault? All the trouble in the world is due to man and man's sins. Even the weather (hurricanes, etc.) is due to the sin principle working on the Creation since Adam's fall. I have known people to smoke all their lives and then get mad at God because they get cancer. Or those who drink blame God for accidents they are in due to their sin. Even when death takes a loved one they are angry at God. Death is a result of sin (Rm. 6:23) and God doesn't sin, He doesn't even tempt man to sin (James 1:13). God has paid for sin in the person of Christ and has even offered man eternal life if he would call upon the Name of the risen Lord Jesus Christ. Don't be angry in ignorance. Trust the only truly Righteous One.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
JESUS ONLY
MARK 9:1-10
a message by Rick Jackson
In this passage Peter seems to put Moses and Elijah on equal footing with Jesus. In our day others want to elevate different ones (Buddha, Confucious, Moses, Joseph Smith, etc.) to an equal, or even superior, level as Jesus. Others want to pull Jesus down to a lower level but the answer of God the Father concerning Jesus is clear, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. ...And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only." Jesus only. Why Jesus only?
I. BECAUSE NO-ONE ELSE IS GOOD ENOUGH! (HEBREWS 7:26)
1. Holy & Harmless [in character and actions]
2. Undefiled [unsoiled] (Jn. 8:23)
3. Separate from sinners (Is. 59:2)
II. BECAUSE NO-ONE ELSE IS GREAT ENOUGH
1. Because of Who He Is (Col. 2:8-10)
2. Because of what He does (Phil. 3:20)
3. Because of what He can do (Phil. 3:21)
III. BECAUSE NO-ONE ELSE IS GRACIOUS ENOUGH
1. He was willing (Ga. 1:4, 2:20; Eph. 5:25; I Tm. 2:6; Ti. 2:14)
2. He is loving (Jn. 13:34, 15:13)
3. He was selfless (Phil. 2:5-8)
JESUS ONLY!
a message by Rick Jackson
In this passage Peter seems to put Moses and Elijah on equal footing with Jesus. In our day others want to elevate different ones (Buddha, Confucious, Moses, Joseph Smith, etc.) to an equal, or even superior, level as Jesus. Others want to pull Jesus down to a lower level but the answer of God the Father concerning Jesus is clear, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. ...And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only." Jesus only. Why Jesus only?
I. BECAUSE NO-ONE ELSE IS GOOD ENOUGH! (HEBREWS 7:26)
1. Holy & Harmless [in character and actions]
2. Undefiled [unsoiled] (Jn. 8:23)
3. Separate from sinners (Is. 59:2)
II. BECAUSE NO-ONE ELSE IS GREAT ENOUGH
1. Because of Who He Is (Col. 2:8-10)
2. Because of what He does (Phil. 3:20)
3. Because of what He can do (Phil. 3:21)
III. BECAUSE NO-ONE ELSE IS GRACIOUS ENOUGH
1. He was willing (Ga. 1:4, 2:20; Eph. 5:25; I Tm. 2:6; Ti. 2:14)
2. He is loving (Jn. 13:34, 15:13)
3. He was selfless (Phil. 2:5-8)
JESUS ONLY!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
HOW’S YOUR ZEAL?
Rick Jackson
GAL 3:1-9, 4:16-18
Is there anything you are zealous about? Do you have any zeal? “Zeal” according to the dictionary is: “eager interest and enthusiasm; ardent endeavor; fervor”. According to the Bible God has zeal. One can have the right kind of zeal but one can also be zealous for the wrong things, and have a wrong kind of zeal. The Bible speaks of both.
I. THE BIBLE SPEAKS OF GOD’S ZEAL
1. God has zeal for His people (II K. 19:30-31; Is. 37:32)
2. God has zeal for His House (Ps. 69:9; Jn. 2:13-17)
3. God has zeal for His Word (Is. 9:6-7, 59:15-21)
II. THE BIBLE SPEAKS OF GOOD ZEAL
1. Zeal for the Lord and His Word (Num. 25:10-13ff; II K. 9:1-7, 10:16; Ps. 119:137-144; II Co. 7:11; Rev. 3:19)
2. Zeal for the Lord’s people (II Cor. 9:1-2; Col. 4:13)
3. Zeal for the Lord’s will [good works] (Titus 2:14)
III. THE BIBLE SPEAKS OF A MISGUIDED ZEAL
1. Doing wrong in patriotic fervor (II Sam. 21:1-2, Japanese internment camps)
2. Doing wrong in religious fervor (Phil. 3:6-9)
3. Doing wrong in religious ignorance (Rm. 10:1-2; I C0. 14:12; Ga. 1:11-14, 4:16-18)
WHAT KIND OF ZEAL DO YOU HAVE?
GAL 3:1-9, 4:16-18
Is there anything you are zealous about? Do you have any zeal? “Zeal” according to the dictionary is: “eager interest and enthusiasm; ardent endeavor; fervor”. According to the Bible God has zeal. One can have the right kind of zeal but one can also be zealous for the wrong things, and have a wrong kind of zeal. The Bible speaks of both.
I. THE BIBLE SPEAKS OF GOD’S ZEAL
1. God has zeal for His people (II K. 19:30-31; Is. 37:32)
2. God has zeal for His House (Ps. 69:9; Jn. 2:13-17)
3. God has zeal for His Word (Is. 9:6-7, 59:15-21)
II. THE BIBLE SPEAKS OF GOOD ZEAL
1. Zeal for the Lord and His Word (Num. 25:10-13ff; II K. 9:1-7, 10:16; Ps. 119:137-144; II Co. 7:11; Rev. 3:19)
2. Zeal for the Lord’s people (II Cor. 9:1-2; Col. 4:13)
3. Zeal for the Lord’s will [good works] (Titus 2:14)
III. THE BIBLE SPEAKS OF A MISGUIDED ZEAL
1. Doing wrong in patriotic fervor (II Sam. 21:1-2, Japanese internment camps)
2. Doing wrong in religious fervor (Phil. 3:6-9)
3. Doing wrong in religious ignorance (Rm. 10:1-2; I C0. 14:12; Ga. 1:11-14, 4:16-18)
WHAT KIND OF ZEAL DO YOU HAVE?
Monday, September 18, 2006
Sunday, September 17, 2006
PRESSING MATTERS
Philippians Chapter 3:4-11
Rick Jackson
Everyday we have things we want to do but sometimes these things are crowded out by pressing matters. Things we must do. Sometimes there are not enough hours in the day and we must choose the most pressing matters. I had a wedding to perform yesterday that took most of the last three days. The wedding itself took less than an hour but the preparation time was quite a different matter. I begged off from the rehearsal dinner and the reception meal because I had "pressing matters" to take care of. Jesus told the story of a rich man who thought he had the pressing matters taken care of but actually he had OTHER MORE pressing matters that he had not considered, Luke 12:20, "But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?"
Even if we have settled the matter of salvation there may be pressing matters before us that we are not giving enough of our attention. Paul helps up put some of these in perspective in the third chapter of Philippians.
I. There is the matter of Positive Dissatisfaction (3:12-13a)
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended:"
II. There is the matter of Prime Devotion (3:13a, Mt. 6:33)
"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do..."
III. There is the matter of Pointed Direction (3:13b)
"...but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before..."
IV. There is the matter of Personal Determination (3:14, James 4:17)
"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
V. Finally, there is the matter of Perpetual Discipline (3:15-21)
"Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
16-Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
17-Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18-For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
19-Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.
20-For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21-Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Rick Jackson
Everyday we have things we want to do but sometimes these things are crowded out by pressing matters. Things we must do. Sometimes there are not enough hours in the day and we must choose the most pressing matters. I had a wedding to perform yesterday that took most of the last three days. The wedding itself took less than an hour but the preparation time was quite a different matter. I begged off from the rehearsal dinner and the reception meal because I had "pressing matters" to take care of. Jesus told the story of a rich man who thought he had the pressing matters taken care of but actually he had OTHER MORE pressing matters that he had not considered, Luke 12:20, "But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?"
Even if we have settled the matter of salvation there may be pressing matters before us that we are not giving enough of our attention. Paul helps up put some of these in perspective in the third chapter of Philippians.
I. There is the matter of Positive Dissatisfaction (3:12-13a)
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended:"
II. There is the matter of Prime Devotion (3:13a, Mt. 6:33)
"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do..."
III. There is the matter of Pointed Direction (3:13b)
"...but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before..."
IV. There is the matter of Personal Determination (3:14, James 4:17)
"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
V. Finally, there is the matter of Perpetual Discipline (3:15-21)
"Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
16-Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
17-Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18-For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
19-Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.
20-For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21-Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
CAN WE HAVE REVIVAL?
II CHRONICLES 15
Rick Jackson
CAN WE HAVE REVIVAL?
"Sure we can Brother Rick, just call an evangelist and set up a meeting." Really a meeting is not a revival. You hope the meeting produces a revival but of course that's not always the case. You can have meetings without revival but you can also have revival without meetings. What does an evangelist do then? He preaches the Word of God hoping to get sinners saved and saints right with God. When God's people get right with God usually sinners will be saved and more saints get right with God and more sinners get saved and soon you have revival! A bringing back to life! The saints begin to show spiritual life, the lost gain spiritual life, the church shows life and we have revival. Can it happen? Yes, that's actually what God wants to be the norm for His people. Let's look at a revival in the Bible and see what happened.
They started with a...
I. GREAT PROMISE (v. 1-2, 7:14, 14:4, Mt. 10:33, James 4:6-10)
They had...
II. GREAT POTENTIAL (v. 3-6, 16:9, Eph. 6:10)
They had...
III. GREAT PROVISION (v. 7, Joshua 1:6-9, Mk. 9:41, I Co. 15:58)
They had a...
IV. GREAT PATTERN (V.8-13)
1. Cleanse the life (v. 8a)
2. Call upon the Lord (v. 8b)
3. Covenant together (v. 9-15)
My friends we have the same things! We can have revival! The question is will we pay the cost?
Rick Jackson
CAN WE HAVE REVIVAL?
"Sure we can Brother Rick, just call an evangelist and set up a meeting." Really a meeting is not a revival. You hope the meeting produces a revival but of course that's not always the case. You can have meetings without revival but you can also have revival without meetings. What does an evangelist do then? He preaches the Word of God hoping to get sinners saved and saints right with God. When God's people get right with God usually sinners will be saved and more saints get right with God and more sinners get saved and soon you have revival! A bringing back to life! The saints begin to show spiritual life, the lost gain spiritual life, the church shows life and we have revival. Can it happen? Yes, that's actually what God wants to be the norm for His people. Let's look at a revival in the Bible and see what happened.
They started with a...
I. GREAT PROMISE (v. 1-2, 7:14, 14:4, Mt. 10:33, James 4:6-10)
They had...
II. GREAT POTENTIAL (v. 3-6, 16:9, Eph. 6:10)
They had...
III. GREAT PROVISION (v. 7, Joshua 1:6-9, Mk. 9:41, I Co. 15:58)
They had a...
IV. GREAT PATTERN (V.8-13)
1. Cleanse the life (v. 8a)
2. Call upon the Lord (v. 8b)
3. Covenant together (v. 9-15)
My friends we have the same things! We can have revival! The question is will we pay the cost?
This week on www.AnswersInGenesis.org
Q: Doesn’t granite take millions of years to form?
A: According to evolutionary geologists, granite is made of a number of compounds that were mixed together under extreme heat. Supposedly they rose slowly to the earth’s crust, and then cooled over thousands of years to form the granites we see today.
However, evolutionary geologists have discovered something. Some of the crystals found in granites near the earth’s surface will not withstand temperatures over 800° Celsius for more than 50 years without being destroyed. This is a big problem for these scientists and their previous theories about the origin of granite.
The idea that blobs of molten rock rose slowly through the crust and cooled for eons of time is now in question. Evolutionary geologists are now changing their ideas and are starting to look to more catastrophic events to explain the origin of rocks, like granites.
If we really want to know how the first rocks were formed, we can find our answers in Genesis—God commanded the dry land to appear, which makes sense of the evidence scientists are now discovering!
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
A: According to evolutionary geologists, granite is made of a number of compounds that were mixed together under extreme heat. Supposedly they rose slowly to the earth’s crust, and then cooled over thousands of years to form the granites we see today.
However, evolutionary geologists have discovered something. Some of the crystals found in granites near the earth’s surface will not withstand temperatures over 800° Celsius for more than 50 years without being destroyed. This is a big problem for these scientists and their previous theories about the origin of granite.
The idea that blobs of molten rock rose slowly through the crust and cooled for eons of time is now in question. Evolutionary geologists are now changing their ideas and are starting to look to more catastrophic events to explain the origin of rocks, like granites.
If we really want to know how the first rocks were formed, we can find our answers in Genesis—God commanded the dry land to appear, which makes sense of the evidence scientists are now discovering!
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
Friday, September 15, 2006
KARLO AND THOSE DEVIOUS DINOSAURS
They'rrrreeee Baaaaack! Those devious dinosaurs. We have two on our property. I really didn't realize it until about a year ago. Karlo pointed them out to me. Karlo Vuckovic escaped from Croatia back when that's the only way you could get out. He got a bullet in the leg for his efforts. The Lord expedited his travel to the United States though at the time Karlo didn't know it... or Him. Later, here in the States. Karlo learned that Jesus, God in the flesh, had died for Him, taking his place and paying his sin debt (and ours too) and then that He rose from the dead three days later proving He was who He said He was (God) and that He did what He came to do (make the payment for our sins). Karlo put his faith in the risen Christ, the Jewish Messiah, the Creator of the world and became a new creature. But God wasn't finished with Karlo. Like all of us who know Him, the Holy Spirit wanted Karlo to be a witness and so Karlo became a witness. Being multilingual (he speaks, at the very least, Croation, Serbian, German, English, French, Italian and as Karlo puts it "Rooskie") Karlo has been able to witness to quite a few nationalities over the years.
Is he a missionary? Yes and no! He's a house painter (and jack of all trades) but he also is a missionary (as all Christians should be). He doesn't raise support, nor is he under a board, so technically he is not a missionary in the conventional sense but this has allowed him access to where missionaries (God bless them) cannot always go.So Karlo was painting our house at the end of last year (and trimming trees, putting in windows, put down a new floor, fixed a dent in my truck, etc.) when he said, "Where are dinosaurs?"
"Dinosaurs?"
"Yes, dinosaurs. Very tricky."
I finally realized he meant our dogs. I told him while big (95 and 65 pounds) they weren't that big. That the dog I used to have, Greystoke, was 150 pounds but people called him a horse, not a dinosaur. Karlo was undeterred. From then on, every day it was the same question or a variation thereof, "Where dinosaurs?"
It wasn't until I watched Jurassic Park again (very entertaining but hardly scientific-see AIG link for more details) that I realized what he meant. Raptors! Not that big (as compared to T-Rex or others) but very canny, very devious. Very much my dogs. One will distract you while the other... well, you get the picture. Karlo did and was able to work for weeks (months?) without a bite. Wise man. Devious dinosaurs. Beware!
Is he a missionary? Yes and no! He's a house painter (and jack of all trades) but he also is a missionary (as all Christians should be). He doesn't raise support, nor is he under a board, so technically he is not a missionary in the conventional sense but this has allowed him access to where missionaries (God bless them) cannot always go.So Karlo was painting our house at the end of last year (and trimming trees, putting in windows, put down a new floor, fixed a dent in my truck, etc.) when he said, "Where are dinosaurs?"
"Dinosaurs?"
"Yes, dinosaurs. Very tricky."
I finally realized he meant our dogs. I told him while big (95 and 65 pounds) they weren't that big. That the dog I used to have, Greystoke, was 150 pounds but people called him a horse, not a dinosaur. Karlo was undeterred. From then on, every day it was the same question or a variation thereof, "Where dinosaurs?"
It wasn't until I watched Jurassic Park again (very entertaining but hardly scientific-see AIG link for more details) that I realized what he meant. Raptors! Not that big (as compared to T-Rex or others) but very canny, very devious. Very much my dogs. One will distract you while the other... well, you get the picture. Karlo did and was able to work for weeks (months?) without a bite. Wise man. Devious dinosaurs. Beware!
Thursday, September 14, 2006
FOR "OUR BOYS"
It could have been any night of the week, as I sat in one of those loud and casual steak houses that are cropping up all over the country. You know the type- a bucket of peanuts on the table, shells littering the floor, and a bunch of perky college kids racing around with longneck beers and sizzling platters.
Taking a sip of my iced tea, I studied the crowd over the rim of my glass. I let my gaze linger on a few of the tables next to me, where several uniformed military members were enjoying their meals. Smiling sadly, I glanced across my booth to the empty seat where my husband usually sat. Had it had only been a few weeks since we had sat at this very table talking about his upcoming deployment to the Middle East? He made me promise to come back to this restaurant once a month, sit in our booth, and treat myself to a nice dinner. He told me that he would treasure the thought of me there eating a steak and thinking about him until he came home. I fingered the little flag pin I wear on my jacket and wondered where at that moment he was. Was he safe and warm? Was his cold any better? Were any of my letters getting to him? As I pondered all of these things, shrill feminine voices from the next booth broke into my thoughts.
"I don't know what Bush is thinking invading Iraq. Didn't he learn anything from his father's mistakes? He is an idiot anyway, I can't believe he is even in office. You know he stole the election."
I cut into my steak and tried not to listen as they began an endless tirade of running down our president. I thought about the last night I was with my husband as he prepared to deploy. He had just returned from getting his smallpox and anthrax shots and the image of him standing in our kitchen packing his gas mask still gave me chills.
Once again their voices invaded my thoughts.
"It is all about oil, you know. Our military will go in and rape and pillage and steal all the oil they can in the name of freedom. I wonder how many innocent lives our soldiers will take without a thought? It is just pure greed."
My chest tightened and I stared at my wedding ring. I could picture how handsome my husband was in his mess dress the day he slipped it on my finger. I wondered what he was wearing at that moment. He probably had on his desert uniform, affectionately dubbed coffee stains, over the top of which he wore a heavy bulletproof vest.
"We should just leave Iraq alone. I don't think they are hiding any weapons. I think it is all a ploy to increase the president's popularity and pad the budget of our military at the expense of social security and education. We are just asking for another 9-11 and I can't say when it happens again that we didn't deserve it."
Their words brought to mind the war protesters I had watched gathering outside our base. Did no one appreciate the sacrifice of brave men and women who leave their homes and family to ensure our freedom? I glimpsed at the tables around me and saw the faces of some of those courageous men, looking sad as they listened to the ladies talk.
"Well I for one, think it is a travesty to invade Iraq and I am certainly sick of our tax dollars going to train the professional baby killers we call a military."
Professional baby killers? As I thought about what a wonderful father my husband is and wondered how long it would be before he was able to see his children again, indignation rose up within me. Normally reserved, pride in my husband gave me a boldness I had never known. Tonight, one voice would cry out on behalf of the military. One shy woman would stand and let her pride in our troops be known. I made my way to their table, placed my palms flat on it and lowered myself to be eye level with them. Smiling I said, "I couldn't help overhearing your conversation. I am sitting over here trying to enjoy my dinner alone. Do you know why I am alone? Because my husband, whom I love dearly, is halfway across the world defending your right to say rotten things about him. You have the right to your opinion, and what you think is none of my business, but what you say in my hearing is and I will not sit by and listen to you run down my country, my president, my husband, and all these other fine men and women in here who put their lives on the line to give you the freedom to complain. Freedom is expensive ladies, don't let your actions cheapen it."
I must have been louder than I meant to be, because about that time the manager came over and asked if everything was all right. "Yes thank you." I replied and then turned back to the ladies, "Enjoy the rest of your meal."
To my surprise, as I sat down to finish my steak, a round of applause broke out in the restaurant. Not long after the ladies picked up their check and scurried away, the manager brought me a huge helping of apple cobbler and ice cream, compliments of the table to my left. He told me that the ladies had tried to pay for my dinner, but someone had beaten them to it. When I asked who he said the couple had already left, but that the man had mentioned he was a WWII vet and wanted to take care of the wife of one of our boys.
I turned to thank the soldiers for the cobbler, but they wouldn't hear a word of it, retorting, "Thank you, you said what we wanted to say but weren't allowed."
As I drove home that night, for the first time in while, I didn't feel quite so alone. My heart was filled with the warmth of all the patrons who had stopped by my table to tell me they too were proud of my husband and that he would be in their prayers. I knew their flags would fly a little higher the next day. Perhaps they would look for tangible ways to show their pride in our country and our troops, and maybe, just maybe, the two ladies sitting at that table next to me would pause for a minute to appreciate all the freedom this great country offers and what it costs to maintain. As for me, I had learned that one voice can make a difference. Maybe the next time protestors gather outside the gates of the base where I live, I will proudly stand across the street with a sign of my own. A sign that says "Thank you!"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lori Kimble, the writer of the article, is a frequent contributor of commentaries for the Washington Dispatch.This particular commentary was published in April of 2003.
Taking a sip of my iced tea, I studied the crowd over the rim of my glass. I let my gaze linger on a few of the tables next to me, where several uniformed military members were enjoying their meals. Smiling sadly, I glanced across my booth to the empty seat where my husband usually sat. Had it had only been a few weeks since we had sat at this very table talking about his upcoming deployment to the Middle East? He made me promise to come back to this restaurant once a month, sit in our booth, and treat myself to a nice dinner. He told me that he would treasure the thought of me there eating a steak and thinking about him until he came home. I fingered the little flag pin I wear on my jacket and wondered where at that moment he was. Was he safe and warm? Was his cold any better? Were any of my letters getting to him? As I pondered all of these things, shrill feminine voices from the next booth broke into my thoughts.
"I don't know what Bush is thinking invading Iraq. Didn't he learn anything from his father's mistakes? He is an idiot anyway, I can't believe he is even in office. You know he stole the election."
I cut into my steak and tried not to listen as they began an endless tirade of running down our president. I thought about the last night I was with my husband as he prepared to deploy. He had just returned from getting his smallpox and anthrax shots and the image of him standing in our kitchen packing his gas mask still gave me chills.
Once again their voices invaded my thoughts.
"It is all about oil, you know. Our military will go in and rape and pillage and steal all the oil they can in the name of freedom. I wonder how many innocent lives our soldiers will take without a thought? It is just pure greed."
My chest tightened and I stared at my wedding ring. I could picture how handsome my husband was in his mess dress the day he slipped it on my finger. I wondered what he was wearing at that moment. He probably had on his desert uniform, affectionately dubbed coffee stains, over the top of which he wore a heavy bulletproof vest.
"We should just leave Iraq alone. I don't think they are hiding any weapons. I think it is all a ploy to increase the president's popularity and pad the budget of our military at the expense of social security and education. We are just asking for another 9-11 and I can't say when it happens again that we didn't deserve it."
Their words brought to mind the war protesters I had watched gathering outside our base. Did no one appreciate the sacrifice of brave men and women who leave their homes and family to ensure our freedom? I glimpsed at the tables around me and saw the faces of some of those courageous men, looking sad as they listened to the ladies talk.
"Well I for one, think it is a travesty to invade Iraq and I am certainly sick of our tax dollars going to train the professional baby killers we call a military."
Professional baby killers? As I thought about what a wonderful father my husband is and wondered how long it would be before he was able to see his children again, indignation rose up within me. Normally reserved, pride in my husband gave me a boldness I had never known. Tonight, one voice would cry out on behalf of the military. One shy woman would stand and let her pride in our troops be known. I made my way to their table, placed my palms flat on it and lowered myself to be eye level with them. Smiling I said, "I couldn't help overhearing your conversation. I am sitting over here trying to enjoy my dinner alone. Do you know why I am alone? Because my husband, whom I love dearly, is halfway across the world defending your right to say rotten things about him. You have the right to your opinion, and what you think is none of my business, but what you say in my hearing is and I will not sit by and listen to you run down my country, my president, my husband, and all these other fine men and women in here who put their lives on the line to give you the freedom to complain. Freedom is expensive ladies, don't let your actions cheapen it."
I must have been louder than I meant to be, because about that time the manager came over and asked if everything was all right. "Yes thank you." I replied and then turned back to the ladies, "Enjoy the rest of your meal."
To my surprise, as I sat down to finish my steak, a round of applause broke out in the restaurant. Not long after the ladies picked up their check and scurried away, the manager brought me a huge helping of apple cobbler and ice cream, compliments of the table to my left. He told me that the ladies had tried to pay for my dinner, but someone had beaten them to it. When I asked who he said the couple had already left, but that the man had mentioned he was a WWII vet and wanted to take care of the wife of one of our boys.
I turned to thank the soldiers for the cobbler, but they wouldn't hear a word of it, retorting, "Thank you, you said what we wanted to say but weren't allowed."
As I drove home that night, for the first time in while, I didn't feel quite so alone. My heart was filled with the warmth of all the patrons who had stopped by my table to tell me they too were proud of my husband and that he would be in their prayers. I knew their flags would fly a little higher the next day. Perhaps they would look for tangible ways to show their pride in our country and our troops, and maybe, just maybe, the two ladies sitting at that table next to me would pause for a minute to appreciate all the freedom this great country offers and what it costs to maintain. As for me, I had learned that one voice can make a difference. Maybe the next time protestors gather outside the gates of the base where I live, I will proudly stand across the street with a sign of my own. A sign that says "Thank you!"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lori Kimble, the writer of the article, is a frequent contributor of commentaries for the Washington Dispatch.This particular commentary was published in April of 2003.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
The Root of All Evil?
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Rick Jackson
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. I TIMOTHY 6:10
For many years I did not understand this verse. How could money be the root of all evil when there was evil before there was money? The problem of course was not with the Scripture but was with how I was viewing this particular Scripture.
I. CONSIDER THE CONTRADICTION
The Bible consistently teaches that the root causes of evil fall into three categories. The lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life. Every sin you can think of is based on at least one of these. Let me give you a few examples:
1. The world [system] uses these (I Jn. 2:15-16)
2. The flesh [the old nature] uses these (II Sam. 11:1-4)
3. The Devil uses these (Gen. 3:6, Mt. 4)
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food (lust of the flesh), and that it was pleasant to the eyes (lust of the eyes), and a tree to be desired to make one wise(pride of life), she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
He tried to use these on Jesus but it didn't work!
II. CONSIDER THE CONTEXT
"A text without a context is a pretext."
1. Some men's sins (I Tm. 5:24, 6:3-4)
2. Some men's good works (I Tm. 5:25-6:2)
3. Some comparisons of contentment and greed (I Tm. 6:5-10)
III. CONSIDER THYSELF CAREFULLY (GAL. 6:1)
This should cause us to:
1. Flee (I Tm. 6:11; I Co. 6:18, 10:14; II Tm. 2:22)
2. Follow (I Tm. 6:11, Mt. 16:24, II Tm. 2:22 )
3. Fight (I Tm. 6:12; I Co. 9:26; II Tm. 4:7)
4. Be Faithful (I Tm. 6:13-21; I Co. 4:2)
Rick Jackson
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. I TIMOTHY 6:10
For many years I did not understand this verse. How could money be the root of all evil when there was evil before there was money? The problem of course was not with the Scripture but was with how I was viewing this particular Scripture.
I. CONSIDER THE CONTRADICTION
The Bible consistently teaches that the root causes of evil fall into three categories. The lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life. Every sin you can think of is based on at least one of these. Let me give you a few examples:
1. The world [system] uses these (I Jn. 2:15-16)
2. The flesh [the old nature] uses these (II Sam. 11:1-4)
3. The Devil uses these (Gen. 3:6, Mt. 4)
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food (lust of the flesh), and that it was pleasant to the eyes (lust of the eyes), and a tree to be desired to make one wise(pride of life), she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
He tried to use these on Jesus but it didn't work!
II. CONSIDER THE CONTEXT
"A text without a context is a pretext."
1. Some men's sins (I Tm. 5:24, 6:3-4)
2. Some men's good works (I Tm. 5:25-6:2)
3. Some comparisons of contentment and greed (I Tm. 6:5-10)
III. CONSIDER THYSELF CAREFULLY (GAL. 6:1)
This should cause us to:
1. Flee (I Tm. 6:11; I Co. 6:18, 10:14; II Tm. 2:22)
2. Follow (I Tm. 6:11, Mt. 16:24, II Tm. 2:22 )
3. Fight (I Tm. 6:12; I Co. 9:26; II Tm. 4:7)
4. Be Faithful (I Tm. 6:13-21; I Co. 4:2)
JUNKBUSTERS Anti-Telemarketing Script
This is awesome! I can't wait to try it. We owe a debt of gratitude to Junkbusters for this one.
This is found at: http://www.junkbusters.com/ht/en/script.html
Telemarketers always use a script: why shouldn't you?
What to say when they call if you don't want junk calls
Every time you get a call you consider junk, just ask the questions in this script. If they answer no, you may be able to sue them. Be sure to put your phone number on the National Do-Not-Call registry by visiting http://donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222.
1. "Are you calling to sell something?'' (or ``is this a telemarketing call?'')
2. "Could you tell me your full name please?'' $
3. "And a phone number, area code first?'' $
4. "What's the name of the organization you're calling for?'' $
5. "Does that organization keep a list of numbers it's been asked not to call?'' $
6. "I would like my number(s) put on that list. Can you take care of that now?'' $
7. "And does the company you work for also make telemarketing calls for any other organizations?'' (If they answer no, skip the next question.)
8. (If yes) "Can you make sure your company won't call me for any other organization?'' $
You may need to ask to speak with a supervisor if they sound lost. When you're ready to let them off, you might close with ``Is it clear that I never want telemarketing calls from anyone?'' and just say goodbye. If you feel like making them pay, keep going:
1. "Will your company keep my number on its do-not-call list for at least ten years?'' $
2. "And does your company have a written policy that says that on paper?'' $
3. "Can you send me a copy of it?'' $
4. "What's your supervisor's first and last name?''
5. "What's your employer's business name, address and main telephone number?''
6. "Are you calling for a tax-exempt nonprofit organization?''
7. "Is this call based on a previously established business relationship?''
Before hanging up, check you have all their answers written down, then say goodbye. Add the date and time to your record. (Is it between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.? $)
Disclaimer: nothing here should be taken as legal advice. If they answer no to any question ending in "$'' you may be able to sue them for $500-$1500 under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. But if the answer to either of the last two questions is yes, then the Act doesn't consider the call to be a solicitation, so it's not covered by many of its regulations. Also excluded are calls to business numbers. For more details, see our pages on federal laws and on how to reduce telemarketing calls and junk mail. JUNKBUSTERS DECLARE makes it easy to tell companies not to pester you.
This is found at: http://www.junkbusters.com/ht/en/script.html
Telemarketers always use a script: why shouldn't you?
What to say when they call if you don't want junk calls
Every time you get a call you consider junk, just ask the questions in this script. If they answer no, you may be able to sue them. Be sure to put your phone number on the National Do-Not-Call registry by visiting http://donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222.
1. "Are you calling to sell something?'' (or ``is this a telemarketing call?'')
2. "Could you tell me your full name please?'' $
3. "And a phone number, area code first?'' $
4. "What's the name of the organization you're calling for?'' $
5. "Does that organization keep a list of numbers it's been asked not to call?'' $
6. "I would like my number(s) put on that list. Can you take care of that now?'' $
7. "And does the company you work for also make telemarketing calls for any other organizations?'' (If they answer no, skip the next question.)
8. (If yes) "Can you make sure your company won't call me for any other organization?'' $
You may need to ask to speak with a supervisor if they sound lost. When you're ready to let them off, you might close with ``Is it clear that I never want telemarketing calls from anyone?'' and just say goodbye. If you feel like making them pay, keep going:
1. "Will your company keep my number on its do-not-call list for at least ten years?'' $
2. "And does your company have a written policy that says that on paper?'' $
3. "Can you send me a copy of it?'' $
4. "What's your supervisor's first and last name?''
5. "What's your employer's business name, address and main telephone number?''
6. "Are you calling for a tax-exempt nonprofit organization?''
7. "Is this call based on a previously established business relationship?''
Before hanging up, check you have all their answers written down, then say goodbye. Add the date and time to your record. (Is it between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.? $)
Disclaimer: nothing here should be taken as legal advice. If they answer no to any question ending in "$'' you may be able to sue them for $500-$1500 under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. But if the answer to either of the last two questions is yes, then the Act doesn't consider the call to be a solicitation, so it's not covered by many of its regulations. Also excluded are calls to business numbers. For more details, see our pages on federal laws and on how to reduce telemarketing calls and junk mail. JUNKBUSTERS DECLARE makes it easy to tell companies not to pester you.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Quotes of the week
Selected by Rick Jackson
"How many of you know that ego is the anesthesia that deadens the pain of stupidity?" -Rick Rigsby
"Awww... find a bridge and get over it!" -Randy Lamb
"A small sin can derail a mighty man." -Pastor Jeff Redlin
"Whenever you are confronted with a decision- you do make one! Even deciding to put off the decision is a decision!" -Evangelist Bill Rice III
I just noticed something... Evidently these quotes are brought to you courtesy of the letter "R". (See names of all those quoted)
Monday, September 11, 2006
GOD BLESS THE USA!
According to an article in The Herald of Rock Hill, South Carolina, this picture was taken September 11, 2003, the second anniversary of the Attack on America.It is a group of Baker Company Marines who were still in Iraq on that date.One of them, 1st. Lt. Andrew Shoemaker, wrote to his father, "It is in remembrance of those that gave the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, and the reason that no matter how long we are here, we will continue to push and never forget why we serve."www.Truthorfiction.com (use this site to verify or deny all your internet rumors!)
Sunday, September 10, 2006
BLESSED AND A BLESSING- 3 NATIONS
Rick Jackson
PROVERBS 14:34
In the history of the world there are three nations that really stand out as having been blessed by God and as being a blessing to others. This is not to say there aren't others but there are three that are practically indisputable in this regard. Israel, Great Britain, and the United States of America. Obviously books have been written on the subject of each individual nation but here let us just note three things about each of these three nations and why God has blessed them and made them a blessing to others.
I. THE NATION OF ISRAEL (PSALM 33:12, MAL. 3:6-12)
Israel was used of God to:
1. Give us the Bible (Rm. 3:1-2)
2. Give us the Saviour (Rev. 12)
3. Give us the Gospel (Mt. 28:18-20, Acts 9:1-6, 15-16, 20)
II. THE BRITISH EMPIRE
The British Empire was used of God to:
1. Give us the English Bible (II Tm. 3:16)
The Wycliff English Bible in 1382, the Tyndale Bible in 1525, the Coverdale in 1535, the Rogers Bible in 1537, the Great Bible in 1539, the Geneva in 1560, the Bishops in 1568, the King James Bible in 1611
2. Give us the modern missions using William Carey, God's plodder (Mark 16:15)
When he died at 73 (1834), he had seen the Scriptures translated and printed into forty languages, he had been a college professor, and had founded a college at Serampore. He had seen India open its doors to missionaries, he had seen the edict passed prohibiting sati (burning widows on the funeral pyres of their dead husbands), and he had seen converts for Christ.
On his deathbed Carey called out to a missionary friend, "Dr. Duff! You have been speaking about Dr. Carey; when I am gone, say nothing about Dr. Carey -- speak about Dr. Carey's God." That charge was symbolic of Carey, considered by many to be a "unique figure, towering above both contemporaries and successors" in the ministry of missions.
*from Profiles in Evangelism by Fred Barlow, Sword of the Lord Publishers, ©1976.
3. Give us some great influences for Christ- John & Charles Wesley, William Booth, John Bunyan, David Livingstone, Charles Spurgeon, George Mueller, John Newton, Hudson Taylor, C.T. Studd, George Whitfield to name a few (Mt. 5:13)
III. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (I COR. 3:11)
The United States of America has been used of God to:
1. Send the Bible to all the world (Rm. 10:17-18)
2. Send missionaries to the whole earth (Rm. 10:13-15)
3. Send out some great lights for Christ- C.I. Scofield, D.L. Moody, John R. Rice, Billy Sunday, Fanny Crosby, R.A. Torrey, Henry Morris (Matthew 5:14-16)
PROVERBS 14:34
In the history of the world there are three nations that really stand out as having been blessed by God and as being a blessing to others. This is not to say there aren't others but there are three that are practically indisputable in this regard. Israel, Great Britain, and the United States of America. Obviously books have been written on the subject of each individual nation but here let us just note three things about each of these three nations and why God has blessed them and made them a blessing to others.
I. THE NATION OF ISRAEL (PSALM 33:12, MAL. 3:6-12)
Israel was used of God to:
1. Give us the Bible (Rm. 3:1-2)
2. Give us the Saviour (Rev. 12)
3. Give us the Gospel (Mt. 28:18-20, Acts 9:1-6, 15-16, 20)
II. THE BRITISH EMPIRE
The British Empire was used of God to:
1. Give us the English Bible (II Tm. 3:16)
The Wycliff English Bible in 1382, the Tyndale Bible in 1525, the Coverdale in 1535, the Rogers Bible in 1537, the Great Bible in 1539, the Geneva in 1560, the Bishops in 1568, the King James Bible in 1611
2. Give us the modern missions using William Carey, God's plodder (Mark 16:15)
When he died at 73 (1834), he had seen the Scriptures translated and printed into forty languages, he had been a college professor, and had founded a college at Serampore. He had seen India open its doors to missionaries, he had seen the edict passed prohibiting sati (burning widows on the funeral pyres of their dead husbands), and he had seen converts for Christ.
On his deathbed Carey called out to a missionary friend, "Dr. Duff! You have been speaking about Dr. Carey; when I am gone, say nothing about Dr. Carey -- speak about Dr. Carey's God." That charge was symbolic of Carey, considered by many to be a "unique figure, towering above both contemporaries and successors" in the ministry of missions.
*from Profiles in Evangelism by Fred Barlow, Sword of the Lord Publishers, ©1976.
3. Give us some great influences for Christ- John & Charles Wesley, William Booth, John Bunyan, David Livingstone, Charles Spurgeon, George Mueller, John Newton, Hudson Taylor, C.T. Studd, George Whitfield to name a few (Mt. 5:13)
III. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (I COR. 3:11)
The United States of America has been used of God to:
1. Send the Bible to all the world (Rm. 10:17-18)
2. Send missionaries to the whole earth (Rm. 10:13-15)
3. Send out some great lights for Christ- C.I. Scofield, D.L. Moody, John R. Rice, Billy Sunday, Fanny Crosby, R.A. Torrey, Henry Morris (Matthew 5:14-16)
Saturday, September 09, 2006
THE UNDISPUTED, UNDEFEATED CHAMPION OF LOVE
Rick Jackson
I. UNDISPUTED
There's really no argument about it. The love of God is greater than any other love.
1. It is a gracious love- it can't be bought or earned (Rm. 5:8)
He loves the unlovable, He loves the unlovely, He loves the unloving. I Cor. teaches there are 3 kinds of people (natural , carnal, spiritual) and God loves them all. Rm. 5:8, Heb. 12:6ff, Jn. 14:21
2. It is a giving love- it can't be outgiven or outlasted (Jn. 3:16)
True Christianity conquers with love not force. Think of the reaction to The Satanic Verses by Salmon Rushdie with the reaction to The DaVinci Code.
Christians fought the falsehood but with truth not fear.
3. It is a great love- the changes it brings are incomparable (Eph. 2:3-5, I Tm. 1:14)
II. UNDEFEATED
1. No-one can separate us from it (Rm. 8:35-39)
2. No-one can supercede it (Ps. 27:9-10, Jn. 15:13)
3. No-one can surpass it (Eph. 3:18-20)
III. THE CHAMPION OF LOVE
1. He came (I Jn. 4:10)
2. He saw (Mt. 9:35-38)
3. He conquered (Jn. 19:30, Rm. 1:4, Col. 2:6-15)
I. UNDISPUTED
There's really no argument about it. The love of God is greater than any other love.
1. It is a gracious love- it can't be bought or earned (Rm. 5:8)
He loves the unlovable, He loves the unlovely, He loves the unloving. I Cor. teaches there are 3 kinds of people (natural , carnal, spiritual) and God loves them all. Rm. 5:8, Heb. 12:6ff, Jn. 14:21
2. It is a giving love- it can't be outgiven or outlasted (Jn. 3:16)
True Christianity conquers with love not force. Think of the reaction to The Satanic Verses by Salmon Rushdie with the reaction to The DaVinci Code.
Christians fought the falsehood but with truth not fear.
3. It is a great love- the changes it brings are incomparable (Eph. 2:3-5, I Tm. 1:14)
II. UNDEFEATED
1. No-one can separate us from it (Rm. 8:35-39)
2. No-one can supercede it (Ps. 27:9-10, Jn. 15:13)
3. No-one can surpass it (Eph. 3:18-20)
III. THE CHAMPION OF LOVE
1. He came (I Jn. 4:10)
2. He saw (Mt. 9:35-38)
3. He conquered (Jn. 19:30, Rm. 1:4, Col. 2:6-15)
Friday, September 08, 2006
Organizing & Dieting
I just realized something today. Organizing and dieting are two peas in the same pod. What? How can that be? It sounds rather incongruous doesn't it? But here's what I mean. When you start to lose weight on a diet it encourages you to keep losing weight, you get excited about it, it helps you stay on track. When you're organizing (or at least these things are true of me) and an area is looking better it encourages you to keep organizing, you get excited about it, it helps you stay on track. Success can breed success.
Okay. This is a strange blog isn't it? Hey, I never promised you a rose garden. I am just writing from my Starke reality. A shout out to Brother Greg (in the Lord) who really likes the title of my blog. Greg, if you are reading this, just remember, it doesn't get much better than a chicken teriaki sub on toasted bread at Subway with a lot of sweet onion sauce. Excelsior!
Okay. This is a strange blog isn't it? Hey, I never promised you a rose garden. I am just writing from my Starke reality. A shout out to Brother Greg (in the Lord) who really likes the title of my blog. Greg, if you are reading this, just remember, it doesn't get much better than a chicken teriaki sub on toasted bread at Subway with a lot of sweet onion sauce. Excelsior!
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
The Root of Bitterness
Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
Hebrews 12:14-15 (King James Version)
Bitterness is a problem we all face. I have seen it in homes, schools, businesses, churches, relationships, etc. I have seen it towards people, government, church, leaders, followers, the military, etc. One man recently turned against the President, the armed forces, the U.S. Government and me. I think he just got in the habit of being bitter and it grew and consumed his life. He had a legitimate gripe against a few individuals in the military but let it encompass more. He overlooked some faults of himself and others, he maximized the faults of certain individuals while minimizing the blessing these people had been in the past and grew more and more bitter. Unfortunately bitterness is seldom self-contained.
I. THE RISE OF BITTERNESS
1. It is continuous (Heb. 12:15a)
2. It is contagious (Heb. 12:15b)
I have seen good people serving the Lord happily turn negative and quit serving God because they associated with bitter people. I have been tempted myself in this area and prefer to stay away from bitter people. Often this is hard because it may be a friend or relative or fellow church member who is slowly turning bitter before our eyes. Let us all beware the root of bitterness. It's trunk, branches, and fruit are not pleasant.
3. It is contemptuous (Heb. 12:16-17)
II. SOME OF THE ROOTS OF BITTERNESS
1. Dissatisfaction with God's plans (Is. 38:9-20, 39:5-8, Ez. 3:5-14)
2. Dissatisfaction with God's punishments (Lam. 1:1-5)
3. Dissatisfaction with God's person (Rm. 3:10-18, Ps. 2:1-3)
IN ALL OF THESE WE CAN SEE THAT BITTERNESS IS A HINDRANCE TO REVIVAL!
III. SOME PROPER RESPONSES TO BITTERNESS
1. Prayer (I Sam. 1:10, Heb. 12:12)
2. Put it away (Heb. 12:13, Eph. 4:29-5:1)
3. Persevere in holiness (Heb. 12:14-16, Lam. 3:8-26)
Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
Hebrews 12:14-15 (King James Version)
Bitterness is a problem we all face. I have seen it in homes, schools, businesses, churches, relationships, etc. I have seen it towards people, government, church, leaders, followers, the military, etc. One man recently turned against the President, the armed forces, the U.S. Government and me. I think he just got in the habit of being bitter and it grew and consumed his life. He had a legitimate gripe against a few individuals in the military but let it encompass more. He overlooked some faults of himself and others, he maximized the faults of certain individuals while minimizing the blessing these people had been in the past and grew more and more bitter. Unfortunately bitterness is seldom self-contained.
I. THE RISE OF BITTERNESS
1. It is continuous (Heb. 12:15a)
2. It is contagious (Heb. 12:15b)
I have seen good people serving the Lord happily turn negative and quit serving God because they associated with bitter people. I have been tempted myself in this area and prefer to stay away from bitter people. Often this is hard because it may be a friend or relative or fellow church member who is slowly turning bitter before our eyes. Let us all beware the root of bitterness. It's trunk, branches, and fruit are not pleasant.
3. It is contemptuous (Heb. 12:16-17)
II. SOME OF THE ROOTS OF BITTERNESS
1. Dissatisfaction with God's plans (Is. 38:9-20, 39:5-8, Ez. 3:5-14)
2. Dissatisfaction with God's punishments (Lam. 1:1-5)
3. Dissatisfaction with God's person (Rm. 3:10-18, Ps. 2:1-3)
IN ALL OF THESE WE CAN SEE THAT BITTERNESS IS A HINDRANCE TO REVIVAL!
III. SOME PROPER RESPONSES TO BITTERNESS
1. Prayer (I Sam. 1:10, Heb. 12:12)
2. Put it away (Heb. 12:13, Eph. 4:29-5:1)
3. Persevere in holiness (Heb. 12:14-16, Lam. 3:8-26)
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
"Life is like a box of chocolates..."
The Hillbilly's Ten Commandments- posted on the wall at Cross Trails Church in Gainesboro, TN.
(1) Just one God.
(2) Honor yer Ma 'n Pa.
(3) No tellin' tales or gossipin'.
(4) Git yourself to Sunday meetin'
(5) Put nothin' before God.
(6) No foolin' around with another fellow's gal.
(7) No killin.'
(8) Watch yer mouth.
(9) Don't take what ain't yers.
10) Don't be hankerin' for yer buddy's stuff.
Once again Rose has sent me a good one (above). Hope you all had a good Labor Day. For me and the missus we grilled some steak, burgers and hot dogs (a little off the diet) but we actually labored inside doing so much needed organizing. It necessitated a trip to Wal-mart to get a bookshelf (of sorts) but it all worked out. Now I just have to organize what became unorganized because we organized so much. "Life is like a box of chocolates..."
(1) Just one God.
(2) Honor yer Ma 'n Pa.
(3) No tellin' tales or gossipin'.
(4) Git yourself to Sunday meetin'
(5) Put nothin' before God.
(6) No foolin' around with another fellow's gal.
(7) No killin.'
(8) Watch yer mouth.
(9) Don't take what ain't yers.
10) Don't be hankerin' for yer buddy's stuff.
Once again Rose has sent me a good one (above). Hope you all had a good Labor Day. For me and the missus we grilled some steak, burgers and hot dogs (a little off the diet) but we actually labored inside doing so much needed organizing. It necessitated a trip to Wal-mart to get a bookshelf (of sorts) but it all worked out. Now I just have to organize what became unorganized because we organized so much. "Life is like a box of chocolates..."
Monday, September 04, 2006
WHAT TEACHERS MAKE
My friend Rose sent me this one. I taught school for 13 years so I really liked it. Maybe you will too.
The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life. One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with education. He argued, "What's a kid going to learn from someone who decided his best option in life was to become a teacher?"
He reminded the other dinner guests what they say about teachers: "Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach." To stress his point he said to another guest, "You're a teacher, Susan. Be honest. What do you make?"
Susan, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness replied,
"You want to know what I make?
"I make kids work harder than they ever thought they could.
"I make a C+ feel like the winner of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
"I make kids sit through 40 minutes of study hall in absolute silence.
"You want to know what I make?!
"I make kids wonder.
"I make them question.
"I make them criticize.
"I make them apologize and mean it.
"I make them write.
"I make them read, read, read.
"I make them show all their work in Math and perfect their final drafts in English. I make them understand that if you have the brains, and follow your heart, and if someone ever tries to judge you by what you make, you must pay no attention because they just didn't learn."
Susan paused and then continued. "You want to know what I make?
'I MAKE A DIFFERENCE.' What do you make?"
"Teachers make every other profession possible!"
The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life. One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with education. He argued, "What's a kid going to learn from someone who decided his best option in life was to become a teacher?"
He reminded the other dinner guests what they say about teachers: "Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach." To stress his point he said to another guest, "You're a teacher, Susan. Be honest. What do you make?"
Susan, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness replied,
"You want to know what I make?
"I make kids work harder than they ever thought they could.
"I make a C+ feel like the winner of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
"I make kids sit through 40 minutes of study hall in absolute silence.
"You want to know what I make?!
"I make kids wonder.
"I make them question.
"I make them criticize.
"I make them apologize and mean it.
"I make them write.
"I make them read, read, read.
"I make them show all their work in Math and perfect their final drafts in English. I make them understand that if you have the brains, and follow your heart, and if someone ever tries to judge you by what you make, you must pay no attention because they just didn't learn."
Susan paused and then continued. "You want to know what I make?
'I MAKE A DIFFERENCE.' What do you make?"
"Teachers make every other profession possible!"
Saturday, September 02, 2006
THE NAME OF THE LORD
GENESIS 4:25-26
Rick Jackson
In our western culture names don't always mean anything more than what sounds nice aesthetically. In the eastern cultures this is not always the case, and in the Bible we find that names were very important. Look at the number of people in the Bible who were given new names to indicate a change in their lives (Abram, Sarai, Jacob, and Saul of Tarsus just to name a few).
Over 100 times the Scripture uses the exact phrase "the name of the Lord". There is power in that name because of the person of the Name. There are perils in misusing or abusing the name of the Lord. Then again there is also great potential for those willing to call upon the name of the Lord rightly.
I. THE PERSON ASSOCIATED WITH "THE NAME OF THE LORD"
The phrase "the name of the Lord" is used:
1. By God to declare Himself as God (Ex. 33:12-20, 34:4-9, Joel 2:26-27, Zeph. 3:-12)
2. By men to worship God as God (Gn. 13:4, 16:13, 21:33; Job 1:21-22; Ps. 124:8, 148:5, 13; Pr. 18:10; Jer. 3:17, 22)
3. By God and men to identify Jesus as God (Ps. 118:21-29, Joel 2:32; Mt. 21:9, 23:29, Lk. 19:10, 38, Acts 2:21, 4:10-12, 10:48; Rm. 10:13, I Cor. 6:11)
Have you called upon the name of the Lord and received the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour?
II. THE PERILS ASSOCIATED WITH "THE NAME OF THE LORD"
It may seem strange that there could be danger or peril associated with this wonderful name but the Bible warns us carefully on this very matter. We are warned about:
1. The misuse of the Name (Ex. 20:7; Lv. 24:11, 16; Dt. 5:11; Is. 48:1)
2. The misappropriation of the Name (Dt. 18:22; Zech. 13:3)
3. The misjudging or mistrust of the Name (Jer. 11:21-23, 26:8-10, 20, 44:15-23; II Co. 11:13-15)
Just as there are perils in taking the name of the Lord lightly or wrongly there is also, for those who take the Name rightly,
III. THE POTENTIAL ASSOCIATED WITH "THE NAME OF THE LORD"
1. We can use the name in praise and thanksgiving (Ps. 7:17, 102:21, 113:1-2, 122:4, 135:1, 148:13)
2. We can represent the name as we are called to serve Him (Dt. 18:7, 21:5, 28:10, 32:2-4; I Sm. 17:45; I K. 10:1; I Ch. 21:18-20; II Ch. 33:18; Is. 50:10; Acts 9:29; Col. 3:17; James 5:10)
3. We can love the Name and call upon the Lord in prayer(I K. 18:24, 32; Ps. 116:4-5, 13, 17; Is. 56:6; James 5:14)
Rick Jackson
In our western culture names don't always mean anything more than what sounds nice aesthetically. In the eastern cultures this is not always the case, and in the Bible we find that names were very important. Look at the number of people in the Bible who were given new names to indicate a change in their lives (Abram, Sarai, Jacob, and Saul of Tarsus just to name a few).
Over 100 times the Scripture uses the exact phrase "the name of the Lord". There is power in that name because of the person of the Name. There are perils in misusing or abusing the name of the Lord. Then again there is also great potential for those willing to call upon the name of the Lord rightly.
I. THE PERSON ASSOCIATED WITH "THE NAME OF THE LORD"
The phrase "the name of the Lord" is used:
1. By God to declare Himself as God (Ex. 33:12-20, 34:4-9, Joel 2:26-27, Zeph. 3:-12)
2. By men to worship God as God (Gn. 13:4, 16:13, 21:33; Job 1:21-22; Ps. 124:8, 148:5, 13; Pr. 18:10; Jer. 3:17, 22)
3. By God and men to identify Jesus as God (Ps. 118:21-29, Joel 2:32; Mt. 21:9, 23:29, Lk. 19:10, 38, Acts 2:21, 4:10-12, 10:48; Rm. 10:13, I Cor. 6:11)
Have you called upon the name of the Lord and received the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour?
II. THE PERILS ASSOCIATED WITH "THE NAME OF THE LORD"
It may seem strange that there could be danger or peril associated with this wonderful name but the Bible warns us carefully on this very matter. We are warned about:
1. The misuse of the Name (Ex. 20:7; Lv. 24:11, 16; Dt. 5:11; Is. 48:1)
2. The misappropriation of the Name (Dt. 18:22; Zech. 13:3)
3. The misjudging or mistrust of the Name (Jer. 11:21-23, 26:8-10, 20, 44:15-23; II Co. 11:13-15)
Just as there are perils in taking the name of the Lord lightly or wrongly there is also, for those who take the Name rightly,
III. THE POTENTIAL ASSOCIATED WITH "THE NAME OF THE LORD"
1. We can use the name in praise and thanksgiving (Ps. 7:17, 102:21, 113:1-2, 122:4, 135:1, 148:13)
2. We can represent the name as we are called to serve Him (Dt. 18:7, 21:5, 28:10, 32:2-4; I Sm. 17:45; I K. 10:1; I Ch. 21:18-20; II Ch. 33:18; Is. 50:10; Acts 9:29; Col. 3:17; James 5:10)
3. We can love the Name and call upon the Lord in prayer(I K. 18:24, 32; Ps. 116:4-5, 13, 17; Is. 56:6; James 5:14)
Friday, September 01, 2006
Picture of the week.
They crossed a horse with a Dachshund. What did they get?
A) I don't know but it seats three people
B) A Dachshorse!
C) All of the above
D) None of the above
A) I don't know but it seats three people
B) A Dachshorse!
C) All of the above
D) None of the above
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