Christian's aren't perfect. That deserves repeating, Christian's aren't perfect people, not by a long shot. After accepting and receiving the Son of God as our Lord and Savior by faith, people think followers of Jesus automatically turn into perfect people. That's impossible. As long as anyone is living a human existence, it's impossible to be perfect. The best we as Christians can do and become is a better person in God's eyes by following the example of Jesus,(WWJD),and strive each and every day to be better than the day before as we work through our mistakes, mishaps, shortcomings and inadequacies, in other words 'our imperfection' as we are molded more and more into the likeness of our Lord on the inside, and that transformation starts to be seen outwardly in our actions, our speech, how we conduct ourselves, etc..
Even though Christians have the Holy Spirit guiding our quickened spirits, we still dwell within our fleshly bodies. The difference that can't be seen to the naked eye is the inner spiritual transformation. The difference is Christians are not held hostage any longer by sin, and are more sensitive to sin than before when sin was a way of life and we had no concern about it one way or another. Our hearts were made spiritually alive when we accepted Jesus into our lives. What a transformation that is!
Being spiritually alive to the things of God makes us children of the Almighty God and heirs to His promises. We yearn to please Him, our heavenly Father, and we know our sins are forgiven through the redemptive blood of our Savior. We live by faith and know our Father in heaven loves us unconditionally. We may look the same as before, but a spiritual surgery has been performed on the inside. Our insides 'so to speak' are perfect and that's all that really counts.
Christians are not perfect, but we're hooked up with 'The One' who is, and that's what matters anyway.
2 CORINTHIANS 3:18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are
being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to
another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
Things to ponder-
Jesus was the only man who was perfect. He was born of a woman in order to be the sacrifice for all Mankind. He was also God in that He was without sin so He could be The One Perfect Sacrificial Lamb in order to please God the Father so Sin could be forgiven.
To worship and live a Christian life, one must worship in spirit and truth for God is Spirit.
To accept Jesus is an act of faith in what God provided for us so we can have life, spiritual life. The body will die but the spirit will live forever. We are body, soul and spirit. It's the condition of the spirit that matters.
So the question is- have you been transformed from 'death into life?' What are you waiting for?
Does anyone measure up as pleasing to God? Yes. One person does, and that is Jesus. He alone measures up and is God's answer to a world of people needing help from the out-of-control, downward spiral of sin. It's Jesus alone who measures up to a world of people who don't know how to be at peace with God, so instead they shun God The only hope to a world of people searching for lasting peace, and lasting love, but don't know to go about getting it, is through Jesus. No other person, past, present or future measures up. God said, 'This is my Son, whom I love, and am well pleased.' God's most precious Son, willingly left the heavens, in order to be born of the Holy Spirit to a young virgin woman, thus fulfilling numerous prophesies written of the coming Messiah. He became as one of us, meaning human, for the sole purpose of becoming the perfect sacrificial Lamb to die for the sins of every man, woman, and child. Yes, He measured up and He clearly and conclusively won the spiritual battle over sin and death for us!
God is infinite - His power, wisdom and love is without end
Think about God for a minute. God is without limitations, unlike us.
He can be with you, hear prayers of the saints, know when a bird falls from the sky, and be in the heavens all at the same moment. Our human minds can't phantom His power, intellect, wisdom, holiness, omnipotence and total sovereignty. No matter how much we think or try, we can't come close by placing our human values and calculations on His infinite greatness. We are incapable of comprehending an infinite God with our non-infinite minds. God is Spirit. We have no earthly way of measuring or defining His Holiness. God is without form-He can't be seen or measured. Mistakes and/or lies are not of His Nature. He is totally just and without fault. Nothing occurs or has occurred without His knowledge because He is all knowing. Time and space are His to command. He always was, always has been, and always will be.
The Plan- The Sacrificial Lamb - Jesus would die for all our sins-Victory!
Now, think about Jesus for a minute. The very essence of God, was sent from heaven on a mission to complete and settle a spiritual war that affects every person, every soul. Jesus, came on the scene in the most humblest, lowly manner. He then grew up and began His ministry of teaching, healing, and, as foretold, He was rejected, and ultimately hung on a tree before the world, and before God. The Sacrificial Lamb had the sins of the world placed upon Him, and died for our sins so we wouldn't have to. On the third day, by the power of the Holy Spirit, He arose, and In doing so, he won the spiritual victory over sin and death. He defeated the enemy, Satan who wants every person to reject Jesus, die in their sins and not inherit what God has for them. But Jesus' cruxifiction satisfied all requirements God demands for the payment for all mankind's sins. Any person who believes on Jesus, and accepts Jesus as their personal Savior and Lord, will have their sins totally forgiven, and be freed from the penalty of sin. You are no longer an enemy of God, but become one of His children with rights of inheritance. You won't be condemned for your sins on Judgement Day. and to top it off, your future home will be in heaven, where you will enjoy spiritual life. All of this is because of Jesus, His obedience, His act of love for each of us and His victory, He holds the keys to death and sin- not Satan. Thank God.
The Sacrificial Lamb- died so we'd be spared the penalty of our sins.
Now, think about your position for a minute. Will God see your sins covered by the atoning, redeeming blood of His Son on Judgment Day? If upon taking your last breath you've rejected Jesus as your Savior, your sins will have been paid by you. The big problem will be you can't pay the penalty because you can't provide an acceptable sacrifice. The only acceptable sacrifice is Jesus. Only God could come up with such a plan so we'd have hope and assurance of enjoying spiritual life with Him forever.
God desires all to accept His free gift of Jesus to inherit spiritual life
So, the very essence of God, in human fleshly form, named Jesus, made himself the once-and-for-all sacrifice, sealing-the-deal, and defeating the power of sin and spiritual death. It's finished, the penalty's been paid-in-full and it's a done deal for us. Jesus stands high and mightily the winner and victor. He holds the keys and is seated in the heavens as proof. Now, on our part, all anyone needs to do are admit we're a sinner and we can't save ourselves. Then, exercise faith in God and acknowledge Jesus is His Son, and accept His sacrifice He willingly paid for each soul ransoming each soul that believes from 'spiritual death'. Upon doing this act of faith, a spiritual transformation takes place within the heavens and your name is entered into the Book of Life, granting you an eternal home in heaven. This is known as 'spiritual life'. If you sincerely meant it within your heart, from that moment on you need not worry or wonder if God will condemn you come Judgement Day. You don't have to wonder if you've performed enough good deeds, or if you lived your life pleasing enough to God. Even if you devoted every waking moment your entire lifetime doing good deed after good deed, your efforts would fall short. All of us are born with a sin nature, meaning we all have within us potential for sin, and, no one can claim to be without sin. Good deeds, and living by the Golden Rule, are all fine and dandy, but sorry, none of that satisfy asGod requires for sins to be forgiven. Sinners can't offer an acceptable, perfect, pure, sinless sacrifice to God. But thank God, in His love and mercy upon us, He provided the perfect sacrifice for us, in Jesus. Hook up with Him, ask Jesus to be your Savior. Your choosing Him will change your destiny forever. Jesus measures up. He's God's gift to you. Your sins are forgiven ONLY through Him.
Stories of mans' sins, acceptable sacrifices, then Jesus are told the Bible
Summerizing it all- God is Spirit and He will forgive sin by only one way.
Sin require an offering and death of a pure sacrifice to God
as a payment for sins, & it must be acceptable to God.
God sent his Son to be the Sacrificial Lamb offering and
payment for man's sins.
Jesus measured up by saving us from a penalty of
spiritual death, that we rightly deserve because of our sins.
Jesus has already paid the death penalty for you.
To receive this free gift, all you have to
to do is accept Jesus by faith. It's a spiritual thing.
Action steps- Admit that you are a sinner & can't do anything to save yourself. Believe Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. Ask Jesus into your heart to be your Lord and Savior. Thank Him for what He did, giving you victory over spiritual death Share Jesus to those needing a Savior.
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Enjoy three performances of a favorite song.
Neil Diamond singing 'The Little Drummer Boy"
'Little Drummer Boy'-Snare Drumline Encore Performance
"Little Drummer Boy" - Celtic Women
It's all Jesus, nothing more and nothing less. Period.
Jesus -More than a teacher! More than a prophet! More than a wise man!
Jesus gives life, hope, and a future by redeeming you to God. He is seated at God's right hand interceding for the saints. Jesus- Our Spiritual victor! Our Lord and Savior!
Questions- Why can't God allow sin to go unpunished?
Will God allow anyone with unforgiven sin to enter heaven?
Why is God concerned about sin?
Can you enter heaven without Jesus being your Lord and Savior?
Scripture references: Hebrews 9:11-28; 10:1-14
2 Corinthians 5:1-21
John 3:1-21; 15:12-13
Romans 5:6-21
Ephesians 2:1-18
Mark 1:11; 7:21-23
Jeremiah 3:7; 17:9
Matthew 17:5
Luke 3:12
2 Peter 1:17
1Thessalonians 5:9-11
Acts 2:22-39; 5:30-32
First chapter in the Book of Revelation, and Ephesians 1:3-23
Forever praising and honoring what our King and Lord Jesus did for every soul.
Lately, reading one of my favorite Christian-based blogs, and a new book, "You Matter More Than You Think", along with studying in my Bible, conversing with God, and listening to my favorite Christian radio station every morning, all I'm learning is resonating godly truths which are settling peacefully within my soul. I've been thinking about God's standards. Since He is 'the Creator', it's His standards, not those of man that matter. God's ways are far above man's ways. God's ways are mysteries to man. But, to those with a ear that will listen, and a heart that will seek the Truth, the Holy Spirit decodes those mysteries. God is ever so clever, so righteous and sovereign. I'm learning God's standards are based upon two truths- Jesus and love. Sometimes, we don't right away understand God's standards. We want to add or subtract from them. So, God uses teaching methods to stop us in our tracks and then get our attention. Two teaching methods He uses for getting results, happens to be......
Through pain and suffering, God brings us unto Himself.
Photo credit: clarita from morguefile.com
1. Pain. Yes, most people naturally avoid anything that causes pain at all costs. But, it's through pain where we learn very valuable lessons and receive blessings which mature us spiritually: suffering, afflictions, difficulties, set-backs, and hardships hone us, give us stronger backbones, build our character, and ultimately teach us some lessons in wisdom. A person who's been sheltered or has experienced little or no pain most likely will be a person who's not able to look too far out of their own world and be immature in their feelings for others and not exhibit or be able to make the wisest choices You'll probably never in your lifetime experience all the afflictions Paul suffered. He was beaten, shipwrecked, stoned, jailed, he had an eye condition, ,,,,, And it was Paul, by divine inspiration, who penned more New Testament books than anyone else. And to this day, we are still gaining insight, wisdom, and spiritual growth from the lessons learned from his afflictions.
You are so precious that God knows every hair on your head.
Photo credit: alvimann from morguefile.com
Instead, allow lessons learned from pain, suffering and affliction mature your spirit, deepen your faith, widen your gratitude, and be instrumental in helping you mature into a more humble person. Since you are a precious jewel to God, and in His constant care, He will not abandon you nor forsake you, nor allow more than you can handle. What He allows to happen is for molding and fashioning you into a more mature Christian. Remember, count it all joy- for it is a blessing and for your spiritual well-being.
Question- Why must it take 'pain' in order to learn valuable spiritual lessons? Answer- Because we are stubborn, hard-headed, selfish, greedy, and we're looking at life through fleshly eyes, we're living for the moment, and we're focusing on temporal things rather than eternal things which really matter.
2. And, tough love. You've heard the term, "tough love". Tough love is the courage to take action to love someone enough by stepping in and not allowing your loved one to continue on their path of harm and destruction. You love them to stop them from hurting themselves. Love wants what is best for a person. Love, is action and when demonstrated with the right motive and intention, never fails. In all you do, do it in love. Stop thinking only of yourself and learn to love unselfishly. Jesus showed His love by dying on the Cross in our place to pay the penalty for our sins. Love extends even to your enemies and the unlovable.
And, in the spirit of love, extending your heart to seeing to the needs of others, and taking attention off of yourself, you're showing to that person the love of God. In return, you'll receive God's love back, and so much more. God can never be out-given. It was 'Love' embodied in the body of Jesus who hung and died painfully on the Cross. Love prevails, and the 'good' attained is far greater than the pain. He arose, and is in heaven interceding between heaven and earth for the saints!
God is Spirit. It's more important to invest heavier on the growth of your 'inner man' rather than your 'outer earthen vessel' which will die. Placing more emphasis on the growth and beauty of your 'inner spiritual man' will give eternal dividends and rewards. This is the 'true, and real, You', created to exist through all eternity, never to die. You chose where the real you is going to reside. If you made the choice to accept God's gift of Jesus into your heart, your spirit will be heaven-bound.
This very moment your spirit can become awakened, renewed, strengthened and more fashioned into the image of Christ. The transformation is set into being the very moment you accept the Lord as your Savior. You may not feel any differently, but you are spiritually transformed into a new creation, one with a spirit that is alive, not dead. Your spirit becomes awakened and sensitive to the proddings of the Holy Spirit. But, we remain trapped in our earthly bodies, and most times a constant conflict is going on between what the flesh desires against what our spirit desires. This is when those painful experiences are needed to get the flesh to back down, so we can stop, listen, and obey what the Holy Spirit is communicating to our spirit- this is sanctification, which is spiritual maturing and growth. Remember, tidal waves of temptations in this world pull strong and hard at getting your eyes, your attention, and your focus off godly things to prevent you from being still and listening to that small, still voice of the Holy Spirit. If you trust God through the afflictions and the pain, spiritual lessons learned will be invaluable in your spiritual growth, which is what God is most concerned about.
But, if you're not willing to listen, nor are your desires for the things of God, you're allowed to continue down the path of your choice. God never forces anyone to go against their will. If you're against the things of God, God allows you that choice. But the destination you will meet will be your spiritual death. Nor will God stop the from sun shining upon you, nor your food supply, nor shelter, or air, etc. while you're still breathing. God will love you until your last breath, then you will not be able to change the destination you've chosen for yourself. Turning you back against God, means you can look forward to your spirit existing in a dark and unloving place, never to leave it. You'll be eternally wishing that you'd made a different choice.
In eternity, it will not matter how beautiful your face or hair was, or if you were born in the lowest cast or an influential, wealthy family. It won't matter if you were short or tall. It won't matter if you were a handsome prince, or a homely plumber, or if you'd been on the 'A' list, or not on any list at all. For eternity, you will exist as a spirit-being designed to live eternally. The only thing that will matter is did you ask Jesus into your heart, effectively called your 'second birth', making your spirit alive and qualifying you to receive the promises to all heirs in the family of God. And, the second thing that will matter is what you did to further the kingdom of God. This will determine the number of crowns you will have to present to Jesus. So, greater importance should to be placed on the 'healthy status' of your spirit, rather than on your exterior looks or social status.
That is the measure by which you will be rated- What you did using your talents and gifts to further the kingdom of God which God equips you to do that by passing you through trials and afflictions to mold and hone you making you effective for kingdom work.
His standards are measured in 1) Have you invited His Son, Jesus, into your heart, and 2) have you extended the love of Christ outward from your heart to others and point lost souls to Jesus, the Savior, who wants to be your Savior, because through Him is the ONLY WAY your sins can be forgiven.
God is Spirit, and He is due our spiritual worship which is
two things- worship Him in spirit and in truth.
Your spirit must be quickened by the Holy Spirit by
inviting God's Son, Jesus, the Christ, into your heart. Then,
a supernatural, spiritual transformation occurs within you. It's a God thing.
Wanna stop being an enemy of God and become at peace with God? (Romans 5:10 )
This video shows how you can pray to get saved today.
God's standards are love. And that 'love' was extended to every man, woman and child through Jesus.
So, how do you rate according to God's standards?
Get Jesus for an excellent rating!
Scripture references- Matthew 10:30
Luke 12:7
Ephesians 3:4; 6:9: Romans 5:10; 8:17-18; 8:29; 16:25
1 Corinthians 2:7; 12:2; 13:2; 14:2
Colossians 1:24
Job 11:7; 37:5
entire books of Daniel, 1Peter, and 2 Timothy
REVIEWGod's standards are ---------------------------Jesus, and love.
God sometimes teaches us through-------Pain and 'tough' love
What's important in eternity?------------------Accepting Jesus as your Savior, which ia the way to spiritual re-birth, and then showing the Love that lives within your heart to others, pointing them to Jesus, so they can personally know and choose Jesus as their Savior.
How do you worship God--------------------In your heart,with your spirit, and in truth.
Remember, GOD IS SPIRIT
Until next time, I remain on the narrow, but brightly lit path, enduring day by day, until I
I'm in the presence of my loving Savior's glorious face.
There's no way to surely know how we must appear to God from his point of view. God is Holy Spirit. He has no limits, time means nothing to Him, and He knows all and sees all. He created us. From his stand point, I think we must appear to be mere babes. We have many limitations. Unlike God, we can't know the condition of some one's heart, or the motivation behind some one's actions. But God does. We know a mere smidgen compared to His infinite intelligence. We must appear to possess the intelligence of babes in a nursery to Him. I was thinking about what Jesus said on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Just like a little babe, so inquisitive and full of wonder about everything within sight or grasp, we want to know everything we can get our hands onto. And just like babes, we don't really know about dangers lurking about. We just go about until someone says, "No", but we want to get our hands on what every we can reach and taste it anyway, and give a never mind to that, "No" warning. Might Jesus' statement have meant we are babes and don't have any idea of the impending danger on the road ahead we've chosen to take and we're totally blind to what we're getting ourselves into? I've wondered if we as a people will ever wise up, or are we always going to make decisions without regard or concern to God's Word? Are we ever going to gain wisdom about our decisions and actions and be more Christ-like? It really seems the majority of people go about their lives making choices based only upon the wants of their flesh and desires to possess ever more things they see. I say this because I see more and more behavior openly displayed contrary to God's Word and no doubt it is awfully tempting desiring and pursuing so many things marketed and available to us in modern society.
Because God allows you to do something, does not mean every thing you do is considered to be right. God will not violate or hamper your will. He created us to have a free will. God will not force anything upon anyone. He allows us to make our own choices. How cool is that? But those choices have consequences. For example. God could have dictated it be mandatory for all the Hebrew people led out of Egypt to worship Him only and none other. And anyone worshiping any other God, image, or idol be struck to death right on the spot. What happened was God allowed those who worshiped the golden calf to continue living out their normal lifespans and they continued to be provided food and necessities, but the consequence to their disobedience was God did not allow them to see the Promised Land. All but two (Joshua and Caleb) died in the desert. In other words, only two people remained faithful and obedient to God got to live to enter the Promised Land. So, might this mean God allows you to continue choosing to live a lifestyle contrary to His Word. And because you aren't seeing Him stopping you, you think it's alright to continue doing whatever you choose with disregard to His Word.. However, God has final say in who is allowed into the Promised Land, and that promised land for us is heaven. So, you might think you're in the clear with the consent of man's laws honoring certain lifestyles. But mankind is sinful. God is Holy. God ever so kindly wants you to willingly lead a life pleasing to Him. He actually desires his children to have an enjoyable and joyous life and wants to protect his children from all danger. How cool is that? If you are reading this, this could be considered a gentle hint for you to check your lifestyle choices and the things you've chosen above God in your life. Maybe it time to make some adjustments and changes. The best way to know if you're lifestyle is in line with what He's designed for you, is to read and study the Holy Word, pray for godly wisdom, and prayerfully ask your sins be forgiven, by asking Jesus to be your personal Lord and Savior. Until you take these steps, your spirit is dead and because of your unforgiven sins, you are an enemy of God. Once you take a step of faith and become a child of God, then your spirit becomes sensitive to the things of God and you can learn to make godly choices as you grow and mature spiritually. It's a life long process, challenging, but so rewarding, and fulfilling to a child of God as you mature daily from reading, hearing, and studying His Holy Word, and being receptive of the teachings of the Holy Spirit.
No matter how old we grow physically, we'll always be babes to God. He is our Heavenly Father and we are His children.
Scripture references-Chapter of Exodus,
and Luke 23:34
JESUS
A
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Leave your comment below. Until next time, keeping my faith and face on the Son who is shining high above all.
My original intention was to submit the following article to the Luverne newspaper. The article became too lengthy about my Pastor and church presence in the community, so I've posted it here instead.
This is the article I didn't submit to the newspaper.............
My Challenge to Luverne, Alabama
Why would anyone drive 30 miles every Sunday morning, passing up six churches in route to attend one particular church just outside the city of Luverne, located on Rutledge Loop Road? Below is why I choose to commute to this special, particular church on Sunday mornings
But first....
From a very young age, I was brought up in church with my Mother or grandmothers. Only during my military and college years was I not regularly in church. Whenever I moved I sought a church to go to by asking around or visited the church my family, friends, or neighbors attended. Starting the beginning of a new week in reverence to God, my creator, is natural to me knowing the true source of my blessings, I can't hear enough of the Word or tire being in the company of other believers. I also offer my tithes to further the work of the church. The decision to become a church member is sought with much thought and prayer. I am proud to be a member of Crenshaw Community Baptist Church. Below are.....
10 reasons why I drive over 30 miles to attend a very special church in Luverne.
1. The pastor has a big heart & and commitment to the people of Luverne, AL. How do I know this? Well, a few clues are food drives, visits to those in jail, visits to those in nursing homes, help given in many ways, (help with rent, transportation, finding a job, repairs, baby sitting,counseling, and more) to those under his spiritual leadership. And building a day care is in the works. I have been a grateful recipient of counseling, guidance, and help with home repairs when I was in need.
2. The pastor is a giver. He does not ask to receive a salary from the church, nor does he ask for any special recognition or gifts. Matter of fact, there isn't any collection plate passed during services because any giving you want do is done by dropping your offering privately in a collection box positioned in the back of the sanctuary.
3. The pastor teaches and practices debt-free living. The pastor helped physically build the church building along with members of the 'sister' church. The church building and land are debt-free, and the pastor and his wife live within their means and are essentially debt-free. The new private Christian school, now in it's second year, was built to allow children of low income families (or any family) to receive a sound education along with solid Christian values, character building, and instilling Christian morals along side an a solid education so our future leaders of families, businesses and all walks of life will carry on strong Christian values in the community, state and our country. The school is also debt-free. The pastor offers counseling consisting of Biblical principles that work to help turn around your finances for getting out-of-debt and change your life to be free from creditors. He lives what he teaches. His grown children take and practice those principles in their own families. Anyone wanting to know these principles need only call the pastor.
Learn to keep more money in your pocket
Photo credit: cohdra from morguefile.com
4. Special services are free for church members. The pastor will conduct the marriage ceremony (after marriage counseling) without charge, and conduct funeral services also without charge, all part of special services to church members and their families.
5. You're treated like family because we are. Birthdays, anniversaries, or just to have a bar-b-que cookout, or play basketball or even a concert on the grounds with a well known Christian singer, Deborah Snipes. to enjoy.
6. The pastor teaches from the Word. Scripture references are given during sermons so anyone can follow and see what the Word reads. There is no question what he teaches is the truth straight from the Bible. He does not sugar-coat the truth, either. His messages are always timely, and relevant for teaching, reproving and edification and supported by scripture references. I am spiritually fulfilled and not just entertained which is not the reason I attend church. I desire 'spiritual fuel' and that's why I drive to Rutledge Loop Road to get my weekly 'spiritual fill-up' and be 'sharpened'. (Proverbs 27:17)
7. The pastor takes his pastoral responsibilities and position seriously. He is tough when he needs to be and neither does he shirk from sermons on 'tough' subject matters which could be uneasy for some to digest, but it's not to make anyone feel ashamed or uneasy. The messages if for learning, protecting, avoiding pitfalls and reproof to sharpen Christians to be more like our Lord. He is serious about that, and my pastor speaks with wisdom, diplomacy, tact, fairness and most of all with love. I take notes during the sermons to review and study later. It's all there in the Bible and my pastor cares enough to not stay neutral or quiet. I guess that's some of his Marine Corp training coming out. Every pastor has the responsibility to lead those under his leadership in the right direction because one day he will have to give an account for their souls. (Hebrews 13:17). My pastor has an interest in what I'm doing and cares enough to speak up if he knows I or those under his spiritual leadership are doing something which hinders their spiritual growth. And the Bible states that the habits of one person in the church can invite problems upon the whole church. No pastor should want that for his congregation. (Romans 16:17). Do you know where your pastor stands on sex before marriage, non-married couples living together?
8. My pastor has a vision for the community. I want to be a part of a big vision. Already there's a playground with basketball court free to anyone to utilize. A top-notch Christian school with low tuition. A day care center is in the works for single mothers who want to work and not have to pay exuberant childcare fees. A Christian radio station and Christian day camp are in the plans . My pastor's passion and sole intent is serving the people's physical and spiritual needs, touching lives for the better, and leading people to Jesus and glorifying God, A church without a vision is dead. (Proverbs 29:18)
9. My pastor is hard-working and an all around decent man. The past 6 or so years, I've seen and witnessed that my pastor is a pretty decent all around man. I'd even call him a man's man. I see he's a pretty decent husband to his wife, father to his children and decent grandfather. He's leaving a lasting and decent legacy any man would be proud to leave his family. He's not perfect, but I have not one time seen in him any habit or trait unbecoming of a pastor. But, I have heard rumors about him. A few years ago he managed a local, fast food establishment; worked as a policemen in the community; and managed a retail store in Luverne. He worked to provide for his family and help pay for supplies to build the church and live debt-free. I heard he sometimes worked two or three jobs. And, before that he retired from the U.S. Marine Corps as a Gunnery Sergeant. Is there anything wrong with a pastor employed in a position of public service as a policeman that entailed protecting and upholding the law? I think not. We should all be grateful to have good police officers placing their lives on the line for our protection. Only those breaking the law might not appreciate that. And the last time I shopped at the store he used to manage, the floors noticeably lacked that 'detailed spit-shine' I remember seeing when he was store manager. It's true, once a Marine, always a Marine. Rumors and gossip spread like wildfire in a small town. People spreading rumors without substantial evidence are very likely preventing and hindering the very people that need help the most from getting benefits of the services and ministry my pastor provides- from help keeping your marriage from falling apart, help getting finances on the right track, help locating employment, are just a few services I've known him to provide, and of course, help leading lost souls to Jesus.
Nice, clean and shiny retail store floor
Photo credit: jusben from morguefile.com
10. My pastor has nothing to hide. After the treasurer counts and posts all collections, the church financial records, consisting of income and expenses, is posted for anyone to see. I like that it's visible to see what and where funds are being applied to and spent.
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HERE ARE MY TWO CHALLENGES TO THE PEOPLE OF LUVERNE, ALABAMA. To the people of Luverne, I say.......
#1. Grasp a hold of all the benefits available and waiting for you and your family. I don't live in Luverne or Rutledge, but I make a weekly 60 mile round trip drive to attend church and shop in your friendly town. I hope you see some of the 'great value' I've found in the ten points I've listed above. What a goldmine you have within your community, and many are not utilizing what is available to you at CCBC. Yes, for your benefit. Happier and wealthier and more at peace with God are so possible if more would seek the services awaiting you at CCBC. I am not saying there aren't other good preachers, ministers, or pastors providing a wonderful job for their church members and community. If your pastor is meeting your needs, that's great. If you can honestly answer that your life, and your family are not in any sort of need, then that's great. But, if you wish you could be doing better in spite of all your efforts, then it behooves you to seek out the help of Pastor Ira Walton, Sr. of Crenshaw Community Baptist Church. I'm there absorbing 'jewels of knowledge and wisdom' he shares within from the Bible on Sunday mornings so I can receive and apply these little gems to my daily living. His vision is positive for you, your family and community. I challenge you to take what's within your local grasp for all the good awaiting you and your family .
#2. I also challenge the people of Luverne to rise above gossip and rumors. Be better than that. This pastor is trying to help you and not hurt a single soul. I challenge you to let rumors and gossip die and instead speak only of things that are lovely, positive and uplifting, and worthy of praise. (Philippians 4:18) But if not, knowing my Pastor, he will not let anything sway him from forward progress of his vision because of his earnest commitment to all the precious and dear lives and souls of your community. Yours included.
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Dr. Smith is a retired chiropractor and Marine Corp Veteran. She makes her home in South Montgomery County. Visit her faith-based blog - www.faceforwardfaith.blogspot.com
***** CRENSHAW COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH
1607 Rutledge Loop Road, Luverne, Alabama 36049
Phone- 334-335-2633 website-www.crenshawcbc.org
Sunday school-10am Worship service-11am
Wednesday night-7pm Nursery available
There is a short passage mentioning marriage in the Bible which reads... Marriage should be
honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the
adulterer and all the sexually immoral. (Hebrew 13:4). This passage is nestled between remembering those in prison, and do not to fall in love with money. The marriage bed. God places importance upon the bed to be shared with a man and his wife for good reason. God's design for marriage is sacred and should not be violated. If violated, God, in His infinite wisdom, sees fit to judge those who don't listen. And, His righteous judgment of when and how He will judge is totally at His discretion.
God's Word says He will judge persons who commit adultery and all who are sexually immoral.
In this day and age, no matter what others are saying, or how many millions are doing their thing contrary to the Word of God, be mindful that God and His Word should be heeded for your own good.
Here is a site you can visit to see what God's Word tells of sexual immorality.
Is what you're doing pleasing to God according to his Holy Word? If not, stop and ask God for forgiveness and ask the Lord to forgive your sins and help you refrain from doing what will bring judgement upon yourself. God is so loving and wants to save you from all unrighteousness. And Jesus is the answer.
View this video. It's very good and right on in explaining how to get saved for those who need help.
Finally, it's a good feeling to make peace with God, through Jesus. In or out of the marriage bed, this is the way to freedom and peace like no other. And remember, it's a spiritual relationship. Having your spirit and heart aligned with God is most important. Keep it pure.
Until next time, faithfully following Him on that narrow road.
The news last week about Steve Jobs passing at age 56, losing his fight with pancreatic cancer brought me to think about the brevity of life in this body. I'm sure Mr. Jobs had the best doctors, however, the condition was fatal. I had a brother who died very young from kidney cancer. Like all who've lost a loved one to cancer, in my heart I questioned why would God allow such a thing to happen. Why? Recently, I was reminded I am in no position to question the ways God. If He says so, then that is what will be. God is creator and His Word is all that matters. We are His creation, with a beginning and an end in this body, and can't know all the things in the world that God knows. We can't see the future or know God just might be sparing us from something worse. Even if He did give me an answer, that answer would most likely make as much sense to me as explaining aerospace engineering to a toddler.
God can do with His creation whatever He wishes. Every ray of sunshine, every drop of water, every moment of time, every grain of sand, is His creation. We breathe His air and walk on his soil. Man is the maker of nothing original. Everything made by man is used of God's material.
Steve Jobs was a family man to those he loved, but to the world he was a visionary and inventor, and his print was on many products that affected and were utilized proudly by millions the world over. He used his brain and creativity and like others before him, like Einstein, Edison, Ford, and Carver, just to name a few, who changed the world with their inventions and intelligence. God gave them each what they needed to complete their a mission. Steve Jobs was in that category as well.
Jesus was also completed his mission, actually the first and left us more to mankind than all the above mentioned- and He is still changing the world today. No one can touch Jesus in the fact that He is the only one that can change your soul and wipe away your sins. The world has never be the same since Jesus walked on Earth as a man. His ministry and service to mankind is untouchable by any other man. His contribution to mankind is largely misunderstood my many because His kingdom is spiritual and eternal, not temporary, and is far more important than anything you can possess. Jesus' gift to mankind is extended to all and totally free.
Jesus left his mark, and his mark is the only mark you can possess with lasting, eternal impact- no Apple digital product, or any invention made by man can match that.
What is your reasonable service? And does it bring glory to the Lord?
My condolences to the Job family.
Talents and gifts are from the Lord, and when used to bring Him glory, you are on your path and fulfilling your mission in life.
I get all teary-eyed viewing this video. The kids don't sing, but they sure do get into using their sign props, coupled with a very, powerful song in this video. Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords. What's amazing is they're aren't the only ones in the act. What a great and unique act for an entire Alaskan village to participate in. Thumbs up to them all and the teacher of these kids. This is worth sharing. Turn up the volume and view it repeatedly, I do. Puts me in a great mood and makes my day!
That narrow road can have snow on it, but as long as it's headed in the direction of Jesus, it's a mighty fine road to be on! Hallelujah!
Experimental time again in the kitchen with a new homemade facial recipe. I took a few drops each of fresh lime juice, vitamin E oil, and geranium essential oil, and a slice of pear. A pear can fool you, it contains a lot more water than you think. When I mush the slice of pear, the mush is very watery. I squeeze a few drops of fresh lime juice, then vitamin E and geranium oils and mix well. On a clean face, I paint the mixture onto my face, avoiding my eyes. This facial is thin, but felt so fresh and silky, not to mention delicious. After 10 minutes I gently wiped the facial off and my face. My comment on this facial is it was gentle to my skin, and very beneficial. The remaining mixture I placing in the refrigerator to reapply the next couple days, then discard any leftovers. I think I'm gonna call this my Citrus-E facial.
It's fun and completely natural. What could be better than that for your skin and attitude?
Citrus-E facial ingredients
I had no problem with this mixture on my face at all. No itching or stinging. But I don't have any blemishes or acne. Make sure to keep your eyes protected as I'm sure it lemon juice wouldn't be good in the eyes.
Our skin outer layer is slightly acidic for protection- it's called an acid mantle. So this facial supports that naturally.
Of course, I have to leave a statement that you need to use caution when using any essential oil. Check with your doctor if you have any concerns or questions at all. Keep this away from children. Apply to a hidden area of skin to check for any adverse reactions. Okay, now check out other facials I made using a pear.
Remember, it doesn't have to be expensive to give yourself a homemade facial for your beautiful face!
This entry I've posted two videos of artists singing one of my favorite songs about God. It's a very simple song, but, oh so beautiful and true Yes, He is worthy!!!! He is Holy!!! He is mighty!!!!
Wow! I thought I'd share this video.
See what you think of these two very gifted and very talented youngsters singing their hearts out. Just what I need to see and hear today. Lifted my spirits.
God has it all under control.
Even when the world seems doomed to all things ungodly, there are still those touched by God to remind us, and me, these are still many hearts that love the Lord and want to live for Him.
Praise God!
May the world praise the Lord!
Go on, sing Hallelujah!
Another blessed day to sing out loud of the blessings while on that wonderful, narrow road
the Lord has me journeying to meet Him.
P.S. Jotta reminds me so much of my brother-such a sweet innocence look in his face.
I was just thinking about mansions in heaven. Right now, Jesus is preparing a place for saints in His Father's house and will be back one day to take us to our heavenly mansion. (John 14:1-3)
I've don't think I've ever stepped foot inside of a mansion. I wonder what my mansion which is being prepared by Jesus himself will look like? All I know is it's gonna be just right and perfect just for me, as all mansions in heaven are going to be. Even if it's just a room, by faith I know that room is going to be spectacular beyond imagination if Jesus has anything to do with it.
I found this site- a rather amusing take on various mansions for various saints. Christians are rewarded now and in heaven for their faithfulness and for what they have done and do for the Kingdom of God. (Revelation 3:21)
Saints, keep at the work placed before you for winning souls to be saved so they also can be heirs of the Kingdom. There are special heavenly rewards and crowns for those who were over-comers and persevered and suffered for His name sake. Heaven is gonna be so indescribably wonderful beyond what we could ever imagine it will be. (Mark 10:29-30; 1Cor 3:8; 1 Pet 1:6-8; Rev 22:12)
That's right. Man was 'pegged' in the Garden of Eden. Yeah, the old tempter, Satan, cunningly brought up an idea to Eve, which tempted her in her weakness, which was her flesh, to desire something she hadn't wanted before, and Adam fell for it, too.. Satan's appeal was directed at their flesh, taking their attention away from the spirit. Adam and Eve disobeyed God because their flesh couldn't refuse the temptation, they disobeyed the Spirit, and so sin was born, and God expelled the first couple from paradise. Yeah, they were 'pegged'. Satan discovered if he presented something to man or woman in such a way that it looked enticing, attractive, desirable, juicy, or pleasurable to have, Man couldn't walk away, even if God had given them an entire Garden to live and have sweet fellowship with Him. Man wasn't satisfied, man's flesh wanted more and what was forbidden. Satan's plan worked and it's still working beautifully for him today. Sadly, we were 'pegged' and nothing has changed over the centuries. Man is still falling into the same snares set by Satan, and the trap is not only getting larger, but hotter as well.
Lust of the flesh is our weakness causing us to sin against God.
Our carnal mind controls our fleshly desires, and is VERY STRONG! Satan doesn't have to work very hard to get Man to do anything if he can dangle it in our faces while making it sound and look so tantalizing, irresistible and appealing, that we begin craving it and believing we can't live without it. Our flesh is very selfish, and ever so hungry for more. Our flesh does not enjoy being denied. Our flesh wants to be satisfied again and again because it never stays satisfied. Our flesh wants what it wants, and it wants it now. It's the flesh that causes us to sin. Now, there's nothing at all wrong with feeling good and wanting nice things. However, when that is the driving force, you are not being spiritually minded. Satan is very pleased when we're not spiritually minded. He wants our attention to be far from the things of God or the Spirit. The adversary and our flesh are at odds with things of God, because God is Spirit. And our spirits, when not saved, are at odds with our carnal, fleshly bodies. But when you ask Jesus into your heart, by taking and trusting Jesus as you Savior and Lord, the Holy Spirit quickens your spirit to become alive and connected with the Spirit of God. You've become spiritually born, which is called being born again. Your spirit nature is now alive inside you which was dormant before. But not until we leave this fleshly body will we be free from the constant pull of our fleshly desires of our old nature. It does take effort and prayer to knock the old nature back down from time to time, but before being 'saved' you obeyed your carnal self without any regard to things of the Spirit at all. Satan places appealing things in front of our 'weak flesh' to get our eyes off God on a constant basis. Satan prefers Man to desire anything and everything contrary to God. Satan's sin has gotten himself a special place designed for him and his gang, and I don't think it's designed for pleasure or relaxation for any demon or human spirit. Satan is the master of covertness in leading many people away from the things of God. Man would rather accept Satan's deception and lies rather than believe God's truth and love. Satan has lead many blindly into the frying pan by appealing fleshly lusts and desires. Sadly, many continue to ignore the fire under the frying pan which is slowly getting hotter and hotter. Over time, when your flesh is continually gratified, you become accustomed to sin and you're not wanting to leave your residence in the frying pan. Some even want the heat turned up to be hotter. Ouch!
The old frying pan is getting hotter- are you in it?
You see, with everyone wanting to gratify their own flesh, the world has changed for the worst. Yes, there are more people in the world than there were centuries ago, but it's more prevalent with each generation the alteration from the traditional father/mother design of raising family and it's resulting effects; addictions caused by weaknesses to refrain from harmful substances and practices; children being exposed to grown up things long before they're adult or mature; marriages failing and ending for selfish reasons after vowing and promising to honor and cherish for better or worse; illegal drug use is rampant and has become the ruin of so many lives and families, but the flesh overlooks that fact but because the flesh wants what that drug provides, never mind the damage it's gonna do to your brain and body; and the list goes on and on with all types of crime, gluttony, and seemingly no conscious thought that the action is harming or detrimental to themselves and others.
That pretty trap is to snare you prevent you from escaping- you're dead
Our flesh is 'selfish','self-seeking', and often 'self-centered'. When our flesh wants something, it's gotta have it and will walk over anything and anyone in it's way in order to satisfy itself. No wonder prisons are busting full; no wonder we're so mixed up about what's morally right and wrong; no wonder man wants laws changed to make his immoral actions be legal; no wonder Man wants to take God out of everything so he won't have to be reminded of God at all; no wonder the pursuit of more and more money is the driving determination for getting ahead in life; no wonder adults have turned to satisfy their lusts using children, and 'sex sells' everything. Man has literally given God the boot. To the flesh, satisfying itself IS right. To the flesh, what it wants IS right. And Satan has helped man devise and come up with every excuse to make sure Man is continually thinking and believing what feels good to the flesh is RIGHT. Satan is smiling because his deceptions are still working well at keeping Man focused on his flesh (carnal) and not the things of God (spiritual).
Your carnal flesh is usually at odds with your spirit and the things of God
God's plan involves nothing which will hurt us. Following Satan leads us down the road to destruction and devastation. Because Satan fell from grace, he wants to take as many of God's precious creation (mankind) way down with him.
It's up to you. God gives you and I every chance to decide which road you want to travel. Satan's road is a super highway, and continued traveling on it with the masses will take you to a dark destination. Is your flesh so weak that you don't care at all where your soul will be forever? The way that God has for you is not bad at all. It's full of joy and contentment to the flesh and very satisfying beyond description, but, without hurting yourself and within safe protected boundaries God has laid down for his creation. Like a parent protecting their child by warning them to not play in the street. Don't you know God is loving enough to know and meet your every need? But most of all, when you stay on the narrow road now, this destination leads to the best that's ahead in heaven for your soul. So, it's your choice. Continue being 'pegged' and follow Satan's way to satisfy yourself and contend with all the dangers doing it the selfish, fleshly way, or follow God's way of having your needs met without the perils, but within his hedge of protection, and then look forward to your soul residing in splendor beyond description in heaven?
Question I've pondered-Is my flesh causing me to sin against God? To really know the answer, I went to the source to see what God's Word reads to know what He has to say about this. The Bible is not the easiest to read, but everything's there to find with some effort. And I'm not taking anyone else's word about it unless I know for darn sure they know God's Word better than I do. I'd rather find out for myself and I think everyone should do likewise as well.
Video about how to walk in the spirit
Ponder and act on this-If you chose to not be reborn, you can't be any way but carnal minded. You're spiritually dead, so there's no way you can see things of God? God is Spirit. Not until you accept Jesus as you Lord and Savior, are you spiritually alive. In an instant, you're made alive spiritually, your sins are forgiven, and you're made an heir to the promises of God. Those are all spiritual gifts you receive from God. Accept Jesus and receive life. If you die( this is the first death) without having accepted Jesus, your spirit cannot reside in heaven, but rather Hell, then later the Lake of Fire to always be exiled from the presence of God, which is the second death. Born again Christians will not experience that hot, hellish second death, because they are promised by God a mansion in heaven for their glorified bodies.
We're spiritual beings created in the likeness of God, residing right now living in fleshly bodies, and we have a soul-three parts making us whole. Satan focuses on the flesh.
Video on the origin of Satan, the author of sin, and what he's about,
BONUS- God made a way and the way is recorded, written by Spirit inspired men, kept and passed down so even today anyone can read about the great story of God's love for all mankind in the Holy Bible, starting with Adam and Eve, and on down to Abraham, Issiac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, Solomon, Israel, Esther, and so on.
What's important in eternity is our spirit. Now that you know this, resolve to stop allowing satan to have you "pegged".
Check out these scripture references for yourself: 1 Cor 5:44; 1 Cor :17; Titus 3:3; 1 Peter 1:13-16; 2Peter 1:4; 1John:2:16-17; Romans 5:12,19-21; 8:1,3,9,13;13:14; Gal 5:16, Matthew 6:13
I received email today from a friend and after reading, I thought it was excellent. I started thinking that throughout history, Christians have been persecuted. No need to keep questioning why, it's just been that way. But that's alright. God is still in control and can still take just a few to show and demonstrate to the world mighty things. When things look the worse, hopeless and doomed, God's people rise up and there is no question that the mighty hand of God is upon them. It can't be anything or anyone but God. With the continued persecution Christians face concerning prayer, we will continue to hold firm in our faith of our mighty God, who is always right on time. Praise God for those who have wisdom and strong faith in His Word, and the courage to speak up and speak out.
Below is the email I received - It's about what a school principal said about prayer over the PA system before a high school football game.
I FIND IT INTERESTING THAT A HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL CAN SEE THE PROBLEM, BUT OUR SOCIETY CANNOT.
Tennessee Football This is a statement that was read over the PA system at the football game at Roane County High School, Kingston, Tennessee, by school Principal, Jody McLeod.
"It has always been the custom at Roane County High School football games, to say a prayer and play the National Anthem, to honor God and Country."
Due to a recent ruling by the Supreme Court, I am told that saying a Prayer is a violation of Federal Case Law. As I understand the law at this time, I can use this public facility to approve of sexual perversion and call it "an alternate life style," and if someone is offended, that's OK.
I can use it to condone sexual promiscuity, by dispensing condoms and calling it, "safe sex." If someone is offended, that's OK..
I can even use this public facility to present the merits of killing an unborn baby as a "viable means of birth control." If someone is offended, no problem...
I can designate a school day as "Earth Day" and involve students in activities to worship religiously and praise the goddess "Mother Earth" and call it "ecology".
I can use literature, videos and presentations in the classroom that depicts people with strong, traditional Christian convictions as "simple-minded" and "ignorant" and call it "enlightenment..."
However, if anyone uses this facility to honor GOD and to ask HIM to Bless this event with safety and good sportsmanship, then Federal Case Law is violated.
This appears to be inconsistent at best, and at worst, diabolical.
Apparently, we are to be tolerant of everything and anyone, except GOD and HIS Commandments.
Nevertheless , as a school principal, I frequently ask staff and students to abide by rules with which they do not necessarily agree. For me to do otherwise would be inconsistent at best, and at worst, hypocritical. I suffer from that affliction enough unintentionally. I certainly do not need to add an intentional transgression.
For this reason, I shall "Render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's," and refrain from praying at this time.
" However, if you feel inspired to honor, praise and thank GOD and ask HIM, in the name of JESUS, to Bless this event, please feel free to do so. As far as I know, that's not against the law----yet."
One by one, the people in the stands bowed their heads, held hands with one another and began to pray.
They prayed in the stands. They prayed in the team huddles. They prayed at the concession stand and they prayed in the Announcer's Box!
The only place they didn't pray was in the Supreme Court of the United States of America- the Seat of 'Justice' in the 'one nation, under GOD.'
Somehow, Kingston, Tennessee remembered what so many have forgotten. We are given the Freedom OF Religion, not the Freedom FROM Religion. Praise GOD that HIS remnant remains!
JESUS said, "If you are ashamed of ME before men, then I will be ashamed of you before MY FATHER."
Now, I say, " Pray on Christians! The world needs prayer more than ever. Pray without ceasing! Exercise your freedom to pray." And keep on the narrow road that's lined with persecution after persecution, but keep going forward with Jesus as your guide and Savior. Amen.
