Reading:
James 1:3-5 (Msg) You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it.
-----------------------
The Purpose Driven Life, by Rick Warren,
“Don’t wait to feel powerful or confident. Move ahead in your weakness, doing the right thing in spite of your fears and feelings. This is how you cooperate with the Holy Spirit and it is how your character develops.” (p175)
I thank the Lord I read this article in studylight. This helps us to build and re-evaluate how we have been living our lives. Living in DC Metro area has interrupted our relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. With power of Holy Spirit, I pray that this weekend for Men retreat will change us men. Here is the article I suggest read I thought was applicable.
http://www.liveasif.org/view.cgi?type=w&list=20060911002
Lord, I pray that this article will help us men to be prepared for the retreat. In your Son’s name Amen!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Monday, October 15, 2007
Bonding with Christian Friends
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24, New International Version
Thoughts
Phil Ware Who are your closest friends? Good friends are hard to come by in a world of superficial acquaintances and shallow relationships. "Hanging with the crowd" can give us a false sense of belonging, but often leaves us wounded and alone in times of trouble. Open, honest, supportive, and loving relationships don't happen without investment. Ask the Lord to lead you to close friends in his family. Minister to and serve those around you. Listen to their requests, faithfully upholding them in prayer. Spend time in Christian service with other servant believers. Join yourself to a Bible study or accountability group. As you do, trust that God will give you that "stick-through-thick-and-thin-friend." Companions are easy to find, but can be unreliable. Development of Christian friends is an investment of effort and time, but they are friends with whom we will share forever.
Prayer
Enter your email address above to subscribe to the email edition of Today's Verse. Receive a FREE daily dose of God's inspired word from the New International Version, along with some devotional thoughts and a prayer, delivered directly to you every morning.
Precious God, I thank you for my friends (include the names of friends). Please, dear Father, lead me into the life of someone this week who needs me to be his or her friend. Bless all those who read Today's Verse with a Christian friend that will help them in their walk with you. Thank you so much, dear Father, for my greatest friend, Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.
_______
Taken from heartlight.org
Proverbs 18:24, New International Version
Thoughts
Phil Ware Who are your closest friends? Good friends are hard to come by in a world of superficial acquaintances and shallow relationships. "Hanging with the crowd" can give us a false sense of belonging, but often leaves us wounded and alone in times of trouble. Open, honest, supportive, and loving relationships don't happen without investment. Ask the Lord to lead you to close friends in his family. Minister to and serve those around you. Listen to their requests, faithfully upholding them in prayer. Spend time in Christian service with other servant believers. Join yourself to a Bible study or accountability group. As you do, trust that God will give you that "stick-through-thick-and-thin-friend." Companions are easy to find, but can be unreliable. Development of Christian friends is an investment of effort and time, but they are friends with whom we will share forever.
Prayer
Enter your email address above to subscribe to the email edition of Today's Verse. Receive a FREE daily dose of God's inspired word from the New International Version, along with some devotional thoughts and a prayer, delivered directly to you every morning.
Precious God, I thank you for my friends (include the names of friends). Please, dear Father, lead me into the life of someone this week who needs me to be his or her friend. Bless all those who read Today's Verse with a Christian friend that will help them in their walk with you. Thank you so much, dear Father, for my greatest friend, Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.
_______
Taken from heartlight.org
Monday, October 01, 2007
Verse for all Churches that are struggling
Failure and Success: Paralysis From Past Mistakes
For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy
toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so
far has He removed our transgressions from us.
--Psalm 103:11-12
Do not let any of the things of the world or past mistakes paralyze
your hearts. I believe there are Christians who have allowed some of
their past mistakes to paralyze them. You were so bright and cheerful
in your spiritual life once, and then you made some tragic mistake or
had something happen to you. You got out of it somehow, and prayed
and wept your way out of it. But it did something to you, and now you
cannot lick it. Past wrongs that have been done to you, past
failures, times you thought you were going to win and did not, or
present sins or discouragement-these things are not mental at all.
They are deeper than that; they are subconscious, and they prevent us
from believing.
I most urgently exhort you, and I trust God Almighty to deliver you;
to sponge that out of your spirit; to sponge that out of your heart
so you are not hindered by unbelief.
Rut, Rot or Revival: The Condition of the Church, pp. 162-163
"Lord, I'm surely not the only one who desparately needs this
reminder this morning. So many of us struggle with past sins,
failures, or hurts. I pray for all of my fellow-servants who need
deliverance, who need to have the past sponged out of their spirits
and hearts. Amen."
www.litmin.org
For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy
toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so
far has He removed our transgressions from us.
--Psalm 103:11-12
Do not let any of the things of the world or past mistakes paralyze
your hearts. I believe there are Christians who have allowed some of
their past mistakes to paralyze them. You were so bright and cheerful
in your spiritual life once, and then you made some tragic mistake or
had something happen to you. You got out of it somehow, and prayed
and wept your way out of it. But it did something to you, and now you
cannot lick it. Past wrongs that have been done to you, past
failures, times you thought you were going to win and did not, or
present sins or discouragement-these things are not mental at all.
They are deeper than that; they are subconscious, and they prevent us
from believing.
I most urgently exhort you, and I trust God Almighty to deliver you;
to sponge that out of your spirit; to sponge that out of your heart
so you are not hindered by unbelief.
Rut, Rot or Revival: The Condition of the Church, pp. 162-163
"Lord, I'm surely not the only one who desparately needs this
reminder this morning. So many of us struggle with past sins,
failures, or hurts. I pray for all of my fellow-servants who need
deliverance, who need to have the past sponged out of their spirits
and hearts. Amen."
www.litmin.org
Fired up for DBOB 2007
For all you fired up (spiritual) men out there on the Net, get pumped up! I'm looking forward for great retreat this coming October 2007. I am fired up and ready to do Lord's work. Also I am looking forward for feedback, testimonies, and chit chat from you men out there. Proverbs 27:17. http://bibleresources.bible.com/passagesearchresults.php?passage1=proverbs+27%3A17&version1=31 Apologize for unable to update for last several months. It has been rough summer. Just bought house then just moved last month, got the blues towards end of summer. Just now getting settled in this new environment, son in new school, and making goals for 2007/2008.
We (Deaf Ministry) are ready for 2nd Annual Deaf Band of Brothers retreat. For more information go to http://www.fxcc.org/deaf/mano_retreat/manoretreat.asp
We have been doing men's bible class for last few weeks during Sunday school. We are utilizing "Wild at Heart" book written by John Eldridge. It's a great book. This will be first experience using the manual long side with it also prepared by John Eldridge. His main focus are Men's heart and want us to take it slow and try to digest what he suggest us do. This is unique bible class. We are so busy and caught up in society of what men's profile ought to be. Question who are we? By digging into our hearts we can find out how we can improve our relationship with God among many things God has plans for us. Our idea of what we ought to be might be interfering with God's plan? There are few men who are very motivated and would fight for the one they love, God!. Then there are some who are struggling to understand or have issues in their lives possibility. Each person are unique way God designed us. I believe with this class we can use each other to mature spiritually. I hope with this class we are taking can help us men to analyze themselves and someday can be involved more for Lord's work.
I thank brother in Christ in
Lord,
Thank you for being patient with us. We have so much to do with little time we all have left in this world. Help us men to open ourselves to you more. I know these men want to have a deep understanding and better relationship with you and with each other. That’s what the Deaf Band of Brothers is all about. Guide us men in way you see we ought to be. We should be Wild at Heart like David after Your own heart. I praise you; your Son's name Amen.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Electricity vs Faith
This article taken from Ray Comfort newsletters in www.wayofthemaster.com. This is very good article on how people are skeptic of electricity same way they would be not believing there is a God.
Three Wise Fools
There were once three men who considered that they were very wise. They lived in a country that had only just been introduced to electricity.
One dark night, the men were invited by Edison Electric to see a demonstration of electrical power, because it was well-known that the three of them were skeptics when it came to electricity being a reality. The reason they denied its existence was because they didn't believe in anything that could not be seen. These men were rationalists, and electricity was said to be invisible1. They refused to believe in something that couldn't be scientifically demonstrated.
When they entered the dimly light demonstration room, they were cordially met by a representative from Edison Electric. As they looked around, they saw that a large lamp sat on a table in the middle of the room. Also on the table were a candle and a leather-bound book called The Owner's Manual. It was published by the electric company.
The representative welcomed them and excitedly explained that the lamp had the power to light up an entire large room, with the simple flick of a switch.
He said, "Gentleman, electricity is a modern marvel. To see it demonstrated, simply flick the switch on the lamp. You will be amazed. It will light up the entire room. The manual on the table is to give further instruction to you, if you decide to purchase the lamp." He then left the room to speak with other interested clients.
All the men needed to do to see the miracle of electricity, was to flick the switch on the lamp.
Instead, they sat down at the table, and one of them opened The Owner's Manual and began to cynically look at its pages. It began with a short biographical sketch of the famous inventor, Thomas Edison.
The chapters were made up as follows:
A diagram of the position of the switch on the lamp
Background information on how electricity was discovered
Hydroelectric power, pictures of huge dams, and how they produce electricity
Diagrams of copper wiring and magnets, explaining how they are able to turn raw energy from moving water into invisible electricity
How electrical wiring carries the generated power to our homes
Electrical sockets, power cords, and other accessories.
As the man continued to flick through its pages, it was as though the lamp that sat on the table in front of them didn't exist. Then they began to talk. The conversation went like this:
"I don't believe that there is any such thing as 'electricity.' I've never seen it. It's supposed to be invisible and yet produce light. How ridiculous! Where's the evidence? If I can't see it, it doesn't exist."
"I totally agree," said the man holding the book. "It says here on page 17 that Edison was considered to be a genius. I don't think so. I've studied his life and he had so many failures, it was ridiculous. He didn't even 'invent' the light bulb. He only invented the first commercially practical incandescent light.
"Who published this book anyway? I doubt if they know anything about Thomas Edison. I notice here that it says that his wife's name was 'Mary Stilwell.' That's just not true. I'm and educated man. I did a thesis on the man's life once, and I know that his wife's name was definitely 'Mina.'"2
"Interesting . . . I read somewhere that he used this so-called 'electricity' to kill animals3. Is that true?"
The man holding the book said, "It's true. There has been a great deal of evil done in the name of this so-called 'electricity.' That's why I don't want to have anything to do with it.
"The mess-up with his wife's name isn't the only mistake in this publication. It says here that Edison believed in God's existence. That's absurd! I have read many times that he was an atheist4. This manual is a mess. It's filled with contradictions.
"And they expect us to believe in this invisible force called 'electricity . . . .' That has to be the dumbest thing I have ever heard! I don't know about you, but I'm getting out of here."
His two friends heartily agreed. Electricity didn't exist. It seemed to make sense to them that the reason it didn't exist was because they believed that The Owner's Manual was filled with mistakes.
The three men stepped out of the room into the darkness, still wise in their own eyes. They even decided to form a club that was devoted to telling other people that electricity didn't exist.
From, The Atheist Delusion (Bridge Logos Publishers), Ray Comfort (due to be published, July, 2007).
____________________
1"What is electricity? It is a form of energy, evident from the fact that it runs machinery and can be transformed into other types of energy such as light and heat. It is invisible. During an electrical storm, we do not see electricity. We observe the air being ionized when the electricity travels through it." www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca/
2 On December 25, 1871, Edison married 16-year-old Mary Stilwell, whom he had met two months earlier. They had three children. Mary Edison died on August 9, 1884. On February 24, 1886, at the age of thirty-nine, Edison married 19-year-old Mina Miller in Akron, Ohio. They also had three children.
3 One of the more notable occasions when Edison electrocuted animals was when in 1903, his workers electrocuted an elephant at Luna Park, near Coney Island, after she had killed several men and her owners wanted her put to death. His company filmed the electrocution. Thomas Edison thus introduced the practice of execution by electrocution. http://encyclopedia.calendarhome.com/
4 Thomas Edison was a freethinker, claiming he did not believe in "the God of the theologians," but did not doubt that "there is a Supreme Intelligence." He is quoted, "I believe that the science of chemistry alone almost proves the existence of an intelligent creator." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Edison
Three Wise Fools
There were once three men who considered that they were very wise. They lived in a country that had only just been introduced to electricity.
One dark night, the men were invited by Edison Electric to see a demonstration of electrical power, because it was well-known that the three of them were skeptics when it came to electricity being a reality. The reason they denied its existence was because they didn't believe in anything that could not be seen. These men were rationalists, and electricity was said to be invisible1. They refused to believe in something that couldn't be scientifically demonstrated.
When they entered the dimly light demonstration room, they were cordially met by a representative from Edison Electric. As they looked around, they saw that a large lamp sat on a table in the middle of the room. Also on the table were a candle and a leather-bound book called The Owner's Manual. It was published by the electric company.
The representative welcomed them and excitedly explained that the lamp had the power to light up an entire large room, with the simple flick of a switch.
He said, "Gentleman, electricity is a modern marvel. To see it demonstrated, simply flick the switch on the lamp. You will be amazed. It will light up the entire room. The manual on the table is to give further instruction to you, if you decide to purchase the lamp." He then left the room to speak with other interested clients.
All the men needed to do to see the miracle of electricity, was to flick the switch on the lamp.
Instead, they sat down at the table, and one of them opened The Owner's Manual and began to cynically look at its pages. It began with a short biographical sketch of the famous inventor, Thomas Edison.
The chapters were made up as follows:
A diagram of the position of the switch on the lamp
Background information on how electricity was discovered
Hydroelectric power, pictures of huge dams, and how they produce electricity
Diagrams of copper wiring and magnets, explaining how they are able to turn raw energy from moving water into invisible electricity
How electrical wiring carries the generated power to our homes
Electrical sockets, power cords, and other accessories.
As the man continued to flick through its pages, it was as though the lamp that sat on the table in front of them didn't exist. Then they began to talk. The conversation went like this:
"I don't believe that there is any such thing as 'electricity.' I've never seen it. It's supposed to be invisible and yet produce light. How ridiculous! Where's the evidence? If I can't see it, it doesn't exist."
"I totally agree," said the man holding the book. "It says here on page 17 that Edison was considered to be a genius. I don't think so. I've studied his life and he had so many failures, it was ridiculous. He didn't even 'invent' the light bulb. He only invented the first commercially practical incandescent light.
"Who published this book anyway? I doubt if they know anything about Thomas Edison. I notice here that it says that his wife's name was 'Mary Stilwell.' That's just not true. I'm and educated man. I did a thesis on the man's life once, and I know that his wife's name was definitely 'Mina.'"2
"Interesting . . . I read somewhere that he used this so-called 'electricity' to kill animals3. Is that true?"
The man holding the book said, "It's true. There has been a great deal of evil done in the name of this so-called 'electricity.' That's why I don't want to have anything to do with it.
"The mess-up with his wife's name isn't the only mistake in this publication. It says here that Edison believed in God's existence. That's absurd! I have read many times that he was an atheist4. This manual is a mess. It's filled with contradictions.
"And they expect us to believe in this invisible force called 'electricity . . . .' That has to be the dumbest thing I have ever heard! I don't know about you, but I'm getting out of here."
His two friends heartily agreed. Electricity didn't exist. It seemed to make sense to them that the reason it didn't exist was because they believed that The Owner's Manual was filled with mistakes.
The three men stepped out of the room into the darkness, still wise in their own eyes. They even decided to form a club that was devoted to telling other people that electricity didn't exist.
From, The Atheist Delusion (Bridge Logos Publishers), Ray Comfort (due to be published, July, 2007).
____________________
1"What is electricity? It is a form of energy, evident from the fact that it runs machinery and can be transformed into other types of energy such as light and heat. It is invisible. During an electrical storm, we do not see electricity. We observe the air being ionized when the electricity travels through it." www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca/
2 On December 25, 1871, Edison married 16-year-old Mary Stilwell, whom he had met two months earlier. They had three children. Mary Edison died on August 9, 1884. On February 24, 1886, at the age of thirty-nine, Edison married 19-year-old Mina Miller in Akron, Ohio. They also had three children.
3 One of the more notable occasions when Edison electrocuted animals was when in 1903, his workers electrocuted an elephant at Luna Park, near Coney Island, after she had killed several men and her owners wanted her put to death. His company filmed the electrocution. Thomas Edison thus introduced the practice of execution by electrocution. http://encyclopedia.calendarhome.com/
4 Thomas Edison was a freethinker, claiming he did not believe in "the God of the theologians," but did not doubt that "there is a Supreme Intelligence." He is quoted, "I believe that the science of chemistry alone almost proves the existence of an intelligent creator." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Edison
Ministry port addicts
My fellow brothers in Christ, I just now read Mark Lowenstien's blog and its worthy reading. Check it out.
http://marklowenstein.blogspot.com/2007/05/ministering-porn-addicts.html
2 Corinthians 10:5:3 -6 (MSG)
The world is unprincipled. It's dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn't fight fair. But we don't live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren't for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.
http://marklowenstein.blogspot.com/2007/05/ministering-porn-addicts.html
2 Corinthians 10:5:3 -6 (MSG)
The world is unprincipled. It's dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn't fight fair. But we don't live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren't for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Get hooked on the Truth
Preaching: Nibbling at the Truth
For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ. --Galatians 1:10
This is one of the marks of our modern time--that many are guilty of merely "nibbling" at the truth of the Christian gospel.
I wonder if you realize that in many ways the preaching of the Word of God is being pulled down to the level of the ignorant and spiritually obtuse; that we must tell stories and jokes and entertain and amuse in order to have a few people in the audience? We do these things that we may have some reputation and that there may be money in the treasury to meet the church bills....
In many churches Christianity has been watered down until the solution is so weak that if it were poison it would not hurt anyone, and if it were medicine it would not cure anyone! I Talk Back to the Devil, 30-31.
"Lord, don't ever let me be guilty of watering down the truth or playing to the crowds, concerned about my 'reputation' or 'money in the treasury.' Amen."
[Toser – litmin.org]
----------------------------------------
I like what Toser mentions above. Are we nibbling on the gospel or are we allowing it to consume our life? I can see an example of nibbling. The flow of deaf people tends to come and go in churches either at the church I attend or where I grew up. People look for a church to belong or a club? I just wonder if they are just nibbling on the truth or looking for a fancier fish hook. It’s a boring fish hook, the Truth? The meat on the hook is the Sound Doctrine, the Bible. I have seen many who come to church or bible studies and not satisfied or seeking to have their questions answered in way they want it to be answered. I know that there are times I may not agree to every lesson given during worship, but I seek at the verse, meaning of lesson, and accept the message. I look at the worm and ask God how can I effectively use this Truth and apply it to myself and the world. I don’t want to nibble the Truth but consume the whole truth.
Funny, as I mention how some people looking for their tasteful desire of how a church shall run or in type of order compared to denominations. I can recollect to day when deaf minister, Mark Lowenstein, encouraged an all Men and Women bible class. During the men’s bible class, each men was given a passage to study and take turn to lead the bible study. This was the one of the best opportunity that God has done for me. I felt like a baby bird kicked out of nest and compelled to fly. I was compelled to lead the bible study and if it weren’t for that class, I may never have the encouragement or motivation to write these blogs or lead any ministries. I can still remember the passage. This passage below supports the same concept as I have stated in this blog
2 Tim 4: 3-5
You're going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food—catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They'll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages. But you—keep your eye on what you're doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God's servant. [MSG]
So every person reads this blog, my message to you, Get Hooked on Jesus.
[Toser – litmin.org]
----------------------------------------
I like what Toser mentions above. Are we nibbling on the gospel or are we allowing it to consume our life? I can see an example of nibbling. The flow of deaf people tends to come and go in churches either at the church I attend or where I grew up. People look for a church to belong or a club? I just wonder if they are just nibbling on the truth or looking for a fancier fish hook. It’s a boring fish hook, the Truth? The meat on the hook is the Sound Doctrine, the Bible. I have seen many who come to church or bible studies and not satisfied or seeking to have their questions answered in way they want it to be answered. I know that there are times I may not agree to every lesson given during worship, but I seek at the verse, meaning of lesson, and accept the message. I look at the worm and ask God how can I effectively use this Truth and apply it to myself and the world. I don’t want to nibble the Truth but consume the whole truth.
Funny, as I mention how some people looking for their tasteful desire of how a church shall run or in type of order compared to denominations. I can recollect to day when deaf minister, Mark Lowenstein, encouraged an all Men and Women bible class. During the men’s bible class, each men was given a passage to study and take turn to lead the bible study. This was the one of the best opportunity that God has done for me. I felt like a baby bird kicked out of nest and compelled to fly. I was compelled to lead the bible study and if it weren’t for that class, I may never have the encouragement or motivation to write these blogs or lead any ministries. I can still remember the passage. This passage below supports the same concept as I have stated in this blog
2 Tim 4: 3-5
You're going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food—catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They'll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages. But you—keep your eye on what you're doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God's servant. [MSG]
So every person reads this blog, my message to you, Get Hooked on Jesus.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Litmin: God & Men
May 18
Preaching: Truth Divorced From Life
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. --James 1:22
There is scarcely anything so dull and meaningless as Bible doctrine taught for its own sake. Truth divorced from life is not truth in its Biblical sense, but something else and something less....
No man is better for knowing that God in the beginning created the heaven and the earth. The devil knows that, and so did Ahab and Judas Iscariot. No man is better for knowing that God so loved the world of men that He gave His only begotten Son to die for their redemption. In hell there are millions who know that. Theological truth is useless until it is obeyed. The purpose behind all doctrine is to secure moral action....
Any man with fair pulpit gifts can get on with the average congregation if he just "feeds" them and lets them alone. Give them plenty of objective truth and never hint that they are wrong and should be set right, and they will be content.On the other hand, the man who preaches truth and applies it to the lives of his hearers will feel the nails and the thorns. He will lead a hard life, but a glorious one. May God raise up many such prophets. The church needs them badly. Of God and Men, 25-28.
"Lord, I want to be one of those bold prophets, faithfully declaring Your word, no matter the consequences. Enable me, by Your Spirit, I pray in Jesus' name. Amen."
Preaching: Truth Divorced From Life
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. --James 1:22
There is scarcely anything so dull and meaningless as Bible doctrine taught for its own sake. Truth divorced from life is not truth in its Biblical sense, but something else and something less....
No man is better for knowing that God in the beginning created the heaven and the earth. The devil knows that, and so did Ahab and Judas Iscariot. No man is better for knowing that God so loved the world of men that He gave His only begotten Son to die for their redemption. In hell there are millions who know that. Theological truth is useless until it is obeyed. The purpose behind all doctrine is to secure moral action....
Any man with fair pulpit gifts can get on with the average congregation if he just "feeds" them and lets them alone. Give them plenty of objective truth and never hint that they are wrong and should be set right, and they will be content.On the other hand, the man who preaches truth and applies it to the lives of his hearers will feel the nails and the thorns. He will lead a hard life, but a glorious one. May God raise up many such prophets. The church needs them badly. Of God and Men, 25-28.
"Lord, I want to be one of those bold prophets, faithfully declaring Your word, no matter the consequences. Enable me, by Your Spirit, I pray in Jesus' name. Amen."
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Satan has many Aliases
And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon. Rev 9:11
In the bible we identify Satan by many names. In Revelations 9:11 gives sample of Satan’s identity. This is interesting parallel with today. Satan is in disguise. He is known by many names. He is in work place, religions, judicial system, politics, schools, and public places. He is everywhere. This is why we need bible to guide us through this swamp and identify him with x-ray glasses. For God is not the author of confusion Satan is. For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. 1 Corinthians 14:33 (KJV). People are drowning themselves in this swamp (world) so we want to save as many as we can.
Here is a commentary from my bible I like to show and tell. The list shows many names known as Satan’s aliases:
Two names are given to the “angel of the bottomless pit’ [Rev: 9:11): Abaddon (“destruction”) and Apollyon (“destroyer”). There is no mistaking this reference to Satan, the archenemy of God (the name Satan means “adversary”). Other names used for him in the New Testament reveal his evil character:
[Satan’s Many Aliases]
Beelzebub, the ruler of demons (Matt. 12:24)
The wicked one (Matt. 13:19, 38)
The enemy (Matt. 13:39)
The murderer (John 8:44)
Liar (John 8:44)
The ruler of this world (John 12:31; 14:30)
The god of this age (2 Cor: 4:4)
Belial (2 Cor 6:15, according to some interpretations)
The prince of power of the air (Eph. 2:7)
The tempter (1 Thes: 3.5)
A roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8)
The adversary (1 Peter 5:8)
The dragon (Rev 12:7)
The accuser of our brethren (Rev 2:10)
The serpent of old (Rev 20:2)\The deceiver (Rev 20:10)
Lord,
Help us to identify this evil that in us and everywhere around us. Protect us from Satan’s demise. Help us to repent\confess and continue to become more like you. Amen.
Are we sweating for God?
May 16
Preaching: Preach to Make Them Sweat
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" --Acts 2:37
I preach to my congregation week after week. And I pray that I may be able to preach with such convicting power that my people will sweat! I do not want them to leave my services feeling good. The last thing I want to do is to give them some kind of religious tranquilizer--and let them go to hell in their relaxation.
The Christian church was designed to make sinners sweat. I have always believed that, and I still believe it. The messages preached in our churches should make backslidden Christians sweat. And if I achieve that objective when I preach, I thank God with all of my heart, no matter what people think of me. Jesus Is Victor!, 61-62.
"Lord, help me to preach with boldness--not concerned with 'what people think of me.' Amen."
[ Taken from daily Tozer devotional from Literature Ministries International ]
Preaching: Preach to Make Them Sweat
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" --Acts 2:37
I preach to my congregation week after week. And I pray that I may be able to preach with such convicting power that my people will sweat! I do not want them to leave my services feeling good. The last thing I want to do is to give them some kind of religious tranquilizer--and let them go to hell in their relaxation.
The Christian church was designed to make sinners sweat. I have always believed that, and I still believe it. The messages preached in our churches should make backslidden Christians sweat. And if I achieve that objective when I preach, I thank God with all of my heart, no matter what people think of me. Jesus Is Victor!, 61-62.
"Lord, help me to preach with boldness--not concerned with 'what people think of me.' Amen."
[ Taken from daily Tozer devotional from Literature Ministries International ]
Friday, May 11, 2007
Bracelet Reminders
37 Then the Lord said to Moses, 38 “Give the following instructions to the people of
The bracelets with wording on them are now popular. It’s a temporary reminder either for ourselves or others around us. Bracelet with WWJD is good way to remind ourselves to think like Jesus. But same time remind us important things we ought to do as Christians such as reading verses, find ways to serve the Lord better, evangelize etc. As we read Numbers 15, Lord had an idea of how the followers’ embroider tassel in their garments to remember the 10 commandments. Also some where in the bible, people were putting verses in tiny box and tie around their head or wrists to memorize the verses. How are you doing in reminding yourself each day to focus on Lord?
During the first annual DBOB retreat, we meant to get Dog Tags but unable to get them in timely matter. But we will have them for this 2nd annual. I really like the dog tags, they will have verse on them to remind us and motivate us. We also had bracelet we gave out called “Live Strong”. There are many ways we can configure these bracelets. My idea is to call them Spark Bracelets. Someday I may come up a new stylish Bracelet with a Sparky message for us men.
I want to share what I found in my bible I think is worthy reading. This is based on Numbers 15:37-41 (NKJV). --Darrin
“Just a Reminder”
Some people tie a string around a finger to keep them from forgetting something important. Others leave notes for themselves. Some who work on computers even have programs that automatically flash them important reminders.
God didn’t want His people forget His commandments. So he instructed them to sew tassels with blue thread into all their garments to remind them of the Law.
Why was that necessary? Could his people really forget something as important as instructions received at Mount Sinai> Yes, they not only could but did on numerous occasions (for example Lev. 10:1-3, 16-18; 24:10-11; Num. 11:1-13; 15:32-36)
People today are no different. We forget relatively important things like anniversaries, appointments, names-event to pay our bills. So we can forget God’s instructions in the bible. Are there ways to keep that from happening, especially as we live and work in a busy world where many things vie for attention? Here are a few ideas:
(1) Upon arriving at work each day, read a proverb from the Book of Proverbs. Each one is short, to the point, and practical.
(2) Carry cards in your pocket or purse that have Scripture verse printed on them. Scan one or two during some breaks in your day.
(3) Use a calendar that has bible verse printed on each day’s leaf.
(4) Ask you spouse or close friend to pray a short prayer with you sometime during each work day.
(5) Keep a daily “to do” list that includes at least 1 specific action step by which you can visibly identify with the work and values of Christ. For example: “Pray for John’s situation, “ or, “write Jane a short note of encouragement”
(6) Keep a copy of the Bible near you – and read it!
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
4 STEPS TO FINDING FAVOR WITH GOD
Dear brother in Christ sent me this 4 steps finding in favor with God. This is what I need from you men. Lets get the juice flowing. -- Darrin
Let's be honest. If you can get yourself in favor with the most powerful person in the universe, you're going to do really well. The great thing is that God has told us clearly in His Word that we can fall into favor with Him.
Let's be honest. If you can get yourself in favor with the most powerful person in the universe, you're going to do really well. The great thing is that God has told us clearly in His Word that we can fall into favor with Him.
Here are 4 steps to getting there.
1. Diligently seek after Him.
He promises to reward and bless anyone who wholeheartedly seeks Him.
(Hebrew 11:6)
He promises to reward and bless anyone who wholeheartedly seeks Him.
(Hebrew 11:6)
2. Search out the wisdom of God's Word.
He promises that when we discover His wisdom we will obtain favor from Him.
He promises that when we discover His wisdom we will obtain favor from Him.
3. Develop a lifestyle of praising God without apology.
The churches in the book of Acts were told to praise God with their voices (hands)
and found favor with all the people.
(Acts 2:47)
The churches in the book of Acts were told to praise God with their voices (hands)
and found favor with all the people.
(Acts 2:47)
4. Walk into goodness and integrity toward others.
God promises you favor but condemns the person who is wicked in one's actions.
(Proverbs 12:2)
God promises you favor but condemns the person who is wicked in one's actions.
(Proverbs 12:2)
DBOB 2007 is back
MEN, DBOB blog has awaken!!
Hello Men. We have 5 months left until Men's retreat. Let’s keep fired up. Let’s keep tabs with each other either in this blog or email.
I know the DBOB blog has been inactive since December., but I will try keep this alive. Just to let viewers know this for anyone who reads this blog. I would like to take the time to motivate anyone who needs motivating. I hope this blog is a spark not just to Deaf Band of Brothers, for anyone who needs it.
The verse of the week is John 8:12. Do you have any news to share about how you are shining the light into work world? The work world is full of unbelievers and weak Christians.
When dealing with unbelievers, sometime we have to educate them what they see in us Christians. Because sometime they do not see or expect to see God through 9 Fruits. The Fruits do not always come into play. We need to educate them with love and patience.
What’s your thoughts and feedback? I hope to hear from you all. This is process of Spiritual Fitness instead of Muscle Fitness.
Darrin – Spark Ministry
Tozer Daily Devotional
May 1
Preaching: Listen to God
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world.
He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of
life."
--John 8:12
If while hearing a sermon we can fix on but one real jewel of truth we
may consider ourselves well rewarded for the time we have spent.
One such gem was uncovered during a sermon which I heard some time ago.
From the sermon I got one worthy sentence and no more, but it was so
good that I regret that I cannot remember who the preacher was, that I
might give him credit. Here is what he said, "Listen to no man who
fails to listen to God."...
No man has any right to offer advice who has not first heard God speak.
No man has any right to counsel others who is not ready to hear and
follow the counsel of the Lord. True moral wisdom must always be an
echo of God's voice. The only safe light for our path is the light
which is reflected from Christ, the Light of the World....
God has His chosen men still, and they are without exception good
listeners. They can hear when the Lord speaks. We may safely listen to
such men. But to no others. The Root of the Righteous, 15-17.
"Don't ever let me preach my own empty, worthless stuff, Lord.
Whenever I enter the pulpit I pray that I might have a fresh word from
heaven. Amen."
--
Hello Men. We have 5 months left until Men's retreat. Let’s keep fired up. Let’s keep tabs with each other either in this blog or email.
I know the DBOB blog has been inactive since December., but I will try keep this alive. Just to let viewers know this for anyone who reads this blog. I would like to take the time to motivate anyone who needs motivating. I hope this blog is a spark not just to Deaf Band of Brothers, for anyone who needs it.
The verse of the week is John 8:12. Do you have any news to share about how you are shining the light into work world? The work world is full of unbelievers and weak Christians.
When dealing with unbelievers, sometime we have to educate them what they see in us Christians. Because sometime they do not see or expect to see God through 9 Fruits. The Fruits do not always come into play. We need to educate them with love and patience.
What’s your thoughts and feedback? I hope to hear from you all. This is process of Spiritual Fitness instead of Muscle Fitness.
Darrin – Spark Ministry
Tozer Daily Devotional
May 1
Preaching: Listen to God
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world.
He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of
life."
--John 8:12
If while hearing a sermon we can fix on but one real jewel of truth we
may consider ourselves well rewarded for the time we have spent.
One such gem was uncovered during a sermon which I heard some time ago.
From the sermon I got one worthy sentence and no more, but it was so
good that I regret that I cannot remember who the preacher was, that I
might give him credit. Here is what he said, "Listen to no man who
fails to listen to God."...
No man has any right to offer advice who has not first heard God speak.
No man has any right to counsel others who is not ready to hear and
follow the counsel of the Lord. True moral wisdom must always be an
echo of God's voice. The only safe light for our path is the light
which is reflected from Christ, the Light of the World....
God has His chosen men still, and they are without exception good
listeners. They can hear when the Lord speaks. We may safely listen to
such men. But to no others. The Root of the Righteous, 15-17.
"Don't ever let me preach my own empty, worthless stuff, Lord.
Whenever I enter the pulpit I pray that I might have a fresh word from
heaven. Amen."
--
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