12/14/2009

Should A Christian Put Up A Christmas Tree?



Have you ever met a Christian who refused to display a Christmas tree in his house because he believed it to be a pagan tradition? I have. The use of the trees does have pagan roots, but Gary DeMar shares with us here why it is OK to display them:

Just because pagans might have used trees to worship their gods does not mean that we can’t use them to teach us something about God who has given us the “indescribable gift” of Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 9:15). The Christmas tree is an evergreen that reminds us that we have “eternal life” in Jesus Christ (John 6:40). The shape of the tree reminds us that we are “born from above” (John 3:3). The needles on the branches remind us that Jesus was “pierced through for our transgression” (Isa. 53:5). The lights hung on the tree remind us that Jesus is “the light of the world” (John 8:12) and through Him we are to be “the light of the world” (Matt. 5:14). The objects we hang on the tree remind us that “every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow” (James 1:17).

Instead of condemning the setting up of the Christmas tree as some practice brought into our homes from the pagan cold, it should remind us that God promises us “the right to the tree of life” (Rev. 22:14). If the Bible tells us “to go to the ant . . . to observe her ways and be wise” (Proverbs 6:6), certainly we can learn similar things from God’s other good creations, even trees.

Article: http://samuelatgilgal.wordpress.com/2008/12/09/should-a-christian-put-up-a-christmas-tree/

12/13/2009

VOM–USA Prayer Update for December 11, 2009

The Voice of the Martyrs USA: www.persecution.com
“On his knees the believer is invincible.” C H Spurgeon
As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." Romans 10:11

SOMALIA — Christian Martyred — Compass News Direct

Matthew 5: 6-10
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Members of the extremist Islamic group al Shabaab, executed 23-year-old Christian convert, Mumin Abdikarim Yusuf, and his body was discovered in Mogadishu's Yaqshid district, according to Compass Direct News. On Oct. 28, al Shababb members detained Yusuf and searched his home for Christian materials, after a 15-year-old Muslim boy accused Yusuf of trying to convert him to Christianity. While interrogating Yusuf about other Somali Christians, the extremists knocked out all of Yusuf's front teeth and broke several of his fingers. They then shot him twice in the head and dumped his body on an empty residential street. Since it is unknown whether Yusuf revealed information about other Christians while he was tortured, the underground Christians who knew him have relocated for their safety. Yusuf's Muslim family members are also in danger, as extremists have accused them of failing to report his conversion. The Voice of the Martyrs supports persecuted Christians through a project to assist evangelists and encourage converts from Islam. Pray for all those mourning the death of this brother in the Lord. Pray for safety for the relocated believers. Pray that Yusuf's faithful witness will be a testimony to his Muslim family members and that they will turn to Jesus for their salvation.

INDIA — Three Churches Attacked in Tamil Nadu — VOM Sources

Romans 12:14
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

Three church buildings in India’s Southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, were attacked, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. On Nov. 29, a bomb exploded at a church in Thammathukonam, badly damaging the building's wall. Later that day, a statue of St. Francis Xavier church was desecrated by extremists in Konamkade while the local congregation was preparing for an Advent procession. Meanwhile, the next day, a group of Hindu extremists broke the windows of a church building in Sulur and threw stones inside. A bag containing a container of petrol, a diesel can and cotton scraps was later found, suggesting that the attackers intended to set the building on fire. Pray that Christians in Tamil Nadu will not give in to fear over these attacks but continue to be bold witnesses for Jesus. Pray that the perpetrators of this violence will be brought to justice.

KAZAKSTAN — Update: Christian Facing Deportation Again — Forum 18 News

2 Timothy 3: 10-12
But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

A German-born believer who was recently prosecuted in Akmola Region, Kazakhstan for taking part in religious worship without state registration is again facing deportation, according to Forum 18 News. In October, Viktor Leven successfully appealed the deportation order, but the Regional Court reinstated the deportation on Nov. 26. Leven stated he may be forced to leave the country at any time. Pray that Leven will not be deported and separated from his wife and six children, the youngest of who is just three weeks old. Pray for endurance for other believers facing similar challenges in Kazakhstan.

Add the PrisonerAlert.com application on Facebook by visiting http://apps.facebook.com/prisoneralert/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

12/11/2009

A Much-needed Gift of Peace

By Charles F. Stanley
www.intouch.org
Bible Study: Because Christ Came
Sermon: The Prince Of Peace

Once, before a speaking engagement, a staff member and I were sharing a meal at a restaurant on the West Coast. The young woman waiting on us appeared to be in her twenties. During the meal, I posed this question to her: “If you could ask God for anything, what would it be?”

Without any hesitation she said, “I’d ask for peace.” A big tear made its way down her face as she told us about the death of her beloved grandmother a few days before.

In sharing her story, she explained that no one in her family believed in God, and neither did she. Our waitress had not consciously rejected the Lord—she had never heard about Him. All she knew was the deep restlessness within her. The young lady had no understanding about how to resolve that inner turmoil, or even what lay at its root. Like many people, she went from day to day without having much purpose or meaning in her life.

This woman represents so many people in our society today. They might not describe the emptiness they feel as a lack of peace. Some would use the words, “I am so lonely.” Others might say, “If only my spouse would love me more, I’d be happy.” Or, “If only I could be successful in my career . . . ” But these are all variations of the same theme: “There is something wrong. I am not happy. I have no peace. What is wrong with me?”

Our society bombards us with messages that supposedly answer this question. If only you were thinner . . . dressed better . . . drove a Jaguar . . . lived in a nicer house . . . made more money . . . The list goes on and on. But none of the “answers” proposed by society can permanently or satisfactorily provide what we desperately crave.

The young waitress had it correct. Most of us feel strongly that we need something more, and the all-encompassing word that describes it well is peace. But you will never experience such tranquility in this life until your relationship with the Lord is right.

A Friendship with Your Creator

The God who controls all things—and who is present in your life whether you acknowledge Him or not—is a God of peace. He designed this world with a plan in mind, and it includes you!

The Lord created humans so they would have a relationship with Him that is characterized by love—His loving them and their loving Him. And through His presence, He would protect and provide for mankind. Only through close friendship with the Creator can anyone receive deep, lasting, abiding peace. This idea is unique to Judeo-Christian thought.

What people sense as “loneliness,” “a deep void,” or “purposelessness” is a type of signal—or indicator—that God has built into man. It is a programmed message that we need Him. Through it, the Designer tells His creation, “Without Me, you will never feel complete. I am the only One who can satisfy your deepest longings. I will be the source of your peace.”

Sudden tragedy or personal loss can show us our need for help, comfort, and guidance. And it is at such a point of need that our kind and loving God often reveals how to know Him in a personal way.

How We can Have Peace with God

Jesus came into our world to live and die as one of us. He was both God and human at the same time—an amazing truth. As a sinless man, Jesus was killed because the religious leaders of His day felt threatened by His claims to be the Savior of the world.

His death wasn’t the end, however. After three days, He was resurrected by the power of God, triumphing over death. Before returning to His Father in heaven (Mark 16:19), Jesus promised the disciples that His presence would remain with them, and He would give them peace (Matt. 28:20; John 20:19).

God wants all of us to ask for His mercy, confess our sins, and trust Him for salvation—that’s the essence of His plan for you and me. It is also the fundamental requirement for experiencing His wonderful, continuous gift of peace.

When we ask Jesus to forgive our sins and take control of our lives, He bridges the gap between God and man. Through Him, we have forgiveness (no more shame or guilt because of the past) and the assurance of His presence in our lives. Moreover, we have the opportunity to experience abiding peace—the gift promised to those who follow the Lord.

Adapted from “Finding Peace: God’s Promise of Life Free from Regret, Anxiety, and Fear” (2003).

12/08/2009

Faith The Size Of A Mustard Seed

To Remember: Our God is an awesome God

Matthew 17:19-20 "Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, 'Why could we not cast it out?' He said to them, 'Because of your little faith. For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you."

Luke 17:5-6 "The apostles said to the Lord, 'Increase our faith!' The Lord replied. 'If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you.'"

Jesus gave His disciples the ability to heal people of all sorts of diseases, to prove to men that their message came from God. One man brought a demon-possessed child to the disciples. They should have been able to cast out the demon, but they could not. When Jesus cast out the demon, they asked Him why they had failed. He answered that they didn't have enough faith. If they had faith the size of a mustard seed, they could do anything.

A mustard seed is very, very tiny. (Show one if you can). But once planted, it grows into a plant large enough to provide a valuable food and shelter for animals. Jesus said a little faith can have incredible results. Who were the disciples to have faith in? God. And is there anything God can't do? No. Were the disciples actually causing the miracles, or God? God was. The disciples thought casting out a demon was too hard for them. Of course it was. They in themselves didn't have that ability. But can God cast out a demon? Of course. Can God do anything we ask of Him? Absolutely. So when we doubt, we are doubting God's ability. That is an insult to Him.

We don't need a lot of faith - just as much as a mustard seed - to provoke great results - because our God is an awesome God! We must believe in Him and not worry about what we can or can't do. God will not ask us to do more than we can. He wants us to be willing to do His work. He'll provide the rest. James says (5:16-18) "Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective. Elijah was a man like us, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain and the earth yielded its harvest."

Will God do everything we ask of Him? Probably not - because we don't always know best and He does. Jesus taught us to pray "Not my will but yours be done." Luke 22:42. God wants what is best for us and will provide it, sometimes against our (misdirected) wishes. James says in 4:3 "You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, in order to spend what you get on your pleasures." He also warns that a doubter will not receive his request: "James 1:6-8 "But ask in faith, nothing doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind; for the doubter, being double-minded and unstable in every way, must not expect to receive anything from the Lord." Does any of this negate God's ability to do anything? No, He is all powerful.

12/06/2009

Psalm 91, oh yh you know what i'm talkin' bout

Psalm 91 (Amplified Version AMP)

1HE WHO dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand].

2I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust!

3For [then] He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence.

4[Then] He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings shall you trust and find refuge; His truth and His faithfulness are a shield and a buckler.

5You shall not be afraid of the terror of the night, nor of the arrow (the evil plots and slanders of the wicked) that flies by day,

6Nor of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor of the destruction and sudden death that surprise and lay waste at noonday.

7A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not come near you.

8Only a spectator shall you be [yourself inaccessible in the secret place of the Most High] as you witness the reward of the wicked.

9Because you have made the Lord your refuge, and the Most High your dwelling place,

10There shall no evil befall you, nor any plague or calamity come near your tent.

11For He will give His angels [especial] charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways [of obedience and service].

12They shall bear you up on their hands, lest you dash your foot against a stone.

13You shall tread upon the lion and adder; the young lion and the serpent shall you trample underfoot.

14Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he knows and understands My name [has a personal knowledge of My mercy, love, and kindness--trusts and relies on Me, knowing I will never forsake him, no, never].

15He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.

16With long life will I satisfy him and show him My salvation.

Christian symbolism of the 12 Days Of Christmas

1 True Love refers to God
2 Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments
3 French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues
4 Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists
5 Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.
6 Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation
7 Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments
8 Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes
9 Ladies Dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit
10 Lords A-leaping refers to the ten commandments
11 Pipers Piping refers to the eleven faithful apostles
12 Drummers Drumming refers to the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed

http://www.carols.org.uk/the_twelve_days_of_christmas.htm

Baby Got Book


Rap about love for the Bible, to the tune of "Baby Got Back."

12/05/2009

How Does God's Grace Work?

1. Grace releases supernatural strength to keep going in the midst of pain, suffering, and loss. The Holy Spirit helps us face adversity.
2. Grace ignites determination to keep going.
3. Grace reminds us that God is always with us.
4. Grace points us toward the Father’s goal in allowing trials. We can be content knowing we are in the center of His will.
5. Grace reminds us that God uses trials to strengthen our faith and deepen intimacy with Him.
6. Grace assures us that the Lord sets limitations on what can happen to His children.
7. Grace gives us faith to believe God will transform tough times into something good.

When you feel discouraged and weary, take heart. Your heavenly Father still cares about you. As you remain in close fellowship with Him, God will give you the ability to tackle life’s challenges with divine peace and joy. That’s the power of sustaining grace.

The Riches Of Grace

By Charles F. Stanley
Bible Study: Living By Grace
Sermon: Sustaining Grace

An elderly couple lived modestly for years on their small farm. And though the land was not the best, they always had enough to survive. Eventually they sold the farm to a developer. Working on a hunch, the new owner decided to drill and discovered a supply of oil worth millions of dollars. For years, the couple had lived on untold wealth and never knew what they were missing.

Sadly, that story illustrates how many believers live–unaware of the vast riches they possess in Jesus Christ by grace. Think about what happens the moment a person trusts Him as Savior: that brand-new Christian is indwelt by God the Holy Spirit, and from then on has within him the divine Comforter/Guide/Teacher. Salvation also brings justification (full forgiveness) and sanctification (the process of growing in Christ’s likeness).

In Jesus, every believer has an infinite treasury of wisdom, knowledge, and all good things. Do you need strength? The all–powerful God grants energy for any task. Do you lack wisdom? He provides discernment and insight to cut through the fog of confusion. Are you searching for contentment? Divine peace is beyond human understanding.

In Christ, we lack nothing. By grace, His immeasurable love and power are available for every trial, decision, and challenge. Our capacity to experience and enjoy these riches grows as we learn more about our heavenly Father.

The riches of divine grace are eternal. Money can’t buy them, and death can’t take them away. We are redeemed, reconciled, and freed from the law. No longer are we orphans; instead, we’ve been adopted into God’s family—beloved children of the heavenly Father, sealed and set apart for Him (Eph. 4:30). So why do we choose to live like paupers?

Someone might say, “That sounds pretty good, but I don’t feel rich.” We’re talking about wonderful, abundant spiritual blessings, not material prosperity. Feeling rich has nothing to do with our treasure in Christ, which is secure in the One we belong to—and He will never change.

The Bible says, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich” (2 Cor. 8:9). This is the great exchange, and it’s the way we partake of His riches.

An obvious question comes to mind: If we are so rich and the Lord is so great, why do Christians suffer? Second Corinthians 12:9 promises that God’s grace is sufficient for us and that His strength is made perfect in weakness. The apostle Paul learned there was something far more important to him than reengineered circumstances. He had discovered the sufficiency of God’s grace.

Once when I spoke to a group of ministers, I asked how many of them wanted to know God the way Paul did. Every pastor raised his hand. Then I asked how many were willing to be stoned, beaten, shipwrecked, imprisoned, left for dead, and afflicted in all the ways the apostle suffered. No one raised his hand.

I understand the hesitancy. No one enjoys pain and hurt. But we prove the Lord’s immeasurable grace as we endure dreadful heartache.

The apostle Peter explained how God bestows His abounding resources: “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord, as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:2-3). Today, you can embrace the fullness of grace and live the abundant life your Lord has planned.

Adapted from Charles F. Stanley’s “Handbook for Christian Living” (1996) and “Into His Presence” (2000).

http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5630269/k.EC9F/The_Riches_of_Grace.htm

12/03/2009

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (Amplified Bible)

16 Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action),

17 So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation

12/02/2009

How is Christianity Any Different Than Other Religions?

How is Christianity Any Different Than Other Religions?
By Steven Halter
Staff Writer

CBN.com – A crucial distinctive about Christianity is that God cared enough about humankind to reach down and compassionately provide a way for us to be in a right relationship with Him. In other religions, people vainly attempt to reach God and earn their own salvation by doing good deeds and by refraining from bad behavior.

The problem for those people is that no one can ever be good enough to earn his own salvation. In other words, no one can ever reach God through his own efforts. That is why God made a way for us by sending His Son Jesus to live a holy and sinless life and suffer the payment for our sins. In this way, if we believe in Jesus and choose to follow Him, we are forgiven by God and given new life.

Another critical difference is that in Christianity people can truly have genuine assurance of their salvation. They can be certain that they are going to heaven because their salvation is anchored in what Jesus already did for them. As a result, Christians have peace in their hearts about where they will go when their lives on earth are finished.

In other faiths, people cannot be assured that they will go to heaven because they can never know if they have done enough good works to earn God’s favor or forgiveness. They have to continually try to earn their salvation—even until their last day and dying breath. They cannot experience the restful assurance that God gives those who trust in Jesus Christ.

Do You Want a Relationship with God?

If you want this kind of relationship with God, pray this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus Christ, I believe that you took the pain of the cross to give me new life. I ask you to come into my life and to give me your peace and joy. I confess that I am a sinner -- that I have gone my own way and have done wrong. Please forgive me for my sins. I receive you now as my Lord and Savior. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit. Help me to follow you and to serve you all my life. Thank you, Lord Jesus. Amen.

If you prayed that prayer, you are now a child of God. The things of your old life have passed away and He has made all things new.

We want to join you in celebrating your new life. Please send us an e-mail to let us know that you prayed to receive Jesus as your Savior. Or you can call our Prayer Counseling Center at (800) 759-0700. A caring friend is available to talk with you and send you some resources to help you begin your walk with the Lord.

http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/churchandministry/evangelism/Halter_ChristianityDifferent.aspx?option=print

11/29/2009

The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13)

"The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They're full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Don't fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply. Like this:

Our Father in heaven,
Reveal who you are.
Set the world right;
Do what's best— as above, so below.
Keep us alive with three square meals.
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.
You're in charge!
You can do anything you want!
You're ablaze in beauty!
Yes. Yes. Yes.
It feels like something very important is missing when there is a week that I miss church. There is a strong feeling of love, faith, joy and protection there; there's a strong presence of the Holy Spirit. My body doesn't feel like it; my flesh wants me to stay away, but the Spirit doesn't. The Bible says, "The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak," and also says, "Greater is He that is in you then he that is in the world."

11/28/2009

Why did the Three Wise Men give gifts of gold, frankincense & myrhh to baby Jesus? They did it on purpose. Those were gifts that you gave to a king.

11/27/2009

Wonderlife - Around The Way


You never feel
Watch you what its real
I got your world in the package
Trying hard to break each in everyday
Its’ takes a pain away now hurt you say....
You knows when it comin down
Can’t believe with you're on the ground
Heaven have seen you around the way

Mothers gone she's still no longer one
She helps you close in the birthday
Keep that memory she fade the souvenir
it helps to prove to take now hurt you say
You knows when it comin’ down
Can’t believe with you're on the ground
Heaven have seen you around the way

Set down in the broken skin
Can’t forget the middle seen
Heaven have seen you around the way…
Heaven have seen you around the way…

Walk Through The door
The innocent no more
And don’t look up then say … you men a way
You knows when it comin’ down
Can’t believe with you're on the ground
Heaven have seen you around the way

Wake up you loosen
Can’t give up you're own seventeen
Heaven have seen you around the way
Heaven have seen you around the way
Heaven have seen you around the way

11/26/2009

Happy Thanksgiving 2009

Hi. I haven't written much on my blog this month because I've been Tweeting so much. But, I wanted to say "Happy Thanksgiving" to everyone. There is always something to be thankful for, even if you're alone. I remember, 2004 was the worst year of my life. I was pretty much alone for Thanksgiving and I ate macaroni & cheese instead of the traditional festival meal. I said that I wasn't thankful for anything since I truly believed that I was living a cursed life and that it couldn't get any worse. Therefore, I saw no point in celebrating Thanksgiving. I was a very depressed, angry young woman at the time. Flash forward to 2009: I am very thankful. I've had a lot of ups and downs this year. But, I am thankful for all the blessings, the people in my life and the good that people do. I do notice all these things everyday and I don't take it for granted. So thank you all and happy Thanksgiving.

11/19/2009

"Twilight" author’s Mormon faith a big influence in books, film

By STEVE RABEY
Religion News Service
Posted Nov 23, 2008 @ 12:05 AM

Stories about love, lust and the undead may not seem like the best vehicle for teaching teenagers about faith and morality.

But for Stephenie Meyer, who has been called “the Mormon Anne Rice,” her best-selling “Twilight” books and the film based on the books contain plenty of teachable moments.

Meyer, a wife and mother of three from Phoenix, who is a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and graduate of Brigham Young University, says she has become accustomed to people asking her, “What’s a nice Mormon girl like you doing writing about vampires?”

But as she told one Mormon-themed Web site, “Unconsciously, I put a lot of my basic beliefs into the story.”

“Twilight,” published in 2005, was the debut vampire novel in the series of books that has sold nearly 10 million copies, generating the kind of frenzy among tweens and teens that rivals Harry Potter. In a recent USA Today listing of best-selling books, the four books in the “Twilight” series were in the top six.

The film version opened in theaters nationwide Friday.

On the surface, “Twilight” is little more than the latest incarnation of vampire legends that have circulated in many cultures for centuries, and popularized in novels such as Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” (1897) and Anne Rice’s “Vampire Chronicles” series (1976-2003).

Yet Meyer’s religious and moral values clearly shine through, even though Mormonism is never mentioned.

Heroine Bella Swan has the same insecurities and anxieties as any 17-year-old girl. But when she falls for Edward Cullen, a handsome fellow student who happens to be a vampire, she confronts the kinds of existential questions that religion addresses.

“The most obvious Mormon influences can be seen in the ways that Meyer has her teenage heroine stand up for marriage and, ultimately, motherhood,” says Jana Riess, author of “What Would Buffy Do: The Vampire Slayer as Spiritual Guide” and co-author of “Mormonism for Dummies.”

“But anyone who is familiar with the Book of Mormon can also discern deeper theological themes, from the Mormon reinterpretation of the Fall of humankind — which inspired the apple on the ‘Twilight’ book cover — to the theme of overcoming the natural man, which we can see when Bella wrestles with her desires and decides whether or not to become a vampire.”

The concept for the “Twilight Saga” series of books came in a vision, says Meyer, who is 34 and had never published a word before pitching her idea to an agent who got her a $750,000, three-book deal.

She doesn’t read vampire books or watch R-rated movies such as “Interview With the Vampire.”
And the sexual tension that pervades the stories is a natural byproduct of Meyer’s strict Mormon upbringing. Growing up as a good Mormon girl among other good Mormon girls and boys, she met her future husband as a child but the two did not associate outside of church activities until they began dating when she was 20. They married nine months later.

Unlike many other young adult novels, there’s no sex in “Twilight,” even though Meyer’s editor suggested otherwise. None of the characters drink alcohol or indulge in profanity, but there is plenty of heavy breathing and sexual tension.

Meyer’s treatment of sexuality is a hot topic on Mormon-themed Web sites such as normalmormons.com and motleyvision.org that make up the online “bloggernacle.”

A writer on motleyvision.org, which explores Mormon art and culture, says Meyer’s books show “how abstinence leads to a heavily charged play of small gestures among Mormon teenagers and young adults.”

And in a post on normalmormons.com (“It’s true. We’re out there.”), a relative of Meyer’s writes: “Edward and Bella could barely touch or kiss for fear that Edward might get carried away and suck her blood in a fit of passion. Very similar to that of two young BYU/high-school students who aren’t yet married and can’t touch each other for fear it will lead to sex. I’m sure it was easy for Stephenie to describe with firsthand experiences.”

http://www.sj-r.com/beliefs/x466663776/-Twilight-author-s-Mormon-faith-a-big-influence-in-books-film
Copyright © 2009 GateHouse Media, Inc. Some Rights Reserved.

11/18/2009

God Calls You Beautiful


Angela teaches on the difference between the voice of the accuser and the voice of the Father. Let her inspire you to dance with your Father!

http://www.angelathomas.com/

11/17/2009

GS Megaphone - Use Me


Lyrics:

On myself You cannot depend
I've already failed You time and again
In this truth, there is no debate
My life I love but my flesh I hate

I want You to use me
On my own I am only me
A victim of my insecurity
I lose myself, I've nothing to lose
I'm dead to sin and I'm Yours to use

I want You to use me
Use me

I let go of my foolish pride
So Jesus Christ can be glorified
With Christ my Lord I was crucified
I take up my cross and let the Spirit guide

11/11/2009

My Personality Type - INFJ

Portrait of an INFJ - Introverted iNtuitive Feeling Judging
(Introverted Intuition with Extraverted Feeling)
The Protector

based on Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)

As an INFJ, your primary mode of living is focused internally, where you take things in primarily via intuition. Your secondary mode is external, where you deal with things according to how you feel about them, or how they fit with your personal value system.

INFJs are gentle, caring, complex and highly intuitive individuals. Artistic and creative, they live in a world of hidden meanings and possibilities. Only one percent of the population has an INFJ Personality Type, making it the most rare of all the types.

INFJs place great importance on havings things orderly and systematic in their outer world. They put a lot of energy into identifying the best system for getting things done, and constantly define and re-define the priorities in their lives. On the other hand, INFJs operate within themselves on an intuitive basis which is entirely spontaneous. They know things intuitively, without being able to pinpoint why, and without detailed knowledge of the subject at hand. They are usually right, and they usually know it. Consequently, INFJs put a tremendous amount of faith into their instincts and intuitions. This is something of a conflict between the inner and outer worlds, and may result in the INFJ not being as organized as other Judging types tend to be. Or we may see some signs of disarray in an otherwise orderly tendency, such as a consistently messy desk.

INFJs have uncanny insight into people and situations. They get "feelings" about things and intuitively understand them. As an extreme example, some INFJs report experiences of a psychic nature, such as getting strong feelings about there being a problem with a loved one, and discovering later that they were in a car accident. This is the sort of thing that other types may scorn and scoff at, and the INFJ themself does not really understand their intuition at a level which can be verbalized. Consequently, most INFJs are protective of their inner selves, sharing only what they choose to share when they choose to share it. They are deep, complex individuals, who are quite private and typically difficult to understand. INFJs hold back part of themselves, and can be secretive.

But the INFJ is as genuinely warm as they are complex. INFJs hold a special place in the heart of people who they are close to, who are able to see their special gifts and depth of caring. INFJs are concerned for people's feelings, and try to be gentle to avoid hurting anyone. They are very sensitive to conflict, and cannot tolerate it very well. Situations which are charged with conflict may drive the normally peaceful INFJ into a state of agitation or charged anger. They may tend to internalize conflict into their bodies, and experience health problems when under a lot of stress.

Because the INFJ has such strong intuitive capabilities, they trust their own instincts above all else. This may result in an INFJ stubborness and tendency to ignore other people's opinions. They believe that they're right. On the other hand, INFJ is a perfectionist who doubts that they are living up to their full potential. INFJs are rarely at complete peace with themselves - there's always something else they should be doing to improve themselves and the world around them. They believe in constant growth, and don't often take time to revel in their accomplishments. They have strong value systems, and need to live their lives in accordance with what they feel is right. In deference to the Feeling aspect of their personalities, INFJs are in some ways gentle and easy going. Conversely, they have very high expectations of themselves, and frequently of their families. They don't believe in compromising their ideals.

INFJ is a natural nurturer; patient, devoted and protective. They make loving parents and usually have strong bonds with their offspring. They have high expectations of their children, and push them to be the best that they can be. This can sometimes manifest itself in the INFJ being hard-nosed and stubborn. But generally, children of an INFJ get devoted and sincere parental guidance, combined with deep caring.

In the workplace, the INFJ usually shows up in areas where they can be creative and somewhat independent. They have a natural affinity for art, and many excel in the sciences, where they make use of their intuition. INFJs can also be found in service-oriented professions. They are not good at dealing with minutia or very detailed tasks. The INFJ will either avoid such things, or else go to the other extreme and become enveloped in the details to the extent that they can no longer see the big picture. An INFJ who has gone the route of becoming meticulous about details may be highly critical of other individuals who are not.

The INFJ individual is gifted in ways that other types are not. Life is not necessarily easy for the INFJ, but they are capable of great depth of feeling and personal achievement.

Jungian functional preference ordering:

Dominant: Introverted Intuition
Auxilliary: Extraverted Feeling
Tertiary: Introverted Thinking
Inferior: Extraverted Sensing

11/06/2009

Sometimes I just really need someone to talk to, but I can't. Sometimes all I really have is God.

Chris Rice - Come To Jesus


My beloved grandpa passed away one year ago today. He is loved and missed. I love you Papa. <3

11/04/2009

I'm only human. I don't claim perfection, but forgiveness and to be better. I do try and I never give up. Onwards I roll. Faith, hope, love. Salt and light.

You Might Be A Constitutionalist If . . .

1. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that elected leaders should really obey the U.S. Constitution.

2. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that before the United States invades and occupies another country, Congress must first declare war.

3. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe the federal government should live within its means, like everyone else is forced to do.

4. You might be a Constitutionalist if you think that taking away people's liberties in the name of security is neither patriotic nor does it make the country more secure.

5. You might be a Constitutionalist if you would like to see politicians be forced to abide by the same laws they make everyone else submit to.

6. You might be a Constitutionalist if you understand that we have three coequal branches of government that are supposed to hold each other in check and balance.

7. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that the federal government has no authority to be involved in education or law enforcement.

8. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that gun control laws do nothing but aid and abet criminals while trampling the rights and freedoms of law abiding citizens.

9. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that the income tax is both unconstitutional and immoral and, along with the I.R.S., should be abolished.

10. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe the federal government had no authority to tell Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore that he could not display a monument containing the Ten Commandments in the Alabama Judicial Building in Montgomery.

11. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that neither Congress nor the White House nor any sovereign state is required to submit to unconstitutional Supreme Court rulings such as the Roe v Wade decision.

12. You might be a Constitutionalist if you understand that freedom has nothing in common with illegal immigration.

13. You might be a Constitutionalist if you understand that outsourcing American jobs overseas is not good for America.

14. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that the United States should get out of the United Nations and get the United Nations out of the United States.

15. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that it is not unconstitutional for children in public schools to pray or read the Bible.

16. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that the Boy Scouts are not a threat to America.

17. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that the federal government should honor its commitments to America's veterans.

18. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that U.S. troops should never serve under foreign commanders or wear the uniform or insignia of the United Nations.

19. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that the federal government has no business bribing churches and faith-based organizations with federal tax dollars.

20. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that federal agents who murder American citizens should be held to the same laws and punishments that any other citizen would be held to.

21. You might be a Constitutionalist if you understand that NAFTA, GATT, the WTO, and the FTAA are disastrous compromises of America's national sovereignty and independence.

22. You might be a Constitutionalist if you would like to see Congressmen and Senators be required to actually read a bill before passing it into law.

23. You might be a Constitutionalist if you understand that it is the job of government to protect and secure God-given rights not use its power to take those rights away.

24. You might be a Constitutionalist if you understand that there is nothing unconstitutional with the public acknowledgement of God and our Christian heritage.

25. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that in the beginning God made Adam and Eve not Adam and Steve.

26. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that airport screeners have no business touching women's breasts and confiscating fingernail clippers.

27. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that many public schools' "zero-tolerance" policies are just plain stupid.

28. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that parents have a right to home school their children.

29. You might be a Constitutionalist if you believe that governmental seizure of private property is plain, old fashioned thievery.

30. You might be a Constitutionalist if you would like to meet one single Congressman or Senator beside Ron Paul who acts as if he or she has ever read the U.S. Constitution.

© 2005 Chuck Baldwin - All Rights Reserved

Psalm 23 Explained

What I learned in Psalm 23…

The Lord is my Shepherd = That’s Relationship!

I shall not want = That’s Supply!

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures = That’s Rest!

He leadeth me beside the still waters = That’s Refreshment!

He restoreth my soul = That’s Healing!

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness = That’s Guidance!

For His name sake = That’s Purpose!

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death = That’s Testing!

I will fear no evil = That’s Protection!

For Thou art with me = That’s Faithfulness!

Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me = That’s Discipline!

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies = That’s Hope!

Thou annointest my head with oil = That’s Consecration!

My cup runneth over = That’s Abundance!

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life = That’s Blessing !

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord = That’s Security!

Forever = That’s Eternity!

Let’s Face it, the Lord is crazy about you and me. What is most valuable, is not what we have in our lives, but WHO we have in our lives! Don’t ask the Lord to Guide your Footsteps if you are not willing to move your Feet! Even though you can’t see Him, GOD is there for you. When Jesus died on the cross, he was thinking of you!

Now go and have a great day!

http://christianfaithinamerica.com/2009/10/29/psalm-23-explained/

11/02/2009

I find it much easier to forgive others than to forgive myself. But, I can do it.

10/31/2009

Carman - No Monster In My House!

Carman - satan, bite the dust!

Carman - Witch's Invitation

all apologies



Everyone can have their own interpretation to this song, and I know the writer would have to, and so do I - depending on my mood at the time. When I listen to this song now, I feel like so much of the time I find myself apologizing for things. God knows I'm not perfect, I mess up a lot, but I do try hard. Sometimes it feels like no one in the world understands me, people get the wrong idea or assume wrongly about me or misconstrue what I say or something. It's always something. But, no matter what, God is always there for me, to turn to, talk to, be comforted by, get understanding and peace, knowing He's got my back and will get me through whatever. He always loves and understands me, even if no one else did. I guess what keeps me going all the time is knowing that and having the hope that somehow I'm important here and I'm helping out in some way. The end of the song says, "all alone is all we are." Well, in a way we are all alone when it comes to facing God because at the end of the day we all have to face God on our own. We can't hide behind anything, everything is bared bones and the complete truth of who we are is revealed. But, with Jesus, we are never really alone because He stands with us. "Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord (Jesus) will be saved." (Romans 3:23)

A Mild Experiment

In the days of my law practice, I would come home each night after work, and if I didn’t have some social event or another to attend, I would fix dinner and plop down in front of the television for a couple hours of cheap entertainment. Those days, I was watching a lot of crime shows, and I saw my fill of murder and mayhem just before heading off for a night of peaceful rest.

What I began to notice, however, was a bit unsettling. Each morning after an evening filled with televised violence, I would wake up with this vague sense of… depression.

Look, it was clear to everyone involved, including me, that these were just dramatic characterizations I was seeing on television, and I don’t have a problem distinguishing fantasy from reality, at least most of the time. And I’m not really prone to being depressed; in fact, I like to think that I’m a pretty happy and fun-loving guy. So it really made me think about the impact that entertainment and media has on my life. On one hand, it saturates our environment; on the other, it was my choice to turn on the television.

“‘Everything is permissible’ – but not everything is beneficial. ‘Everything is permissible’ – but not everything is constructive,” the Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10. I was talking this concept over with several people on my leadership team, and we found ourselves wondering: How would we be different if we used this as our standard for the entertainment and media we consume? If we consciously decided to only to take in that which is beneficial and constructive, would we be better artists?

It is a question worth asking ourselves. How we each answer could define how dedicated we are to our respective crafts. Now I should mention that not only am I not the arbiter of what is and isn’t beneficial and constructive for people in terms of entertainment, I also wouldn’t want that position. And quite frankly, I still like watching crime shows on television.

But if the old adage “garbage in, garbage out” is correct, isn’t the opposite also true? If we consciously decide to consume that which is beneficial and constructive – the true, the beautiful, the admirable, and all the other attributes found in Philippians 4 – doesn’t that mean that the art we create will more likely be true, beautiful, and admirable?

It is not that we can’t explore the darkness and its nature, but if darkness is all we explore, we will be forever blind. As a man thinks in his heart, so is he. And our art, to a large extent, comes from whom we are, or at least it does when it’s effective art. Which means that our art will be a product of what we do with the ideas we take in from the entertainment and media around us.

So my leadership team is going to do a mild experiment – and you’re welcome to join us if you’d like – to test this concept. For the next month, we’re going to see what happens when we limit our entertainment to that which is beneficial and constructive. I anticipate that we will be better artists on the other side.

All my best,

Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
© 2009 All rights reserved.
www.hollywoodconnect.com

10/29/2009

the time i saw a demon...

I remember one time in the middle of the night as I was sleeping I was suddenly awakened by something. I was so incredibly tired. I was on my back in my bed with my arm underneath my head. I was able to open eyes, despite my tiredness, and right in front of me I saw a demon. It was a scrawny thing, yet monstrous with a green face. Part of me felt scared, my heart was beating fast. The other part of me felt confidence in Jesus. Knowing that I have authority as a believer over the forces of darkness, I declared, "I rebuke you in the name of Jesus." Then, I felt anger and I declared, "I'll kill you!" Immediately, the demon disappeared. That was the first and only time up to this point that a demon was visible to my eyes.

10/28/2009

Came for a Job, Left with Jesus!



By: C28 Temecula - Posted on: 10/26/2009 10:52:47 AM

Brian came into the store to see if we were hiring. He had no idea we were a Christian store.

He said he didn't know where he would go when he died but he wanted to go to Heaven. I talked to him for a while about his sin and with the help of the Why Tree Shirt he knew that he had sinned against God and that he needed forgiveness.

I shared the Sacrifice T-Shirt with him and opened up a bible and took him to the 51st Psalm and explained what David was going through when he wrote it and that is was a picture of a repentant person.

He then LITERALLY got down on his knees and prayed to God for forgiveness. I gave him a bible and showed him where to start reading(Luke). I invited him to Bible Study. He was in tears by the time he left the store, he didn't want to leave.

It was amazing to see the transformation from death to life in a sinner who comes to repentance. Praise the Lord for His glorious Grace.

Kayla
C28 Temecula

www.c28.com

Sophie Agapios - U Girl


U Girl
Lyrics by Sophie Agapios
Music by Sophie Agapios (MCPS) / London Jones (Peer Music)
Produced by Robert Cosio / London Jones
©Squeaky Records 2002

Take my hand and follow me you
On the road full of pot holes too
Leave the baggage on the sidewalk there
Don't look back on those days of despair

Reach for the stars and you'll never know what
Throw a penny in the wishing well drop
Pick up the pieces of your battered heart
This route will lead you to a brand new start

U Girl have to let it go girl, you have to let it go girl
Leave behind the pain my friend, this is where your troubles end

Through the obstacles of life we'll weave
Going to a place where we believe
Will bring harmony to your soul
A place where we can achieve our goals

In the darkest night my girl
We'll use the wisdom of the pearl
To change the pain we oh so suffer
And reject this life that's just too tough huh?

U girl have to let it go girl, you have to let it go girl
Leave behind the pain my friend, this is where your troubles end

Save me, I'm drowning in this world
I'm drowning with this life

Unclose your eyes so you may see in life
Walk with your head held high
Have a little courage so you shall see
You can arrive and live out your destiny

Recorded and Engineered by Joaquin Fernandez, Jerry L Christie, Paul Wagner/ Mixed by Robert Cosio, David Frederick/Recorded and Mixed at Backroom Studios, Glendale, CA/Vocals Sophie Agapios/Backing Vocals, Drum Programming, Synthesiser Programming London Jones/Acoustic Guitar, Additional Drum Programming, Additional Synthesizer Programming Robert Cosio/Electric Guitar David Frederick, Brent Hoffort

First Battle of the 2009 Christmas Culture War is here

From AFA (American Family Association), October 27 2009:

Michigan's Macomb County Road Commission orders removal of privately maintained Nativity scene at crossroads of city...

Ask the Macomb County Road Commission to rescind their order removing a privately maintained Nativity scene set at the crossroads of the city. The Christmas culture wars for 2009 have begun and ground zero is the Detroit suburb of Warren, which for 63 years has hosted a privately maintained Nativity scene set at the crossroads of the city.

Join AFA's Merry Christmas campaign! The Nativity display had been maintained by Warren city resident John Satawa and his family for most of the municipality's history until the Macomb County Road Commission this year ordered the display removed because they say it "clearly displays a religious message" in violation of the "separation of church and state."

The Road Commission informed Satawa of its decision upon receiving a letter in December 2008 from the Freedom from Religion Foundation, which purported to act on behalf of a complainant in the city of 134,000 residents, saying the display violated the Constitution. (See letter here)

The Thomas Moore Law Center has filed a lawsuit on behalf of Stawa against the Road Commission. Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center, said that militant atheists attempt to do through the courts what the Taliban by force had done to Afghanistan: remove all the symbols of the country's national heritage.

The Nativity dates from 1945, just five years after the incorporation of the Village of Warren, which then boasted 582 inhabitants.

Click HERE to Take Action on this issue.


Listen all you God-haters: It is not illegal to set up Nativity scenes and tell other people Merry Christmas if you want to. This a nation that was founded on Biblical principles and "separation of church and state" does not mean getting rid of Nativity scenes and Merry Christmases. If you think that then you really have no clue what "separation of church and state" means. So, get over it!

10/26/2009

Randy Travis - Forever And Ever Amen


You may think that Im talking foolish
Youve heard that Im wild & Im free
You may wonder how I can promise you now
This love that Im feeling for you always will be
Youre not this time that Im killing
Im no longer one of those guys
As sure as I live this love that I give
Is gonna be yours till the day that I die -- oh baby

Chorus...

Im gonna love you forever, forever & ever amen
As long as old men sit & talk about the weather
As long as old women sit & talk about old men
If you wonder how long Ill be faithfull
Ill be happy to tell you again
Im gonna love you forever & ever, forever & ever amen

They say that time takes its toll on a body
Makes the young girls brown hair turn grey
But honey, I dont care, Im not in love with your hair
And if it all fell out well Id love you anyway
They say that time can play tricks on a memory
And people forget things that they knew
But its easy to see its happening to me
Ive already forgotten every woman but you --- oh baby

Chorus......

Just listen to how this song ends
Im gonna love you forever & ever forever & ever
Forever & ever forever & ever amen

10/24/2009


Ray Comfort shares the truth of Christianity with Chris in Huntington Beach, CA.
From the cross of Calvary--where the bleeding hands of Jesus drop mercy--the cry comes, "Look unto Me, and be saved, all the ends of the earth!" From Calvary's summit, where Jesus cries, "It is finished!" I hear a shout, "Look unto Me, and be saved!"

But there comes a vile cry from our soul, "No, look to yourself! Look to yourself!" Ah, look to yourself--and you will certainly be damned! As long as you look to yourself--there is no hope for you. It is not a consideration of what you are--but a consideration of what Christ is, that can save you. You must look away from yourself, and to Jesus!

Oh! there are many who quite misunderstand the gospel; they think that their good works qualify them to come to Christ; whereas SIN is the only qualification for man to come to Jesus!

"It is not the healthy who need a doctor--but the sick!" Matthew 9:12
~ Charles Spurgeon

When I read this quote, I am reminded of a song by Casting Crowns that contain the lyrics, "Not because of who I am, but because of what You've done... not because of what I've done, but because of who You are." [italics mine] My hope and my joy in life comes from looking to Jesus rather than myself. I gave up seeking for self-confidence a long time ago, once I realized that I could put my confidence in Christ instead. I think Christ-confidence is a far better investment than self-confidence. "Christ in me" is a much more promising proposition than "me in me." I realize that my personal bank account of talent, treasure, and self-righteousness won't buy me one thing that will last beyond the grave, but Christ's power and perfection will purchase for me not only peace in this life, but eternal life and joy in the next!
~ Kirk Cameron

10/21/2009

Greg Jones - Ordinary Day


As I boy I would run to my school,
Cutting through fields of clover.
Then they were gone: clean, good, and nice.
Covered by roads where cars now drive.

It's just an ordinary day.
I'm much to strange for this ordinary world.
It's just an ordinary day.
I'm much to strange for this ordinary world.

The more than I learn, the less that I know.
Never thought I would want to slow down.
Just focus on clouds in blue skies,
Above all the rain, the sun shines.

It's just an ordinary day.
I'm much to strange for this ordinary world.
It's just an ordinary day.
I'm much to strange for this ordinary world.

It's just an ordinary day.
A circus full of clowns.
It's just an ordinary day.
A circus full of clowns.
It's just an ordinary day.
A circus full of clowns.
It's just an ordinary day.

It's just an ordinary day.
I'm much to strange for this ordinary world.
It's just an ordinary day.
I'm much to strange for this ordinary world.

Vanity


Why do we waste so much time and effort on things that don't last?
Look for the interesting photo at the beginning and end of the video.

Kutless - Better Is One Day


Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. - Psalm 84:10

10/19/2009

Art has sent you a message on GROUNDED...

A Young Man had been caught in a daring act of theft and had been condemned to be executed for it. He expressed his desire to see his Mother, and to speak with her before he was led to execution, and of course this was granted. When his Mother came to him he said: “I want to whisper to you,” and when she brought her ear to him, he nearly bit it off. All the bystanders were horrified, and asked him what he could mean by such brutal and inhuman conduct. “It is to punish her,” he said. “When I was young I began with stealing little things, and brought them home to Mother. Instead of rebuking and punishing me, she laughed and said: ‘It will not be noticed.’ It is because of her that I am here today.”

“He is right, woman,” said the Priest; “the Lord hath said:

‘TRAIN UP A CHILD IN THE WAY HE SHOULD GO; AND WHEN HE IS OLD HE WILL NOT DEPART THEREFROM.’ "

10/17/2009

Mortal - Mytho X


1 Timothy 1:3-5
What you believe defines your reality. When reality consists of ideas forged into action; what you believe becomes excruciatingly important. Try God!

rebel, pariah
balanced on the tightrope of fear

hero, warrior
relics of a golden age

when i see the dying children
fighting desperately to breathe
then words cut to the heart
asking What do you believe?

what is real?
God, man, mytho-x
is He real?
is He real to you?

legend, demigod
mortal life is never enough
savior, messiah
ripped the revolution with love

all the empty people
walking the dead-end street
love by example
is to walk with Jesus' feet

it's time to make up your mind
cutting loose these invisible strings
stripped from worldly tethers
it all comes down to just one thing

What is real?

10/16/2009

I've been through some things in my life that a lot of people wouldn't believe. My own mother told me that most adults don't ever have to go through what I was going through as a teenager. The only thing that got me out of it and helped me to overcome and be strong was Jesus. That's part of why I love God so much and have a strong faith, and want others to know what I have come to know. It's not some "oh I grew up in church and I'm just telling u what I was told" because I didn't. No, it's my own experience and knowledge, my real life. I would have killed myself years ago if it wasn't for God. He literally rescued me from total darkness and hell. God has a love for you that is better and stronger than any other possible. That is why He sent Jesus, his only begotten son, to die for your sins and bring you into a right relationship with Him, and go to Heaven someday. He knows you're not perfect. He wants you to come as you are and He will take care of the rest.

10/15/2009

Make halloween a soul winning event.

Instead of actually participating in halloween's ungodliness or instead of turning off the lights in order to avoid it completely, try spreading the Gospel instead and taking advantage of the opportunity that there will be door-to-door, trick-or-treating kids. I no longer participate in normal halloween activities since I've become a Christian, but I do take advantage of the easy opportunity to reach out to those kids that come knocking on my door. I buy Gospel tracts specially designed for kids and some of them have more of a halloween theme to them (I buy them off www.chick.com and www.atstracts.org). Then, I pass them out. After a while, I go around the neighborhood and put them on peoples front porches or somewhere they will notice later on, and try to pass them out to a few people as well. By that time, the younger kids are gone for the most part and it's really just the teenagers that are roaming about. I've never had a complaint about them, only a couple of adults that weren't interested. But, the kids accept them and never look down on it. Some of them look excited when they see what I have to give them (one boy said "I love these!"). I give them something different. They can get candy anywhere else, but at my house they get a kid-themed Gospel tract. Most of the ones I give out are in comic-book style only with a story that leads up to the Gospel message. I also hope that their parents will read it and it will give them something to think about. I pray before and after the event that God will use it to bless those kids and hopefully their families as well.

Here are some tips about using Gospel tracts on halloween (from www.chick.com):

1. Let Trick-or-Treaters pick from a tray stocked with different Chick tracts. (my note: or just hand them out like candy which is what I do)

2. Pass out Chick tracts at Haunted Houses.

3. Put a Chick tract under windshield wipers at adult Halloween parties.

4. Leave tracts in the candy section of stores.

5. Set up a table and give Trick-or-Treaters Chick tracts as they pass by your church.

6. Go house to house saying, "Trick or Tract," then hand the person a Chick tract.

7. Share Halloween tracts at school.

8. Leave Chick tracts at Costume shops.

9. Hit the streets, shouting, "Free comic books!" You'll be swarmed with requests.

10. Won't be home? Leave a box of Chick tracts at your front door with instructions.

11. Give some of your tracts to your Christian friends to get them involved.

12. Organize a church-wide Chick tract distribution project.

13. Hand out tracts at places where they sell Halloween pumpkins.

Buy Chick Tracts here.
Buy ATS Tracts here.

Jars Of Clay - Dead Man (Carry Me)


January 1:
I've got a lot of things on my mind.
I'm looking at my body
through a new spy sattelite.
I try to lift a finger,
but I don't think I can make the call.
So tell me if I move,
'cause I don't feel anything at all.

Oh, oh, oh...

So carry me!
I'm just a dead man,
lying on the carpet,
can't find a heartbeat.
Make me breathe!
I wanna be a new man,
I'm tired of the old one;
off with the old plan.

I woke up from my dream
about an empty funeral.
But it was better than the party
full of people I don't really know.
Well, they've got hearts to break and burn,
dirty hands to feel the earth.
I've got something in my veins,
but I can't seem to make it work...
...won't work.

So carry me!
I'm just a dead man,
lying on the carpet,
can't find a heartbeat.
Make me breathe!
I wanna be a new man,
I'm tired of the old one;
off with the old plan.

Can you find a beat... Inside of me?
Any pulse? Getting worse...
Any pulse? Getting worse...
Inside of me... Can you find a beat?

Carry me!

I'm just a dead man,
lying on the carpet,
can't find a heartbeat.
Make me breathe!
I wanna be a new man,
I'm tired of the old one;
off with the old plan.

Carry me!
(Carry me!)
I'm just a dead man,
lying on the carpet,
can't find a heartbeat.
Make me breathe!
(Make me breathe!)
I wanna be a new man,
I'm tired of the old one;
off with the old plan.

Song: Dead Man/Carry Me
Artist: Jars Of Clay
Album: Good Monsters (2005)

Stryper Turns 25

By Andy Argyrakis, senior music editor, GospelMusicChannel.com

It would be impressive enough to celebrate multi-platinum sales status, a plethora of hit videos on MTV and sold-out shows all across the globe, but in the case of Stryper, that also includes being the first faith-based band to successfully embark on a major crossover to mainstream. And now 25 years after the yellow-and-black-outfit-wearers first found fame, the original foursome is back and just as explosive as before, honoring the milestone with a 54-city North American tour this fall, followed by international dates throughout 2010.

New tunes, classic sounds and themes
Given the band’s hit-filled heavy metal history, it’s no surprise to see shows in all corners of the globe packing out with die-hards and newcomers alike thanks to an undeniable resurgence of ‘80s rock. Nonetheless, the crowds being drawn are nothing short of a surprising and surreal experience for frontman Michael Sweet, guitarist Oz Fox, drummer Robert Sweet and bassist Tim Gaines.

“I don’t think we had any expectations in the very beginning of this blowing up into what did,” Fox tells GospelMusicChannel.com backstage at the band’s recent House of Blues show in Chicago. “In the ‘80s, there were a lot of bands, but only a handful that were really successful and we’re thankful we got as popular as we did. And to continue to do that 25 years later, wow, what do you say to that? We’re just very thankful.”

Though the monumental anniversary is certainly a reason to head out on the road, the other catalyst is a brand-new studio CD called Murder By Pride, which hearkens back to the group’s melodic glory days, coupled with shades of the current hard rock climate. All the while, the message is just as seeker-friendly as it is grounded in the Gospel, continuing in Stryper’s tradition of witnessing to the world and encouraging the church at the same time.

“When I wrote [the title track] I was certainly thinking of myself [and the idea of] going to church on Sunday, hearing the message and leaving feeling like a new man,” Sweet explains via email. (Publicist Brian Mayes of Nashville Publicity Group is keeping the singer in strict “vocal preservation mode.”) We’ll have to let him slide just this once given the grueling tour schedule and fact that Stryper’s notes are just as sky high as members’ hair used to be. “But then you go throughout the week getting beat up by the world and by your own pride. I have a lot of pride – we all do – and we are being held back and murdered by it. [Even so, it’s all about] moving forward and not letting pride hold you back, but rather moving forward in Christ.”

Blazing a crossover trail
As Murder By Pride amasses fan and critical acclaim, it’s also sparked renewed interest in the band’s discography, which includes such blockbuster albums as mid-‘80s staples Soldiers Under Command, The Yellow and Black Attack and To Hell with the Devil. During that time period, singles like “Free” and “Honestly” became some of the most requested videos on MTV, followed by a GRAMMY nomination, plus a slew of secular radio and late night television talk show appearances. The band also ignited a media frenzy due to its color coordinated spandex outfits, striped instruments, outrageous hair styles and even bolder messages, simultaneously becoming the subject of enormous adulation and intense scrutiny.

(continued from page 1)

“We were called to do this and we needed to make a statement, presenting the gospel in a different way to places where traditional gospel music wouldn’t reach,” Fox recalls of Stryper’s initial strategy. “On the mainstream media side, there was quite a bit of eyebrow raising from Time and Newsweek, who thought Christian metal was controversial, and then on the Christian side, there were people saying metal was Satanic in general. When we would tour, we’d always have secular groups open for us in hopes that it would draw in non-believers thinking it was just a regular rock show. We got flack for that from some churches, but...you’ve gotta let that stuff slip off and trust God.”

As times have changed and Christian culture has become much more accepting of alternative music (not to mention a number of mainstream Christian acts) Stryper’s ministry techniques don’t seem as extreme as they once did, though they remain just as effective. In fact, the guys still hold onto their pattern of throwing Bibles into the crowd (even at club and bar shows) in hopes of influencing someone who came to the concert based off their celebrity rather than Christianity.

“This year we’ve partnered with an organization called One Verse,” Sweet continues. “They do Bible translations in languages that don’t yet have God’s word in their native language. We believe everyone, regardless of their beliefs or background, should have the opportunity to read the Bible.”

Laying a legacy
Thus far, that plan’s proven quite effective, not only when it comes to saving souls, but also continuing the group’s spiritual and pop culture legacy. Though Mayes has worked with the band since the release of 7: The Best of Stryper on Hollywood Records in 2003, response for the new album and anniversary tour is by far the most overwhelming he’s witnessed.

“You would have to be a recluse to avoid seeing Stryper references these days,” he asserts. “Just in the past few months, there have been mentions on ‘Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,’ ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ and the band even shows up in the new Drew Barrymore film ‘Whip It’ as a major plot point. Stryper opened the doors for everyone out there playing Christian rock today. Before Stryper, there was nothing like this – and they not only broke ground, but carried the cross for it as well. They were criticized and protested, but they continued on. Younger music fans may not realize that Stryper was the first Christian band to go double platinum and the first Christian band to get airplay on MTV.”

Canada’s red hot rockers Manic Drive credit Stryper as being key influences on its career thus far (even if its musical stylings are decidedly more modern). The trio is absolutely thrilled to be opening up the anniversary concerts every evening. The highly coveted slot came as a result of both bands sharing a showcase slot during Gospel Music Week and being personally chosen by the headliners.

“These shows have been packed out and the energy in the audience is always great,” verifies Manic Drive guitarist Michael Cavallo. “They’re definitely pioneers and they’ve made it cool to be bold, between throwing Bibles on stage to touring with Bon Jovi. They were being strong in faith and encouraging people with positive rock well before P.O.D. and Switchfoot, laying the foundation and encouraging bands like us to go for it as well.”

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About the Writer

Andy Argyrakis is a Chicago-based entertainment writer/photographer who appears in the Chicago Tribune, Illinois Entertainer, Daily Journal, Concert Livewire, Hear/Say Magazine and Image Chicago (to name few). His record label writing credits include Warner Brothers, Atlantic, Curb, EMI and Universal, with additional photo credits for Fuse TV, Live Nation, Nikon, Pollstar, Celebrity Access, Paste Magazine, MTV.com and Vibe.com. He’s also the author/narrator of "Access Matthews" (an audio CD tracing the career of Dave Matthews Band) and spends considerable time on tour, including outings with Arlo Guthrie, The Guess Who, Madina Lake (on Linkin Park’s Projekt Revolution) and Gospel Music Channel’s very own "Gospel Dream" (where he served as season one judge).

© 2009 Gospel Music Channel

10/14/2009

Never Stop Believing In Miracles

The following email was sent to C28 Palm Desert store manager, Dana Karr. This is a great reminder to never stop believing in Miracles!

===========

Dana,

Guess what God did? Just got back from the orthopedist, and our prayers were answered!!!! You prayed for my 16 year old son Daniel when I came into the store.

Daniel had a severe bend in his spine for the last two years, with his orthopedist, chiropractor, and physical therapist all telling me that it would never get better, we could only hope for it not getting worse. There was much talk about surgeries, etc. Before I left the store, you asked me if you could pray for anything for me. You asked God for a miracle for Daniel that day. I was so touched by your prayer, and I realized that I had not been believing God for a miracle, rather just praying that it wouldn't get any worse. Your prayer ignited my faith, and I began asking others to pray for a miracle for Daniel. The x-ray today showed Daniel's spine has straightened out 10 degrees, putting him into the 'normal' range!! The doctor said he doesn't ever need to be seen by him again.

Thank you so much for standing in faith with me and boldly asking God for a miracle. I am sure it hasn't sunk in for Daniel yet, but I know that God healed him, not just to help him physically, but to show Daniel His great love for him.

Fondly,

Susan E.

C2:8, Inc ©2009 - - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.c28.com/stories/fullstory.asp?StoryID=726&adid=10-15-09

10/10/2009

Who's The Real Winner?

People can look down on me, laugh at me and say all kinds of evil against me, but who's the real winner? Me. Still, I never hate anyone. I only love. I just feel sorry for them bcuz they don't understand how wrong they are and how much they are hurting themselves Someday there will be justice, but for now there is mercy. If God is for me then who cares who's against me. What can mere man do to me? You can kill my body, but you can't kill my soul which is alive and renewed through Christ Jesus. I have an eternal home in happiness and God's divine Spirit within me.

10/09/2009

Dealing With Hurts/Anger

By Charles F. Stanley

As a young man, Jim wanted to be a medical doctor. Yet when the time came for him to go off to college, his father forced him to stay on the family farm and work. By age 23, Jim had taken all he could. He packed up his belongings, loaded up his car, and left. He drove away with a heart full of bitterness and resentment towards his father.

Everywhere Jim went, he had a difficult time getting along with others. He seemed unable to make long-lasting friendships and suffered from rejection and isolation. Consequently, he found himself moving from job to job; he was never able to settle down.

Finally, he met a woman who really cared for him, and after a brief engagement, they were married. Yet within three weeks of the wedding, Jim had an unexpected outburst that marked the beginning of over 40 years of hell on earth for his loyal wife. Right up to the last days of his life—when he was senile, nearly blind, and unable to care for himself—the poison of bitterness continued to eat away at Jim’s heart. And all because he failed to deal with the rejection and hurt he experienced as a teenager.

Developing an unforgiving spirit

From years of talking to people, I have noticed ten common phases related to hurtful situations and forgiveness. Not everyone will pass through each stage, but most people with an unforgiving spirit will be able to identify with several of these scenarios.

1) We get hurt. The seeds of unforgiveness are planted when we are wronged or hurt physically, emotionally, or verbally. We may feel pain, abandonment, embarrassment, hatred, or some other negative emotion. But I believe all hurt has its roots in rejection. Feeling rejected, then, is the first stage in developing an unforgiving spirit.

2) We become confused. Often our first response to hurt is bewilderment. In this stage, we may think, This is not really happening. We may even have a physical reaction, such as a deep feeling of emptiness in the pit of the stomach. This phase is usually short-lived.

3) We look for detours. Since all of us have a desire to avoid discomfort, we find ways of avoiding painful thoughts and memories. We take mental detours. This drive motivates some people to drink heavily or become addicted to drugs.

We also take physical detours, avoiding certain people, places, and things. Anything that reminds us of the hurt becomes off-limits. For instance, a minister’s daughter, who was full of bitterness towards her father, told me, “I would never marry a preacher.” To her, clergymen were to be avoided at all costs.

4) We dig a hole. After rearranging our thought patterns and lives to avoid contact with any reminder of our hurt, we attempt to forget that the painful experience ever occurred.

5) We deny it. This phase is characterized by our denial that we were ever hurt or that we are covering up anything. We may say, “Oh, I dealt with that” or “I forgave him long ago.” Breaking out of this stage can be tough. I have met scores of adults who are carrying around a load of bitterness—it’s demonstrated through their tempers or other negative behaviors. But they see no connection between a turbulent childhood and their problems as adults.

6) We become defeated. Regardless of how successfully we think we have buried our hurt, resentment will still work its way out through our behavior. A short temper, oversensitivity, shyness, a critical spirit—all of these can be evidence of unresolved rejection. We can move, find a new job, change friends or spouses, make New Year’s resolutions, memorize Scripture, get counseling, or undertake any number of spiritual exercises, but until we deal with the root of the problem, transformation will not be possible.

7) We become discouraged. This is often where we seek professional help or bail out of our present circumstances altogether. In this stage, one might end a marriage because the spouse will not change or because the couple cannot rekindle the love they once shared. Furthermore, an unforgiving spirit destroys respect, which is critical to the health of a relationship (1 Peter 3:2). A lack of respect can dissolve the loyalty and dedication that hold a marriage together during tough times. Then divorce becomes a real option to couples who pledged an unconditional lifetime of commitment. Such is the power and poison of an unforgiving spirit. In fact, at this stage, people may begin to depend on alcohol and prescription drugs to make it through the day. Tragically, some choose to escape by taking their own lives.

8) We discover the truth. Through someone’s help or by God’s grace, we discover the root of bitterness. The pieces finally fit together, and we are able to see the connection between the past and the present.

9) We take responsibility. In this stage, we decide to quit blaming others or expecting them to change. We open our hearts for God to have His way, regardless of how it might hurt.

10) We are delivered. For those who are willing to deal with an unforgiving spirit, the final outcome is deliverance. My friend, you can be free of that embarrassing, inappropriate, family-splitting behavior. You say, “But you don’t know what has happened to me. You don’t know what I have been through.” You are right. But I have known people in all kinds of circumstances who have been delivered and restored.

Do you see yourself in any of these stages? If you find that unforgiveness still holds you in its grip, I pray that you will do whatever it takes to find healing. Talk to a pastor, get counseling, or simply ask the Father to show you how to find freedom. Getting started on the healing process will be worth the effort.

For more information, please see “Steps to Forgiving Others.”

Adapted from “The Gift of Forgiveness” (1991).

© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5114493/k.C8C6/Dealing_With_Hurts.htm

Bible Study "How To Handle Anger Pt. 1"
Sermon "Letting Go Of Anger Pt. 1: Are You Angry?"
Steps To Forgiving Others

SELF DESTRUCT IN THE OZARKS OFFICIAL AD


Self Destruct is hosting the first annual Self Destruct in the Ozarks festival. It's gonna be 3 days of music, ministry and tons of fun. October 23, 24 & 25th 2009. Check it out at www.teamselfdestruct.com/festival

10/08/2009

Biblical Instructions

A sermon series by my pastor Brother Bill Simmons about Biblical instructions to wives, husbands, children, parents, employers and employees, and a sermon about family from our youth pastor Brother Steven...

Instruction To Wives
Instruction To Husbands
Instruction To Children
Instruction To Parents
Instructions To Employees and Employers
Family Matters (Brother Steven)

What? Me Worry?

Hollywood Connect E-Newsletter (10-08-09)

I’ve been spending a bit too much time in the dentist chair recently. Don’t get me wrong – I’ve got a kind and competent dentist, and together we’re working towards a million-dollar smile that would make any good leading actor’s ego swell dramatically. But lately it seems like I’ve gotten a little too familiar with staring up at the drab, acoustical ceiling tiles, my face stuffed with cotton, and the terror-inducing whine of dental instruments starting up somewhere behind me.

When you begin to recognize which tools are your friends and which ones are about to test your pain threshold, you know you’ve been sitting there way too long (and may have had one too many shots of novocaine).

A year or so ago, I went to a dentist whom I had not seen before, and as I sat there in his chair, supine, mouth agape, I listened to him calmly relay his assessment of each tooth to his assistant. “Overall condition of the gums are good,” he intoned. Pause. “Previous fillings on numbers two, fifteen, eighteen, thirty-one.” Pause. “The patient frets.”

What? I wanted to ask, but couldn’t because I had a periodontal probe and most of the dentist’s left hand in my mouth – no, seriously, if I had swallowed hard, he probably would have lost his wristwatch. The patient – meaning me, of course – frets? Well, yeah, maybe, but how did my dentist know? Isn’t that more appropriately within the field of study for a psychologist or counselor or someone like that?

It turns out that a dentist can tell when someone is the fretting type (and by that I mean a worrier, not a guitarist) by looking at your teeth. When you fret or worry, you tend to grit and grind your teeth, typically in your sleep, which over time can wear down the enamel on your teeth. And your dentist can tell. This grinding is also known as bruxism, which I know mostly because Google told me so.

It turns out that when we worry, it shows. It affects everything we do – from the quality of our art to our relationships, from our business decisions to how we sleep at night. If you haven’t already experienced this, I’m certain a good internet search will back me up on that one too.

In Psalm 37:8, we’re reminded not to fret because it will only lead to harm, and I’m pretty sure that the Psalmist was speaking of more than just damage to our teeth. With so many anxiety-inducing pressures surrounding us in the arts & entertainment world, however, his admonition may seem at times like an impossible task. Don’t fret? Are you kidding me, Mr. Psalmist? I’m in the entertainment industry, and I don’t think you understand what you’re asking for here… I have to prepare for that big audition or cover rent or find an even better manager or fire one of my production assistants or fix that relationship with my friend or pay for those ever-growing dentist bills.

Don’t fret. It’s a simple command in a complex world, a world filled with stress and tension, and you would be right in dismissing the possibility of fulfilling that command if there was no better place to put our worries. But we are assured that there is a better depository for those worries if we are humble enough to put them there:

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in
due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6-7)

How odd that our first and best resort is who we turn to last and only when things are at their worst. It takes humility to admit we’re not able to deal completely with the anxieties this world hands us, but in reality, the more we try to carry these burdens on our own, the more harm we do and the more gnashing of teeth we have to endure. We simply were never created to carry these worries in the first place.

So whatever anxieties you are carrying right now – be they in your art, your business, your relationships, or any other area – toss them on God as His responsibility. But whatever you do: Don’t fret. He cares for you.

All my best,
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect

(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
http://www.hollywoodconnect.com/

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