The Canvas of Autumn
Cathy Irvin
Winter, spring, summer, and fall are God’s seasons. I have always been a big fan of summer and spring and not too fond of fall and winter. But lately I have changed. I think it is something about those leaves of red, orange, yellow, and burgundy that fall from the trees. I feel as if I have noticed them for the very first time.
I like taking a ride and watching people setting out pumpkins in the yard with hay bales and planting mums in the yard. I am looking forward to getting some lavender and yellow mums myself for my yard and a few pumpkins.
The other day, one of my friends and I went to visit a friend who has been ill, and in her neighborhood, we noticed many yards decorated for fall. I don’t remember seeing this too much in the past. Have I missed this season all these years, or is it just that as I get older I appreciate God’s world just a little more?
The latter is what I concluded. The Bible says, “This is day that the Lord hath made, and I will rejoice in it.” Each day He has given me beauty to enjoy, so I think I should sit back and take in this glorious creation.
God is the best artist in the world, for only He can create such different themes. We see many artists that try to capture the seasons on their canvases by painting what they see around them, and they do a wonderful job. However, neither picture nor paint could ever replace the real thing splashed across the sky and spilled over the earth like the Master’s display of His finest artwork. God’s creativity is unmatched, for every day is different, just like every snowflake in winter.
When people say there is no God, I know they do not see with eyes like mine. They must see a plain, white canvas or a black drop cloth and not the blue skies that fade into light pink in the evening. Nor do they see the flowers that no paint on any artist’s palate could attempt to match or the trees that were each given a certain color leaf to change into when autumn arrives. ‘No God,’ they say. It is just that they do not know the Master of the seasons, the One who has created such magnificent displays of perfect art.
Instead of always looking forward to the summer and springtime, I have decided to enjoy the Master’s autumn masterpiece for the rest of my life.
Psalm 147 4, 8, 16-18 (NIV)
4 He determines the number of the stars
and calls them each by name.
8 He covers the sky with clouds;
he supplies the earth with rain
and makes grass grow on the hills.
16 He spreads the snow like wool
and scatters the frost like ashes.
17 He hurls down his hail like pebbles.
Who can withstand his icy blast?
18 He sends his word and melts them;
he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow
cbn
Monday, February 26, 2007
Friday, February 23, 2007
The Flood and The Blood
Dan Betzer
Recently our church presented a drama of Noah and the Ark, complete with a massive wooden ship right in the sanctuary. There were many terrific animals in the production, including a 1400-pound zebra, an alligator, a python, a leopard, a lion, some monkeys, birds, and you name it. Thousands of children, teens, and adults sat there with eyes like golf balls--especially when the storm hit with thunder, winds, and rain!
I have wondered what this planet was like before the great deluge. Many believe that there was more living space on Earth then, compared to the present 58,000,000 square miles that are only about a third of the total surface. Some believe that England was connected to the mainland of Europe before the flood. Fossils of plants have been found in great deserts such as the Sahara, indicating that there was once lush vegetation there.
Some think that the eastern coast of North America extended much farther eastward into the Atlantic and in the northern parts was even connected to Europe. We believe that western Kansas was once underwater and the home of great marine reptiles.
Genesis 6 begins the amazing story of Noah, a man of faith and conviction who God used to spare humanity. Over a period of decades, he and his boys laboriously constructed that 450-feet long Ark that would carry family and a bunch of animals to safety. The Ark was made of wood, the same as another implement of divine safety, the cross of Jesus Christ.
In Noah's time, those who availed themselves of the Ark survived. In our day, those who avail themselves of the blood of the Cross have abundant life beyond measure.
cbn
Dan Betzer
Recently our church presented a drama of Noah and the Ark, complete with a massive wooden ship right in the sanctuary. There were many terrific animals in the production, including a 1400-pound zebra, an alligator, a python, a leopard, a lion, some monkeys, birds, and you name it. Thousands of children, teens, and adults sat there with eyes like golf balls--especially when the storm hit with thunder, winds, and rain!
I have wondered what this planet was like before the great deluge. Many believe that there was more living space on Earth then, compared to the present 58,000,000 square miles that are only about a third of the total surface. Some believe that England was connected to the mainland of Europe before the flood. Fossils of plants have been found in great deserts such as the Sahara, indicating that there was once lush vegetation there.
Some think that the eastern coast of North America extended much farther eastward into the Atlantic and in the northern parts was even connected to Europe. We believe that western Kansas was once underwater and the home of great marine reptiles.
Genesis 6 begins the amazing story of Noah, a man of faith and conviction who God used to spare humanity. Over a period of decades, he and his boys laboriously constructed that 450-feet long Ark that would carry family and a bunch of animals to safety. The Ark was made of wood, the same as another implement of divine safety, the cross of Jesus Christ.
In Noah's time, those who availed themselves of the Ark survived. In our day, those who avail themselves of the blood of the Cross have abundant life beyond measure.
cbn
Thursday, February 22, 2007
The Webs of Life
Missey Butler
It’s beginning to feel a lot like Fall. The cool breezes of autumn cause us to reach for our favorite sweater, as we step outdoors to take a brisk walk in the crisp, clean air. The smell of burning leaves always reminds me of my childhood, with thoughts of flickering fireplaces and large mugs of hot chocolate, topped with a big ole melting marshmallow.
Another not so fond memory of autumn’s past, was one of me riding along on my bicycle, minding my own business when suddenly I would find myself plowing head-long, face-first, into the middle of a large sticky spider web! Oh, how I hated that! With arms flailing and lips sputtering, I would attempt to peal off the remnants of what used to be Madame Spider’s abode as she would have no other choice but to now come along for the ride, and I just new that her little eight legged self was creeping along somewhere in the vicinity of my shoulders.
For some unknown reason, I have found myself very intrigued (again) with spider webs. I happened to spot one the other morning as I was heading out for my usual morning bike ride with my favorite Labrador companion, “Champ.” It was still dark and the moon was shining at just the right angle where I could see the reflection of the silk woven web. I was amazed at how perfectly concentric its’ design was.
A few seconds later, I was stunned, as I witnessed a very large fluttering butterfly come out of no where and rapidly plunge head-long into the center of its web. The poor butterfly frantically began to struggle only to find itself being wrapped tighter with each panicky movement. I instinctively lowered my bike and walked over and with both hands, reached in and as gently as I could cupped my palms around her and slowly pulled her out. I released her into the moonlight and watched as she hastily flew away.
Immediately, I thought of God’s own hands and how they had lovingly reached down into my own web of impending death. I recalled those web-like sticky fibers of sin that had wrapped themselves around my mind and heart so tightly, just waiting for me to die a slow death. I desperately tried to free myself from the bondage of sin, but could not. He came along at just the right moment and cupped his palms around me and set me free.
Today, I am that butterfly and I now soar in my new found freedom, knowing full well just what I have been rescued from. I rejoice in the liberty that He has given me by way of my salvation. The very same palms that were nailed to a cruel cross, one day lovingly reached down into my own web of sin and forever set me free.
Will you allow Him to do the same for you? He understands how we so readily fall prey to the enemy of our soul, and He longs to release us from the entanglement of sin. Stop trying to release yourself, and let Him reach down and set you free.
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery (Galations 5:1).
How to give your life to Christ:
1. Admit you are a sinner and need forgiveness.
2. Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the Cross and rose from the grave.
3. Through prayer, confess that Jesus Christ is the only way to God and commit to live for Him for the rest of your life.
What to Pray:
Dear Lord Jesus,
I know that I am a sinner and need your forgiveness. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose from the grave to give me life. I know You are the only way to God so now I want to quit disobeying You and start living for You. Please forgive me, change my life and show me how to know You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
cbn
Missey Butler
It’s beginning to feel a lot like Fall. The cool breezes of autumn cause us to reach for our favorite sweater, as we step outdoors to take a brisk walk in the crisp, clean air. The smell of burning leaves always reminds me of my childhood, with thoughts of flickering fireplaces and large mugs of hot chocolate, topped with a big ole melting marshmallow.
Another not so fond memory of autumn’s past, was one of me riding along on my bicycle, minding my own business when suddenly I would find myself plowing head-long, face-first, into the middle of a large sticky spider web! Oh, how I hated that! With arms flailing and lips sputtering, I would attempt to peal off the remnants of what used to be Madame Spider’s abode as she would have no other choice but to now come along for the ride, and I just new that her little eight legged self was creeping along somewhere in the vicinity of my shoulders.
For some unknown reason, I have found myself very intrigued (again) with spider webs. I happened to spot one the other morning as I was heading out for my usual morning bike ride with my favorite Labrador companion, “Champ.” It was still dark and the moon was shining at just the right angle where I could see the reflection of the silk woven web. I was amazed at how perfectly concentric its’ design was.
A few seconds later, I was stunned, as I witnessed a very large fluttering butterfly come out of no where and rapidly plunge head-long into the center of its web. The poor butterfly frantically began to struggle only to find itself being wrapped tighter with each panicky movement. I instinctively lowered my bike and walked over and with both hands, reached in and as gently as I could cupped my palms around her and slowly pulled her out. I released her into the moonlight and watched as she hastily flew away.
Immediately, I thought of God’s own hands and how they had lovingly reached down into my own web of impending death. I recalled those web-like sticky fibers of sin that had wrapped themselves around my mind and heart so tightly, just waiting for me to die a slow death. I desperately tried to free myself from the bondage of sin, but could not. He came along at just the right moment and cupped his palms around me and set me free.
Today, I am that butterfly and I now soar in my new found freedom, knowing full well just what I have been rescued from. I rejoice in the liberty that He has given me by way of my salvation. The very same palms that were nailed to a cruel cross, one day lovingly reached down into my own web of sin and forever set me free.
Will you allow Him to do the same for you? He understands how we so readily fall prey to the enemy of our soul, and He longs to release us from the entanglement of sin. Stop trying to release yourself, and let Him reach down and set you free.
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery (Galations 5:1).
How to give your life to Christ:
1. Admit you are a sinner and need forgiveness.
2. Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the Cross and rose from the grave.
3. Through prayer, confess that Jesus Christ is the only way to God and commit to live for Him for the rest of your life.
What to Pray:
Dear Lord Jesus,
I know that I am a sinner and need your forgiveness. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose from the grave to give me life. I know You are the only way to God so now I want to quit disobeying You and start living for You. Please forgive me, change my life and show me how to know You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
cbn
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Kill Your Idols
Scott Presson
Once I saw a popular singer on an awards program on TV. He was wearing a t-shirt that said, “Kill your idols”. I was intrigued enough to watch him and wonder what he was saying with that shirt. That is, until he turned around. The back of his shirt had a traditional portrait of a crucified Jesus Christ. He was in effect calling Jesus an idol.
Unfortunately, many Christians also have a skewed, idealized definition of idols. We only see idols like those mentioned in the Old Testament or those in the movie “The Ten Commandments” where Moses, played by Charlton Heston, descends from Mount Sinai to find the Israelites worshipping a golden calf and in righteous anger, hurls the tablets at the golden calf and destroys it.
When God gave Moses the Commandments, He said:
"Do not worship any other gods besides me.” Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! (Exodus 20:3-5 NLT)
An idol is any person, object or activity you give a higher priority in your life than a relationship with God. An idol can be your home, your job, a vehicle, a relationship, or even your family. An idol can be a pet, a computer, or what you look at on that computer. An idol can be alcohol, drugs, sex, or any sin. An idol can be the work you do for the Lord that consumes all your energy and time. God says He’s a jealous God. He wants our time and attention.
Look at this:
"This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: You saw what I did to Jerusalem and to all the towns of Judah. They now lie in ruins, and no one lives in them. Because of all their wickedness, my anger rose high against them. They burned incense and worshiped other gods – gods that neither they nor you nor any of your ancestors have ever known. "Again and again I sent my servants, the prophets, to plead with them, 'Don't do these horrible things that I hate so much.' But my people would not listen or turn back from their wicked ways. They kept right on burning incense to these gods. And so my fury boiled over and fell like fire on the towns of Judah and into the streets of Jerusalem, and now they are a desolate ruin.” (Jeremiah 44:2-6 NLT)
This is God’s anger against HIS PEOPLE. The prophets warned them but they refused to listen. Today, just as in those days, righteous men and women are saying, turn back to God! Destroy the idols. Put away the things that are hindering a righteous walk with God. Repent of putting others before the Creator of the universe!
Recently, the Elijah List published a warning from Patricia King. Here is an excerpt:
“…For a few days now, I have felt very unsettled in my spirit. The New Orleans disaster has been on my heart, but also, I have been receiving warnings that more upheaval is coming. It is almost as though I can smell war and crisis. It is not good, but can be thwarted, if we come into proper alignment.
I sense upheavals in many nations, but my spirit is especially feeling a warning for North America, with a specific prayer burden for the USA.
I have seen a vision of the enemy planting grenade-like objects in the land and getting ready to detonate them. I believe this involves terrorism and a "sudden" attack. I have also seen further shakings in the land of such magnitude that many people's lives could be lost.
I also see critical, economic shakings coming that man will have no control over. I see increased taxation and escalation of interest rates and commodities. I see crime and violence out of control as lawlessness increases. Prayer and repentance can thwart disaster. The answer is to go to prayer and to repent for our sins.
Recently a cricket got into our office space. Everyone commented on the chirping cricket. I could not hear it. I honestly asked them if they were kidding me. I could not hear the sound of that cricket at all! I began to get disturbed. To my knowledge, I hear just fine. My co-workers were even puzzled that I couldn’t hear this cricket.
God immediately began to speak to me and showed me that some Christians hear different things at different times in the natural and in the spiritual realm. I have heard some godly leadership say they do not have any clear revelation about Hurricane Katrina and what it means for our times and our nation, while others are alarmed at the bell that seems to be pealing in the Spirit realm; BE WARNED! BEWARE! BE WARNED! BEWARE!
Recently, God began to give me a clear revelation about Christians in this country. He told me that many intercessors are caught up in idol worship. We are guilty of putting people and things ahead of praying and entering in with Him. As I have prayed in the Spirit about Hurricane Katrina, one prayer keeps coming up -- that God will re-establish our nation’s borders and that the Watchmen will get back on the wall.
God is gracious and kind, but God’s Word prevails. In the days of Noah, God gave the people over a hundred years to repent. But then a day came when the rains started. On that day, no amount of crying out could change the outcome.
A prudent person foresees the danger ahead and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. (Proverbs 27:12 NLT)
We must heed the signs of the times. Do we believe the word of the prophets? Are we going to take seriously the admonition of the Lord to repent and to destroy our idols! If we do not repent, there is a day coming in this nation where no amount of crying out will change the plan God puts into motion.
“So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires. Don't be greedy for the good things of this life, for that is idolatry. God's terrible anger will come upon those who do such things. ” (Colossians 3:5-7 NLT)
“Don't be greedy for the good things of this life, for that is idolatry…” People everywhere are caught up in the “good things of this life”. There is a bell tolling in our nation today. We must pay attention. However, As Patricia King notes, the Body of Christ is full of sin. “As long as there is unaddressed darkness in the church, we lack authority.” We’ve got to address what hinders our walk with God and let it go!
To take authority, we’ve got to release the sins and repent. The Word points out that man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at our hearts. Our hearts are guilty before the Lord. God is done with the mess we call righteous living. We have to destroy idol worship. We have gone long enough with a wink and a nod toward sin in the Body. I am not pointing fingers. I am as guilty as anyone is.
There is a call going out among the Body today. I hear the Lord saying,
WAKE UP
SHAKE YOURSELVES
KILL YOUR IDOLS
REPENT
GET BACK ON THE WALL
RE-ESTABLISH THE BORDERS
TAKE AUTHORITY
The Word of the Lord for this hour is NEW BEGINNINGS. In the Spirit realm, we are coming into a spring season. Spring is a time of new growth. It’s a time of renewed hope. This is a time of new beginnings in the Spiritual, but only if you’ve left the baggage of the past behind.
The Word says it’s better to obey than sacrifice. Obey what? The Word of the Lord. When God says to repent, we must repent. God hates idolatry. It’s a commandment and God has been judging -- yes, judging righteous people on earth for it since time began. It’s true, He loves us and yes HE HAS A PLAN for each of us but only in His parameters.
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT)
cbn
Scott Presson
Once I saw a popular singer on an awards program on TV. He was wearing a t-shirt that said, “Kill your idols”. I was intrigued enough to watch him and wonder what he was saying with that shirt. That is, until he turned around. The back of his shirt had a traditional portrait of a crucified Jesus Christ. He was in effect calling Jesus an idol.
Unfortunately, many Christians also have a skewed, idealized definition of idols. We only see idols like those mentioned in the Old Testament or those in the movie “The Ten Commandments” where Moses, played by Charlton Heston, descends from Mount Sinai to find the Israelites worshipping a golden calf and in righteous anger, hurls the tablets at the golden calf and destroys it.
When God gave Moses the Commandments, He said:
"Do not worship any other gods besides me.” Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! (Exodus 20:3-5 NLT)
An idol is any person, object or activity you give a higher priority in your life than a relationship with God. An idol can be your home, your job, a vehicle, a relationship, or even your family. An idol can be a pet, a computer, or what you look at on that computer. An idol can be alcohol, drugs, sex, or any sin. An idol can be the work you do for the Lord that consumes all your energy and time. God says He’s a jealous God. He wants our time and attention.
Look at this:
"This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: You saw what I did to Jerusalem and to all the towns of Judah. They now lie in ruins, and no one lives in them. Because of all their wickedness, my anger rose high against them. They burned incense and worshiped other gods – gods that neither they nor you nor any of your ancestors have ever known. "Again and again I sent my servants, the prophets, to plead with them, 'Don't do these horrible things that I hate so much.' But my people would not listen or turn back from their wicked ways. They kept right on burning incense to these gods. And so my fury boiled over and fell like fire on the towns of Judah and into the streets of Jerusalem, and now they are a desolate ruin.” (Jeremiah 44:2-6 NLT)
This is God’s anger against HIS PEOPLE. The prophets warned them but they refused to listen. Today, just as in those days, righteous men and women are saying, turn back to God! Destroy the idols. Put away the things that are hindering a righteous walk with God. Repent of putting others before the Creator of the universe!
Recently, the Elijah List published a warning from Patricia King. Here is an excerpt:
“…For a few days now, I have felt very unsettled in my spirit. The New Orleans disaster has been on my heart, but also, I have been receiving warnings that more upheaval is coming. It is almost as though I can smell war and crisis. It is not good, but can be thwarted, if we come into proper alignment.
I sense upheavals in many nations, but my spirit is especially feeling a warning for North America, with a specific prayer burden for the USA.
I have seen a vision of the enemy planting grenade-like objects in the land and getting ready to detonate them. I believe this involves terrorism and a "sudden" attack. I have also seen further shakings in the land of such magnitude that many people's lives could be lost.
I also see critical, economic shakings coming that man will have no control over. I see increased taxation and escalation of interest rates and commodities. I see crime and violence out of control as lawlessness increases. Prayer and repentance can thwart disaster. The answer is to go to prayer and to repent for our sins.
Recently a cricket got into our office space. Everyone commented on the chirping cricket. I could not hear it. I honestly asked them if they were kidding me. I could not hear the sound of that cricket at all! I began to get disturbed. To my knowledge, I hear just fine. My co-workers were even puzzled that I couldn’t hear this cricket.
God immediately began to speak to me and showed me that some Christians hear different things at different times in the natural and in the spiritual realm. I have heard some godly leadership say they do not have any clear revelation about Hurricane Katrina and what it means for our times and our nation, while others are alarmed at the bell that seems to be pealing in the Spirit realm; BE WARNED! BEWARE! BE WARNED! BEWARE!
Recently, God began to give me a clear revelation about Christians in this country. He told me that many intercessors are caught up in idol worship. We are guilty of putting people and things ahead of praying and entering in with Him. As I have prayed in the Spirit about Hurricane Katrina, one prayer keeps coming up -- that God will re-establish our nation’s borders and that the Watchmen will get back on the wall.
God is gracious and kind, but God’s Word prevails. In the days of Noah, God gave the people over a hundred years to repent. But then a day came when the rains started. On that day, no amount of crying out could change the outcome.
A prudent person foresees the danger ahead and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. (Proverbs 27:12 NLT)
We must heed the signs of the times. Do we believe the word of the prophets? Are we going to take seriously the admonition of the Lord to repent and to destroy our idols! If we do not repent, there is a day coming in this nation where no amount of crying out will change the plan God puts into motion.
“So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires. Don't be greedy for the good things of this life, for that is idolatry. God's terrible anger will come upon those who do such things. ” (Colossians 3:5-7 NLT)
“Don't be greedy for the good things of this life, for that is idolatry…” People everywhere are caught up in the “good things of this life”. There is a bell tolling in our nation today. We must pay attention. However, As Patricia King notes, the Body of Christ is full of sin. “As long as there is unaddressed darkness in the church, we lack authority.” We’ve got to address what hinders our walk with God and let it go!
To take authority, we’ve got to release the sins and repent. The Word points out that man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at our hearts. Our hearts are guilty before the Lord. God is done with the mess we call righteous living. We have to destroy idol worship. We have gone long enough with a wink and a nod toward sin in the Body. I am not pointing fingers. I am as guilty as anyone is.
There is a call going out among the Body today. I hear the Lord saying,
WAKE UP
SHAKE YOURSELVES
KILL YOUR IDOLS
REPENT
GET BACK ON THE WALL
RE-ESTABLISH THE BORDERS
TAKE AUTHORITY
The Word of the Lord for this hour is NEW BEGINNINGS. In the Spirit realm, we are coming into a spring season. Spring is a time of new growth. It’s a time of renewed hope. This is a time of new beginnings in the Spiritual, but only if you’ve left the baggage of the past behind.
The Word says it’s better to obey than sacrifice. Obey what? The Word of the Lord. When God says to repent, we must repent. God hates idolatry. It’s a commandment and God has been judging -- yes, judging righteous people on earth for it since time began. It’s true, He loves us and yes HE HAS A PLAN for each of us but only in His parameters.
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT)
cbn
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
A Hallowed Night
Cathy Irvin
Can Halloween night be a hallowed night?
Sure we can make it holy and turn it into a harvest time celebration. We need to let God’s love, and his light shine in the midst of the darkness. In fact Christians everywhere open their churches and some have what they call “Harvest” parties. It is an alternative to Halloween -- no devils, witches, monsters, or ghosts are allowed. Some dress children up as Bible characters or angels. Others come as ballerinas, cheerleaders, princes or princesses, animals, etc. You know any of the good guys or those in God’s animal kingdom.
That is great to do, but what about our grandchildren or great grandchildren that aren’t in church or that participate in Halloween with their parents? I have let my family know that I don’t celebrate Halloween and only ask that the parents dress the children in better costumes, not as those " bad guys," as Destiny, my great granddaughter, calls them. She is going as a cheer leader this year -- not sure about her younger brother yet; his Dad has the final say about him. Her mother has been good about doing that for me with her for several years.
My granddaughter and her mother will go to a familiar neighborhood -- and me, well I will stay home so others' great grandchildren can come by. I will open my door, praying silently for God to protect, bless and save all these children that I give out candy to this year. I will tell them to be careful and that Jesus loves them.
In the past, I have gone to the church and helped out there, but this time the lights will be on at my house. I thought about how I have prayer walked in neighborhoods and asked God to save people, expose the enemy behind those closed doors for whatever situation they were facing, adults as well as the children.
Why not just open the door and use this night for intercession and pray on your front porch before they arrive and then silently as you drop candy into a bag or pumpkin.
I remember the best Halloween I ever participated in. I was a new Christian, but I went to the children’s hospital and gave candy to the children. I had so much fun. The children’s smile back then made it all worth while.
If all the Christians stayed home and opened the door with a prayer in their heart, think of it as God’s blanket of protection that would be over so many little children on Halloween night. Perhaps you can pray a simple prayer like the one below:
Lord, may this year on Halloween night be one that is hallowed, a holy night to lift up your name and bless your little children all over the world.
cbn
Cathy Irvin
Can Halloween night be a hallowed night?
Sure we can make it holy and turn it into a harvest time celebration. We need to let God’s love, and his light shine in the midst of the darkness. In fact Christians everywhere open their churches and some have what they call “Harvest” parties. It is an alternative to Halloween -- no devils, witches, monsters, or ghosts are allowed. Some dress children up as Bible characters or angels. Others come as ballerinas, cheerleaders, princes or princesses, animals, etc. You know any of the good guys or those in God’s animal kingdom.
That is great to do, but what about our grandchildren or great grandchildren that aren’t in church or that participate in Halloween with their parents? I have let my family know that I don’t celebrate Halloween and only ask that the parents dress the children in better costumes, not as those " bad guys," as Destiny, my great granddaughter, calls them. She is going as a cheer leader this year -- not sure about her younger brother yet; his Dad has the final say about him. Her mother has been good about doing that for me with her for several years.
My granddaughter and her mother will go to a familiar neighborhood -- and me, well I will stay home so others' great grandchildren can come by. I will open my door, praying silently for God to protect, bless and save all these children that I give out candy to this year. I will tell them to be careful and that Jesus loves them.
In the past, I have gone to the church and helped out there, but this time the lights will be on at my house. I thought about how I have prayer walked in neighborhoods and asked God to save people, expose the enemy behind those closed doors for whatever situation they were facing, adults as well as the children.
Why not just open the door and use this night for intercession and pray on your front porch before they arrive and then silently as you drop candy into a bag or pumpkin.
I remember the best Halloween I ever participated in. I was a new Christian, but I went to the children’s hospital and gave candy to the children. I had so much fun. The children’s smile back then made it all worth while.
If all the Christians stayed home and opened the door with a prayer in their heart, think of it as God’s blanket of protection that would be over so many little children on Halloween night. Perhaps you can pray a simple prayer like the one below:
Lord, may this year on Halloween night be one that is hallowed, a holy night to lift up your name and bless your little children all over the world.
cbn
Monday, February 19, 2007
Can't Swallow That
Dan Betzer
My wife and I walked into a restaurant recently in the town where we formerly lived. How I have enjoyed that restaurant through the years: good service, good food, good atmosphere.
We were looking forward to the experience again. The service was still fairly good, but the food was something not to be believed. I ordered a slab of ribs, ribs that I remembered could just set your feet to tapping. What I got was something totally unexpected.
I think it was somebody’s old boot, cooked to a fare-thee-well and covered with some unknown sauce you wouldn’t give a goat. In the entire slab of ribs, there was not even a fork full of meat.
When I asked the waiter about it, he blushed and said, “Our restaurant has been sold to a big corporation somewhere and we just follow their orders.” When we had walked into the place earlier, we noted that it was nearly empty, whereas it had always been “wait in line” before.
If that corporation thinks customers will continue to frequent their restaurant simply because it used to be good, they have a real revelation coming! People will go to the place where they’re fed and cared for.
Same thing goes for church. How many ecclesiastical buildings now stand virtually empty that were once revival centers! The leaders opted for form over substance.
When the pews became empty, they moaned about post-modernism. Truth of the matter is that they just started serving old cooked boots, that’s all.
People are incredibly hungry for God today. The problem is that too many of God’s restaurants serve only jive music and PowerPoint hash. The good folks just won’t eat it.
cbn
Dan Betzer
My wife and I walked into a restaurant recently in the town where we formerly lived. How I have enjoyed that restaurant through the years: good service, good food, good atmosphere.
We were looking forward to the experience again. The service was still fairly good, but the food was something not to be believed. I ordered a slab of ribs, ribs that I remembered could just set your feet to tapping. What I got was something totally unexpected.
I think it was somebody’s old boot, cooked to a fare-thee-well and covered with some unknown sauce you wouldn’t give a goat. In the entire slab of ribs, there was not even a fork full of meat.
When I asked the waiter about it, he blushed and said, “Our restaurant has been sold to a big corporation somewhere and we just follow their orders.” When we had walked into the place earlier, we noted that it was nearly empty, whereas it had always been “wait in line” before.
If that corporation thinks customers will continue to frequent their restaurant simply because it used to be good, they have a real revelation coming! People will go to the place where they’re fed and cared for.
Same thing goes for church. How many ecclesiastical buildings now stand virtually empty that were once revival centers! The leaders opted for form over substance.
When the pews became empty, they moaned about post-modernism. Truth of the matter is that they just started serving old cooked boots, that’s all.
People are incredibly hungry for God today. The problem is that too many of God’s restaurants serve only jive music and PowerPoint hash. The good folks just won’t eat it.
cbn
Friday, February 16, 2007
fishing lessons
1 After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. John 21:1-6
There are a number of times in your life when you desperately need a fresh touch from the Lord. That's the situation where Jesus' disciples found themselves (John 21). Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” But that night they caught nothing (v.3).
Days before, the disciples had watched Jesus die. And even though they had seen the resurrected Jesus, they were still confused, unaware of their mission, and feeling abandoned. They were without the Savior, who had been everything to them, and also without the Holy Spirit, who had been promised to take his place. They were in-between.
So there they were, sitting around and asking themselves, “What are we gonna do now?” John 21:3 tells us that Peter decided to go fishing. And so, they went back to their familiar territory and caught nothing and learned nothing—until Jesus met them on the shore the next morning.
Too often the first thing we do when we feel desperate is to look for a quick fix. We say, “I don't have to take this. I'll quit my job.” “If God won't do anything, I'll do it myself.” “If God won't heal this relationship, I'll end it.” And off we go in our own strength to get things done.
But all the effort we extend to fix our family or resolve some crisis will not yield much. The Lord wants so much to hear us say, “Forgive me, Lord. I thought I was right, but now I see I was just looking for an out. It wasn't me and you, Lord; it was just about me.”
Whether we know it or not, that's a good place to be. God is always ready to reveal to a humble heart the futility of effort apart from him. That same Savior who stood on that shore in John 21 is asking you, “Are you ready to give me this thing that troubles you? Can we work on this together? Let's start today.” —James MacDonald walkintheword.com
seeking: Father, how have I experienced your love for me in a fresh way? What have you revealed in my heart?
responding: Have I sought an easy out for this problem I'm facing? • What will happen if I keep operating in my own strength? • How can I experience true victory in this situation?
Yes, Lord. I'll do what you say without question. I'll come to you as soon as possible. I'm willing to do this in your strength. Please show me how.
following: Your efforts to fix a problem are futile apart from Jesus.
our journey
1 After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. John 21:1-6
There are a number of times in your life when you desperately need a fresh touch from the Lord. That's the situation where Jesus' disciples found themselves (John 21). Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” But that night they caught nothing (v.3).
Days before, the disciples had watched Jesus die. And even though they had seen the resurrected Jesus, they were still confused, unaware of their mission, and feeling abandoned. They were without the Savior, who had been everything to them, and also without the Holy Spirit, who had been promised to take his place. They were in-between.
So there they were, sitting around and asking themselves, “What are we gonna do now?” John 21:3 tells us that Peter decided to go fishing. And so, they went back to their familiar territory and caught nothing and learned nothing—until Jesus met them on the shore the next morning.
Too often the first thing we do when we feel desperate is to look for a quick fix. We say, “I don't have to take this. I'll quit my job.” “If God won't do anything, I'll do it myself.” “If God won't heal this relationship, I'll end it.” And off we go in our own strength to get things done.
But all the effort we extend to fix our family or resolve some crisis will not yield much. The Lord wants so much to hear us say, “Forgive me, Lord. I thought I was right, but now I see I was just looking for an out. It wasn't me and you, Lord; it was just about me.”
Whether we know it or not, that's a good place to be. God is always ready to reveal to a humble heart the futility of effort apart from him. That same Savior who stood on that shore in John 21 is asking you, “Are you ready to give me this thing that troubles you? Can we work on this together? Let's start today.” —James MacDonald walkintheword.com
seeking: Father, how have I experienced your love for me in a fresh way? What have you revealed in my heart?
responding: Have I sought an easy out for this problem I'm facing? • What will happen if I keep operating in my own strength? • How can I experience true victory in this situation?
Yes, Lord. I'll do what you say without question. I'll come to you as soon as possible. I'm willing to do this in your strength. Please show me how.
following: Your efforts to fix a problem are futile apart from Jesus.
our journey
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
behind the miracle
2 Now a centurion had a servant who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him. 3 When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his servant. . . . 6 And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. . . . 8 For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes; and to another, 'Come,' and he comes; and to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” 10 And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well. Luke 7:2-10
There is often another miracle hidden behind the un-miraculous miracles of Jesus. Behind the feeding of the 5,000 was the miracle of perfect provision. Behind the miracle of the raising of Lazarus was the hidden miracle of Jesus' tears.
The healing of the centurion's servant in Luke 7 represents yet another example of this idea. It is one of Jesus' “long-distance” miracles. What could be more un-miraculous than not even being present when the miracle occurs?
The nameless centurion was a part of a group known as “God-fearers.” That is, he was a Gentile who worshiped the God of Israel, but who was not willing to become a full proselyte by submitting to circumcision. This explains his generosity toward the Jewish community, and also why the elders would come on his behalf, asking Jesus to heal the servant.
Jesus does not hesitate for a moment, but follows the Jewish leaders in the direction of the soldier's home. But the centurion, sensitive to the fact that no Jewish person can enter the home of an “unclean Gentile,” sends a message to Jesus. He acknowledges that he is not worthy of a visit from the rabbi of Nazareth. He is a soldier, acquainted with the horrors of ancient warfare. As a Roman soldier, he would have been prepared to fall on his own sword at the command of his superior officer. He understands authority, and he recognizes that Jesus possesses a vast authority.
Jesus utters not a single word of healing. He only marvels at the faith of the Gentile God-fearer. Without being present in the home that was “not worthy” for him to enter, and—without a word—Jesus heals the servant.
Behind the un-miraculous miracle of the silent, long-distance healing lies another miracle—miraculous enough to amaze even Jesus himself. Hidden within the story is the miracle of the faith of the centurion. —Michael Card
seeking: Father, what have you just taught me about real faith? How will I live out that faith for you this moment . . . this day?
responding: Do I sense the tension between the works-righteousness rabbis and the centurion who confesses that he is not worthy? • Jesus is amazed at finding faith where he would least expect to find it. Have I ever amazed Jesus? • Do I think that part of this kind of amazing faith is a recognition of the authority of Jesus? Why?
Father, once more I ask for new eyes to see the hidden, un-miraculous ways that you're at work in the world. I confess that I have not fully bowed my knee to your awesome authority. I grieve at the thought that you often find more faith outside the “community of faith” than within it. Enable me, Lord Jesus, to amaze you!
following: God loves the miracle of real faith.
soul journey
2 Now a centurion had a servant who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him. 3 When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his servant. . . . 6 And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. . . . 8 For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes; and to another, 'Come,' and he comes; and to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” 10 And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well. Luke 7:2-10
There is often another miracle hidden behind the un-miraculous miracles of Jesus. Behind the feeding of the 5,000 was the miracle of perfect provision. Behind the miracle of the raising of Lazarus was the hidden miracle of Jesus' tears.
The healing of the centurion's servant in Luke 7 represents yet another example of this idea. It is one of Jesus' “long-distance” miracles. What could be more un-miraculous than not even being present when the miracle occurs?
The nameless centurion was a part of a group known as “God-fearers.” That is, he was a Gentile who worshiped the God of Israel, but who was not willing to become a full proselyte by submitting to circumcision. This explains his generosity toward the Jewish community, and also why the elders would come on his behalf, asking Jesus to heal the servant.
Jesus does not hesitate for a moment, but follows the Jewish leaders in the direction of the soldier's home. But the centurion, sensitive to the fact that no Jewish person can enter the home of an “unclean Gentile,” sends a message to Jesus. He acknowledges that he is not worthy of a visit from the rabbi of Nazareth. He is a soldier, acquainted with the horrors of ancient warfare. As a Roman soldier, he would have been prepared to fall on his own sword at the command of his superior officer. He understands authority, and he recognizes that Jesus possesses a vast authority.
Jesus utters not a single word of healing. He only marvels at the faith of the Gentile God-fearer. Without being present in the home that was “not worthy” for him to enter, and—without a word—Jesus heals the servant.
Behind the un-miraculous miracle of the silent, long-distance healing lies another miracle—miraculous enough to amaze even Jesus himself. Hidden within the story is the miracle of the faith of the centurion. —Michael Card
seeking: Father, what have you just taught me about real faith? How will I live out that faith for you this moment . . . this day?
responding: Do I sense the tension between the works-righteousness rabbis and the centurion who confesses that he is not worthy? • Jesus is amazed at finding faith where he would least expect to find it. Have I ever amazed Jesus? • Do I think that part of this kind of amazing faith is a recognition of the authority of Jesus? Why?
Father, once more I ask for new eyes to see the hidden, un-miraculous ways that you're at work in the world. I confess that I have not fully bowed my knee to your awesome authority. I grieve at the thought that you often find more faith outside the “community of faith” than within it. Enable me, Lord Jesus, to amaze you!
following: God loves the miracle of real faith.
soul journey
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Today's scripture is James 1:4
"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
I talk a lot about faith. But there's another force that goes along with it that's just as important. It's patience, the ability to stand fast on the Word of God even when your victory seems slow in coming. Patience is not automatic. It won't go to work unless you let it go to work. So many people don't understand that. They somehow think faith and patience will go to work for them without their help. They just let the devil tear their lives apart and then they say silly things
like, "Well, I guess God sent that trial to strengthen my faith."Don't you ever get caught saying that!
In the first place, James says, "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God" (James 1:13). And in the second place, that trial isn't going to make your faith stronger. In fact, it'll destroy it if you'll let it.
bibleshack
"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
I talk a lot about faith. But there's another force that goes along with it that's just as important. It's patience, the ability to stand fast on the Word of God even when your victory seems slow in coming. Patience is not automatic. It won't go to work unless you let it go to work. So many people don't understand that. They somehow think faith and patience will go to work for them without their help. They just let the devil tear their lives apart and then they say silly things
like, "Well, I guess God sent that trial to strengthen my faith."Don't you ever get caught saying that!
In the first place, James says, "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God" (James 1:13). And in the second place, that trial isn't going to make your faith stronger. In fact, it'll destroy it if you'll let it.
bibleshack
Monday, February 12, 2007
Today's scripture is Matthew 15:6
"Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition."
Cancer. Heart disease. Multiple sclerosis. When we think of killer diseases, those are the names that come to mind. But the truth is, there's a far more deadly killer on the loose in the Church today. And it's destroyed more lives than any of us can imagine. It's called tradition. Traditions rob believers of their healing. They steal the power from the promises of God. Here are three you should beware of:
1. The tradition that says it's not always God's will to heal you. It is God's will to heal you! It says so in His Word. If you don't believe that it is, then you can't pray in faith believing you'll receive. You're like the farmer who sits on his porch and says, "I believe in crops, but I'm not going to plant any seed this year. I'll just believe, and if it's God's will, my crop will come up." That farmer will never see his crop. Faith is the seed of healing--if you don't plant it, it won't grow. A prayer that includes the words, "If it be thy will" won't produce a healing harvest. You must know without a doubt that healing is always God's will for you.
2. Another tradition we hear is that healing has passed away. That there are no miracles today. But the Word of God proves that's not true. In Exodus 15:26, God says, "I am the Lord that healeth thee." He also tells us that He does not change (Mal. 3:6). He has never changed since the beginning of time. For healing to pass away, God would have to pass away...and He is not about to do that!
3. The third dangerous tradition is this one: "God gets glory from Christians being sick." That tradition totally violates the Word of God. The Bible says that people gave glory to God when they saw the lame walk and the blind see. God receives glory from your healing--not your pain!
The world is looking for a way out of sickness and disease, not a way into it. Let's break down those traditions and deliver a hurting world from the most dangerous killer of all.
bibleshack
"Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition."
Cancer. Heart disease. Multiple sclerosis. When we think of killer diseases, those are the names that come to mind. But the truth is, there's a far more deadly killer on the loose in the Church today. And it's destroyed more lives than any of us can imagine. It's called tradition. Traditions rob believers of their healing. They steal the power from the promises of God. Here are three you should beware of:
1. The tradition that says it's not always God's will to heal you. It is God's will to heal you! It says so in His Word. If you don't believe that it is, then you can't pray in faith believing you'll receive. You're like the farmer who sits on his porch and says, "I believe in crops, but I'm not going to plant any seed this year. I'll just believe, and if it's God's will, my crop will come up." That farmer will never see his crop. Faith is the seed of healing--if you don't plant it, it won't grow. A prayer that includes the words, "If it be thy will" won't produce a healing harvest. You must know without a doubt that healing is always God's will for you.
2. Another tradition we hear is that healing has passed away. That there are no miracles today. But the Word of God proves that's not true. In Exodus 15:26, God says, "I am the Lord that healeth thee." He also tells us that He does not change (Mal. 3:6). He has never changed since the beginning of time. For healing to pass away, God would have to pass away...and He is not about to do that!
3. The third dangerous tradition is this one: "God gets glory from Christians being sick." That tradition totally violates the Word of God. The Bible says that people gave glory to God when they saw the lame walk and the blind see. God receives glory from your healing--not your pain!
The world is looking for a way out of sickness and disease, not a way into it. Let's break down those traditions and deliver a hurting world from the most dangerous killer of all.
bibleshack
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Salt in the Ashes
Sally Buckner
Being a connoisseur of fine foods, and nicknamed "Sally Cuisine", I learned the art of rubbing coarse Kosher salt on my baking potatoes to enhance the flavor of these delectable goodies. Well this practice left quite a mess in my lower oven, and it was time to incinerate the debris. So yesterday, being rather cool outside, I programmed the cleaning feature and left the oven to do its work.
Much to my surprise, after a 3 hour cycle of intense heat that left all the other "gook" in ashes, the salt was still there - chunky and untouched. That's when the Lord reminded me that He wants us to be so salty and full of His word and grace that not only will others want to taste and see, but that we can withstand the heat - the heat that comes from the trials and intense situations of life.
Leviticus 2:13: . . . Salt is a reminder of God's covenant.
What situation could have been more intense than that of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego as told in Daniel Chapter 3? King Nebuchadnezzar heated the fiery furnace 7 times hotter than usual so as to toss the three lads in for not bowing to his statue. They knew their God was able and would deliver them - what great faith! Just as the salt survived, so did these three.
Daniel 3:27: The fire hadn't touched them - not a hair of their heads was singed; their coats were unscorched, and they didn't even smell of smoke!
Even at the end of our cycle of life, it will be our salt that remains from the ashes. Fill up your shaker today - sprinkle as needed, and be prepared if your dish will be baked, broiled or fried!
Mark 9:50: Good salt is worthless if it loses its saltiness; it can't season anything. So don't lose your flavor!
So go out today and enjoy all that God wants to share with you. God reveals his truths to everyone - even me through baking potatoes! If the world turns up the heat, you'll be ready! Be salty and survive virtually anything!
Luke 14:34: What good is salt that has lost its saltiness? Flavorless salt is fit for nothing - not even fertilizer. It is worthless and must be thrown out. Listen well if you would understand my meaning.*
* I understand his meaning, and that's another whole story about pruning that useless branch. I'll look forward to sharing that with you sometime soon.
Bible verses quoted from The Living Bible.
cbn
Sally Buckner
Being a connoisseur of fine foods, and nicknamed "Sally Cuisine", I learned the art of rubbing coarse Kosher salt on my baking potatoes to enhance the flavor of these delectable goodies. Well this practice left quite a mess in my lower oven, and it was time to incinerate the debris. So yesterday, being rather cool outside, I programmed the cleaning feature and left the oven to do its work.
Much to my surprise, after a 3 hour cycle of intense heat that left all the other "gook" in ashes, the salt was still there - chunky and untouched. That's when the Lord reminded me that He wants us to be so salty and full of His word and grace that not only will others want to taste and see, but that we can withstand the heat - the heat that comes from the trials and intense situations of life.
Leviticus 2:13: . . . Salt is a reminder of God's covenant.
What situation could have been more intense than that of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego as told in Daniel Chapter 3? King Nebuchadnezzar heated the fiery furnace 7 times hotter than usual so as to toss the three lads in for not bowing to his statue. They knew their God was able and would deliver them - what great faith! Just as the salt survived, so did these three.
Daniel 3:27: The fire hadn't touched them - not a hair of their heads was singed; their coats were unscorched, and they didn't even smell of smoke!
Even at the end of our cycle of life, it will be our salt that remains from the ashes. Fill up your shaker today - sprinkle as needed, and be prepared if your dish will be baked, broiled or fried!
Mark 9:50: Good salt is worthless if it loses its saltiness; it can't season anything. So don't lose your flavor!
So go out today and enjoy all that God wants to share with you. God reveals his truths to everyone - even me through baking potatoes! If the world turns up the heat, you'll be ready! Be salty and survive virtually anything!
Luke 14:34: What good is salt that has lost its saltiness? Flavorless salt is fit for nothing - not even fertilizer. It is worthless and must be thrown out. Listen well if you would understand my meaning.*
* I understand his meaning, and that's another whole story about pruning that useless branch. I'll look forward to sharing that with you sometime soon.
Bible verses quoted from The Living Bible.
cbn
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
From God, for God and His People: "Peace in the Valley"
Lindsay Terry
For he is our peace . . .
One of the most prized possessions I have as a song historian is a cassette containing a recording of my interview with Thomas Andrew Dorsey, which he granted to me in 1977. In it he told me a great many things about himself and his music. Time and space will not allow me to tell his whole story, but I am passing on to you some of the highlights of his very active life as a musician, choir director, and songwriter.
Thomas Dorsey was born in Villa Rica, Georgia, a small town about forty miles from Atlanta. While still in his early teens, his attention was drawn to show business by the music of the black performers in Atlanta. He soon began playing piano in the jazz clubs, under the name of Georgia Tom. At age seventeen, he moved to Gary, Indiana, to pursue his music career. Two years later, he moved on to Chicago, where he enrolled in the Chicago College of Composition and Arranging and began playing with local jazz groups. He soon formed his own band, which became the backup group for Ma Rainey, a well-known blues singer.
In 1928, in partnership with slide guitarist Hudson “Tampa Red” Whitaker, he wrote and recorded a song that hit the top of the blues charts and sold more than seven million copies, according to one report. Dorsey is credited with writing more than 450 rhythm and blues and jazz songs, and with establishing the Dorsey House of Music in 1932, the first independent company to publish black gospel music.
Nevertheless, his life was proof that the world does not satisfy a Christian. After he suffered a nervous breakdown, it took two years for him to recuperate. During that time, the Lord was speaking to him. In 1930, he lost his wife and newborn son. He later said, “I was doing all right by myself, but the voice of God whispered, ‘You need to change a little.’” He eventually found that he could not be a part of the R&B and jazz world and do his work for the Lord properly.
He put together a choir at his church, Pilgrim Baptist Church, with Roberta Martin playing the piano. In 1933, he organized the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses, along with Sallie Martin, his good friend Theodore Frye, and several others. During our interview in 1977, he told me that he was still actively leading one of the choirs at the church. He was seventy-eight years old at the time.
His songs have been recorded by such diverse artists as Mahalia Jackson, Tennessee Ernie Ford, and Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. President Lyndon B. Johnson requested that “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” be sung at his funeral. It was also used at a rally led by Martin Luther King Jr. the night before his assassination.
In September 1981, Dorsey’s native state honored him with election to the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. In 1982, he was the first African-American elected to the Gospel Music Association’s Living Hall of Fame. In that same year, the Thomas A. Dorsey Archives were opened at Fisk University, where his collection joined those of W. C. Handy, George Gershwin, and the famed Jubilee Singers. In summing up his life as a Christian, Dorsey said that all of his work has been “from God, for God, and for His people.” In 1983, George T. Nierenberg produced a documentary of the history of gospel music, Say Amen, Somebody, in which Thomas Dorsey made a personal appearance. Dorsey was also elected to the Nashville Songwriters International Hall of Fame.
In 1937, he wrote a song for Mahalia Jackson, “Peace in the Valley,” which has become extremely popular. I will never forget hearing a young black man walking down a road on Andros Island, an out-of-the-way part of the Bahamas, singing “Peace in the Valley.” In the song, Dorsey speaks of being “tired and so weary,” a plight of many of God’s people who “must go along.” But there is coming a time when the “morning is bright and the Lamb is the Light.” In that time and place, the “night is as fair as the day” and there is no more sadness, sorrow, or trouble—only peace.
After the passing of Dorsey’s wife, Nettie, he later married again. I had the joy of speaking with Mrs. Kathryn Dorsey shortly before her husband’s death on January 23, 1993, in Chicago. Thomas Dorsey wrote nearly one thousand gospel songs in his lifetime.
Reflection
There is no word more precious than peace, nor a more joyous state of being for a Christian, than to know God’s peace. We long for it, and when it comes to us it is directly from our heavenly Father.
cbn
Lindsay Terry
For he is our peace . . .
One of the most prized possessions I have as a song historian is a cassette containing a recording of my interview with Thomas Andrew Dorsey, which he granted to me in 1977. In it he told me a great many things about himself and his music. Time and space will not allow me to tell his whole story, but I am passing on to you some of the highlights of his very active life as a musician, choir director, and songwriter.
Thomas Dorsey was born in Villa Rica, Georgia, a small town about forty miles from Atlanta. While still in his early teens, his attention was drawn to show business by the music of the black performers in Atlanta. He soon began playing piano in the jazz clubs, under the name of Georgia Tom. At age seventeen, he moved to Gary, Indiana, to pursue his music career. Two years later, he moved on to Chicago, where he enrolled in the Chicago College of Composition and Arranging and began playing with local jazz groups. He soon formed his own band, which became the backup group for Ma Rainey, a well-known blues singer.
In 1928, in partnership with slide guitarist Hudson “Tampa Red” Whitaker, he wrote and recorded a song that hit the top of the blues charts and sold more than seven million copies, according to one report. Dorsey is credited with writing more than 450 rhythm and blues and jazz songs, and with establishing the Dorsey House of Music in 1932, the first independent company to publish black gospel music.
Nevertheless, his life was proof that the world does not satisfy a Christian. After he suffered a nervous breakdown, it took two years for him to recuperate. During that time, the Lord was speaking to him. In 1930, he lost his wife and newborn son. He later said, “I was doing all right by myself, but the voice of God whispered, ‘You need to change a little.’” He eventually found that he could not be a part of the R&B and jazz world and do his work for the Lord properly.
He put together a choir at his church, Pilgrim Baptist Church, with Roberta Martin playing the piano. In 1933, he organized the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses, along with Sallie Martin, his good friend Theodore Frye, and several others. During our interview in 1977, he told me that he was still actively leading one of the choirs at the church. He was seventy-eight years old at the time.
His songs have been recorded by such diverse artists as Mahalia Jackson, Tennessee Ernie Ford, and Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. President Lyndon B. Johnson requested that “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” be sung at his funeral. It was also used at a rally led by Martin Luther King Jr. the night before his assassination.
In September 1981, Dorsey’s native state honored him with election to the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. In 1982, he was the first African-American elected to the Gospel Music Association’s Living Hall of Fame. In that same year, the Thomas A. Dorsey Archives were opened at Fisk University, where his collection joined those of W. C. Handy, George Gershwin, and the famed Jubilee Singers. In summing up his life as a Christian, Dorsey said that all of his work has been “from God, for God, and for His people.” In 1983, George T. Nierenberg produced a documentary of the history of gospel music, Say Amen, Somebody, in which Thomas Dorsey made a personal appearance. Dorsey was also elected to the Nashville Songwriters International Hall of Fame.
In 1937, he wrote a song for Mahalia Jackson, “Peace in the Valley,” which has become extremely popular. I will never forget hearing a young black man walking down a road on Andros Island, an out-of-the-way part of the Bahamas, singing “Peace in the Valley.” In the song, Dorsey speaks of being “tired and so weary,” a plight of many of God’s people who “must go along.” But there is coming a time when the “morning is bright and the Lamb is the Light.” In that time and place, the “night is as fair as the day” and there is no more sadness, sorrow, or trouble—only peace.
After the passing of Dorsey’s wife, Nettie, he later married again. I had the joy of speaking with Mrs. Kathryn Dorsey shortly before her husband’s death on January 23, 1993, in Chicago. Thomas Dorsey wrote nearly one thousand gospel songs in his lifetime.
Reflection
There is no word more precious than peace, nor a more joyous state of being for a Christian, than to know God’s peace. We long for it, and when it comes to us it is directly from our heavenly Father.
cbn
Monday, February 05, 2007
the narrow gate
13 Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. Matthew 7:13-14
Sheep need restoration because they have a tendency to stray and wander. They can be very stubborn and strong-willed. They can wander off the trail that the shepherd has blazed for them. And when that happens, the shepherd must restore them to the right path.
Isaiah 53:6 declares, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way.” When we decide to go our own way instead of following Jesus our Shepherd, life immediately gets more complicated and difficult. We find ourselves in trouble, and the problems are of our own making.
The Christian life is a trail. Or to put it another way, it's like a gate leading to a trail. Jesus described the two gates and where they lead: “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:13-14).
Before we receive Jesus as Savior, we're on the wrong trail. But when he draws us to himself, we find ourselves on the trail that leads from the narrow gate.
Even believers in Jesus, however, are tempted to wander off the right trail. The enemy will do all he can to divert us from the road of righteousness. It's true, as the old hymn says, we are prone to wander. And when we do, we quickly find ourselves in difficulty.
When a sheep wanders from the right path, it is in tremendous danger. But sheep don't realize how much danger is out there. A wild beast can suddenly turn a sheep into a meal. If it takes the wrong path, in no time at all a sheep may find itself on a precarious rocky ledge.
Is it possible that you've wandered from the narrow way? Run back to the trail of righteousness. It's the safest place in the whole world. —Steve Farrar stevefarrar.com
seeking: Father, what have you helped me to see about the trail I'm on? What are you asking me to do to follow you better?
responding: Is there a specific area in my spiritual walk that the Spirit of God is convicting me of? • What things tend to lead me astray from the narrow way? How can I gain victory over them?
Father, thank you for the trail of righteousness that you have placed before me. I know that it isn't the easy way. Because of that, I ask that you lead me as I strive to follow you in obedience.
following: Taking the right trail makes all the difference.
our journey
13 Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. Matthew 7:13-14
Sheep need restoration because they have a tendency to stray and wander. They can be very stubborn and strong-willed. They can wander off the trail that the shepherd has blazed for them. And when that happens, the shepherd must restore them to the right path.
Isaiah 53:6 declares, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way.” When we decide to go our own way instead of following Jesus our Shepherd, life immediately gets more complicated and difficult. We find ourselves in trouble, and the problems are of our own making.
The Christian life is a trail. Or to put it another way, it's like a gate leading to a trail. Jesus described the two gates and where they lead: “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:13-14).
Before we receive Jesus as Savior, we're on the wrong trail. But when he draws us to himself, we find ourselves on the trail that leads from the narrow gate.
Even believers in Jesus, however, are tempted to wander off the right trail. The enemy will do all he can to divert us from the road of righteousness. It's true, as the old hymn says, we are prone to wander. And when we do, we quickly find ourselves in difficulty.
When a sheep wanders from the right path, it is in tremendous danger. But sheep don't realize how much danger is out there. A wild beast can suddenly turn a sheep into a meal. If it takes the wrong path, in no time at all a sheep may find itself on a precarious rocky ledge.
Is it possible that you've wandered from the narrow way? Run back to the trail of righteousness. It's the safest place in the whole world. —Steve Farrar stevefarrar.com
seeking: Father, what have you helped me to see about the trail I'm on? What are you asking me to do to follow you better?
responding: Is there a specific area in my spiritual walk that the Spirit of God is convicting me of? • What things tend to lead me astray from the narrow way? How can I gain victory over them?
Father, thank you for the trail of righteousness that you have placed before me. I know that it isn't the easy way. Because of that, I ask that you lead me as I strive to follow you in obedience.
following: Taking the right trail makes all the difference.
our journey
Friday, February 02, 2007
Are Your Lights On?
Pat Young
I know most of us or perhaps all of us at one time in our lives have experienced the lights going out, whether in our homes, or in a place of business, school or church. Some of you may have experienced having your lights turned off because you forgot to pay your light bill, or just could not afford to pay the bill on time. I have experienced my lights going out several times through circumstances I had no control over. Usually a storm or an accident in the neighborhood causes it. Then "out go the lights."
Well, we know when the lights are out we are in darkness. We cannot see a thing. If we are not familiar with the surroundings, we are not able to even feel our way around to get to flash lights, candles, matches, or whatever we need. So it's a bad situation to be in -- DARKNESS.
Now, when things are functioning properly, we go home, turn on the light switch and we have light. We see everything. Sometimes things we don't want to see! Furniture needs dusting, floors need cleaning, and the list goes on. But it is still good to have light.
Before we gave our lives to Christ we were lost in darkness. Someone had to come along with his or her light shining bright, and tell us how to come out of darkness and into Christ's marvelous light.
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).
Jesus paid the price for all of us in full. He died on the cross and rose again. When we accept Christ in our lives our lights never have to go out. No matter what circumstances come our way, we never have to worry about paying our bill on time. It's been paid in full forever.
Without lights you're walking around in darkness, trying to make it, or trying to find your way. But you need the light of Christ. No one living in darkness will ever find their way without it. Like the saying "there's a light at the end of the tunnel", Jesus is that light at the end of everyone's tunnel.
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8).
No matter what problems arise, we can still let our lights shine. When people treat you bad -- let your light shine. When sickness comes upon you -- let your light shine. If money runs out -- let your light shine. We choose daily whom we will serve. Let us choose to serve Christ and let our lights shine BRIGHT!
cbn
Pat Young
I know most of us or perhaps all of us at one time in our lives have experienced the lights going out, whether in our homes, or in a place of business, school or church. Some of you may have experienced having your lights turned off because you forgot to pay your light bill, or just could not afford to pay the bill on time. I have experienced my lights going out several times through circumstances I had no control over. Usually a storm or an accident in the neighborhood causes it. Then "out go the lights."
Well, we know when the lights are out we are in darkness. We cannot see a thing. If we are not familiar with the surroundings, we are not able to even feel our way around to get to flash lights, candles, matches, or whatever we need. So it's a bad situation to be in -- DARKNESS.
Now, when things are functioning properly, we go home, turn on the light switch and we have light. We see everything. Sometimes things we don't want to see! Furniture needs dusting, floors need cleaning, and the list goes on. But it is still good to have light.
Before we gave our lives to Christ we were lost in darkness. Someone had to come along with his or her light shining bright, and tell us how to come out of darkness and into Christ's marvelous light.
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).
Jesus paid the price for all of us in full. He died on the cross and rose again. When we accept Christ in our lives our lights never have to go out. No matter what circumstances come our way, we never have to worry about paying our bill on time. It's been paid in full forever.
Without lights you're walking around in darkness, trying to make it, or trying to find your way. But you need the light of Christ. No one living in darkness will ever find their way without it. Like the saying "there's a light at the end of the tunnel", Jesus is that light at the end of everyone's tunnel.
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8).
No matter what problems arise, we can still let our lights shine. When people treat you bad -- let your light shine. When sickness comes upon you -- let your light shine. If money runs out -- let your light shine. We choose daily whom we will serve. Let us choose to serve Christ and let our lights shine BRIGHT!
cbn