The Family Under God

FAMILIES DON'T NEED THE US SEX EDUCATION PROGRAM.

2012-01-12T17:59:00.000-05:00

The new US Sex Education program was released to the public a couple days ago and it has all the features of an intrusive government project designed by secularists, evolutionists, and bureaucrats; in other words, it is NOT in the best interest of families who want to instill godly values into their children. The Government Sex Education program treats homosexual attraction as something normal and even includes the term "romantic" when describing such attractions. Moreover, the program has as one of its stated goals that "Young elementary school pupils should use the proper names for body parts."

Excuse me Miss Government Worker, I as a parent reserve the right to

teach my kids about their private body parts; that quite frankly is NOT A

LEGITIMATE FUNCTION OF GOVERNMENT.

Certain people in the government have for a long time wanted to

indoctrinate children with their immoral version of sexuality. It is part of

the plan to engineer a society in which the traditional family is replaced

by a constantly evolving series of living arrangements engaging a variety of

deviant sexual acts under the guise of "freedom of expression." The

report also calls for " those leaving eighth grade also to be able to evaluate

the effectiveness of abstinence, condoms and other safer sex methods

and know how emergency contraception works. "

Excuse me Mr. Government, the ONLY method of birth control that should

be taught to students in the eight, ninth, tenth, eleventh, or twelfth grade

is ABSTINENCE. NOT HAVING SEX IS ALWAYS SAFE for kids.

I do agree with the remarks by Valerie Huber who is the Executive

Director for the National Education Abstinence Association who stated:

"This should be a program about health, rather than agendas that have

nothing to do with optimal sexual health decision-making," Huber said.

"Controversial topics are best reserved for conversations between parent

and child, not in the classroom."

In closing, parents, it YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to teach your children about

sex, not the government at any level. Don't allow bureaucrats with unholy

agendas to usurp your authority.

FAMILY CONFLICT RESOLUTION

2012-01-03T17:21:00.000-05:00

King David, who knew a few things about conflict between family members penned in the 133rd Psalm:

'Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!'

David wrote these words following the end of the civil war between his men and the servants of his rival Saul. Let us remember that one of David's own brothers accused him of pride because he came to the scene of the battle with the Philistines and accepted Goliath's challenge, then defeated him. David also had some serious conflicts among his sons (See 2 Samuel 13:1-39 & 1 Kings 1:1-24.) A certain amount of conflict is inevitable even in the best of families, but a lot of unnecessary conflict may be avoided if people honestly identify the source of strife and purpose to find fair solutions. Families have fights because they have flesh, the fallen nature of Adam that is yet part of the human existence in this world. The Biblical writer James said it like this:

James 4:1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?

In other words if you really want to know the source of family conflict begin by honestly looking into your own heart and point out your own selfish desires. The word 'lust' is translated from the Greek word 'hedone' from which we get the English word 'hedonist' or 'hedonism.' A hedonist is one who lives primarily for selfish pleasures; he wishes to indulge himself, please his appetites, goes to sleep, then rises to indulge himself some more the next day. The first source of conflict in families comes from a selfish attitude that promotes a 'ME FIRST, I NEED TO HAVE MY WAY EVEN IF IT HURTS YOU IN SOME WAY' attitude. This is the primary source of conflict; the good news is that it may be resolved by yielding one's rights to the other person.

Another source of conflict within families is envy. When this carnal behavior is observed in children, parents must act immediately to stop it. If the parents are the ones responsible for creating an atmosphere of envy by favoring one child over the other, then they must change their behavior and address the problem. They must let each child know that he is equally loved. Any perceived favoritism should be carefully explained such as why one child may enjoy some privilege not afforded to the other; perhaps granted because of age or achievement. Among adult children, envy and its accompanying feeling of ill will can be remedied by honest dialogue and display of humility on both sides. Forgiveness for offenses and trespasses must be included in all conflict resolution.

Rebellion against parental authority will create conflict in the home. This may be remedied through systematic appropriate discipline and counseling. A rebellious child needs special attention and extra prayers, but he may also need a love motivated butt spanking. Spoiling the child by sparing the rod is still a Biblical truth. Using the rod of correction the way God intended is never child abuse; it is correction.

The most common kind of conflict that arises between family members involves some manner of real or perceived injustice done by one family member against another. Conflict may also arise because of criticism levied by one relative against another. In all of these instances I recommend honest dialogue to get to the bottom of the issues that divide the people in question. Having a wise elder in the family to serve as arbiter is a good idea, assuming such a person exists.

Lastly, family conflicts may arise because of disputes over money. I recommend that every married couple create a Last Will and Testament delineating how they wish for their finances and property be divided among their children when they die. This will go a long way to avoid strife over money and property. The source of all conflict (fightings) is the fallen carnal nature. It must be brought decisively under the control of the Holy Spirit.

And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

Galatians 5:24

BETHLEHEM NEWS

2011-12-24T14:08:00.001-05:00

HAD THERE BEEN SATELLITE TRANSMISSION 2000 YEARS AGO THE EVENTS SURROUNDING THE BIRTH OF CHRIST MIGHT HAVE SOUNDED LIKE THIS:

And now for the major stories of events around Jerusalem and Judea, but first we have breaking news; a group of shepherds are reporting an angelic apparition while they were going about their pastoral work in the countryside around Bethlehem. One of them excitedly stated that he was convinced that he and the others had seen the legendary "Shekinah" glory that dwelt in the temple at which Solomon built; 'I felt like I was transported into the very presence of God;' he said. Another related not one, but several angels, a great congregation of them raising their voices in a chorus of praise to God like they had never seen or heard before. Now this just in . . . we are getting reports that a statement was issued by one of the angels; something about a baby lying in a manger wrapped in swaddling clothes; allegedly this child is the promised "Messiah" of Bible prophecy. We will bring you more details of this breaking story as we learn them.

Luke 2:15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

The name 'Bethlehem' means house of bread; and it was from this town fewer than seven miles from Jerusalem, where God by prophecy and wisdom ordained the birth of HIS Son, HE who is also called the Bread of Life. God delivered the announcement via angels to humble shepherds for He knew that they would diligently look into what they were told, and moreover that they would enthusiastically spread the truth of what they would see. The mighty, the wealthy, the erudite, the scholars would get the big news second hand, but God's shepherds received it first through Divine transmission.

If you really want to enjoy a delightful Christmas, go and look into the things that were said about Jesus Christ. Enter HIS presence to praise, worship, and celebrate HIS gift; then go and tell abroad with boldness that the baby born in Bethlehem is God's ultimate blessing to the people of the world.

Reporting from Bethlehem News; Merry Christmas.

COMMENT ON CHINA'S ONE CHILD POLICY

2011-12-20T15:25:00.002-05:00

Enforced under the guise of "population control" China's one child policy has resulted in an overall decline in the female population because of the traditional Chinese preference for sons. (See video below.) Here is another example why good government stays out of making any policy that tampers with the natural laws which govern the family. Under normal circumstances there is a balance between the number of boys and girls born in a country each year. In the United States it is around 51% boys and 49% girls. (US Census Bureau) World wide there are slightly more women than men. Left alone, humans will reproduce and bring forth roughly the same number of girl babies as boy babies into the world in any given country. China now has millions of young men that do not have a potential bride anywhere to be found in the entire country.

As part of their "population control" program the Chinese government sends workers out into the villages and towns promoting abortion and sterilization to the women. The one child policy has motivated many couples to obtain an abortion if they can find out by ultra sound that the unborn child is female. Didn't the Chinese government know that their people held such strong traditional preferences that this situation would develop? Did they care? Aside from the fact that the brightest minds in a country do not necessarily end up in public service, I would have to assume that the government was aware of the danger but enacted the policy anyway. China has a communist collectivist government. Under communism the rights of the individual is subordinate to the desires of the state. Or as they would put it; "what's in the best interest of the people." Communists are not interested in protecting a couple's right to have as many children as they desire, only in maintaining power for the elite in the government. The thought that by limiting the number of children to one per family, they could then see a reduction in the total population of China. Elitist don't like large masses of people, for they are difficult to control in an uprising. They would rather have a smaller, more miserable population that will pay homage to them. This is why historically every single communist regime has conducted some sort of bloody purge on its own citizenry. Communists hate freedom; they hate the freedom of religion, they hate the freedom of speech, they hate the freedom to assemble, they hate the freedom to dissent; if this sounds like they hate the First Amendment to the US Constitution you are right. Communists also hate the family as designed by God with a husband and wife choosing how many children they wish to have by the providence of the Almighty. Some in the news media try to portray the current Chinese regime as much more open and benevolent than their predecessor. I'll leave you with this thought:

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
Matthew 7:16-17

China: One Child One Family Policy

2011-12-20T14:27:00.000-05:00

WHY IS THERE A BULLYING PROBLEM IN SCHOOLS?

2011-12-07T11:26:00.000-05:00

School bullying has become such a severe problem that Congress had to address it publicly just a couple years ago. According to recent statistics about 33% of students in America's schools report being bullied once a month and 60% claim they witness someone being bullied daily at school. What? Six out of every ten kids in school witness a bullying incident each day? I thought school was a place where you could go for learning important facts about the world around you; not where you go to become a victim of a crime perpetrated by one of your peers. To make matters worse it is believed that up to 15% of students miss school each day because of fear of some bully at their school. Now there have always been bullying at schools, even back in the 20th century when I was in school. But, why is this happening with such frequency? Why is there suddenly an explosion of bullying, which is the threat of violence or actual violence committed by one child against another? The answer can be found in the condition of the home of the bullies. The average bully is a child who has not been trained and cared for as he or she needed to be. The bully was born into a family but was never nurtured by a loving father and mother. Social skills were not passed on to him, neither was the Biblical injunction of loving one's neighbor as thyself. The bully's thinking is dominated by selfishness, arrogance, and resentment for the things that has happened to him. Love was not given to him, so he has no concept of sharing that with others. Why should he? He believes that intimidation and force are the avenues to getting whatever he wants out of life. He is so self centered that causing pain to someone else in order to achieve those goals doesn't bother him. Perhaps he himself was a victim of abuse or neglect; therefore, what he dishes out to the students at school is what they "deserve;" so he believes in his distorted way of thinking.

Sir, ma'am; are you raising a bully? Have you taken the time to introduce your child to the God of Love and Grace? Have you introduced your son or daughter to Jesus, the Son of the Living God who offers pardon and power for living right? Have you taken the time to explain to your son or daughter that the way to acquire the things he wants is through diligent study and hard honest work? Have you shown your kids how to treat people the way they wish to be treated? Have you spent a day with your son and daughter simply to encourage them to look at life from a healthy Christ centered point of view? Have you told your son or daughter that you love them and given them a hug for no special occasion? Have you taken the time to find out what is on his or her mind? Have you taken the time to speak to your child's school teacher to find out what kind of behavior he is exhibiting at school? have you explained to him that inflicting fear and pain on another child will not make him a better person? Have you disciplined your child accordingly when it is needed?

Every bully terrorizing a school building today was born into a someone's family, but his training was given over to forces that did not love him.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

TEN REASONS TO GIVE THANKS.

2011-11-23T09:53:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Day is really about giving honor and praise to God for HIS abundant supply; HIS undeserved graciousness, and mercy. Unlike the Pharisee in the book of Luke who was self-righteous and gave himself credit for his own perceived moral superiority: The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
Luke 18:11-12

This man believed that he could be justified before God solely on his own righteousness not realizing that God demands perfect righteousness in order to enter HIS Kingdom. He compared himself to another man instead of measuring himself by the standards of the Law of God. Thanksgiving must emanate from a truly humble spirit that sees itself as a recipient of Divine favor and is willing to acknowledge that every good gift and perfect gift descended upon him from the hand of the Almighty. Here is my list of ten things I am most thankful for:

1. I give thanks that one of the names of my God is Jehovah-jireh; the
LORD will provide. (Genesis 22:14)

2. I give thanks that I am kept by the power of my God unto salvation; I
am just as saved now as I was over thirty years ago when I trusted
Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. (1 Peter 1:5)

3. I give thanks for the ability to enjoy and use the blessing of a sound
mind. ( 2 Timothy 1:7)

4. I give thanks for my wife and her constant companionship. (Proverbs
18:22)

5. I give thanks for my children and grandchild. (Proverbs 17:6)

6. I give thanks for my local church and its faithful stance for the Gospel
message. (Romans 1:16)

7. I give thanks for the freedom of yet living in a free Constitutional
Republic. (Isaiah 33:22)

8. I give thanks for the many men and women that are still concerned
about serving others in the public and private sectors and not just
greedily enriching their own coffers. (Exodus 18:21)

9. I give thanks for my old friends that have supported my ministry
throughout the year and for the new friends
whom I have met this year.(Proverbs 17:17)

10. I give thanks for the physical blessings I possess knowing that they are
gifts from a rich Father whose resources are limitless. ( 1 Timothy6:17)

These are the ten things for which I am most grateful, now what are yours?

Skype Call Recorder, Riviera for Skype

2011-11-23T07:47:00.000-05:00

Skype Call Recorder, Riviera for Skype

Thanksgiving Family Forum – Complete Video

2011-11-21T07:24:00.000-05:00

Presidential candidates answer questions about family values, morality, and social issues.

Thanksgiving Family Forum – Complete Video

TELL CONGRESS TO LEAVE MARRIAGE ALONE.

2011-11-10T13:58:00.000-05:00

The following news article aptly illustrates why government needs to cease from any attempt to re-define marriage along non-traditional lines; it is also is a good reason to vote against any politician who refuses to stand up for marriage as defined as one man and one woman. Personally I am taking names and voting with my convictions, my conscience, and my Christ in this matter. While it is true that the Federal Government ought to let the states define marriage in their state constitutions, it is a mark of good government to vote in accordance with well established standards of righteousness and decency and side with the word of God, as well as over 5,000 years of documented human history concerning marriage. Good rulers encourage healthy public policies, rotten rulers seek to overthrow these. Any politician who votes in favor of same sex marriage is surely corrupt and not fit to lead.

ANY POLITICIAN WHO VOTES IN FAVOR OF SAME SEX MARRIAGE IS SURELY CORRUPT.

Senate Democrats who back gay marriage have decided now is the time to repeal a federal law defining marriage as the union of a man and a woman.

The Democrats may satisfy their gay marriage supporters, but the bill won't get very far.

The repeal was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday, but the next stop -- the full Senate -- could be a long way off. The bill's chief sponsor, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., says she doesn't have the votes for Senate passage, and the bill would have no chance in a House controlled by Republican conservatives.

The chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., defended the timing of the panel's vote on the Defense of Marriage Act. "It is never the wrong time to right an injustice," he said.

Feinstein's bill has 31 Senate sponsors, all Democrats. Most Republicans fiercely oppose the repeal.

"Traditional marriage between a man and a woman has been the foundation of our society for 6,000 years," said Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, the ranking Republican on the Judiciary panel. "The Defense of Marriage Act protects this sacred institution, which I believe in, and attempts to dismantle this law are likely to be met with a great deal of resistance."

Lacking enough votes in the House or Senate, Grassley said the Democratic effort in the Judiciary Committee "makes it no more than a cynical political gesture to the Democrats' base."

It is likely that the issue will be debated right up to the 2012 elections, while challenges to the law take place in several federal appeals courts. Conservatives vowed to make it a front-burner issue after President Barack Obama decided in February his administration no longer would defend the law.

Much has changed since President Bill Clinton signed the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996. The District of Columbia and six states now recognize gay marriage: Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, New York and New Hampshire.

The federal law has a huge negative economic impact on all gay couples through the denial of federal government benefits.

The couples cannot file joint federal income tax returns and take deductions available in traditional marriages. There are no spousal Social Security benefits. They can't take advantage of the Family and Medical Leave law that protects one's job and health insurance during emergency absences. Surviving gay spouses have no protection from estate taxes.

Leahy voted for the law in 1996 but has since changed his mind.

"I voted for DOMA as a way to allow states to maintain their independence and define marriage as each state saw fit," Leahy said.

Leahy said he now believes the law undermines protections in the states that allow gay marriage. He said the law "created a tier of second-class families who are not treated equally under the law."

The repeal would not obligate any person, state or locality to perform same-sex marriages.

Feinstein, who voted against the current law, said, "It has been firmly established over decades that marriage is a legal preserve of the states.

"DOMA was wrong when it was passed and should be repealed. And this bill will do that. It will strike DOMA from federal law and restore the role of states in determining who may marry in this country. I believe the time has come."

Obama said recently he is "still working" on his views of gay marriage. He supports civil unions but has thus far not backed same-sex marriage.

Numerous recent polls suggest a slight majority of Americans favor giving same-sex couples the right to marry.

Thirty-seven states currently have statutory Defense of Marriage acts. Three of those states have laws that predate the federal act.

GO WASH SEVEN TIMES.

2011-11-03T10:57:00.000-04:00

2 Kings 5:9-10 So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariot, and stood at the door of the house of Elisha. And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean.

In essence, Elisha was saying to this pagan general Naaman, if you want God's healing in your body then follow this simple command. Getting God's best in one's life is always something helpful, rather than harmful. However, God's best is often hidden from plain sight and must be secured through faith which is spiritual sight. Something else to consider, is that when we hold back and fail to operate based upon faith in God's promises, HE then holds back HIS best from us; for without faith it is impossible to please God. (See Hebrews 11:6)

Now exactly what was the message given to this leprous, idolatrous, Syrian officer? What was significant about him washing himself in the river Jordan, the same stream where John the Baptist, many generations later, would baptize Jesus the Messiah? I believe there are seven items that may be a blessing to you and I on this day derived from the truth of this Biblical account. If you are in need of a blessing: (who isn't?)

1. Go humble yourself; "before honour is humility." I have witnessed many young people fresh out of college who desire to be promoted all the way to the top of the organization in their first couple of years on the job; most don't realize that there is a proving period that one must endure along with a learning curve that extends beyond the classroom. God gives grace to the humble while HE steadfastly resists the proud. (James 4:6)

2. Get under God's authority; the only institution founded by Jesus Christ which was promised Divine authority, resources, and guidance is the local New Testament church. Every believer in Christ should be active in such a church and submit to the authority of the word of God. There is the church, or there is the world; the former belongs to the living God, the latter is passing away.

3. Deny self; a disciplined life results in more happiness long term than a life of indulgence. The god of self has ruined more lives than all the wars of the past century.

4. God's ways, not our ways; Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
Obviously, Naaman's way wasn't working, neither did Peter's way work as it led him to deny his lord, neither did Saul of Tarsus' way work as he persecuted Christians in spiritual blindness. Our ways are often motivated by power, greed, lust, or selfishness, so they keep us leprous, unclean, and unfit for the Lord's use.

5. Demonstrate some faith; I don't need to see the signal in the air in order to receive a cell phone call, I simply need to turn on the cell phone and let the transmitter and the receiver connect and the phone will do exactly what it was designed to do. Faith works well when it is put into practice by the person who professes to have faith.

6. Seek the kingdom of God and HIS righteousness; this is the first order of business each day. It has to be item number one on your agenda. There can only be one champion in anything, either Jesus is the Lord or HE is a loser. If HE is a loser with you then you will remain unclean, unfit, and unused; it's only those that seek to please HIM that emerge victorious in life, free from the pollution of the soul, and the dishonoring presence of sin in the body.

7. Obedience brings joy; now look at the leper. When he finally surrendered to the simple commandment from Elisha:

2 Kings 5:14 Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.

We know that he was very pleased because in the very next verse we see the once scornful leper is now standing before the man of God, praising the God of Israel, singing the praises of Elisha, and offering him gifts.

The point is this, the simple commands of the word of God provide a deep refreshing spring of joy, real security in troubling times and are the fountain head for healing of many harmful conditions of the soul and the body. Naaman scoffed at Elisha's prescription; "go wash in Jordan seven times" because there was no ceremony, no bright lights, no musical instruments or other fanfare associated with it. Just do what the man of God says and you will be clean. His change of heart that led to his cleansing shows us how much we can benefit from following God's plan, instead of our own.

Grace is a free teacher, faith is an obedient working student.

One World Currency Is Coming Soon!

2011-10-26T12:41:00.001-04:00

Revelation 13:16-18 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.

New Jersey Teacher Being Persecuted for Christian Beliefs Posted on Own Facebook Page | Godfather Politics

2011-10-20T15:17:00.000-04:00

One of the ways the communists conquer a nation from within is by corrupting its morals and destroying its Judeo-christian value system. If the Christian concept of family is removed from the minds of the youth it will be easier to impose an atheistic, communist, and oppressive government upon them. The depiction of homosexuality as normal behavior is being vigorously promoted in many public schools and the censorship of Christians is increasing. You must understand this as an assault on religious freedom and free speech in America. Either you speak up now or you will be buried by this avalanche of evil.

New Jersey Teacher Being Persecuted for Christian Beliefs Posted on Own Facebook Page | Godfather Politics

The Most Secured and Safest Place On Earth

2011-10-13T11:27:00.000-04:00

BY THE WAY, HOMOSEXUALITY IS WRONG.

2011-09-23T13:09:00.001-04:00

"An honors student in Fort Worth, Texas, was sent to the principal’s office and punished for telling a classmate that he believes homosexuality is wrong."
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/09/22/texas-school-punishes-boy-for-opposing-homosexuality/#ixzz1YnETBJO5

I stand with this young man 100% and applaud him for standing up for his beliefs. Homosexuality is WRONG. It is wrong spiritually, it is wrong morally, it is wrong biologically. It is defiance of God and HIS natural order of human sexuality and is anti-family, as defined and defended by the Almighty.

Notice Romans 1:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

and,

Jude 1:7 Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.

The expression "going after strange flesh" should be understood to mean unnatural lusts; desiring sexual contact with individuals of the same sex as in Sodom;

Genesis 19:5 And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them.

Sodomy is a vile sin against a Holy God and those who promote, practice, or protect it are in violation of God's moral edict. I would counsel my children and my grandchildren to say the same thing that young man in Texas said. He was merely stating his beliefs and no school had any right to punish him for honestly expressing his views. It doesn't make him a hater of homosexuals any more than a teacher who gives a student a failing grade in a class because all of his or her tests and assignments were sub-standard hates the student.

God does not hate homosexuals, HE is a Holy and Righteous God and all sin, whether its blasphemy, murder, adultery, theft, lying, or bigotry is condemned by HIM, in the Bible. The problem that some in our 21st century culture have with the God of the Bible is HIS lack of "political correctness," as defined by liberal politicians, brain washed academicians, and apostate theologians. However, I stand with the young man in the news story and his mother, and all of the other millions of people around the world that will always view homosexual behavior as wrong behavior.

When righteous speech is despised, and perversion is respected;

don't be a bit surprised to know, on the road to Sodom are we headed.

TEACH CHILDREN TO READ: ILLITERACY IS A CURSE

2011-09-16T13:40:00.002-04:00

It is a thrill to see young children learning to read phonetically as early as four years of age. The ability to read opens the master door to increasingly greater opportunities for successful interaction with the world around us. The printed page, or the electronic screen is the medium through which a child may discover the workings and wonders of the universe. I taught my children to read the Bible at age five as they were learning to read other books because I believe it is imperative that a young mind be trained with the knowledge of God. Since God is light and in Him is no darkness at all, it behooves all parents to include the knowledge of the true God in their child's education.

It is estimated that 85% of juvenile lawbreakers are "functionally illiterate." This means that they are incapable of reading above the 4th grade level; most would not be able to write a simple paragraph or use a dictionary. In the adult prison population 60% of those incarcerated would likewise fall into this category. The evidence is incontrovertible; illiterate people, especially men, tend to embrace a life of crime. Since they never had the lamp of learning turned on for them they lack the social and technical skills to earn an honest living in this society. In the 1954 Supreme Court ruling, Brown vs. Board of Education the high court indicated that a quality education was essential to a child's success in life. Despite this documented fact only a minority of parents read to their children. Reading to one's son or daughter is a great way to establish a closer bond. Entrusting every aspect of learning to the teacher at school is not the best way to train a child. The parent in the home must assume some level of responsibility. The television should not replace reading good wholesome books in a child's life.

It is a curse on an individual to be illiterate. It is a curse on a school system that turns out so many illiterate graduates. I don't believe money alone can solve the problem. School administrators and educators must return to ethical and fundamental principles of education. Most importantly, the knowledge of God must be incorporated in a child's education. Not sectarianism, but rather Biblicism. This is urgently needed before we are compelled to observe a National Day of Ignorance created by the Federal Government.

Illiteracy is widespread, a problem in every community, not limited to

any race, region or socioeconomic class.

As many as 23% of the adult American population (40-44 million) is functionally illiterate (Level 1 according to the National Adult Literacy Survey), lacking basic skills beyond a fourth-grade level.

Isaiah 29:12 And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned.

Once Gay, Now Christian Couple Discuss Homosexuality – Patriot Update

2011-08-24T13:22:00.000-04:00

Once Gay, Now Christian Couple Discuss Homosexuality – Patriot Update

OUR GREATEST NEED

2011-08-05T11:44:00.001-04:00

Contrary to the teaching of popular Christianity of the 21st century, I must tell you that our greatest need is not of a physical nature. It cannot be bought or sold, and it cannot be measured or weighed. Our greatest need is not financial prosperity. Our greatest need is not enjoying the "American dream." It is not even the need for food or shelter. Our greatest need as humans is to have our sins forgiven. Forgiveness of sins is the only way a fallen human may be reconciled to a Holy and altogether Righteous God.

Hebrews 9:11-12 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

The book of Hebrews has been called the "Fifth Gospel" by some. Its main theme is Jesus, the Great High Priest. The writer of Hebrews carefully and clearly outlined the current ministry of our Lord and Savior as one of intercession and guarantor of eternal salvation (5:9.) As a prophet Jesus predicted events that would occur beyond HIS Judean ministry; as King HE awaits the appropriate time to institute a Kingdom of Righteousness and Truth; but as a High Priest who is ascended and exalted HE provides the ministry that you and I need the most. Redemption by blood, the forgiveness of sins. Without this forgiveness, those of us who are aware of our conscience, would be shackled by guilt.Without this forgiveness our sinful soul would face eternal torments. Without this forgiveness there is no entry through the gates of pearls in Heaven.

OUR GREATEST NEED AS HUMANS IS TO HAVE OUR SINS FORGIVEN.

I. The Position of the High Priest: Aaron was the first ordained High Priest of Israel. He was set apart under Moses who anointed him with olive oil as a symbol of his special position (Exodus 28:1, 29:7.) The High Priest's position was one of honor and power. Jesus is greater than Aaron, because HIS High Priestly ministry continues forever, while Aaron's ended.

II. The Performance of the High Priest: He was ordained to receive the sacrificial offerings of the people and make intercession for them before God. Each year on the sacred day of atonement the High Priest was to enter the place in the temple called the Holy of Holies or the most holy place and there he was to offer a blood sacrifice to atone for the sins of the nation and for himself. Only the High Priest could perform this duty and only with the blood of an innocent creature. This work typified the permanent atonement provided by Christ's death on the cross. Christ entered Heaven itself and is now interceding for HIS people. Literally, Jesus keeps us saved!

III. The Present High Priest: Hebrews 2:17-18 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

The present High Priest is fully capable of identifying with human temptations, suffering, and pain. HE alone understands the scope of human weakness and the depravity of the human heart. HE is indeed the friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

One of the great truths of Holy Scripture is that Jesus was tempted to sin, but always chose not to sin. An effective High Priest of God MUST be without sin in his life. Because of this every prayer offered to the Father is guaranteed an answer in the affirmative. Jesus is sinless, we are sinners who need HIS forgiveness and cleansing.

Hebrews 10:21-22 And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

IV. Problems we may bring to the High Priest: The list of problems one may bring before the High Priest is virtually limitless. From the common cold to caring for another person; anything and everything may be brought before HIM. HE is concerned about your every need; understands fear, emotional pain, excitement, anger, frustration, depression, anxiety, and every kind of relationship issue. If we only knew how much Jesus, our Great High Priest cares for us we would enjoy far more peace in the midst of a society that is spinning out of control.

V. Praises we may bring to our High Priest: Like the list of problems so is the quantity of praises we may offer to Jesus Christ. The book of Revelation tells us that HE is worthy to receive riches and honor, and power and glory . . . HE is the Bread of Life and the giver of the Water of Life. HE is the Truth and HE sends the Comforter; HE is the Great High Priest who offers to take care of mankind's greatest need which is the Way to get his sin debt paid in full, for free. If you ever had someone pay your bills because they love you, you may begin to understand the depth of the love of God for HIS people in Jesus Christ. HE is worthy of all praise.

VI. Plea of the High Priest: It is the earnest desire of God that people in the world come to know HIM as Savior. HE is not a Savior who is distant, political, or unsympathetic to our plight. Unlike a secular ruler, Christ can be reached immediately and in reality we can be in touch with HIM constantly and daily. HIS desire is that as we learn HIS ways we will be able to share HIS message of forgiveness and eternal salvation with the world of lost people that is all around us. HIS plea:
That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21

CHRISTIANS SERVE A GOD WHO CAN BE KNOWN AND WANTS TO BE KNOWN.

VII. Promises of the High Priest: It is impossible for God to lie (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18.) Every promise made to believers will be perfectly fulfilled. because of the ministry of our Great High Priest we have the promise of eternal salvation, fellowship with God, entrance into the Heavenly city, but most of all the sin debt that enslaves the human race to the devil has been paid in full; and the new heart we receive despises sin. I rest on those promises, how about you?

Lawsuit Filed To Overturn N.Y. Gay Marriages

2011-07-25T13:30:00.000-04:00

Lawsuit Filed To Overturn N.Y. Gay Marriages

THE PROMISED REDEEMER

2011-07-22T10:30:00.000-04:00

In the book of beginnings God promised mankind a Redeemer. The Redeemer is the person who has the right and wherewithal to secure your freedom. For people who are aware that they were born in sin this is extremely important.

Genesis 3:15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

He is called the 'Seed of the woman;' a supernaturally conceived Deliverer of humanity would be born to a woman without the inclusion of the seed from a man. The 'Seed of the woman' would 'bruise' the serpent's head. The head is the symbol of authority. The serpent was the instrument of the Devil, Satan, the Wicked one. Since Jesus Christ lived and died without sinning HE effectively removed Satan's authority over those that believe in HIS free offer of redemption.

The serpent 'bruised' his heel; Satan arranged for Jesus to be crucified to fulfill God's plan. The 'Seed of the woman' has and will be in constant warfare with the seed of the serpent throughout history. The seed of the serpent refers to those who are yet in bondage to the father of liars. To give you a few examples of this struggle let me point out that there is conflict between those that seek salvation by works and sacraments and those that believe that Jesus Christ is the true and only Way to God. There is a major difference in the world view of those that believe that humanity can save itself through technology and by evolving and those who believe that God the Creator is the only Savior of all mankind and that ultimately our technology will not be able to save us. There is discord between those in the so called "emerging church" movement which seek to mix neo-pagan practices with elements of Christianity, embracing all manner of aberrant lifestyles, and those that advocate only a pure Biblical church established exclusively upon the teachings of Jesus and HIS apostles.

Today, increasingly there is conflict between those (like myself) who believe that truth makes one free, and those who would suppress truth for social or political expediency. There is conflict between those who would change the definition of the family for something that violates the very essence of the family such as same sex marriage.

The promised Redeemer, Jesus Christ, is hated by the serpent and so it was necessary to rid the world of HIM; however, the place of the crucifixion was called Calvary which means the place of a skull. On that hill the cross of Jesus was inserted into the skull, symbolically bruising the serpent's head just like it was prophesied in Genesis. The serpent's power has been broken; for those who have been REDEEMED by blood. We do not need to operate in the realm of unbelief, mysticism, ignorance, or spiritual blindness. Our redeemer has bought us and has set us free. This freedom is not merely physical in nature, it is at the level of the human soul.

Job 19:25-26 For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:

CHRISTIANS SHOULD ONLY MARRY CHRISTIANS.

2011-07-13T13:16:00.000-04:00

2 Corinthians 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

If you are a believer in Christ who is thinking of getting married to someone who is not a Christian, I must say to you STOP. You may save yourself a lot of misery by reading this blog. Marriage is a lifelong union between a man and a woman who share many ideals. They value the same things, they enjoy many of the same activities, they often are from the same culture, and socio-economic status. One of the things they MUST have in common is their faith in God. Because Christianity in its purest sense is really a spiritual relationship between God and man, as well as a spiritual kinship between saved people, Christians who marry outside of their faith will come to realize that an integral part of their marital life is missing. The part that will be missing is the bond of the Holy Spirit that enables believers to experience true intimacy and joy in their relationship. In addition to this, and even more importantly, is the desire in the spouses to serve God in some capacity with their lives. A Christian has the Spirit of God who is present and capable to lead him or her to obey God in all areas of life. The unbeliever does not have the Spirit of God and is thus unwilling or unable to see the importance of living one's life to the glory of God. When the believing spouse decides to get his heart right with God, faithfully attend church, study the Bible, and seek God frequently in prayer he will often find himself alone in these endeavors. His unbelieving spouse may even mock him for participating in these things or may go along in body, but be absent in spirit and display no enthusiasm. The non-believer may even consider the virtues of the Christian to be 'boring.'

The concept of being unequally yoked mentioned in the 2 Corinthian passage originated in the Old Testament teaching of Moses in the Law:

Deuteronomy 22:10 Thou shalt not plow with an ox and an ass together.

The reason for this instruction was due to the fact that the ox has a different step and an entirely different nature than the donkey. The farmer who would attempt to plow a field with these two animals joined together at the neck by a wooden 'yoke' would soon discover that he made a big mistake. The strength of the ass could not equal the strength of the ox. The ox would have to bear most of the weight. He will not be able to plow effectively, being hindered by the nature of the ass in the duo; thus the crop he intended to plant would be in jeopardy. He would never enjoy a harvest. Moreover, it has been noted that oxen often avoid asses because of their smelly breath which is offensive to the ox. Why try to pair two creatures that really don't have kindred spirits? One will not wish to work for any length of time with the other and will soon part and go their separate ways. The ox is considered a 'clean' animal, while the ass is regarded as 'unclean' under the Law of Moses.

Attempting to build a "Christian" home or trying to give children a "Christian" upbringing when only one of the parents is a real Christian spells trouble. It often leads to resentment of the things of God, because the child observes inconsistencies in the home. There may be a constant struggle between the father and the mother about the importance of church attendance, the type of entertainment that is acceptable in the home, the kind of language that is used, the kind of friends that each associate with, using money to support the church; and many, many other moral, religious, and social issues. Why? Because to be married to an unbeliever is like trying to merge the Temple of the God of Israel with the temple of a pagan idol and pretending that both represent the same Deity and standards, and that a person may worship in either one without offending his conscience. The truth is there isn't any common ground between the worship of the true God and burning incense to an idol in a shrine. To institute pagan religious practices into the Temple of God would desecrate the Temple. Taking the service of God into a shrine dedicated to an idol would be inappropriate for both the worshipers of the true God and those that devote themselves to the idol.

TO BE UNEQUALLY YOKED WITH AN UNBELIEVER MEANS THAT YOUR MARRIAGE WILL BE IN A PERMANENT STATE OF STRUGGLE.

Finding a dedicated mature Christian spouse may require more time and patience, but it will pay strong lifelong dividends. Christian men should only marry Christian women. It guarantees a life of peace and accomplishment, and most importantly the forming of a dynamic spiritual team that will influence the world through their children for generations after they are gone.

CHRISTIAN MEN SHOULD ONLY MARRY CHRISTIAN WOMEN.

FATHERHOOD and the BIRTHRIGHT - 6

2011-06-21T23:16:00.002-04:00

FATHERHOOD and the BIRTHRIGHT - 5

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FATHERHOOD and the BIRTHRIGHT -4

2011-06-21T23:15:00.000-04:00

FATHERHOOD and the BIRTHRIGHT -3

2011-06-21T23:14:00.000-04:00

FATHERHOOD and the BIRTHRIGHT -2

2011-06-21T23:13:00.000-04:00

Fatherhood and the Birthright

2011-06-21T23:11:00.000-04:00

HOW GOD UPLIFTS HIS PEOPLE.

2011-06-17T17:57:00.000-04:00

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Isaiah 41:10

You may recognize the words from Isaiah 41:10 as the lyrics for Martin Luther's hymn "How Firm a Foundation." If there was ever a time for you to build a strong solid foundation in the Biblical Christian faith it is RIGHT NOW. There are many winds blowing contrary to the family's best interest at this time. There is economic uncertainty, high unemployment, inflation, high gasoline prices, a drug war raging on the southern border. In addition to these troubling events I might add the proliferation of corrupt and perverse elected officials, and their attempt to institutionalize sodomy as a "normal" way of life while seeking to undermine the historical Christian concept of marriage. Yes, these are days for men and women of conviction to exercise spiritual leadership in the home, the church, and the nation.

Occasionally, however, the Christian Soldier may become weary. I as a pastor never get weary of doing the work of the Lord's Ministry, but sometimes I get weary IN the ministry. We all need that encouraging word, the kind phrase, the warm affectionate gesture. Sometimes the confirmation of God's encouragement comes via a phone call, at other times it may be a card with an uplifting message and a handwritten note, at other times a good friend or a like minded stranger will stop by to bring some much needed good news.

Godly music has a special place in the process of encouragement. Make sure the lyrics deliver a true and clear message of grace or of praise. The melody ought to speak to the soul in such a way that it expresses harmony with the message given by the words. Music can influence moods and it does affect the emotions. If it is true Christian music it will present a crystal clear message that is consistent with Bible Christology.

God reassures us that HE is with us with open doors of opportunity to work, to witness, and to do HIS will. Real faith is not conquered by circumstances, neither by carnality; we are more than conquerors through HIM that loved us. You men that are fathers, if you are feeling somewhat weak right now you may call upon HIM whose fingers crafted the stars, whose arm brought salvation from eternal ruin. Men who bend their knees to God find strength to meet challenges that is not readily present in men who don't bother to pray. Someone once asked Pastor Charles H. Spurgeon what was the secret of his influence and power; and he didn't hesitate to point out all of the people at his church that were praying for him and his ministry on a daily basis. I believe if there is one priceless activity I would have my fellow Christians do for me is to bathe me in prayer twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. Prayer is like an artillery strike on the enemy's position; it is so uplifting and carries many benefits along with it. Things like spiritual power, persuasiveness over the minds of men, inner peace, salvation of lost souls, the ability to discern truth from error, favorable relationships with otherwise difficult people, right decision making are all by products of a consistent prayer life.

The Bible has dozens of passages that deal specifically with the topic of encouragement. Get your concordance or your Bible dictionary and research them; find as many as you can. Many of them are in the Psalms, which is the premiere book of encouragement in the world. Then there are the many passages that contain the word "fear not," and "I am with thee." These are in the Bible because it is important that we be convinced that we do have God's presence with us to keep us encouraged, strong, and sane.

VIRTUE ETHICS

2011-06-09T13:23:00.000-04:00

The Christian understands ethics as Moral Uprightness as opposed to being corrupt or crooked.

2 Peter 1:5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

Virtue must be developed in a person's character. In a world where it is not deemed important by some it proves its value over and over again by its performance and the way it enhances the desirability of those who possess it. Character is who you are; not what others may say or even think about you. Your character is your internal value system at work; it reveals your ethics. The Bible has a lot to say about character:

1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

God is the ultimate judge of character and HE is not the least bit impressed by stature, worldly prestige and connection, charm, or any of the other hosts of things that people are swayed by today. When God searched for a king to rule over HIS people HE sought for someone who most closely resembled HIMSELF in terms of character; thus David was called "a man after HIS own heart." (1Samuel 13:14)

Psalms 10:13 Wherefore doth the wicked contemn God? he hath said in his heart, Thou wilt not require it.

The wicked people contemn (despise) God due to their lack of virtue and knowledge. They are ignorant of the the fact that God IS A CONSUMING FIRE. (Hebrews 12:29) In disbelieving the righteous capabilities of God they assume that they can get away with their evil deeds without any penalties, This is the mentality of the corrupt, the crook, the cowardly criminal.

Psalms 19:13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.

The person of virtue is conscious of his ability and propensity to commit sin; and engage in activities that would be deemed inappropriate or immoral, so in his time of solace and prayer he will petition God for grace to avoid using the members of his body to lie, to steal, to slander, to blaspheme, to commit adultery, to worship false gods, and to think that he can do these things without negative consequences. The mind that thinks this way will engage in what the Psalmist termed "presumptuous sins." It refers to sinning in arrogance assuming that you will have opportunity to seek forgiveness ---- at your convenience.

Virtue is moral uprightness, it has to do with living in spiritual freedom having one's conscience clear from guilt. It is something that we need to "add" to our faith. The source of virtue is the word of God, but a measure of it can be learned from parents, teachers, godly pastors and true friends. Virtuous people want to be around other virtuous people. This association is characterized by trust, peace, and industry. Therefore, virtue is a welcome addition to a redeemed life.

VICTORY BAPTIST BIBLE INSTITUTE

2011-05-31T15:53:00.000-04:00

Are you looking for a theology school where you can study the Bible that is based on the correct Scripture text and free from Hyper Calvinism and other theological aberrations? Please allow me to recommend Victory Baptist Bible Institute to you. A place where learning the tenets of the word of God takes precedence over church politics, theological biases, and fads in the culture:

The Victory Baptist Bible Institute is a higher education ministry of the Victory Baptist Church of Tampa. It is created for the purpose of training men and women to perform effective Christian ministry through local churches in every nation that God may direct His servants to reside. VBBI is committed to teaching the entire Bible as the verbally inspired, inerrant, infallible, authoritative and preserved Word of the Living God. VBBI stands without apology for the full Deity and humanity of the Lord Jesus Christ, the virgin birth, the sinless nature of the Son of God, the Tri-unity of God, the indwelling ministry of the Holy Ghost, the substitutionary blood atonement of Christ’s death on the cross, the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, the visible second coming of Christ to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords, the resurrection of the saved dead to rewards and eternity in Heaven, and the resurrection of the wicked to face judgment and assignment to the eternal lake of fire and brimstone. We will teach that Satan is a corrupt and fallen angel who exists in rebellion against God, he has led many angels and fallen men to align with him. He hates God’s people (Israel and the church), hates mankind in general, opposes God’s work of redemption, and desires to twist and corrupt the true written word of God, the Bible. God will cast him into the lake of fire and brimstone to receive eternal torments for his wickedness for all eternity.

Moreover, we believe that people are saved by grace, which is God’s favor on mankind, through faith in the work of Jesus Christ on the cross and His bodily resurrection. Salvation is a turning from dead works to faith in the living God. It makes a person into a new creature with his sins forgiven, and grants him the ability to walk with God by faith, and exercise victory over sin through the indwelling power of the Holy Ghost and knowledge of the word of God. A saved person is sealed with the Holy Spirit and purchased from Satan’s enslavement by the blood of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit will give each saved believer in Christ a gift with which to honor and serve God. To be baptized with the Holy Spirit is to be placed into the body of Christ (the church) by the action of the Holy Spirit. Salvation is eternal; however, God will chastise all his children with painful experiences if they forsake the way of Christ. All saved believers are a royal priesthood and have access to God through Jesus Christ who is the Great High Priest.

At VBBI the Bible is taught from a grammatical-historical perspective using the King James Version; and by teachers who believe in its authority. Get your degree in Theology from an institution that will prepare you to advance the historical Christian faith and serve your Lord with boldness and distinction.

For more information write:

Victory Baptist Bible Institute

6202 S. MacDill Ave.

Tampa, FL 33611

or E-mail: vbctampa@gmail.com

for a free brochure.

THE GROWING CHRISTIAN.

2011-05-25T13:11:00.001-04:00

Christian growth comes with a series of lessons learned and decisions made. It is not an automatic response to faith, but rather a process that takes the believer through many stages of change.

Ephesians 4:22-24 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

The growing Christian becomes more closely identified with Christ in HIS earthly walk. He is not conforming to the culture that surrounds him, but instead being transformed by the Scripture within him. The Christian who is growing up in Christ will eventually break completely away from the old corrupt ways of his flesh. Many Christians do not become strong in their walk because they never make a commitment to abandon the ways of the old nature of sin and rebellion.

Notice Ephesians 4:25:

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

One of the marks of a changed heart is the willingness to begin doing the opposite of the wrong once loved and practiced. The old nature or 'old man' is like the drag on an airplane that prevents it from flying faster; the 'new man' operating with a renewed mind is like jet engines that propels him forward in Christ.

The evidences of a renewed mind are new attitudes towards sin. Don't let anyone lie to you, a true Christian will not enjoy practicing sin; additionally there will be a new attitude toward the word of God, the Bible, and new attitudes towards obedience. What will change internally are your motives; there will be noticeable changes in your pursuits, thought patterns, conclusions, and choices.

Strong growing Christians become the models for weaker Christians to follow. They are like spiritual coaches to help the younger believers get in step with the Lord and become spiritually fit. When Paul called Timothy "my son in the faith;" (1 Timothy 1:2) and when he referred to godly women as "daughters of Sarah;" (1 Peter 3:5-6) he was stating that these had developed the qualities associated with God's people which preceded them. They had been saved, had grown, and were growing up into mature Christian workers and leaders. Several years ago the WWJD movement was a popular fad in some Christian circles. People were walking around with necklaces, bracelets, tee shirts, etc. with WWJD written on these items. What would Jesus Do? Jesus would encourage people to grow in grace and knowledge of HIS true identity and capabilities. He would have them study HIS word and study HIS works that they might learn HIS ways. Growing Christians are learning the RIGHT course of action to accomplish the will of God. This is not always the most practical course of action, it is definitely the best course of action. You too can grow strong in the Lord.

OVERCOMING A BITTER SPIRIT - Part 2

2011-05-20T11:11:00.001-04:00

Bitterness is like acid which corrodes and eats away at even the most robust structure. Bitterness is not to be confused with righteous indignation. Becoming angry when injustice is brought to our attention is normal and healthy. What is not healthy is the retention of anger in one's spirit. This is what may lead to foolish choices and actions in the future. Notice the Scripture in Ephesians 4:30-32:

Ephesians 4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

We must note that the root of the Greek word which is translated bitterness in the King James Bible is the word 'pikros;' which literally means something sharp or piercing. Bitterness refers to a hostile spirit that is filled with hate. It will inevitably cause pain. All of this is stored up hidden from view just waiting for a reason to explode upon an unsuspecting individual. Wrath means passionate violent fierceness; anger is heated indignation, it is resentment expressed in a desire to get revenge. 'Clamour' is an outcry, loud yelling and shrieking as in a heated argument. Evil speaking is related to the English word blasphemy. Whenever one speaks against God or misuses HIS name he is guilty of blasphemy; if the insult is against people then it is termed 'railing' or 'vilification.' Malice is ill will, vindictiveness, wicked intent against another.

A bitter spirit is capable of plotting against, conspiring to do harm, undermining, or subverting its neighbor's work and his goals. Bitterness also leads people to vilify others even to the extent of lying about them simply to destroy their reputation. A bitter man or woman has failed to appropriate the grace of God which would enable them to escape their bitter spirit; consequently people close to them are hurt as their bitterness grows unchecked and begins to show up in their speech, attitudes, and choices.

BITTERNESS WILL SHOW UP IN SPEECH, ATTITUDES, AND CHOICES.

Whenever bitterness enters a marriage, the honeymoon feelings quickly fade as acid will quickly dissolve sugar. In order for a marriage to remain pleasant and playful there must be sweet communion between husband and wife. One of the best ways to ensure that this state of enjoyment continues is to do what the word of God says; divorce yourself from the the bitter spirit.

How do we conquer the bitter spirit and permanently separate ourselves from it? How about those deep hurts that you may have suffered at the hands or tongue of unjust people? What about repeated broken promises somebody made to you?

Justice and judgment of the offending person must be committed to the proper authorities. Vengeance belongs to God alone; why take matters into your own hands when you are also a fallible person. If our heart is not right in the matter, then we should confess the bitter spirit as a sin against the Spirit of God who is grieved when HE who indwells us finds us bitter instead of being grateful. If you really want to be free from bitterness, forgive people with no strings attached. Learn to display kindness and forsake hostility. There are already enough wars being waged on the planet without you starting another one. If you have a bitter spirit you know it. It is often very critical, subversive, and in some cases it looks at violence as the way to solve disputes. If this is a problem with you don't hesitate to seek help. You need to speak to someone about this. Seek out your parents, your grandparents, your pastor, or some mature family member or friend. Bitterness will harm you and those closest to you. If you are a single woman and you are thinking of marrying a man who has a bitter spirit, my advice to you is STOP, DON'T DO IT, YOU WILL REGRET IT. The wisdom of God states:

Proverbs 22:24-25 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.

An angry man is a rage filled man. Living with a person like that is like living next to an active volcano. It is only a matter of time before he erupts with violence. He needs to get his spirit right before he can treat his wife right. There is no reason for you to be intimate with a bitter spirit. If you ignore the warning signs you will pay dearly and even be hurt physically.

Finally, if you are a Christian; remember that God has forgiven you all sins for Christ's sake. It is difficult to cast judgment rocks at people when you see yourself as deserving of condemnation. You may have to approach someone and confront them with the offense they committed against you. This is better than harboring secret resentment. By bringing the offense (or perceived offense) out into the open you will allow the healing process to begin. Confront the problem and the problem maker with a sincere desire to bring resolution, just restitution, and peace.This is the way to uproot bitterness from within. It will keep you, your family, and closest friends spiritually healthy.

OVERCOMING A BITTER SPIRIT - Part 1

2011-05-19T10:54:00.001-04:00

A bitter spirit is one that believes it has been treated unjustly and has not forgiven its offender.

Hebrews 12:14-15 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;

Bitterness is not always obvious. It is a 'root' that is often hidden. It remains concealed within an individual, sometimes for many years, until it becomes so pervasive that it manifests itself in hostile actions. I must tell you that people may become bitter even when they are wrong! I will give you three examples from the Bible of people who became bitter and angry even though it was their attitude and actions that brought on negative circumstances. The first example is Cain. Cain was the first son of Adam and Eve, making him the first person to be born as a sinner from fallen parents. In Genesis 4:5 the Bible states:

But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.

Notice that Cain was upset because God did not honor his offering which consisted of fruits. The offering was not the one prescribed by the LORD, and Cain, instead of repenting before the LORD, became indignant at God and at his brother Abel who did bring the proper offering. Cain's seething rage resulted in him attacking his brother and murdering him. In this case, the bitter spirit won because Cain refused to accept the fact that God's way was right and his way was wrong. This is typical of those who desire to "worship God in their own way," rather than learning how God desires to be worshiped and obeyed. These people may become bitter when they don't get the same results in their life as others that do pay close attention to God's precepts.

A second example is the first king of Israel whose name was Saul. King Saul developed a root of bitterness because David slew the blasphemous Philistine giant Goliath and became more popular than Saul:

1 Samuel 18:7-8 And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands. And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom?

Saul's bitterness stemmed from his jealousy of David. As a result of this he later attempted to kill David and pursued after him as if he were a criminal fugitive for many years. Saul knew that David would one day ascend to the throne and that his son would not reign over all the kingdom of Israel. Instead of accepting God's just decree against him for his rebellious spirit he became bitter at the man who was "after God's own heart."

A third example of the bitter spirit is clearly shown in the life of the woman Herodias. She was the wife of Philip, one of the puppet kings of the Roman Empire established in the region during the early part of the first century AD. At some point she entered into an adulterous relationship with her brother in-law Herod who ruled in Jerusalem and was another tool of Caesar. Let's see what the Biblical passage says about her, Herod and John the Baptist:

Mark 6:17-19 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her. For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife. Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not:

Did you notice that in each of these cases the one with the bitter spirit was wrong in their spirit. They were offended at someone who was doing the right thing when they were not. They became angry and thought to harm the righteous while justifying their own evil heart. When they couldn't have their way they became bitter and planned to hurt the person against whom they held a grudge. What many often do not realize is that their bitter spirit is really in conflict with God and directed at HIM. Because people are unholy, they often do not discern God's holy plans and purposes in the events of life. Because they cannot trace God's hand and acknowledge their own limited knowledge they may become bitter in life.

THE ROAD TO SUCCESS

2011-05-16T13:03:00.000-04:00

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

OUTLINE: THE ROAD TO
SUCCESS

I. It has been mapped out for you by those who have gone on before you.

A. You come from a family with a heritage of success, build upon it.

B. Continue to honor your father and your mother, that it may be well with thee.

C. Your personal potential is extremely high.

D. When the road ahead takes a curve, trust in the Lord.

E. Keep the words of your Lord and Saviour before you as a rear view mirror, a dresser mirror (for your present) and a lighthouse for future direction.

II. The road to success is filled with challenges, each one must be met with faith, further preparation, and courage.

III. Continue to prepare your self spiritually for this journey.

IV. Continue to prepare yourself academically.

V. We believe that your physical prosperity will likewise flourish.

VI. Only allow companions into your life that will help you on the road to success, but if you can help someone else to get on this road then do it gladly.

VII. “Our creator is the same and never changes despite the names given Him by people here and in all parts of the world. Even if we gave Him no name at all, He would still be there, within us, waiting to give us good on this earth.”

George Washington Carver.

VIII. Success is waiting for you, move in its direction.

NEVER VOTE TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANA.

2011-04-21T14:10:00.001-04:00

There is a movement underway to legalize the sale of marijuana in America. The state of California even had the measure on the ballot last November. It was rejected by the voters, but that didn't prevent certain politicians from proposing that the drug be legalized for "recreational use." Some see this as an attempt to decriminalize the drug so that the state may gain revenue from its sale. Others believe that it will reduce the number of arrests of minority youth who seem to be targeted by law enforcement for possession of marijuana.

Marijuana is a plant whose scientific name is Cannabis. Its active ingredient THC is absorbed into the blood stream and carried to the brain when marijuana is inhaled. The drug produces a sensation of being "high" in the user and it also interferes with one's sense of good judgment, ability to reason, intellectual performance, and social interaction. Marijuana is dope, and its use as a "recreational drug" is already devastating for young users. It is a beginners drug that may lead to the use of even more dangerous narcotics. Any hallucinogen that one allows to enter his body will have an adverse effect on one's comprehension, speech, outlook on life, and behavior. I have personally witnessed the dumbing down effect of marijuana on young people and there is nothing recreational about it. Like any other drug, the repeated use of marijuana leads to grater levels of tolerance and consequently dependency develops as the user seeks higher and higher levels of the drug to achieve the desired 'high."

MARIJUANA IS DOPE, IT MAKES THE USER STUPID.

There are two major patterns of narcotic abuse seen in the United Sates. One involves individuals whose drug use was initiated within the context of medical treatment who escalate their dose by obtaining the drug through fraudulent prescriptions and "doctor shopping" or branching out to illicit drugs. The other; more common pattern of abuse is initiated outside the therapeutic setting with experimental or recreational use of narcotics. Often the experimental drug of choice is marijuana or pot. (It is also called grass and weed.)

The effects of marijuana include euphoria,slowed thinking and reaction time,confusion, impaired balance and coordination, cough, frequent respiratory infections; memory and learning; increased heart rate, anxiety,panic attacks,tolerance and addiction.

I strongly recommend that parents educate themselves and their young people regarding drugs. The abuse of illicit drugs has become a huge problem that must be addressed in the best of families. Notice that alcohol has been legalized and is the cause of countless broken homes, ruined lives and untimely deaths. Never vote yes to legalize marijuana. A yes vote is a vote for making poison mainstream.

THE RETURN OF THE LORD JESUS- PART 3

2011-04-11T10:00:00.000-04:00

THE RETURN OF THE LORD JESUS- PART 2

2011-04-11T09:59:00.001-04:00

THE RETURN OF THE LORD JESUS- PART 1

2011-04-11T09:59:00.000-04:00

WHEN THE JOKE IS NOT FUNNY.

2011-03-28T12:02:00.000-04:00

While it is helpful to maintain a good sense of humor one must be careful not to offend others with stories or anecdotes. What you may view as humorous someone else may find quite offensive. Many people are sensitive about their weight, especially if they are carrying too much, so I avoid telling jokes about overweight people. I also would counsel to shun jokes with racist connotations. Few things are more offensive than to listen to someone make public references intended to degrade one's race and then to hear people actually laugh at the "joke." One man's privilege may be another man's pain. Racial slurs are not funny. They are intended to ridicule or diminish the value of an entire group of people. People who tell those sorts of jokes reveal a lot about their educational level; they demonstrate that it is deficient. The people who laugh at those jokes, likewise, show insensitivity and an unkind spirit toward their fellow man.

Profanity has no place in the Christian's vocabulary. "Jokes" that depend on "cuss" words to make them appealing are not funny at all. Here is what the Bible has to say about using gutter language:

Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto
the hearers.

Ephesians 5:4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

Stories that are built around sexual innuendos are likewise not funny and deserve no place in one's repertoire of amusing incidents or jokes. These are rightfully called "dirty jokes" because they proceed from a dirty heart and mind:

Ephesians 5:3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;

Another form of obnoxious "joking" takes place when someone makes fun of an activity or a possession that another really enjoys. The obnoxious "joker" may really be coveting his neighbor's property, or be envious of his neighbor's ability to enjoy life or get promoted, so he seeks to make fun of him (or her) in order to exalt himself. He may even seek to deny his neighbor the use of his property by hiding it, if he can, or by stealing it given the opportunity. If he is caught he makes light of it and pretends it was only a "prank." The following Proverb applies to this kind of person:

Proverbs 26:18-19 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?

We all need a little humor in our lives, but let's keep it clean.

KEEP SAYING NO TO YOUR FLESH.

2011-03-21T17:55:00.000-04:00

Genesis 39:7-9 And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. But he refused . . . . . how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

The account of Joseph the Hebrew patriarch is one of the most inspirational in all of the Bible. The lad who received a dream from the LORD only to have his brothers reject him, mistreat him, and sell him into slavery is both heart wrenching and instructional. Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob, the grandson of Abraham who became known as Israel. As a teen boy God gave Joseph a prophetic vision via a dream that he would become a ruler over his brethren and that they, including his father and his mother, would come and bow before him. Joseph could have kept the vision to himself, but he told it to his father and brothers. The nature of the dream angered Joseph's ten older brothers so much that they conspired against him and would have killed him had it not been for the intervention of the oldest brother Reuben (Genesis 37:21-22) who proposed that they not kill him, but cast him into a pit. With brothers like the ones Joseph had no man needs enemies.

Joseph was sold to a band of "Ishmaelites," descendants of his grand uncle Ishmael who subsequently sold him to the high ranking Egyptian officer Potiphar. Evidently, there was something awfully wrong in the marital bed of Potiphar and his wife, for when his wife cast her eyes on the healthy, obviously very well favoured, and intelligent young Hebrew she moved to seduce him with her charms. It would have been very easy for Joseph to give in to her wantonness; he was single, a healthy young male, he could secretly enjoy some sense of revenge on his captors, they were alone, she had approached him, she had lusted after him --- but he said NO to her, repeatedly. Time and time again she offered herself to him in unashamed adulterous confrontation and each time he said no to her and no to his flesh. His own weak, corrupt, and sinful flesh.

How was Joseph able to resist the temptress who sought to entangle him in her poisonous web of whoredom remain pure? Why did he not just give in to her advances? The answer goes beyond the norm of the culture of the ancient world and the moral standards of our present age. Joseph developed GOD-centered convictions from an early age. At some point BEFORE God gave him the dreams of his future glory, Good also created in him a 'clean heart' that could say yes to good and right and no to evil and corruption. Joseph was not a culture led believer, he was conviction laced believer.

JOSEPH WAS NOT A CULTURE LED BELIEVER, HE WAS A CONVICTION LACED BELIEVER.

He learned to say NO to his flesh.
He learned to say NO to the temptress. (later God gave him a real wife)
He learned to say NO to his temporary faith trying difficulties.

Years later when the dream God gave him in his youth was fulfilled in his life, his cruel brothers came to him in Egypt needing help. Joseph now had the upper hand. He was the second ruler in all of Egypt. He could have had them all locked up for life; he could have had them all tortured for many days, or he could have had them all executed, but instead, once again he said NO to his flesh and treated them with kindness, he said no to his flesh and fed them with healthy food and fresh cool water, he said no to his flesh and provided a haven of rest and peace for them.

Child of God, just keep saying no to your flesh and yes to the Spirit of the Lord and watch good things unfold in your lifetime.

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Galatians 5:16

VBC 22nd anniversary(2/3)

2011-03-15T08:21:00.000-04:00

VBC 22nd anniversary(1/3)

2011-03-14T09:40:00.000-04:00

HEAVEN ON MY MIND

2011-03-13T22:59:00.002-04:00

Children Singing at church

2011-03-13T22:14:00.000-04:00

EUTHANASIA, MURDER DISGUISED AS MERCY.

2011-03-04T11:47:00.001-05:00

WHAT IS EUTHANASIA?

But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here. Acts 16:28

In 1991 in the Dutch city of Assen, a perfectly healthy 50-year-old woman asked her doctor to help her die. Her two sons had died, one by suicide, one by cancer. She wanted to join them. After many hours of consultation, Dr. Boudewijn Chabot consented. He was at her side when she swallowed the lethal pills he prescribed for her death.

In Holland, physician-assisted suicide is for all practical purposes legal, but Dr. Chabot was tried anyway because this woman wasn't terminally ill. She wasn't even psychiatrically ill, a point that at trial Dr. Chabot made in his own defense. She was as lucid as she was inconsolable.

The three-judge court in Assen acquitted Dr. Chabot. So did an appeals court. So did the Dutch Supreme Court. Thus, notes Dr. Herbert Hendin (in his indispensable study of euthanasia in Holland, "Seduced by Death: Doctors, Patients and the Dutch Cure"), has Holland "legally established mental suffering as a basis for euthanasia."

Why is this important for Americans? Because on Wednesday the U. S. Supreme Court was asked to decide whether physician-assisted suicide should be legal in America, as in Holland. The two cases before the court both involve the terminally ill. But the deployment of these heart-rending cases of terminal illness is part of the cunning of the euthanasia advocates. They are pulling heart strings to get us to open the door. And once the door opens, it opens to everyone, terminally ill or not.

"How do we know?" Justice David Souter asked that question in one form or another at least four times: Once you start by allowing euthanasia for the terminally ill, what evidence is there that abuses will follow?

The answer, in a word, is Holland. I'm not even talking here about the thousand cases a year--in the United States that would translate into 20,000 cases a year--of Dutch patients put to death by their doctors without their consent. (Most, by the way, are killed not for reasons of pain, but, as the doctors put it, for "low quality of life" or because "all treatment was withdrawn but the patient did not die.") I'M TALKING HERE ABOUT DUTCH DOCTORS HELPING THE SUICIDE OF PEOPLE NOT TERMINALLY ILL, NOT CHRONICALLY ILL, NOT ILL AT ALL, BUT, LIKE OUR LADY OF ASSEN, MERELY BEREFT.

The term euthanasia originated from two Greek words that mean good death. Adolf Hitler ordered euthanasia to eliminate those he deemed "unworthy of life." These included the chronically ill, the elderly, sickly children, and then the program rapidly extended to anyone who was deemed a candidate for a merciful death. In 1999 pathologist Dr. Jack Kevorkian was convicted and sent to prison for giving a man a lethal injection on the television program 60 Minutes. In Europe, the Netherlands and Belgium have legalized euthanasia; in the US the states of Oregon and Washington have made physician assisted suicide legal.

While I personally would not want to be kept alive by a machine, I don't believe euthanasia, which is the active termination of a human life, should be practiced. It sets a dangerous precedence in a culture that already has placed a low value on human life from the pre-born to the elderly and feeble. I do not believe that we have the right to take our own lives.

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN TO SUPPORT THEIR LOCAL CHURCH

2011-02-04T14:40:00.000-05:00

With only about 40% of Americans choosing to attend church services on a regular basis it is imperative that Christian parents instruct and inspire their children about the importance of supporting the local Gospel preaching, Bible-believing, New Testament church. Children who are born in America in the 21st century will have to contend in varying degrees with a growing chorus of toxic forces that will seek to undermine their faith and derail their liberties. Among these are atheists who are clamoring for a totally secular society, sexual perverts demanding more and more license to practice their deviancy, political neo-pagans who deny the uniqueness of the Christian faith, increasingly sophisticated cyber-criminals, and radical Islamists who are calling for the destruction of Western civilization and our Judeo-Christian values. There is also the problem of the lukewarm church with its watered down version of Christianity that does not resemble anything that your child may read in Holy Scripture or was told about by an older Christian.

There are some definite steps you should take to keep your sons and daughters in the local church where their faith is promoted. The most important ones are:

1. Explain the simple Gospel of Christ, the Son of God dying on the cross of Calvary to pay for our sins and being resurrected for our justification.

2. Lead your children to place their faith in that work of Jesus Christ for their personal salvation.

3. Teach them that they are a soul in a body; they have a biological nature and also a spiritual nature.

4. Lead them to establish a spiritual relationship with God through Jesus Christ by conducting daily devotions and by answering their questions about the Bible, their faith, and life in general.

5. Take them (don't send them) to church services with you; have the family sit together even through their teen years.

6. Teach them the doctrines of the Bible and engage then in discussions of current events and how they relate to their faith.

7. Engage in wholesome family recreation with them that they might know that one can have fun being a Christian.

8. Explain that in the same way that everything that is in the family garage is not an automobile, everyone that darkens the door of the church is not a true Christian that they not be shocked when phonies are exposed.

9. Don't be afraid to admit to your children that you are a flawed human who also needed forgiveness and personal salvation.

10. Explain to them that wherever the true faith of Christ is practiced there is freedom, peace, and a good meaningful life.

Let's keep our young people in church serving God and providing light and leadership in a fallen world.

In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
Proverbs 14:26

THE SODOMITE AGENDA IN AMERICA.

2011-01-07T12:23:00.037-05:00

The Family Research Council and Concerned Women for America have made it clear that they will not endorse the Conservative Political Action Committee's (CPAC) acceptance of the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender (glbt) life choices. This commendable decision drew criticism from the Southern Poverty Law Center who labeled the Family Research Council a "hate group" for their stance against sodomy. The Traditional Values Coalition (TVC) of Washington DC is also labeled as a hate group by the SPLC. This classification places the conservative Family Research Council and others that reject homosexual perversion on the same level as the Klu Klux Klan and other blatantly racist groups. You may read more about this issue by clicking on the link below.

Biggest conservative names bidding goodbye to CPAC

Since when is it hateful to protect one's family from corruption? Why is it hateful to dissociate one self from perverts and sodomites whose ultimate agenda is the overthrow of the traditional family by re-defining it and that advocate open practice of sodomy among the youth? The ultimate travesty of justice is the comparison to the immoral racial discrimination that was institutionalized against black people in America and American territories overseas. It is a limp attempt to legitimize sinful behavior by linking it with the Civil Rights movement of the 1960's. The latter was a revolt against real oppression against people who did not choose to be born with dark skin; the former is the sodomite agenda and is not a legitimate Civil Rights issue, but rather a moral choice issue with a spiritual force at its head. Its objective is to destroy the family as defined by God and is in fact a defiance of God HIMSELF. It will not prosper in the end, but like a disease it can spread if left untreated and it will bring forth death.

Parents, teach your children that God made them male or female; see my blog on this site on HELPING CHILDREN KEEP THEIR GENDER IDENTITY. This battle against the legitimization of sodomy will come down to the local churches that are still faithful to God, the pastors of those churches remaining faithful to the preserved word of God and godly families who instill the love of truth and righteousness in their children. Will you join me in training these?

And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
Romans 1:27-28

WHEN YOUR FAITH IS NOT PASSED ON TO ANOTHER GENERATION.

2010-12-09T23:24:00.000-05:00

And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died, being an hundred and ten years old. And they buried him in the border of his inheritance in Timnathheres, in the mount of Ephraim, on the north side of the hill Gaash. And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the LORD, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel. Judges 2:8-10

Things we pass on to our children:

Genetic information.(includes strengths, looks, susceptibility to diseases.)
Life experiences/ history as we lived it.
Social skills / ability to function.
The family tree / Information about who is related to you.
Family secrets.
Traditions.
Possessions.
Academic knowledge.
Trade skills.
Our faith**

What happens when you don’t pass your faith and knowledge of holy things on to the next generation?

I. You will see the rise of a prideful (pompous) generation.

II. You will see the rise of a generation of personally irresponsible people.

III. You will see the rise of a perverse generation.

Millions of men and boys are falling for the destructive myth that looking at "adult" porn is normal, healthy and harmless for "regular guys." Way too many are finding themselves handcuffed between two cops, under arrest for sexual conduct with a kid. The hook-ups with kids are occurring on the main streets of U.S. cities and the dark alleys of the virtual world.

Experts estimate that 50,000 sexual predators prowl the Internet for children every day. As long as myth trumps truth, the next estimate could be 10 times what it is today. Stopping predators before they ravage our kids and grandkids will be insurmountable.
The easy access to millions of pages of online porn is speeding up the dependence and escalation to harder-core material and more.
The centerfolds no longer gratify? There's an unending supply of harder-core images instantly available within a few mouse clicks and free for the taking. Want deviant? There's deviant beyond anything uncorrupted minds can fathom. Want some younger "stuff"? There's "pseudo" child porn where young-looking adults dress and act like teens and even toddlers sucking a pacifier and hugging stuffed animals. Want real child porn when the pretend doesn't do it anymore? It's traded for free by perverts in Internet chat rooms and encrypted Web sites, and for sale, and raking in billions. Want kids? There's a virtual playground full of kids ready to chat, instant message, and eager to send digital photos and videos to other "kids." Want a pimp for a hook-up with a kid? No need to risk being seen picking up a kid in a red light district. Their pimps and slave masters are online.
"'Men fly in, are met by pimps, have sex with a 14-year-old for lunch, and get home in time for dinner with the family," said Sanford Jones, the chief juvenile judge of Fulton County, Georgia."¹

IV. You will see the rise of a practical atheistic generation.

V. You will see the rise of a spiritually impoverished generation.

A. Occult religions.

B. Blasphemous music.

C. Celebrating pagan holidays.

D. Astrologers.

E. Prognosticators.

F. Sorcerers and witches.

G. Channeling spirits.

H. Reincarnation

I. Tattoos all over their body.

J. Ignorance of the happiness that goes along with holiness.

K. Despising the word of God.

L. Falling for every lie of the Devil.

M. Falling into Hell.

Are you in Joshua’s generation?

Are you in another generation that knew not the LORD?

Jesus, Oh Jesus,

Do you know HIM today?

Do not turn HIM away;

Oh Jesus, Oh Jesus,

Without HIM

How lost I would be.

THE ROLE OF GRANDPARENTS

2010-11-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

I became a grandfather this year with the birth of a precious little girl to my daughter and her husband. I would not be honest if I did not tell you that I was thrilled in the extreme to hold her for the first time and look into her sweet face. The role of grandparents is not readily defined by our youth oriented culture, but they do have an important purpose in the lives of their grandchildren. Grandfathers and grandmothers are not charged with raising children; they did that already when they raised their own kids. I told my kids not to expect me to baby sit for them without advanced notice. Well, I recently had my advanced notice and it was a blessed time of caring and sharing.

The grandparents' role is that of an advisor, and they are to be reservoirs of wisdom and good understanding of the issues of life. I do not advocate grandparents intruding into the upbringing of grandchildren; they may give advice, but on rare occasions and with discretion. Since one set of grandparents will also be in-laws to one of the parents, I would recommend the grandparents letting their son in law or daughter in law know that they are available for counsel when needed; but if your counsel is not sought, don't offer it either.

Should grandparents "spoil" their grandchildren? Absolutely not! However, to a certain extent you will probably do it anyway. I don't think the average grandparent sets out to spoil his grandchild. It is a matter of giving the child attention coupled with the accumulated experience of the grandparent. If we cater to every whim of any child we will overindulge them and "spoil" them. I believe it is prudent for the grandparent to exercise restraint and not over indulge the grandkids; though speaking from my brief experience with Alyssa, that will be a challenge.

The grandparents establish the connection of the child with his heritage and they have a lot to offer in terms of practical guidance and problem solving; their input should not be neglected.

Proverbs 17:6 Children's children are the crown of old men;

Alyssa; age 6 months

Backpack too racy for Pasco elementary school

2010-11-03T12:11:00.001-04:00

Is the school right to ban this student's backpack? Would you allow your child to take a backpack with this design on it to school? Is there not a need to guard children's innocence?

Click on link below:
Backpack too racy for Pasco elementary school

I side with the school principal in this instance. The father should be teaching his son:

Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.
Psalms 34:11

Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
2 Timothy 2:22

Good parenting includes directing ones' children away from inappropriate behavior and displaying items that may create a public offense. The parent's right to allow his child to do whatever he wants must end when the child's actions violate healthy community standards of decency.

YOUR FAMILY CAN MAKE YOUR CITY SAFER

2010-10-25T08:27:00.001-04:00

When children are raised by two responsible, caring parents they generally do better in school, are less likely to drop out, and are better adjusted socially. With more people not having the advantage of being raised by both biological parents we are seeing the widespread effects on society. Crime and vile behavior in young people are two by-products of the broken home. It does pay to keep your marriage strong and thriving, not only for your benefit, but for the sakes of your children. Don't let anybody tell you that divorce doesn't hurt children. Divorce wounds a child in his soul. It creates an atmosphere of instant instability from which some children never recover. So what should a man and a woman do if their marriage is in danger of dissolving and they have brought children into the world?

I. They should seek help from an experienced counselor; preferably their pastor.

II. They should join hands on bended knees and pray for God to help them resolve their differences.

III. They should take the focus off themselves and start looking at the needs of the other person.

IV. They should educate themselves about the terrible consequences of divorce on children.

V. Get away alone together and rekindle their relationship.

By spouses staying together and raising their children in the wisdom of the Lord they develop quality people who will contribute good to their city and town. It is another reason for strengthening the home with good Christian values in the 21st century.

. . . . That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth. For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: . . . .

Malachi 2:15-16

ARE YOU QUALIFIED TO HAVE CHILDREN?

2010-10-03T00:12:00.005-04:00

WHO SHOULD HAVE AND RAISE CHILDREN?

One of my daughter's first grade teachers remarked to my wife and I after observing her good conduct and obvious training for an entire school year, that in her opinion we were "the kind of people that should raise kids." We as parents were simply instilling in our daughter the knowledge and traits that would ensure her success in life and someone else who was also dedicated to helping her achieve that goal noticed this.

I am not trying to establish an exclusive parental qualification standard within society that people must meet before they are allowed to procreate. This would be too similar to what the communist nations have implemented upon their own citizens in an attempt to control population growth. This would be unacceptable and dangerous, anti-Biblical and un-American. What I am advocating is that young men and women ought to evaluate their parental skills potential before they get married and consider having children. (Note, marriage first, children afterwards is the correct order.)

I. Only God fearing people should have children; the great Wisdom book of Proverbs declares that the fear of the Lord (HIS reverence) is the beginning of knowledge; but fools despise wisdom and instruction. If you respect God you have something valuable to pass on to the next generation that is more precious than 24 kt. gold as the God fearing parent passes on the reverence that children should have for God along with the concept of HIM loving them unconditionally and a desire for them to love HIM, he will build a belief system of hope and compassion in his child that cannot be matched by mere secular education. Additionally, the fear of the Almighty will motivate a child to shun wrong associations and wicked activities.

II. Only responsible people should have children. Study after study conclude that children raised in a healthy marriage do better in school, are unlikely to get addicted to drugs or alcohol, exhibit less criminal behavior, avoid teen pregnancy, and these in turn establish more stable relationships. We live in a society that has lost its soul to a myriad of false gods; included among these is the god of wrong priorities. Parents reward children who exhibit substandard behavior and expect others to do the same. Each time a child is given an expensive toy or gadget when his or her real need is correction from the parent with instruction, that child is being done a disservice. A set of responsible parent will help a child in every major area of life and are in fact trainers of tomorrow's best leaders. The responsible husband and wife team is a partnership that understands that by them working out their differences and staying together, they fortify the prospect of their children achieving great things in life. These bring into their children's lives spiritual growth, emotional support, financial support, connection to their heritage, discipline with love, academic supervision, and structure.

III. Only mature people should have children; this excludes all teenagers because of their lack of experience and they are in the years intended for learning, not procreating. It is heartbreaking to see a woman not yet eighteen struggling to raise a child all by herself. The child is already handicapped by the immaturity of the mother and the absence of the father. Abortion is not the answer, but abstinence was.

Can we improve the home environment in the 21st century? We absolutely can, with the parents leading the way.

ETERNAL SALVATION I

2010-09-13T09:37:00.000-04:00

ETERNAL SALVATION II

2010-09-13T09:36:00.001-04:00

ETERNAL SALVATION III

2010-09-13T09:36:00.000-04:00

BIBLE KNOWLEDGE CAN CLOSE THE FLOODGATES OF IMMORALITY

2010-09-10T11:48:00.000-04:00

Anyone who has been entrusted with the awesome task of creating legislation that affects the way people live ought to have some knowledge of Biblical truth. Laws are not created out of nothingness, they reflect someone’s standard of morality. If we believe that the first laws governing human conduct came from God, (and they did) then the Law of God ought to reveal some important information about God’s Moral nature.

Let’s examine the fifth commandment in the Mosaic Law:

Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Exodus 20:12

The Apostle Paul stated that this was the ‘first commandment with promise.’ The implication is that by honoring one’s parents through respect and obedience God would show favor upon you and lengthen your life, however, there is a an even more obvious declaration in the commandment. The two parents are to be one male and one female. Were there homosexuals living on the earth in Moses’ day?

Yes. They were not chosen as standard bearers for the family unit. Men and women that were worthy of honor by their offspring was the Divine ideal. A gentleman married to a good woman constitute a family.

Now let’s look at the seventh commandment:

Thou shalt not commit adultery.

Exodus 20:14

This rule was designed to protect the sanctity of the marriage bond. Wedlock between a man and his wife should be respected by all, especially by the married couple themselves. The man should not be deprived of the affection of his wife by another man neither vice versa. Neither should a man be obligated to support a child that he did not father. This law was established as part of the need to safeguard order and righteousness in the home.

So what does any of this have to do with 21^st century lifestyles? When the laws of the state violate the spirit of the laws of God they encourage immoral behavior. When immorality floods the land, misery, decadence, and destruction become the norm.

Some say that we do not need an amendment to the Constitution to protect marriage. This is true, only if the laws that are created at the local, state and federal level honor the laws that God gave to define a safe, healthy, and moral society. Morality as defined by Scripture, not by popular culture.

MORE THAN WONDERFUL

2010-08-30T16:04:00.000-04:00

YOUTH IN CRISIS

2010-08-11T15:26:00.001-04:00

The teen years bring some challenging and complex experiences into the lives of boys and girls. Having raised two daughters and operated a Christian Academy for many years I can testify that there are some basic things we should know that will serve to help teen agers get through the years of adolescence without hurting themselves or you the parent.

Any parent who ignores the wise Biblical counsel available richly in Scripture is short changing himself and depriving himself of essential tools that can help him nurture his children though their teen years:

A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him.

Proverbs 17:25

The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.

Proverbs 23:24

In order for us adults to help teens we must obtain insight into what is going on in their minds. In this age of moral relativism, materialism, and misinformation being directed at youth, parents must be especially mindful of:

1. Peer Pressure: Instruct and model the importance of having strong convictions about what is right and wrong. Increasingly, your child may have to stand alone rather than compromise his values; especially his Christian values that are anchored in the clear teachings of the Bible. It is for this reason that Christian parents must take the time to disciple their children in the faith.

2. Sex: It was a sad day when the public schools incorporated 'sex ed' into their curriculum; this opened the door for all manner of perversions to be taught the children of America under the pretext of 'education.' Teaching a child about sex is to be done exclusively under parental supervision. Any real educator would respect this concept and endorse it. Any government that truly operated in the best interest of its population would respect this and uphold it. There is nothing dirty about the human body; we just need to limit who is given authority to instruct our youth about what is deemed 'normal' sexual behavior. I do not approve of some atheistic, anti-Bible, pro-homosexual humanist, being granted the right to indoctrinate youth about the God given attribute of human sexuality.

Teen pregnancy is much more common today than it was just 20 years ago. Teen aged fathers generally contribute little or no support to the care of their offspring. It gets worse -- sons and daughters of teen-aged mothers suffer more illness and usually have less body weight than those born to adult women. When a teen girl becomes a mother she interrupts her childhood and must usually place her education on hold. She invariably also must come to grips with the sudden exit of the baby's father from her life. What she thought was love in the bedroom doesn't hold up in the nursery when it comes to teen aged boys. The children often grow up lacking tender care while the mother is still a child herself. Many children born to teen girls end up in foster homes where they may not receive the best treatment and training.

To compound the problem, many teen boys actually brag about getting their girlfriend pregnant as if they had made a three point shot on the basketball court. The girls, lacking training and wisdom, feel proud of their achievement not knowing how defrauded they really are. Moreover, the children of teen agers usually score lower on intelligence tests and do poorly in a classroom environment. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) is another potential consequence of adopting a loose morality.

Parents have the obligation to instruct their children about sexual behavior before some stranger who doesn't love them seek to influence them in this very important area of life.

3. Wrong Music: The Hip Hop music that has captivated the mind of so many youth today is replete with wrong messages; case on point: a 2010 album 'Thug Motivation 103,' and to document a typical night of unwinding at the local strip club, which includes, hysterically, a promise to "drink like a tank."

Following are some lyrics from the 2010 "Ludacris" song "MY Chick Bad."

[Chorus:]
My, chick bad, my chick hood
My chick do stuff that yo' chick wish she could
My, my chick bad, my chick hood
My chick do stuff that yo' chick wish she could
My, my chick bad, badder than yours
My, my chick bad, badder than yours
My, my, my chick bad, badder than yours
My, my chick bad, badder than yours

I will not disgrace my site by printing the number one Hip Hop song of 2010 or any of the many others that contain obscenities galore, and are absolutely corrupt to their very core. This is what our culture has degenerated into. This is what many young people are listening to on their I pods, on their Mp3 players, on the music videos, on their cell phones, on the home stereos. The wrong music is a cancer that is destroying their virtue, and their faith.

Your duty as a parent is to find out what your teen age son or daughter is listening to and exercise parental leadership and judgment to censure that which is harmful or degrading to them. They may hate you now, but they will love you and respect you for exposing their idols later.

Remember parent, you are not your kid's buddy, you are their leader, their protector, you are Dad and Mom; act like who you are.

BIBLICAL ORIGINS OF MONEY.

2010-07-24T14:17:00.002-04:00

Money is portable medium of exchange generally accepted in a society as a measure of value. In early biblical times, wealth was measured in land, animals, or crops (Ge. 12:16). As early as Abraham's time, silver was the most common medium of exchange (Ge. 23:15,16). In fact, "silver" frequently means "money" in both the O.T. and N.T. Thus, De. 14:24,25 suggests that if it is too difficult to transport a tenth of one's crops to the place of worship, the crops may be exchanged for silver. At first silver and gold were weighed out on scales. The different values of money we read about in the Bible--the talent, shekel, maneh, and gerah--refer to units of weight. But even these weight units were not standardized in early times. Thus, the shekels Abraham paid for Sarah's burial field were computed "according to the weight current among the merchants" (Ge. 23:16).

When government attempted to standardize weights, there were still "heavy" and "light" weight systems. Coins were not invented until about 600 B.C. ... their value was determined by the weight of the metal they contained. The "talent" (kikkar) was 75.558 pounds (Ex. 25:39; 37:24; 2 Sa. 12:30) The "shekel" was 20 gerahs, 1/50th of a maneh, or about four-tenths of an ounce (Ge. 24:22; Ex. 30:13; Eze. 45:12). It must be noted that there are two shekels mentioned in the O.T.: one according to `the king's weight,' probably the standard shekel used for all ordinary business (Ex. 38:29; Jos. 7:21; 2 Sa. 14:26; Am. 8:5); and another called the `shekel of the sanctuary,' of which it is said the shekel is 20 gerahs. A homer of barley (six bushels) was worth 50 shekels (Le. 27:16). A war chariot was valued at 600 shekels and a horse at 150 shekels (1 Ki. 10:29). The "bekah" was worth half a shekel (Ex. 38:26), roughly 1/5th of an ounce.

"Penny" and "pence" (denarion) (Mt. 18:28; 20:2-13; 22:19; Mk. 6:37; 14:5; Lk. 10:35; 20:24; Jn. 12:5; Re. 6:6). The value of the penny was a laborer's pay for one day (Mt. 20:2,9).

Matthew 20:1-2 For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard.

This is the same as the piece of money in Mt. 17:24-27. The modern American penny, being one one-hundredth of a dollar and having insignificant value, gives the wrong idea.

The original Roman penny, the denarius, was a silver coin equal to ten brass coins. It was the common wage for a Roman soldier. The value of the penny helps us understand the meaning of Jesus' parable of the unmerciful servant (Mt. 18:21-35). The king, who represented God, had forgiven the servant a debt of 10,000 talents, which would be equal to 30 million days of labor. This servant, in turn, refused to forgive the debt of 100 pennys, or roughly 100 days' wage.

The "mite" (lepton) was the smallest copper coin, worth half a farthing (Mk. 12:42; Lk. 12:59; 21:2) It's value would be less than a U.S. penny. We see from Mt. 10:29 that the mite, as one-half a farthing, would be the price of one insignificant sparrow. The "pound" (Lk. 19:13-25) was worth about 100 times the value of the penny.

Money changers were businessmen who served as bankers in N.T. times, exchanging currency and sometimes taking deposits and making loans--with interest, which was contrary to the Mosaic Law. Many money changers did business in the outer court of the Temple. The rabbis decreed that Temple taxes and the price of sacrificial animals (De. 14:24,25) be paid in silver didrachmas or tetradrachmas (shekels of Tyre). Thus, worshipers were forced to change any of the many coinages current in Palestine into "acceptable money"--at a charge ranging from four to eight percent. Money changers often cheated their customers, and certain priestly families shared in the proceeds, a fact established by first-century documents as well as by Jesus' charge that the money changers were making God's house "a den of robbers" Thus, the outrage which this practice produced in Jesus Christ.

John 2:13-16 And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise.

Money is to be valued and used as a tool, never let it become your master.

*References:

Way of Life Bible Encyclopedia; CD ROM; Port Huron, MI; 2000.

Unger's Bible Dictionary; Moody Press, Chicago, Ill.; 1985.

THIS IS ABOUT LEADERSHIP.

2010-06-28T13:01:00.001-04:00

Nehemiah 1:3-4 And they said unto me, The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire. And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven,

Concern for the welfare of one's people is one of the marks of a great leader. Nehemiah wasn't the kind of man that could see suffering and not do anything about it. He had a legitimate burden for people and their spiritual welfare. He also recognized that their national sin had brought them low. Let us consider that only 30% of black children are born to married couples in America today. A disproportionate amount of drug dealers and users are black; a disproportionate number of youth in the detention centers are black; a disproportionate number of inmates in the state and federal prisons are black; a disproportionate number of girls becoming pregnant before they finish High School are black; a disproportionate number of babies aborted are black. Add to this the brainwashing that has taken place in the black culture over the past fifty years with Socialism-Marxism. Now there is a movement underway to recruit young people into the gay, lesbian, and transsexual lifestyle.

Perhaps, no statistic is more damaging than the large percentage of people who are biblically illiterate; lacking a basic knowledge of the Bible and the Saviour who offers pardon for sin. Illiterate people are useful for slavery or prison inmates. Biblical illiterates will be useful for service in Satan's brutish brigades.

Four important points may be noted about Nehemiah's leadership effort:
I. Secured favor with God:

. . . so it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.(Nehemiah 2:6)

We need some people who have secured favor with God in Heaven which translates to favor with man's civil government and the society in general. We may not like what is going on in our government or in our culture today, but we still need to work, as much as possible, within its parameters in order to conduct effective ministry towards people.

II. Set out to build a work for God: There is no shortage of work for people
who are concerned and also have a measure of understanding as to what needs to be done, and are willing to fight for what's right. If your motivation is right God will sustain you. (Nehemiah 4:17)

III. Suffered persecution: The opposition is merely confirmation that your selected course is contrary to the culture of decay with which so many are caught up. (Nehemiah 4:1)

IV. Succeeded: So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty and two days. (Nehemiah 6:15)

Nehemiah's example of concern, vision, faith, commitment, perseverance, and excellent leadership cannot be overlooked by us today as we undertake the awesome task of rebuilding our families, our culture, and our nation. The finished wall was evidence that God had sent him. Strong godly leadership begins with concern, fasting, praying, and doing what God has laid upon your heart. This is the time for the real leaders to step out and step up; time is limited.

WHY WE NEED A NATIONAL DAY OF REPENTANCE

2010-03-27T15:35:00.010-04:00

“Those people who will not be governed by God will be ruled by tyrants.”

William Penn-1668

The Christian underpinning of our culture has suffered a brutal and systematic assault by forces that hate God and HIS Laws. The ultimate objective of this anti-Christian military operation is the overthrow of the Judeo-Christian standard upon which this nation was founded. While the churches are spiritually asleep demon hordes are busy sowing seeds of mass deception and lies, inviting the nation to experience self-destruction by despising its Christian roots.

The prophet Hosea spoke the following sobering words to warn the nation of its impending calamity if the people of his time persisted in their ways:

Hear the word of the LORD, ye children of Israel: for the LORD hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land. By swearing, and lying, and killing, and stealing, and committing adultery, they break out, and blood toucheth blood. Therefore shall the land mourn, and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish, with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven; yea, the fishes of the sea also shall be taken away.

Hosea 4:1-3

We need a National Day of Repentance because of the following reasons:

1. By being willfully ignorant of the precepts of the Word of God we have created a society in which blasphemy, profanity, lying, murder, assault, rape, robbery, (in every form whether it be a bank robbery, embezzlement, larceny, grand theft, identity theft, shoplifting, etc.) marital infidelity, and violence have become commonplace and these are increasing.

2. Christians have adopted the values of the fallen culture and have become hardened against the injunction of God that we must separate ourselves from every form of idolatry, pagan religion, and sexual immorality; yet we have embraced the sewer ‘entertainment’that Hollywood has created to undermine the Biblical foundation of the family.

3. By refusing to submit to God’s authority we have endangered our freedoms and we are now subject to an increasing number of corrupt politicians and unelected bureaucrats who pass laws that are unconstitutional as well as ungodly which only serve to squelch individual freedom and subvert justice.

4. Our educational institutions have become centers of persecution of Christian youth while they propagate the dangerous religion of secular humanism. Government school administrators have allowed Anti-Christian organizations such as the ACLU to bully them to the point where they would rather deny Christian youth their first amendment rights than risk unjust lawsuits. Every pagan god and unholy practice is given a pass except the blessed Gospel of Jesus Christ.

5. Our military is being used as a social engineering project and its morale undermined by allowing homosexuals to serve openly in its ranks. As a veteran of the Armed Forces I find it reprehensible that my government would encourage such an abominable practice among its soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines; against the advice of some of the most reputable senior military officers who have served in our Armed Forces.

6. Churches have strayed away from the Divine and Holy mandate to preach all the counsel of the Word of God and make disciples of all nations and have allowed themselves to become little more than places of social gathering and entertainment, and pastors have neglected their duty to preach against sin, warn of coming judgment and deliverance from it through the blood of Jesus Christ. Political correctness have neutralized the church’s message with one that is inoffensive, even to the Devil himself. A myriad of Bible versions have flooded Christendom, blurring the line between truth and error while de- emphasizing the Deity and Lordship of Christ over HIS church. Even so called “fundamental churches” are increasingly led by men who are anxious to exalt their program, rather than the Person of Jesus Christ.

7. We have failed to train up a generation of children to love the God of the Bible above everything else and in so doing we have left them as prey for every vicious philosophy, corrupt anti-Christian globalist agenda, and deceitful Marxist propaganda.

Jeremiah 9:9 Shall I not visit them for these things? saith the LORD: shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this?

True repentance is always accompanied by a change of behavior and priorities. It must begin with Christians, God’s people redeemed and preserved in Christ. We have been given the stewardship of our communities and our churches. We have the ANSWER, both individually and corporately. There is a connection between spiritual health and morality. We don’t no need to apologize for our faith, neither our Bible, and certainly not for our Savior. We need to learn, promote, and export the Biblical Christian World view without apology. This is the rich destiny of the 21^st century Christian. Repentance is needed because many have not submitted to the Spirit of the Living God. Will you?

Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.

Joel 2:12-13

THE MEASURE OF A MAN - III

2010-03-03T12:52:00.004-05:00

III. Width:

Families today are in need of fathers who are able to motivate their children to achieve the highest standards in life. A home needs a leader who can exercise discipline with compassion. He must possess a certain level of tolerance for the foolishness (all kids display a measure of foolishness) of his children. When his boy has flunked his Algebra test for the second time, or his girl has her heart broken by a lad she thought loved her dearly, he is there to offer, not condemnation, but comfort; his arms are open to each one of them in good times and bad. This behavior constitutes the width of a man.

A generous spirit, the ability to listen to other points of view and disagree without becoming obnoxious. This is a person who has truly learned how to judge people by character content, rather than skin color, and because of this maturity he can claim friends that are of every ethnic group in the world. Since he is quick to listen and slow to speak, and slow to anger, he encourages family, friends, and even strangers to contact him about various problems and issues.

He educates himself about the current events and filters the information through his knowledge of Gods' Word which is his true guide. He acquires many different skills to help him through life and uses the opportunities he is given to advance righteous causes. He is not ashamed of Jesus, and Jesus is pleased with him.

What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet:

Psalms 8:4-6

THE MEASURE OF A MAN - II

2010-03-01T11:29:00.003-05:00

Continuing with a three dimensional view of the measure of a man let's take a look at the "depth" measurement of a man's character.

II. Depth:

A man who sincerely cares about his family more than he cares about himself is an asset to his community. He is not shallow in his faith and worship is not a seasonal thing with him, When it comes to spiritual matters he is closer in resemblance to the biblical Daniel than he is to Esau; he cherishes that which is God-given. As a direct result of possessing genuine faith and character, he honors his commitments, he repays his debts. He honors those individuals that deserve honor and teaches his children to do the same. No stranger needs to fear mistreatment from him, for he treats others with dignity and trains his family to do the same. Even though he is busy in his life work, he does take the time to build a healthy relationship with his kids; he will never abandon them.

This man who has depth of character, rises from a fall because he uses failure as a powerful teaching tool and he continues his task more effective than ever before. Moreover, he will rise from a fall and have the presence of mind to pick his friend up after he has risen. He doesn't see himself as much; (he knows that the world does not revolve around him) his family appreciates him for who he is. In their eyes and the eyes of his real friends he is a candidate for high office.

Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.

Psalms 12:1

THE MEASURE OF A MAN - I

2010-02-25T10:15:00.007-05:00

Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

Men, the commercial world may see you merely as a consumer of goods; the financial powers evaluate you in terms of your net worth. To your government you are a tax paying citizen, your employer sees you as an employee whose time is worth money, your church should esteem you as a valued member. To your wife, you are supposed to be 'honey,' and 'daddy' to your children; a neighbor and friend to your community. I believe the true measure of a man's worth can be determined by the actions which stem from his character. I will give this measurement in three dimensions:

I. Height:

A man's personal objectives in life reveals a great deal about him. The things he has set his heart on to accomplish in his lifetime speak volumes for him, for it shows what he values the most. A man who sets high standards for himself distances himself from the pack of mediocrity and is well on his way to building an enduring legacy; his standards of behavior are set by God, rather than man. HE does not associate himself with evil men. If he is married, he has earned and maintained the trust of his wife; if he has children, he has earned their respect, not just demanded it.

He responds gently, yet wisely to personal criticism and he is not puffed up when he is praised. He is a friend to the very end and will not betray his friends. This man who is an example of virtue and grace will take time out of his busy schedule to help a needy person. Moreover, as he navigates though life he will help build somebody else along the way.

In the face of opposition or danger, his courage is put on display. He will not back down from a righteous stance neither compromise his convictions because he understands that there are boys coming up behind him who need a model of integrity and steadfastness; however, he is not a trouble maker; he knows when to fight and how to be a peacemaker.