O Taste and See!

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: Psalm 34:8 - "O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him."

David, the author of this psalm, had humble beginnings as a keeper of sheep. God had plans for his life and David prepared himself by developing a praise and worship habit in the back of beyond. He opens this psalm with an invitation to join him in praise to the Lord.

The world is an uncertain place. Blessed assurance is not going to be found there - there is only one place of safety, one refuge; it is Jesus!

David had purposed in his heart that the praise he was offering was going to be based on his personal experiences. He was convinced that if you could just understand how good his experiences were, you would want to try God for yourself. "O taste and see that the LORD is good!" Try it! You'll like it!

God's plans for His people are good - He has good things in his mind. "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon Me, and ye shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart. And I will be found of you, saith the LORD..." (Jeremiah 29:11-14a) It's His desire that all would come.

Once we comprehend what He is, then we can understand who He is. He said, "Come unto Me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

John the Baptist said, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." (John 1:29)

Paul said, "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself." ( II Corinthians 5:19)

Trying Jesus opens whole new vistas, a whole new level of understanding, new realms of possibility... "O taste and see that the LORD is good!"

Some once tried and tasted, but they've forgotten how good He is. They wander off, and, like the prodigal, settle for corn husks and swine's slop. But when they hit bottom and find the grace to come to themselves, they see the need to arise and go home, where the Father is waiting with open arms. In the Father's house, a wondrous meal is prepared, the flavors of "home cooking" are beyond compare. Celebration and rejoicing ring the rafters as he, who was prodigal, but is no more, sings, "O taste and see that the LORD is good!

I Have Kept the Faith!

By Charles R. Grisham

Text: II Timothy 4:3-7
Key Verse: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:” (II Timothy 4:7)

“Faith,” in this reference, is the truth, testimony, (body of truth). “Kept” means, attended to all these things very carefully. Think of what had been given to Paul – he had served his generation and faithfully passed it on to the next.

Part of “keeping the faith,” is maintaining a Biblical view of salvation. We need to maintain a clear understanding of what's right. We can outsmart the devil by not doing things that will bring us to defeat. Don't shoot yourself in the foot! The human heart is desperately wicked. Because of this, we need to oft reiterate what His grace and blood did for us.

We “follow on to know the Lord.” (Hosea 6:3) Because we are “in Christ,” and are “a new creature,” ...”all things become new.” (II Corinthians 5:17) We take up our cross daily; but, in order to do this, our flesh needs to be kept under subjection. Paul said, “None of these things move me...” (Acts 20:24) and, “Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9)

To do this, we must maintain the soundness of doctrine. The early church went through severe tests, largely from false teachers and false teaching. When the enemy comes sniffing around your children, you can pray a hedge around those you have consecrated to God. To maintain your equilibrium, you must...

• Know the truth
  
• Keep it faithfully
  
• Key in on righteousness
  
• Keep a consistent, daily walk
  
• Keep fighting!
  
• Keep the faith!
  

Pressure is exerted from all sides. The “equalizer” is the Holy Ghost. When the outer pressure is the greatest, we have His promise that, “...greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” (I John 4:4)

Pressure is also on the church. Remember! The church is in the world, but it is not of the world!

What you feed on will eventually come bubbling out, one way or another. We are most careful about the things we treasure; they reveal where our heart is.

Shifting your mentality toward worldliness is never a wise thing. If you don't maintain your walk and your integrity, you will suffer. It's like going fishing and getting caught! The enemy is always trying to cloud the issue... to keep us moving in a fog.

Jesus wills it that you will finish the race in victory! “I have kept the faith!”

“Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the Righteous Judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing.” (II Timothy 6:8)

The Law of Integrity

By Scott A. Phillips

Integrity is defined as the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness.

There is a correlation between the Law of Integrity and the Law of Gravity. If you ignore them, they will hurt you. If you work with them, you can fly.

There are absolutes when you use the word, "law." However "Integrity" is as much a spirit as it is an absolute. Some operate within the boundaries of integrity as a lawyer would; but one must truly desire to do what is right and not just the appearance of right. Integrity is judged by God when it may be misunderstood by men. Others can misinterpret the things you do, but integrity is a heart issue.

The first time we find the word integrity in the KJV is interesting. “Said he not unto me, She is my sister? and she, even she herself said, He is my brother: in the integrity of my heart and innocency of my hands have I done this.” (Genesis 20:5) Abimilech was wronged by the lie of Abraham and God warned him. The integrity of his heart is demonstrated in that he did not violate God's warning.

There are times when we will make a decision, but the Holy Ghost will prompt you... It may appear right.. but it's not. No doubt there are many who have a high opinion of themselves, but others have been touched and violated by their lack of integrity. Often a person is found mistreating those who can never hurt them, (they think,) but over compensating everyone they perceive to be above them, or that can help them in some way. This unjust balance is a sad reality.

The Man whom the Lord said was a perfect man said this, “Let me be weighed in an even balance that God may know mine integrity.” (Job 31:6)

Another man who was honored by God for his heart was David. He prayed some pretty heavy words. “The Lord shall judge the people: judge me, O Lord, according to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me." (Psalm 7:8)

Here are a couple of quotes from some friends. I think they're worth sharing...

“A life of integrity can be attacked, but can never be defeated. What can the Devil do to a person who won't move? who stands fast? Integrity is not immune to hardships, but it will save you in the end.”
- Jeffery Sanders

“Integrity. It's got a little “grit” in the middle. It takes a little grit to do what's right sometimes.”
- Terry W. Long. Sr.

Let me ask you some hard questions...

Are you a person of integrity?

Are you dependable?

Are you steadfast?

Can people trust what you say?

Can they cash your check?

(Not just your monetary check, but also commitments you have made?)

If you are a little shaky when answering these, the Lord is willing to help you if you're willing to pay the high price required of a person of integrity. Integrity is not something God gives you, Integrity is who you decide to be for the principle of its virtue.

Integrity pays long dividends.

The wise man, Solomon, said it this way... “The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.” (Proverbs 20:7)

Editorial Note: Bro. Scott Phillips is pastor of New Birth Church, in Clinton, Mississippi. He and his wife, Becky, have three sons. In addition to his pastorate, he maintains a writing ministry (both books and a blogsite).

Shut Up and March!

By Mary Elizabeth Wholters

The Children of Israel were tired. They had walked and marched in the sun for six dusty days around a city that was evil and wicked. The people in the city were mocking them, throwing garbage on their heads, shouting curses for the last four days.

The first few days, the people of Jericho had looked over the walls in fear as they watched the Israelites march. They had heard of the God of the Israelites. They knew what God had done to their neighbors. But after so many dizzying days of watching them march around and around their city, they had begun to think nothing was going to happen. It was boring to them – and – to the children of God.

I can see the massive column of people plodding along, hearing the taunts of the enemy from the walls far above them. The kids were cranky. The expectant mothers and the elderly were sore and tired. They tried to ignore the taunts, but their attitudes showed the strain. They began to do only what they were told to do and no more. The dust was choking everything. The trumpets, once gleaming in the bright sun, were now dull and caked with dust. Oh, there were a few who were behind Joshua 100%. But most couldn't see the forest for the trees. You see, they didn't have the vision. They were not in direct contact with the one true God. Why were they marching? Because God said so? Because Joshua said so? Because everyone else was? I am sure that some were marching for one or more of these reasons, but most were doing it because somewhere down the line, someone began to push...

• “Move it will ya? Move it or I'll mow you down.”
• “I know you're tired, sweetie, but just a few more times and God is going to do something wonderful!”
• “Babe, could you rub my back for a minute? I'll keep walking, but my back is killing me!”
• “Sure, hon, I can do that. Are you and the babe all right?”
• “Yes, yes, we'll be fine.”
• “I wonder how God is going to do this. This seems really crazy – I hope it works!”
• “Did you see that guy on the wall? He was leering at me, Walk faster, I don't want him to see me again.”
• “How many times was that?”
• “Shhhhh! Will you just shut up and march?”

You see, the attitude had not changed from generation to generation. The same attitudes that got their parents and grandparents in trouble with Moses and God back in the wilderness had begun to creep back in. Oh, there were a few who got the message the first time; Caleb was one of them. Most of the others did not. The basic trust in their leader that every one of them should have had – they didn't exercise it.

There were gripes and complaints about why Joshua was chosen to be their leader when “they” could have done a much better job. Why was he so special? He hadn't done anything great. All he had done wast to say they could have taken a land with giants in it. GIANTS mind you! How were they supposed to fight giants? We sure would have looked silly taking on those giants. We would have lost miserably.

The God who had taken them safely out of Egypt was the same God who would deliver the giants into their hands. So, why, forty years later, was this attitude still prevalent? Maybe it's because none of the parents in that generation had dragged their kids before the elders of the camp, and said, “Tell them you are sorry” and. “We will have no more of that around here!” Instead, the parents went home, and said, “Yes, baby, you were right in saying what you did. That Moses shouldn't have gotten so angry with my little boy/girl.” (Pat, pat, pat on the head.) Their attitude should have been, “Now look,I will not tolerate any back-talking to or about Moses. He is our leader. Right or wrong, God put Him there for a purpose. We will serve the Lord, and in so doing, we will also be a servant to Moses.” And when the time came for Joshua to lead, children who had grown up with this kind of teaching would, in turn, tell their children the same thing. (See Deuteronomy 5:29.)

Do you not know that God could have blasted every enemy out of the land before they even stepped foot over the border? But time and again He tested them to see what they would do, and, sadly, they never quite seemed to get it.

This time, they had been told to march once around the city walls each day for six days; silently, saying nothing. On the seventh day, they were to march seven times around the walls, still silently, and then, when the priests blew the trumpets, they were to shout and make as much noise as they could – and watch what would happen. God delivered the land into their hands before they even got there, but He required of them an act of obedience to get the result.

Do we think we will get off any different? We are charged by God to obey, yet we seem to be willing to apply the rule to someone else and not ourselves. Verse after verse in the Bible takes on this matter of obedience; it's the “Obey them that have the rule over you” issue. It has a promise attached. Still, we continue to pawn it off on our kids and others, as if it's their job, not ours. The Word of God commands our children to obey – yes. But we, their parents, are supposed to demonstrate a life of willing, cheerful obedience. That, coupled with vocal support of our leadership, is a very important lesson.

Two of the reasons for showing unwavering support for our leaders are, 1.) so our kids will know what is right, and, 2.) so they will see the value of obedience. This is no time to be griping and complaining – in word, in thought, or in body language. We need to keep our attitude in line. The time has come. The time is now. It's time to... Shut up and march!

God's Name Manifested

By Charles C. Kirby

Text: John 17:1-7
Key Verse: “I have manifested Thy Name unto the men which Thou gavest Me out of the world; Thine they were, and Thou gavest Me them, and they have kept Thy Word.” (John 17:7)

If man is to know the one and only true God in a real, practical, and experiential sense, and then be able to utilize that knowledge for his own benefit, it is absolutely necessary that he have a revelation of His Name. This is so because it is through His Name that God has elected to make Himself known to mankind. The history of the worship of the one true God discloses the fact that this worship was ever essential and inseparable from His Name. Hence God said to Moses when He revealed His Name, “By this Name was I not known to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” (Exodus 6:3) Again, when God declared to Moses that the purpose of taking the Israelites out of Egypt was that they might worship Him on the mount, Moses asked, “When they shall say to me, What is His Name? What shall I say unto them?” (Exodus 3:13)

Indeed, the early Christian worshipers of the one God were scions of the first worshipers we know anything about. It is written in the book of Genesis, “...then began men to call on the Name of the Lord.” (Genesis 4:26) After Pentecost, the disciples invariably worshiped in the Name of the Lord. They met together to call on the Name of the Lord “with all that call on Thy Name.” ...“to bind all that call on Thy Name.” (Genesis 26:26; Acts 9:14) Jesus taught the disciples to pray in and through the Name of the Lord. “Hitherto ye have asked nothing in My Name. Ask and ye shall receive that your joy might be full.” (John 16:24) The first words of the model prayer show what a place the Name occupied in true worship, “...Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name.” (Luke 11:2) This Name was retained in the Name of the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ, and constituted the one Name of God throughout time and eternity (so far as man can know from a study of the Scriptures because God put His finger on the “I Am” declaration and said, “...this is My Name and this is My memorial unto all generations.” (Exodus 3:15)) This is the only Name used in Baptism and the work of the ministry by the Apostles. It is the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, (the fulness of the Godhead dwelt in Jesus,) and it is written, “...that at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” (Philippians 2:10) He is “...Lord of lords, and King of kings, and they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful.” (Revelation 17:14) Thus we are inspired by the Apostolic example.

All the academic discussions about and highbrow analysis of the Name of God will not and cannot avail the church for the present and awful crisis. Jude tells us to “...earnestly contend for the faith that was once delivered to the saints.” (Jude 3) Faith based on a true system of doctrine can only be manifested in power, on the basis of an individual faith. The Apostles demonstrated as well as proclaimed that faith. In fact, many of them had to demonstrate the power of Jesus' Name in order to get an audience to listen to the message of the Gospel. Peter got the ear of the religious leaders who perhaps were not present on the Day of Pentecost, by performing an astounding miracle in the Name of Jesus.

A church policy based as it is today on a system of theology afflicted with the customs and methods of worldly societies, judges, and clubs would not tolerate the customs and methods of the first Christian church. The early church got the ear of the common people by the demonstration of the power in Jesus' Name. The modern church collects an audience by adopting, in an alarming degree, the customs and practices of the world, and in their theological discourses. It is fundamentalism versus Modernism. The “fundamental” of the first Christian church, as every honest Bible student knows, was the Name of Jesus. They emphasized that Name. They had no ornamental to emphasize. The modern church is all ornamental; in fact, it is hard to discover from their principles and practices what they consider as fundamental. Architectural display, ornamented windows, ornamented women, and ornamented congregations with “the bed too short and the blanket too narrow,” (Isaiah 28:20) Massive and complicated instruments, highly paid choirs and orchestras with a so-called Doctor of Divinity displaying oratorical fire instead of old fashioned, Apostolic Pentecostal Holy Ghost Fire that will, and does melt hearts of stone bringing sinners to repentance and filling their hearts with the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, with a new hope in life. Yes, with the revelation of the Name of the Great God and our Savior, Jesus Christ.

The fundamental of true religion is the power to demonstrate it's message to the world by miracles of mercy to mankind. Let that fundamental be non-existent or cease to operate, and you only have a dead system covered under the ornamental. The fundamental of an automobile is its motor. Let the motor cease to operate out on the highway, though it be covered by the most expensive and attractive body that could be built, what have you then? Only a palace by the roadside: for it is there you stop and the scenery gets monotonous because it never changes. Even so, let the vision and the Holy Ghost power of the early church possess the mind and heart of modern church ministry everywhere and there would be a cracking of the old, musty methods and the breaking of dead, theological forms. The Living Waters would begin to flow. Yes sir, and the desert will begin to take on life, the wilderness will blossom as the rose.

In spite of our blind systems which have stifled the power, love, and grace of God; thank God Jesus Christ lives today and His Name is as powerful as ever it was. Our God is and His Name is dynamic. Our old creed method is to try an absorb the seed. You might as well talk of the moist earth in the springtime absorbing the seed. The seed absorbs the earth, in it (the seed) is the life. Jesus is our life, and I have Him in my soul to believe that through His Name He will ultimately absorb all our lifeless methods of worship and service for we who trust, love, and serve Him. He will subdue all our enemies and swallow up death in victory. He is looking for a people who have an ear so trained that above the babble rising from the crossroads of our religious life, they will hear a voice announcing that a new day has dawned and the Kingdom of God is at hand.

Even as Phillip, the Evangelist, went down to the city of Samaria, (Acts 8,) and preached Christ unto them, and when they believed Phillip preaching the things concerning the Kingdom of God and the Name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.“Now when the Apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the Word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (for as yet He was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 8:14-16) Friends, if God's ambassadors required of their converts in their day to know and acknowledge God's Name before a wicked and perverse generation by taking on that Name in baptism in water, then to be filled with His Holy Spirit, why should it be thought a thing incredible with you today for those who love Him to do likewise? Hence, you too must repent and be baptized in His Name for the remission of your sins and receive the Holy Ghost with the Bible evidence of “speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.” (Acts 2:4) This is the “Pentecostal Fire” we sing about.

Editorial Note: Rev. C.C. Kirby was pastor of Christ Church Apostolic in Royal Oak, Michigan. (My parents, J. Raymond and Marjorie (Smith) Broyles, raised their family there. For many years, the church presented a weekly radio program each Sunday, from 3:30 to 4:00 on radio station WEXL. These programs featured the church choir and a short radio sermon. The theme song, sung at the beginning and end of each broadcast, was "Pentecostal Fire." This message was aired Sunday, September 2, 1945.

Listen and Hear!

By Pauline Foreman

There was a Man named Jesus, you see,

He was born to save you and me;

Born of a virgin, begotten of the Spirit,

Everyone who has an ear should want to hear it.

We were made in His image,

But through sin we were blemished;

Nevertheless, He had a plan,

To redeem sinful man.

He went about healing the blind, halt, and lame,

His love and compassion soon gained great fame;

They came from the north, south, east, and west,

He delivered them all from all their tests.

He that has an ear – listen and hear.

Opposing forces came against this Man,

But for the love of people He took a stand;

He defeated the devil on every hand,

And took the punishment of sinful man.

For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross,

So that mankind would not have to be lost;

When life to you seems dark and grim,

Take up your cross and follow Him.

Wherever He leads, be willing to follow,

And your life will never be hollow;

Your void He will fill,

Give new life, He will.

He that has an ear – listen and hear.

Repentance of sin is where you begin,

Baptism in His Name is the next step to claim;

He promised to give you the Holy Ghost,

You will be filled to the uttermost.

In another tongue, you will speak,

When it is Him wholeheartedly you seek.

He that has an ear – listen and hear.

To give your life to Him is very smart,

Righteousness to you He will impart;

A broken and contrite heart He will in no wise cast aside,

But is faithful to complete the work He began inside.

No longer a slave to sin,

You will have peace within;

Every time you kneel,

He will begin to heal.

All the hurts of the past,

Will be gone at last.

Read your Bible and you will find,

How to be like Him – so good, so kind;

He is high and holy, yet so meek and lowly,

To be like Him is a process – slowly.

Continue to run this race,

He will guide you at His pace;

For the race is not given to the swift or strong,

But to the ones that endure the whole course long.

He that has an ear – listen and hear!

On the Furnace...

By Marjorie Kinnee
Editorial

Text: Daniel 3:1-30

In Daniel, chapter three, we find the story of the three Hebrew children and their adventure with a fiery furnace. You probably first heard it when you were a small child. It's been told and retold by pastors, preachers, parents, and teachers ever since. It's about three young men in a trying situation and an angry king whose will was crossed. Holding on was going to cost each of them something. There, at the intersection of unbending faith and an unbendable will, friction built; resulting in a fiery furnace which melted and purged the unbendable - and - purified and sanctified the unbending.

"Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction." (Isaiah 48:10) The Bible has much to say about furnaces, fiery trials, rods of correction, refining, purging, purifying, and the holy purpose behind such measures. Here are some things we can observe about the work of furnaces...

• Furnaces may be stoked to incredible temperatures by fury and vengeance. (Daniel 3:19)
• Furnaces may be lethal for their stokers and feeders. (Daniel 3:22)
• Furnaces are instruments of change and correction. (Job 5:17; Psalm 66:10; Hebrews 12:6)
• By design, furnaces can only destroy things of earth. (Job 28:1-2; Luke 3:17; I Corinthians 3:13-15)
• Furnaces purge things which are not good. (Psalm 79:9; Isaiah 1:25; II Timothy 2:19-21)
• Furnaces purify things which are good. (Proverbs 25:4; Malachi 3:2-3)
• Furnaces create an atmosphere of extreme discomfort, and thereby, the desire for change. (Psalm 17:3; 119:119-120; Jonah 2:7)
• Furnaces make what's being changed cry out during the process. (Jonah 2:1; Zechariah 13:9)
• Furnaces are not hell - though they may feel like it. (Jonah 2:2; Hebrews 12:25-29)
• Furnaces are a temporary measure, used at a specific time and season, for a specific purpose; but the fire doesn't go out until its work is complete. (II Corinthians 4:17; Hebrews 12:11)
• Total submission to the will of God, (whether it be through the furnace of affliction, fiery trials, or chastening,) brings the confidence to speak faith and helps us conquer our human tendency toward struggle and fear. (Daniel 3:16-18; I Peter 4:19)
• A furnace offers the opportunity for a visible visit by God. (Daniel 3:25)
• When the work of the furnace is complete, the result is far more valuable than it was to begin with! (Job 23:10; James 1:17; I Peter 1:7; 4:12-14)

Rebellious children, a wayward spouse, conflict, persecution, physical affliction, traumatic experiences, crisis, chastening, and disobedience are just a few of the things that can bring us to an up close and personal understanding of the work of the furnace. In such times, please Lord, help us to remember... 1. Yielding shortens the process, (Ecclesiastes 10:4) 2. Your grace is sufficient, (II Corinthians 12:9) and, 3. You are always working all things together for good. (Romans 8:28)

The Birth of Jesus Christ...

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: Matthew 1:18-21 - Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as His mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His Name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins."

Let's consider four important facts about the birth of Jesus Christ. Note: A fact is something that can be proved or verified...

Fact 1: He was born. He actually lived on earth. He walked and talked with men, proving that God keeps His promises. Messiah, Shiloh, Jehovah Shuah. See Daniel 9:25 and Luke 2:1-3. He fulfills prophecy - Genesis 3:15. His birthplace was in Bethlehem - Micah 5:2, Matthew 2:1, Luke 2:4.

Fact 2: He was born of a virgin. See Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:18-21, Luke 1:27-37. Why? 1.) To fulfill prophecy, 2.) So His Father would be God (not man). Note that Jesus' blood came from His Father. 3.) Only a free man can purchase a slave. (Galatians 4:23, 31)

Fact 3: He was God's perfect plan. Imagine Joseph's shock at Mary's pregnancy! he needed to be convinced. He needed to be stripped of pride, doubt, and fear. See Proverbs 29:25, II Timothy 1:7, I John 4:18, Hebrews 13:6.

Fact 4: It was His mission. "To save His people from their sins." and, "To seek and to save that which was lost." See Luke 19:10, Acts 5:31, Hebrews 7:25.

Heard from the Pulpit...

By Carol Warfield

I got to thinking about all the wonderful men of God I've sat under during forty plus years of serving God. We need the Word of God, the Holy Ghost, and a true man of God to lead us. I am so thankful for these six faithful ministers who have guided my life and my walk with God. Many of the sayings they've used while preaching have stuck with me. I'd like to share several of them with you...

1. The first thing a saint will do when they become weak is begin to beautify themselves.
2. God is more concerned about our attitude than our troubles and situations, because trials will make you better or bitter.
3. To question why will not change your difficulty.
4. It's not that I can't - but I won't!
5. Because sin is not executed speedily man's heart is set on doing evil. (Ecclesiastes 8:11)
6. Prayer is never the easy way out, never for God to do it for us. Prayer is the hard way, it provides you the power to go through, it enables us to handle the problem.
7. In this life, nothing is forever.
8. Everything that's in the Word of God is for you, it's designed for you.
9. Sons are born, but disciples are made.
10. God doesn't take - He gives!
11. The eyes of faith see the result before it ever happens. The eyes of faith look up, while the eyes of man look down.
12. Faith brings perfect peace to our souls.
13. Creation itself is the proof of God.
14. The church must not be like everybody else. If the world does it, don't do it! (Leviticus 18:1-3)
15. If you keep the faith, the faith will keep you.
16. The thing that is the hardest for you to give up, that's the thing that will pull you back into the world - if you don't guard against it.
17. Flesh will never say no.
18. If you don't kill pride - it will kill you. (Proverbs 16:18)
19. Almost right is wrong.
20. Faith with love said, We can do anything. But compassion says, We must...!
21. Only dead things need paint; the barn, the house, the car, etc.
22. God will not accept anything less than our best; in prayer, in worship, in praise.
23. We cannot love people to heaven - they must obey the Scriptures.
24. Our conscience is a watch-dog for our soul.
25. Research proves all issues of holiness, both inward and outward, are essential for salvation.
26. If the Bible does not directly deal with an issue, we must trace it to it's original uses and purpose to discover whether or not it is of God.
27. Love gives, lust takes. Love is patient, kind, and understanding, lust is rude, crude, and very demanding.
28. If you are not winning them, they are winning you.
29. My friends, my God is fantastic. There are no words that describe Him. That's why I just take off shouting. It helps me to express how wonderful He is, and how crazy I am about my Lord. I'm not ashamed because He made my emotions and I'll use them as long as there is breath in my body and strength to do so - to glorify my God
30. Brains - Use them!
31. They don't know "come here" from "sic 'em!"

If you listen as the man of God speaks, you will gather fragments and crumbs of wisdom that will help you. You'll find they come back to your mind at needed moments, bringing encouragement and reminding you of the good things you have heard throughout your life as a child of God. It pays to serve Jesus!

On Waiting...

Compiled by Charlotte Wholters

Isaiah 30:18 - "...blessed are all they that wait for Him."


Job 14:14 - "...all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come."


Psalm 25:21 - "Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on Thee."


Psalm 25:3 - "Yea, let none that wait on Thee be ashamed..."


Psalm 37:7 - "Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him..."


Psalm 37:9 - "...those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth."


Psalm 37:34 -" Wait on the LORD, and keep His way..."


Psalm 40:1-4 - "I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined unto me, and heard my cry."


Psalm 52:9 - "...I will wait on Thy Name; for it is good before Thy saints."


Psalm 69:6 - "Let not them that wait on Thee, O LORD God of hosts, be ashamed for my sake..."


Psalm 130:5-7 - I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in His Word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the LORD more than they that watch for the morning..."


Psalm 145:15-19 - "The eyes of all wait upon Thee; and Thou givest them their meat in due season..."


Proverbs 20:22 - "...wait on the LORD, and He shall save thee."


Proverbs 27:18 - "...he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured."


Isaiah 8:17 - "And I will wait upon the LORD..."


Isaiah 25:9 - "...Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the LORD; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation."


Isaiah 30:18 - "And therefore will the LORD wait, that He may be gracious unto you, ...blessed are all they that wait for Him."


Isaiah 33:2 - "O LORD, be gracious unto us; we have waited for Thee..."


Isaiah 40:31 - "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength..."


Isaiah 49:23 - "...they shall not be ashamed that wait for Me."


Isaiah 64:4 - "For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside Thee, what He hath prepared for him that waiteth for Him."


Jeremiah 14:22 - "...therefore we will wait upon Thee: for Thou hast made all these things."


Lamentations 3:25-36 - "The LORD is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord..."

Daniel 12:12 - "Blessed is he that waiteth..."


Hosea 12:6 - "Therefore turn thou to thy God: keep mercy and judgment, and wait on thy God continually."


Micah 7:7-8 - "...I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me..."


Habakkuk 2:3-4 - ...though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come..."


Luke 12:36-40 - "And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately..."


Acts 1:4 - "...wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith He, ye have heard of Me."


Romans 8:19-25 - For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God... even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption... if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it."

James 5:7 - "Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain, be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh."

Editor's Note: Charlotte and James Wholters are living in Reston, Virginia, after his retirement from the U.S. Air Force. The Wholters Family currently attends The Original Pentecostals Church (Pastor Raymond E. Woodward,) in Leesburg, Virginia.

The Lonely Heart...

A Poem by Marjorie Kinnee

Searching...

Not sure what for,

But knowing there's a lack,

A very deep need,

That cuts no slack.

Seeking...

Parched and thirsty,

Barren and dry,

Looking everywhere

For a love to satisfy.

Wondering...

Hoping and wishing;

Maybe if I pray,

The fear and the doubt

Might go away.

Hungering...

Feeling like a starving child,

I'm longing to be fed,

Nutrition's what I really need,

More than daily bread.

Fearing...

The life I've lived,

The scars I bear,

Make me cautious,

Afraid to dare.

Longing...

Do you see me here?

I'm right at your door,

Will you love me to Jesus

And joy for evermore?

Coming...

My time is now,

Intercessors I need,

Please, lead me to Jesus,

I earnestly plead. 

A Costco Jesus

By Rachel Coltharp

Through the years I have had several inexpensive nativity sets, (oft destroyed by my kids,) and for the past few years we have used a "Fisher Price" kid-friendly set. But in my heart, I’ve longed for a "Big Girl" nativity set. 

Imagine my delight when I ventured upon an heirloom set at Costco; hand painted, with intricate details. It was really, truly lovely. But it wasn’t really truly real. The middle-eastern Jewish family had been replaced by a pale skinned, fair eyed, silky haired European family. I'm guessing that the pale skinned Jesus is an easier sell to pale skinned buyers. And at Costco, it's all about the sell. So though it was beautiful, I just couldn’t buy it. I don’t want to buy a Jesus who's been altered to look like me.

How many times do we find this has happened? Biblical has been altered, for a better "sell."

Songs that sound beautiful, with notes that strike an emotional chord in our hearts, but words are not at all like those of Jesus... Songs easy on the ear, and just as easy on our sin.

Or doctrines that come along that are easier on the ear than the sounds of bleating lambs slaughtered for sin, or of nails being hammered into flesh. Doctrines that do not call us to give up our sins, or take up our cross.

How many times, in the market place of ideas, have we chosen and purchased an altered idea of Jesus, one who thinks, acts and reacts, remarkably like us? The modern version of Jesus is often one who isn’t too concerned about heaven or hell. It's one who is more concerned with social issues than sin issues. The modern idea of Jesus is less controversial than the real one. And he looks a lot like our American culture, but he doesn’t look a lot like the Biblical one.

A Jesus who looks and acts like like me won't call me to change to be like him. And the “me” version of Jesus, won’t save me... from sin, or from myself.

So, as much as I love the LOOK of the Costco set, I put it back on the shelf. I’ll wait for something that represents Him - the real Him. The little brown skinned baby, with His brown skinned mother, and His brown skinned step-father.

And I'll pass on the modern Jesus. The one calls me to no sacrifice. I want the authentic Savior. One that will save me in, and from, my sins. I don’t want a Jesus who looks like me... 

I'm not going to buy into a Costco Jesus.

Editor's Note: Rachel is the wife of Brent Coltharp, District Superintendent for the state of Illinois, and pastor of First Apostolic Church in Aurora.

The Quickening...

Editorial
By Marjorie Kinnee

Text: Hebrews 4:12-13 - "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do."

The writer of the book of Hebrews described the power of the Word of God as "quick" (alive) - able to bring life and light into the heart and soul of man. What's more, he did it in a manner so succinct and plain that it left no doubt that God's Word can and will accomplish whatever He purposes for it to do. (See Isaiah 55:11.) This power of the Word can take out a stony heart and replace it with a heart of flesh. (See Ezekiel 11:19-20.) It can turn a stubborn will into a broken and contrite spirit. (See Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 57:15.) Such is the transforming power of the Word of God.

The 119th Psalm is a series of twenty-two segments, eight verses in length; each segment bearing a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. They all focus on the value of the Word of God; magnifying it, exalting it, giving it the recognition it deserves as the foundation for our faith.

Psalm 119 presents three ways "Thy Word hath quickened me." (See verse 50.)

1. "According to Thy Word..." (verses 25, 107, and 154)
2. "In Thy Way..." (verse 37)
3. "In Thy Righteousness..." (verse 40)

In addition, Psalm 119 divides God's Word into four categories; Statutes, (an established law, edict, or decree,) Precepts, (a rule or principle,) Judgments, (the ability to discern and draw sound conclusions,) and Commandments, (a Divine command or edict). These are administered "after Thy lovingkindness," (verses 88 and 159,) and, "according to Thy judgments," (verses 149 and 156). Thus, the Word teaches and instructs us. It is both lamp and light. It directs us and orders our steps. It brings help and hope. It gives food for thought, brings enlightenment, and bestows a blessing to all those who seek its wisdom. Those who have a good understanding of God's Word have also found joy and delight; a faithful counselor, and a constant guide. This Word is likened to bread, feeding and satisfying the hunger of the heart.

John 1:1 tells us this "Word" was "in the beginning," (He is Author and Finisher of our faith.) and goes on to say that this "Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us..." (verse 14)

Although the Jews resisted and rejected His words, Jesus declared that He was (and is) the bread of Life (See John 6:30-35, 47-51, 53-58.) "It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit,and they are Life." (John 6:63) What Jesus was giving was an Abiding Presence;

• one who would never leave or forsake, 
• one who would lead and guide,
• one who would teach,
• one who would bring all things to remembrance, 
• one who would comfort, 
• one who had been with - but now would be in,  
• one who would come in Jesus' Name, 
• one who was (and is) the Spirit of Truth, 
• one who would testify of Jesus, 
• one who would give such great joy that no one could take it away - ever,

No wonder this Word is quickening! It gives life more abundantly - not just in the here and now, but for all eternity. 

"Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart. I have inclined my heart to perform Thy statutes alway, even unto the end." (Psalm 119:111-112)

A Message to a Lukewarm Church

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: Revelation 3:14-22

Most everyone in the United States of American can remember where they were and what they were doing when "9/11" happened. Moments that change history have the ability to indelibly imprint themselves in our minds and hearts. We were all violently and rudely awakened to the need to be prepared. In the days following, everyone was calling for and talking about prayer. The urgency of the crisis, refocused many minds God-ward, but as is so often the case - when the pressure eased, prayer returned to closet , out of sight, out of sound, and out of mind. Preachers of all denominations hastened to assure their congregations that God was still in charge and He would protect the nation because we were founded on trust in Him.

In many ways, the U.S. can be likened to the church in Laodicea. Lukewarm, neither cold not hot, the church in Laodicea was on the fence. God wanted them to decide, which side they were on. This isn't the first time God has pressured men to make a choice.

• Moses called Israel to make a choice between blessings and cursings
• Joshua cried, "Choose ye this day whom you will serve!"
• Elijah cried, "How long halt ye between two opinions?"
• Joel declared, "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision."
• Regarding Laodicea, God said, "I would that you were either cold or hot - because you're neither I will spue you out of My mouth."

The signs of a lukewarm church...

1. Prayerlessness (no communication)
2. Unstirred/Uninterested (God's Word transforms!)
3. Disobedient
4. Forgetful hearers
5. Bored
6. Don't care about the lost
7. Don't attend church regularly
8. Dull - Don't hear or heed warnings

The good news is, "I counsel thee..." God warns anyway, giving the lukewarm a chance to get it right. His desire is to heal, to restore, to reconcile.

The way to heat up the lukewarm - "Buy gold tried in the fire."  Step one is repentance - the opportunity to turn the tide before it's too late. Baptism in Jesus' Name washes away sin, and the infilling of the Holy Ghost, brings the power to become an overcomer! Overcomers are not lukewarm!

Any Time, Any Where, Any Place...

By Joyce Stclair

Not long ago, I was so impressed as an eye witness to God's love for just one of His own, that I decided to share the experience...

One day, I got a pop-up memory of someone I love very much, but have not seen or talked to in over thirty years. I spent the next two days trying to brush off the feeling, but it just intensified. Why did she come to my mind so strong when I had not thought of her in so many years? I made a call and learned she was in the hospital and was not expected to live. In that moment I knew the two days I had ignored God's quiet voice could have cost me more than I was able to bear. God in His master plan had given notice to one child of another's need.

My husband agreed to give me a ride the next morning to the hospital. I got up with both sadness and joy that I might see what I believe to be one of the most important people of my lifetime. My husband was ready and still waiting on me to get dressed. Next, a second strange thing took place. I stood in that closet so long that my husband grew impatient with me. (In a typical day, it's usually the other way around.) He stood in the doorway and asked, "What is the problem? Do you realize you have been in here for more than a half hour? You may not get here on time, it's more than an hour's ride to the hospital."

With every word he spoke a tear would fall. I knew he was right, but every single dress hanging in that closet just would not do. I cannot even explain why. My fingers thumbed back and forth through every piece, each time stopping on a red dress with no sleeves. I would say, "That's crazy - you can't wear that - it's the middle of the winter and 20 degrees outside." Why would fifteen other dresses not work? I'd never had a problem picking a dress off the rack before.

With frustration, I told the Lord my husband was getting angry and I'm wasting precious time - help me, Lord. I turned again toward the rack and let the Lord answer my problem, thumbing one more time across the rack. Guess what dress I stopped on? You guessed it - the red dress! I never would have worn it of my own will. I was going to freeze because it was the Lord's will, if I heard Him correctly. Once again, if I would have listened to His still, small voice the first time I stopped on the red dress, I would have been out of the closet and would have arrived at the hospital thirty minutes sooner. Seeing my husband's impatience, I found the longest furry coat that wrapped all the way around in an attempt to stay warm, and we left.

The family was present and had been there for three or four days. We had never met before, so we spoke for a moment about who I was, and how I knew their mother. They had only known of my name because their mother had frequently mentioned a child that she loved and continued to pray for. Glad to finally put a face to a name, she said, "Mother always called you by my name." (We share the same name.) "Yesterday, Mother said she did not want anyone to cry at her funeral and she wanted everyone to wear red.

I thought my spirit would jump right out of me. I sprang up from my chair and flung my coat open to reveal my red dress. My husband stood over in the corner with his mouth open in silence, knowing what we both went through to get me in it. Her family was speechless. They said, "There is no way you could have known because Grandma just said it yesterday." But God heard it. In granting her wish, He set before the unbelieving present, His love for His own.

Her daughter told me her mother had stopped speaking just the day before and had not been responding to anything today. She said they felt she was waiting for something, but they didn't know what. I asked if she wanted us to find her brother, but knew that was not what it was. So I spoke up and said, "She is waiting for me." I hadn't thought of that until right then. She wanted to see me one more time to assure herself that the child she never let go of was now safe in God's hands.

For much of the time we've been apart, I was a backslider. Two years before this, I gave my life back to God. Her daughter, Joyce, and the family left the room to give her mother and I some alone time.

She looked so small and weak. Her face was raised to the heavens with her eyes closed. I laid my face close against hers and whispered in her ear that I had arrived as God told her, and "Thank you for your love and prayers that spanned fifty years. They've brought me back to the Lord. You are leaving me in His arms and I will see you again soon."

I felt a need to know that she knew I was there. When I stopped speaking, I felt her whole body react. It's hard to explain how she responded in words. It was as if she suddenly took a deep breath with excitement. She did not open her eyes, but I know she knew I was there. I said then, "You can go home now." That moment brought a peace that helped carry me through the sorrow of our loss.

This wonderful lady was my Sunday School teacher for all of my very young years in church. I can still hear her tell my favorite story of Zaccheus in the tree as if it were yesterday.

God bless the Sunday School teacher who trains up a child in the way of the Lord. Their arms embrace with comfort. Their prayers help keep you from harm. Their love endures for ever and they hand you over into God's arms. Well, that's the way it was with this special teacher. God fulfilled her prayers while she yet lived to know it. It was a close one, but God made it on time, and that is His promise, isn't it?

God bless the prayer warrior who prays for others. Those prayers may be the only thing standing between a soul and damnation. If I were to sum up my relationship with my Sunday School teacher, it would be this: Til death do us part. I was told she died within hours after I left. Her work was done. She fought a good fight, ran a good race, and was now ready to receive her crown of glory.

God made quite an impression on all that were present that day. Listen for the quiet, still, small voice of the Lord who directs all the steps of the righteous man or woman. What a conversation she and I could have had if I had listened sooner.

Author's note: I used no names in this testimony on purpose because God has never been a respecter of persons. We are all merely vessels. We do not draw our wisdom from people, but from the events as they occur; for in them is the power of God.

For My Good; For His Glory

By Keila Fischer

You know when you get a song stuck in your head? Not for a day, week or even a month but for over a year? The song, "For My Good, For His Glory" has been all over me for well past that time. I've spoken to sisters in the church thinking he wanted us to sing it. But here in the midnight hour the revelation has come from my sweet Savior. It is about me. There are times on this walk with Him that I will start to wander. Like the the story of the one sheep He left the ninety and nine to find.

Wandering is not just church hopping or backsliding, it can be many different things... personal things just between you and God. Lately, I have had so much time to spend in prayer, the Word, and in taking the time to really listen to people and share my heart.

For reasons known only to the Lord I seem to like to wander. One of my favorite pastimes is to take long walks with my dogs. No headphones, no cellphone, no one but God, the dogs, and me wandering to the next interesting beautiful spot. However, when it comes to my relationship with God and His people, wandering is very dangerous for me. Oh, life happens. People die, children grow, good friends leave the Lord, life gets busy, and many distractions come our way. Taking the time to be still, to stay focused, stop wandering, and set a goal once in while - these are things this saint needs to work on. 

Taking the time and effort to show love to the people and the thing that is the most precious to me. I woke up this evening knowing that all the set backs, all the pain; it's ALL for my good, it's ALL for His glory. 

I asked the Lord, "Does it really take all of this suffering to get my attention?"

His reply? "I suffered it all for you Keila, so you would be free indeed, (John 8:36), so you would always

triumph in Me, (II Corinthians.2:14) You may have afflictions, but I will deliver you out of them all. (Psalm 34:19). It is for your good because you are My glory.

The Word

By Carol Warfield

So many people ask me, "Why do you read the Bible so much? Most of the time they're people who really don't know God in His truth. As I consider this question, I've asked myself, "Why do you?" For one thing, God wants us to be saved, healthy, and wise. These only come when we live by His Word, which has the answer to our every need.

God gave us His Word to read. It will make one wise. It will direct us into the right path. He also tells us to speak the Word in truth without deception. (Zechariah 8:16) This starts with believing that He is. (Hebrews 11:6) When we believe, then we can act upon HisWord.

Through reading the Word, we learn to trust the Lord. (Deuteronomy 31:13) We learn His statutes and to do well. His Word teaches us to learn of Him, (Matthew 11:29) also to maintain good works. (Titus 3:14)

Satan wants to take us into the wilderness so he can deceive us, but God used the Word to whip the devil.

As we try to sow the seed, which is the Word of God, we must keep in mind that no matter what the seed is, it's very important where we plant the seed. The devil is subtle, more than any beast of the field. (Genesis 3:1) He has a plan, but so does God! We need to have a plan also. Stand on the Word of God, for He honors His Word. My mother taught me early in life that the Word will stand when the world is on fire. I thought of this when our mobile home burnt in the mid-70's. The Bible, which was on my living room coffee table, did not burn, but was black with smoke.

Jesus said, "I am the bread of life." (John 6:35) He also said, "The words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit and they are life." (John 6:48) The Lord's Prayer says, "Give us this day our daily bread." (Matthew 6:11) Just as our human body needs food every day, it is also needful to feed our spiritual body with the Bread of Life.

There's much to be said concerning the Word of God and time will not allow me to tell it all. But it's in there, right in the Word of God for everyone to read.

Be sure of this: there is no problem that cannot be answered if you get into His Word. When we seek God, believe, trust, and wait on His timing, the answer will come. I'm learning more each time I read the Bible through and I'm very thankful that God placed a "Helper" in my heart - His Holy Spirit, which will lead and guide us into all truth. I want to know Him better so I can please Him more.

We must... 1.) Read the Word, 2.) Believe the Word, 3.) Quote the Word, 4.) Speak the Word, 5.) Ac t upon the Word, 6.) Trust the Word, 7.) Obey the Word, and, 8.) Apply the Word to our lives each day.

Be sure, God's Word never fails and God will have the last say. You can stand on it!

Wife of a Bandit - A Testimony

By Jill Friedman

My husband was unsaved, but he would say... "I'm coming; you can't change a bandit overnight." (but God can!)

For years, my husband would hum verses and choruses to old gospel songs he did not know. I started to notice what they were... "An Old Account Settled" was one, another was "Marching to Zion" (like our choir used to sing when I was a child). He also would whistle "I Remember When My Burdens Rolled Away." Hearing these gave me hope down through the years.

Then one Saturday, after 34 years of marriage, I was thinking of buying something at the store and felt a check in my Spirit - so I did not go.

My husband came home heavily burdened like never before. He felt that if he did not act, something horrible would happen. Feeling deep grief and heavy conviction, he didn't know how to rid himself of it, or what it was. He tried to talk to his mother - that did not help. Then he talked to me and I encouraged him to talk to Pastor and come to church.

When he came that Sunday morning, he was desperate, crying and repenting. He returned for the evening service and felt he had to be baptized in Jesus, Name that night to get relief from the weight bearing down on him. He didn't want to wait until the following Sunday for Bro. Grisham to get back into town - felt he had to deal with this right away. So, he was baptized immediately and has faithfully attended ever since (eight years now). His joy over being forgiven was great - so was his worship. He didn't know many of the choruses we sing, so he would whistle along. As he did, his face reflected the gladness in his heart. 

About a year later, he was still seeking the Holy Ghost, we went to Michigan Camp Meeting. I would get to the tabernacle early to save a front row seat, waiting and lifting my hands in worship as people entered for service. On the second to last night of camp, Bro. Lee Stoneking prayed for my husband. However, he did not receive the Holy Ghost that night. The next night, the last night of camp,my Jewish husband received the Holy Ghost in a miraculous way, speaking like a warrior or an Old Testament prophet in a very unusual dialect I had never heard before. Since then, he has been used many times by the Lord in witnessing to his Jewish friends and relatives. Seeds are being planted - God will give the increase. 

Never give up! God is able! "This is the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes!"

P.S. The next song God gave him was, "Bringing in the Sheaves!" Hallelujah!

Giving Thanks

By Donna Franklin

Text: “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (I Thessalonians 5:18)

Did your upbringing include saying, “Thank you” for all the ways others did nice things for you? If so, you were considered polite, folks felt good about you, and as a result more good things came your way. We don’t give to others in order to receive thanks; but if there’s no acknowledgement, the desire to keep giving is lessened somewhat and eventually dries up.

If we humans expect to receive thanks for blessing others - and actually look forward to it - how much more should God expect each of us to recognize all His wonderful blessings by giving of thanks? And the Scripture above tells us that not giving thanks means we are out of His will…Wow! 

Does God respond to our acknowledgement of what He gives us? Sure! One example is found in the Old Testament concerning the paying of tithes and offerings. Even though the required 10 percent belongs to the Lord to begin with, He promises to reward the faithful: "...and prove Me now herewith, saith the LORD if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” (Malachi 3:10)

Our first national holiday and feast - Thanksgiving - was instituted as a time of offering thanks for the bountiful way the Lord God Almighty helped His people. How much more are we, 400 years later, blessed by His goodness and mercy! As we celebrate this month, let’s keep an attitude of thanksgiving and look for ways to show our appreciation to God and to others. We have so much to be thankful for!   

Editor's Note: Donna Franklin and her husband attend the United Pentecostal Church in Paoli, Oklahoma - Pastor Terry Erwin. She loves the writing ministry and  has written many articles and poems. 

The Benefits of True Repentance...

By Marjorie Kinnee
Editorial

Text: Hosea 14:4-8; John 15:1-5
Key Verse: Matthew 4:17 - "From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand."

Repentance is both a mercy and a privilege extended to mankind because of the grace of God  Every other part of man's relationship with God hinges on this essential first step. Repentance is taught in both the Old and New Testaments. David's Psalm of repentance (Psalm 51) has become a model prayer. Job 33:26-30 provides a clear definition of what true repentance entails. Every Old Testament prophet issued calls for repentance, and both John the Baptist and Jesus inaugurated their ministries with "Repent ye!"

But repentance is more than just acknowledging our sin and asking for forgiveness. Repentance leads us to cleansing and clearing and making things right with those we have sinned against - including and especially God! Once man's heart is reconciled with God, he begins to understand the benefits associated with a right standing in the eyes of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Hosea provides a list of them...

1. I will heal their backsliding.
2. I will love them freely.
3. My anger [against their sin] is turned away. 
4. I will be as the dew.
5. He [the repentant one] shall grow as the lily,
6. and cast forth his roots.
7. His branches shall spread.
8. His beauty shall be as the olive tree.
9. His smell as Lebanon [cedar trees].
10. They that dwell under his shadow shall return [extends to repentant's sphere of influence].
11. They shall revive as corn,
12. and grow as the vine.
13. The scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon [which has great drawing power].
14. All this comes at Jesus' expense! He said, "From Me is thy fruit found!" (John 15:1-5).

The old song says, "Oh, what peace we often forfeit! Oh, what needless pain we bear! All because we do not carry - everything to God in prayer." He bore our sins in His body on the cross of Calvary. The price for our peace has already been paid. The benefits of true repentance are so great that it makes no sense to continue in sin any longer. Jesus said, "Behold I stand at the door and knock." Open the door of your heart to Him today!

Expecting the Wall to Fall!

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Subtitle: "Shout to the Lord for the Victory!"
Text: Joshua 6:1-5, 16-17, 26

Moses died. Joshua was the new leader. God encouraged him with these words, "Be strong, be of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest." (Joshua 1:9) His promise was... God will make your way prosperous and you will have good success. It was God who magnified Joshua and gave him favor (support) with all the people.

As they crossed the Jordan, God led them. A new generation saw new miracles. The children of those who crossed the Red Sea now saw God's power for themselves. In crossing Jordan, the waters rolled back and they trod on dry ground. They were becoming a current witness. But there was no promise of an easy victory - it was going to be a battle.

Expectation Fuels Faith!

The reason you are blessed is so the "world" around you will "see" God's glory. When God speaks, the place where you stand is a holy place. (Joshua 5:14-15) God won't always make sense to your understanding - the old choir song says, "God's not limited to man's decree, He's not afraid of the armies you see..."

No Limits! Other impossible situations (to fuel your faith)

• Elisha surrounded by the Syrian armies...
• The man born blind...
• The woman with the issue of blood...
• The Gadarene demoniac...
• The Syro-Phoenician woman who was willing to take crumbs...
• Lazarus, dead four days and decaying...
• James is dead, Peter is next...

Jericho's wall was like a double lane, two-way highway. Chariots could ride abreast around the top of the wall. It's bulwarks were formidable and impregnable.

God's Instructions: For six days they were to march around the perimeter of the walls once a day. There was to be no noise - no voices heard (not even a baby's cry) - only the sound of marching feet! Then, on the seventh day, they were to march again, still without any noise, but this time it was seven times around the wall. When the seventh round was complete, they stood still. At the signal, They blew their trumpets and began to shout. They weren't shouting at the wall, they were shouting TO the LORD!

Like they were descending on an elevator, the walls fell flat into the ground. Israel's army marched straight forward, over the multi-lane highway and into the city, where victory was theirs - complete, utter, total. The only exception: Anyone in Rahab's house was spared. (Everyone should have wanted to be there.)

When God says the victory is yours...

Don't hold your peace,

Don't sit back or hide;

Stand up and shout,

Don't keep it inside!

The Law of Sin and Death

By Pauline Foreman

Text: John 8:32, 36 - "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ... If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."

"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh,but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:2-4)

Where did the law of sin and death come from? When Adam and Eve yielded to the voice of the serpent and sinned, that brought death into the world. After their sin, God put them out of the Garden and blocked the way to the tree of life. This was a mercy, for it would have been a dreadful thing for them (and us) to live forever in a sinful state.

We don't think about the law of sin and death. Like gravity - it's a law that's ever with us. Gravity says, what goes up must come down. Gravity rules - it's always in full force. The only way to defeat the law of gravity is to be in a protected zone - a spacecraft, or aircraft. Other laws that rule in our day-to-day lives include thorns and thistles, seasons, sowing and reaping, and the presence of evil urges that affect us all. Our nature is carnal and is sold under sin. What's more,the wages of sin is death. The Spirit of God and the flesh of man war one against the other. Feelings reign in the fleshly nature. When you're under the law of sin and death, you do not operate under the law of the Spirit. The "flesh" owns you.

The will of man cannot conquer the law of sin. Man's will, resolutions, and conscience are powerless. James said we are tempted when we are drawn by our own lusts and enticed. (James 1:14-15) It's a "law" that is at work in us - a cycle of defeat we don't have the power to overcome.

We need the Holy Ghost to overcome sin!

You don't have to be a slave to sin any longer. The Holy Ghost, working in you, gives you the victory - the power to overcome sin and the flesh.

• The voice of the Holy Ghost will alert you, warning you of things that need to be conquered. Listen!
• Be thankful! Your new "Governor," (the New Testament) brings grace to reign in you.
• "Sin shall not have dominion over you." (Romans 8:9)
• In the Holy Ghost you have help - you're dead to sin.
• To defeat the law of sin and death; you must be under His blood, protected in the zone of grace.

Know this! Sin cannot be managed! "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His." (Romans 8:9) Without His Spirit, you are under the law of sin and death (the old law) and subject to its consequences.

Waiting Till My Change Comes

By Berris Flemmings, Sr.

Text: Job 14:14 - "If a man die, shall he live again? All the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change comes."

God took the hedge away, allowed Satan free rein to trouble Job - the loss of his possessions, the deaths of his children and servants, his own health, and the loss of the support of his wife and his friends - yet in all these things, Job sinned not, neither did he charge the Lord foolishly. In the face of it all, he maintained his integrity and his testimony.

The first four letters of testimony say it all - TEST!

For growth to come, change must come first. From Abram to Abraham, from Sarai, to Sarah, From Jacob to Israel, from Simon to Cephas, (a stone,) and from Saul to Paul - God is in the business of change and change often comes while we're in a valley experience. The Psalmist spoke of the valley and said, "He restoreth my soul." It was in a valley that a shepherd boy named David won the battle with the giant who was challenging God's people. He came in the Name of the LORD. He faced the enemy head on, declaring what God had done for him already.Young David was not a warrior, he was a worshipper! Worshippers can wait for God's plan to work!

You can bring anything to Jesus!

When growth comes, we go fr om childish thinking to thinking as a man! (I Corinthians 13:11) Joseph stayed the course until his change came. Job's staying power in the face of all kinds of adversity, brought him through - an overcomer - not only in his lifetime, but as an example to believers in every age ever since!.

There are two kinds of change: temporary - which is not lasting and often comes in stages; and, permanent - which is for ever! I Corinthians 15:50-53 describes the change of all changes - the one that will complete the process of change in every obedient believer!

Lift up Jesus - He'll do the drawing!

God has called us to be as eagles, rising above the circumstances. Do it differently! If what you're doing isn't working, change what you're doing. Put on the full armor of God that ye may withstand. God does not change. His Word stands for ever! He has promised - He will never let you go.

Wait till your change comes!

Planning My Funeral

By Rachel Coltharp

I am planning my funeral. 

I know EXACTLY what I want.

The least expensive coffin on the market.

Do NOT waste precious dollars on a fancy box 

that is just going in the ground.  

I was frugal in life, I have a reputation to protect.

Bury me in a size 8. 

Maybe something with lace, or sequins. 

Or even better, lace AND sequins.

I know you'll have to cut it open 

and drape it over me, 

but DO PLEASE bury me in a size 8.

Save your money, don't send flowers.  

Instead, have a meal with someone you love.

Feel free to have tacos, chocolate cake 

and sweet tea to remember me by.

And here is the best part, 

I want THESE words said.

I want my kids to say, 

“My mom was a woman of integrity.  

She lived at home, like she lived in public.” 

I want my husband to say 

“She treated me with dignity and respect, 

and made me want to be my best self. 

Rachel made me proud to be a man.”

I want my neighbors to say, 

“She shared her veggies and flowers with us, 

and our kids always had a safe place 

to play over at her house.  

She sure loved our kids. 

Mrs. Coltharp, she really loved her church.  

She invited me to come every time we talked.”

I want my friends to say, 

“Rachel always told me the truth.  

It wasn’t always what I wanted to hear, 

and I didn’t always agree with her, 

but she always had my best at heart.”

I want my bank account to say 

“She always paid her tithe, 

and gave generously to the Kingdom.”

I want orphaned/abandoned children to say 

“She shared with us when we were alone, 

cold, hurting and hungry.”

I want my Bible to say, 

“She slap WORE ME OUT”..

I want my computer, cell phone, debit card, check book and mailbox to say “She served Christ first with me, herself second.”

I want my house to say, 

“I heard her pray every day,   

and watched her disciple her children

 right here within my walls. 

She made me a holy place.”

And I want it all to be true.

So, like I said, I’m planning my funeral.  

Every day.  

Every time I plan a meal.  Every time I open my web browser.  Every time I whip out my debit card.  Every time I pay my tithe.  Every time I open my door to a neighbor, a friend, or a child.  

Every time I reach for my Bible.

Every time I choke back my sarcastic reply, choosing a gracious word instead.  Every time I stifle my irritation and serve with humility, as unto the Lord, and not men.

For when my voice has ceased to speak, 

my words will echo in the hearts of my children.  

When my prayers have ceased to be breathed, 

they will still fan the flames 

in the souls of my loved ones.  

When my fingers stiffen and are folded 

into eternal stillness, 

my life will still touch those I leave behind.

  I’ll be gone.  

But I’ll still be here.

I’m planning my funeral.  

Are you?

Editor's Note: Rachel, wife of Brent Coltharp, who co-pastors First Apostolic Church in Aurora, Illinois, is the mother of four children and wears many hats as she passes through her days. Most of what she has described in the article above are easy to observe in a life that's being well-lived for Jesus.