Ten Things My Dad Taught Me!

By Mark Henry

Text: Isaiah 38:18-20 -- "For the grave cannot praise Thee, death cannot celebrate Thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for Thy truth. The living, the living, he shall praise Thee, as I do this day: the father to the children shall make known Thy truth. The LORD was ready to save me: therefore we will sing my songs to the stringed instruments all the days of our life in the house of the LORD."

At the age of twelve, Jesus said, "Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?" Early on, He knew He was on a mission ordained by His Father, and had already purposed in His heart to carry it out faithfully.
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My father and mother were divorced when I was still very young. I would spend the school weekdays with Mom and go to my Dad's on Fridays after school. Every Friday, as soon school let out, I'd climb to the highest point on the playground and begin my watch for my dad's truck to come into view. Many times over the years he took me with him to job sites. There I learned many important lessons. I've listed ten of them for this Father's Day message...

1. Work Hard - Not just a conqueror, but "more than conquerors." Dad said, "If you're willing to do hard work, you'll always have a job, 'cause [most] people won't work hard."
2. Do the Right Thing - Do it the right way. Share the truth with your children.
3. Hang in There - Life doesn't always bring pleasant surprises. Stay in the game. Never give up!
4. With Privilege Comes Responsibility - Be faithful in the small things and God will open the door to greater things. Peter was given the "keys"-- and also the responsibility (Acts 2, 8, & 10)
5. Be Faithful - Mark worked at pizza delivery for seven years - Dad said, "Work it well and see what happens." Clean the toilet, do whatever needs doing. Rejoice! Do it as unto the Lord!
6. God Will Make a Way - God will never allow you to get into a situation where He can't/won't provide the solution (a way of escape).
7. Reminders are Needed - Repetition/drill! It's needed! Read it again! Quit resisting! Get it done! Get busy! Otherwise, you're wasting time.
8. Learn to Take Correction - Sin has consequences. (Sinking sand, Bottomless pit) "Go and sin no more!" Walk in the Spirit - be led bu it! This proves you're a "son of God." Don't run away! Running makes for spiritual anemia. "Spiritual teenagers" won't take it. Growth is God's goal. He's a loving Father.
9. Let God Take You Home -- We don't know who's hurting. Wait on God's timing - He knows when - don't take it into your own hands. When HE's Ready!
10. Get Your Head Up! - Keep looking up! Redemption draws near. Your Help comes from "up." (the hills) Be strong, keep the commandments of God.

Editor's Note: Bro Mark Henry and his family serve as associate minsters under Bro. George Hicks in Boulder, Colorado. They visited with us over Father's Day weekend and New Life was blessed and strengthened by their ministry. He was recently ordained by the Colorado District of the United Pentecostal Church International.

My Little Friend

By Carol Warfield

My name is Minnie, where it came from I cannot say. I have a special look when my master comes my way.
She knows if I am hungry or need a special touch. She takes me for a walk or car ride which I enjoy so much. If a storm comes up, she's there to take away my fear and say, "It's all right my little one. I'm right here beside you. Everything's okay."

Whenever I need to relieve myself, she's Johnny on the spot, whether it's morning or the middle of the night. She's always there for me. If I'm in need of anything, she knows I'll give her just a small tap and a special look to say, "My water bowl is empty, please fill it right away." Sometimes I give her a special look because I'm wanting a real treat. All I have to do is lick my lips and she's on her way.

And if I'm feeling sick, she knows just what to do. Her gentle touch and whisper of prayer gets me back up on my feet. She knows where our help comes from and she quickly calls on His Name. For you see, God made us both to fulfill His purpose.

When my time comes to leave this life and go back to the dust, she'll have eternity to hear God say, "Well done, My child. You have done okay. (Proverbs 12:12; Psalm 36:6) We both have faced many trials in life. God has always seen us through and given us extra strength to make it through.

I'm grateful for my master, she has taken me to where I am today and I know I need not fear for God and my master are always near.

It's such a blessing and comfort to know each and every day -- I love my little friend God sent my way. If you could hear my heart, you would hear it say, Thank You, God, for Your blessings You so freely give. To know that Jesus loves us by the care He gives and sends our way. (Psalm 23:4)

Editorial Note: Carol and Don Warfield are faithful saints who've been a part of New Life over many years. She is an enthusiastic writer and lover of the Word, having read the Bible through well over 100 times. It's a source of joy to her heart. 

Raise His Banner High!

By Jill Friedman

Whenever Bro. Charles Wilson came to the platform,I knew he was going to cheer me up by preaching faith and a positive message like no one else could. In my mind he is still preaching. There are no limits to Charles' God, who is everywhere and everything wonderful.

I'll never forget his story about the difference between an optimist and a pessimist: "You can put a pessimist in a room full of gold and he'll find a flaw in something; but if you put an optimist in a room full of horse manure, he'll say, "Oh boy! There must be a pony in here somewhere!"

I considered the home in which the Wilson boys were raised. The steadfast, quiet assurance in God of Bro. Wilson, Sr., must have had a profound influence on his sons because his steady faith is found in them also. There's no shadow of wavering. This friendly man wants to serve God. He has no hidden agendas. He is cheerful, willing, and quick to respond to needs as they arise. His joy is in the Lord. Nobody can take that away. Although Sis. Wilson has gone on home to glory, her excited testimonies and zeal for the Lord linger. her cheerfulness and kind words helped me many times. Her calm understanding had a steadying effect on her home. She busily worked on a job until she retired, but still managed to put God first. She based her family on a good foundation, the Word of God. With her husband, they two pulled together for over fifty years. Faithfulness and authority stabilized their efforts.

This family caught a glimpse of the gold in the hills of God. The extreme riches that are hidden to most have always been open to their eyes. The Wilsons visualized the beauty and romance, pageantry and great adventure of being a Christian while some cannot get past the drudgery of every day life in the wilderness.

Jesus, please anoint our eyes with eye salve and let us buy this gold. May we too wear the garments of the Christian life with grace and hope and joy. Let us lift Your banner high (as Bro. Charles was taught, believed, preached, and lived,) and "do exploits" in Jesus' Name!

Editor's Note: Sunday School Teacher, leader of our puppet ministry, saxophone player, and singer of unique songs - Sis. Jill is a multi-talented lady and a willing worker in the Kingdom of God.

Knives and Axes

By Rachel Coltharp

My child is frustrated. He wants soooooooo desperately to read, but is chafing over the fact that he is being forced to first learn letters. He does NOT want to learn letters, they are such small things, his heart yearns for BIG things - like sentences, chapters, volumes. 

He is itching to dive into the adventures encased within the tomes his older siblings are consuming. He is hungry for WORDS - and I am wasting his time on letters. His vision is BIG - and he thinks mine is too small.

Have you ever been there? Ever felt frustrated because you wanted, needed, were called to something, but instead of being launched out into your dream, you find yourself doing something that feels lesser.

Take heart my friend. You are not alone. You are instead in the throes of the painful place of training. Yes, I know you FEEL ready. But when the door has not opened, it is because God is preparing you for what you NEED. 

Feeling ready rarely has anything to do with BEING ready.  

So take a lesson from the pocket knife and the ax. Both are blades, wielded by a hand. Both will cut wood. 

God may call you to cut timber while you still have only a pocket knife.

You FEEL the call and answer it with a resounding "Yes." But hacking away at an oak with a pocket knife is wearing out your arms, exhausting your strength, may not be God's plan... 

  

Many times we are sent first to spend time splitting firewood. Our heart is in the forest, but it is in the smaller task of splitting logs that we build our strength and get the feel of the blade.

We are sent to practice on logs, in preparation for the forest.  

It can keep us from burning out our physical strength, hurting ourselves and others with wild swinging, or giving up in frustration, because our tools were inadequate.  

It is okay to feel frustrated splitting logs. Split them anyway.

It is okay to yearn for the forest. Yearn, but split with diligence.

David spent time protecting/feeding sheep and leading/rescuing rag-tag outlaws

before he became king.

Joseph spent time learning to run a household for Potiphar and work with fellow prisoners before he ran Egypt as Prime Minister.

So before you charge off into the forest with the pocket knife skills you were born with, remember this, time spent sharpening your skills with an ax is not time wasted.

"Do not despise these small beginnings,

for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin..."

(Zechariah 4:10)

_____________________

Editor's Note: Rachel is the wife of Brent Coltharp, Co-pastor of First Apostolic Church of Aurora, Illinois, and District Superintendent  for the state of Illinois. They are the parents of four children, three sons and one daughter who are home-schooled by Sis. Rachel.

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!

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.

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!

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.

Hidden Price Tags

By Rachel Coltharp

Cost is a tricky thing. We are often fooled into believing we know what we are paying. We also often overlook the fact that the price reflected on a tag, on a sticker, or in a menu is just the beginning. Everything comes with a hidden price tag.

Welcome to Rachelconomics 101. We will explore the hidden price tags of opportunity cost and emotional cost.

For the mathematicians out there, my formula is this: (Price + Maintenance Cost) + Emotional Cost + Opportunity Cost = Total Cost. I know the economics majors are choking right now, and I do apologize for throwing Rachelogic and Rachelmath into your neatly organized world, but roll with me, okay?

Let's look at an example of eating dinner at a restaurant. Since my theoretical dinner is a healthy one and has no adverse health affects requiring additional financial investment, I have $0 in maintenance cost. If I choose to eat junk, driving up my weight, sugar, and blood pressure, resulting in health care costs, early death, and lost wages, then further financial cost would have to be factored in.

I can figure the formula like this; a $10 dinner, plus a $2 drink, with tax, and a 20% tip will be $15.60. So, on the surface, the initial cost of my dinner is $15.60.

Behind these numbers lies another cost, opportunity cost. What I spend on dinner cannot be spent somewhere else. Looking at it from a different angle, the opportunity cost of eating out might be the lost opportunity to purchase a house. Over a 10-year span, one dinner out per week, per couple, ($16,224) equals a 10% down payment on a $160,000 house.

Look at long-term opportunity cost, not just initial price tag cost, The same couple, renting a house for an additional 10 years (at $1000 per month) equals $120,000 in lost equity. Thus, the opportunity cost of a once a week dinner out, can end up giving that $10 dinner an opportunity cost of $230.77 per dinner!

Opportunity cost is not just money.

Thrift stores and estate sales are filled with people's  "Oh, I just HAVE to have it!" which eventually becomes, "Ahh, just get rid of it." Sadly, we often leave houses, garages, attics, and sheds full of STUFF, but the treasure chest of memories is bare.

Things like your health, your spouse, your children, and grandchildren; all come with expiration dates. Time spent with them, building relationships, investing in shared experiences should be considered in opportunity cost. The emotional cost of not spending time with them now may cost us millions of emotional dollars down the road.

I heard a broken-hearted pastor tell his story a few years back. He recounted how he left at the crack of dawn and returned home at dark his entire married life. When his wife of 40+ years died suddenly, he found himself visiting her grave every day, spending his lunch hour there. He told me, "The time I spent doing pressing things cost me more that I ever could have imagined. I'd give it ALL up to go back and spend more time with her. Why didn't I spend my lunch with her?" When she was alive, lunch with her every day seemed too costly. Her death put everything into perspective.

Health and strength fade. Parents die. Spouses die. Children grow up. And sometimes children die. don't overlook the opportunity cost of time.

Emotional Cost. If you spend money based on your momentary feelings, you most likely will not spend it wisely. Understanding spending habits by giving them an emotional price tag can help tremendously. There are some emotional costs that simply cannot be figured with mere numbers. There are occasions when the stress involved in planning, preparing, serving, and cleaning up simply outweighs the cost of paying someone else to do it. All emotional costs are not equal. Sometimes time is more valuable than money.

When my infant daughter was in the hospital, my husband and I took 12-hour shifts with her. Buying dinner to eat together in her room had an emotional price tag that cannot be reflected in numbers. The money we spent on those dinners bought more than our food. It bought us two hours together, with her. When you don't know if your baby is going to live, the opportunity cost of losing 2 hours with her vs. maybe not getting a house doesn't even matter.

However, when I'm just tired and don't want to cook, the emotional benefit cost of asking my husband to bring home food does not even compare to those hospital dinner costs. When I was merely tired, the opportunity cost of maybe not getting a house helped me suck up some reserve energy and cook! We have a house today because of it!

I've heard it said, "Time is money," but I disagree. Time is so much more than money; money you can make more of, time is limited. Learning to evaluate which is more valuable to you can help you invest them both wisely. Don't judge an investment merely by the sticker price because everything has a hidden price tag.

Editor's Note: Rachel is the wife of Brent Coltharp, pastor of First Apostolic Church in Aurora, Illinois and Superintendent of the UPCI's Illinois District. They have four children; James, Reagan, Lincoln, and Grant. Some years ago, Rachel spoke at an Apostolic Writers Banquet here at New Life. He husband ministered to us during that weekend. We were richly blessed by their ministry of the Word.

Who's the Boss?

By Rachel Coltharp

Submission is not an easy thing. From the moment we are born, we fight for our own way. I am no exception. Submission grates my skin like sandpaper, its grit rubs me raw; exposing the real me underneath. While it goes against our nature, everyone submits to someone.

It's what you do when you choose to be employed. You submit your "mission" of sleeping till noon, talking/texting to your friends all day - to their "mission" of being productive in whatever area they direct. It's what you do when you choose to stop at a red light when you'd rather plow on through because there are no other cars on the road but yours. It's what you do when you choose to pay your taxes rather than spend them on a vacation to Hawaii. Submission is part of our everyday life.

The heavy handed misuse of the principle of submission by non-Christ-like individuals has given it a bad image. The true pattern found in I Peter is that of a husband who takes time, effort, and energy to study and learn his wife - to get a Ph.D. in her! Husbands are instructed in I Peter 3:7 to study her, to honor her, and treat her as an equal in Christ, and is warned that if he doesn't, God will not hear his prayers. In Rachel language, this says, "Look here son, I'm trusting you with my precious baby girl. Get to know her, what makes her tick, and remember she's MINE, before she is yours. Treat her like MY daughter should be treated. And if you don't, don't even bother coming to Me with your petitions for repentance, provision, or protection.

You don't get any more serious than that - to have your connection to the Father cut off. God takes this authority/submission thing seriously. So should we.

As a follower of Christ, I choose submission to my spiritual authority (Pastor) and to my husband. I do not find it to be an easy thing. Simple, yes. Easy, no.

In choosing submission, I find that I learn a LOT about myself. I see that I am often selfish. I see that I am easily irritated. I see that I have a lot of pride. And I would NEVER see these things if I did not choose submission. The weaker me wants things MY way. The undisciplined me wants things MY way. It takes strength and stamina to push past me, the big fat baby me, to get to the best me.

What about you? Who do you submit to? Who has veto power in your life? How are you doing in submitting your will/mission to that of your authority? Do you take your role of spouse/parent/child/spiritual authority seriously?

Everyone follows someone. Everyone leads someone. I beg you to prayerfully consider your role in submission. Someone's soul may be at stake. Maybe yours.

Editor's Note: Rachel Coltharp is the wife of Brent L. Coltharp, (Illinois District Superintendent,) pastor of First Apostolic Church of Aurora, Illinois. She is not only a pastor's wife, but mother of four, friend of many, homeschool teacher extraordinaire, consoler, writer and speaker, and wearer of many hats. Her joy and wisdom reveals her as a modern-day Proverbs 31 lady. It's a privilege to reprint this article written recently.

On Eagle's Wings...

By Rufus M. Parker

Text: Job 39:27-30 - "Doth the eagle mount up at thy command, and make her nest on high? She dwelleth and abideth on the rock, upon the crag of the rock, and the strong place. From thence she seeketh the prey, and her eyes behold afar off. Her young ones also suck up blood: and where the slain are, there is she."

The eagle is a unique bird. Everything we read about him seems to portray what a child of God should be. Some have even called us Eagle Christians. From my reading about the eagle, his eyesight is very keen. His strength and agility exceed all other fowl. His ability to soar above danger is unmatchable. He proves his abilities to his mate before they birth offspring. He mates for life. And when he becomes ill, he places himself in the sun. These are just a few of the things I've read about the eagle.

It seems that this bird understands life to its fullest. The Lord asked Job, "Doth the eagle mount up at thy command, and make her nest on high?" She makes her home on something high and solid. The rock. High means that she places it away from danger. A rock is something firm and unmovable.

If we would study and build our lives according to the ways of the eagle, we too would protect our families and ourselves from danger, and not be easily moved. Life is so much easier when we follow God's ways.

Editor's Note: Bro. Rufus Parker, former UPCI Missionary to Okinawa, now pastors Calvary Apostolic Church (UPC) in Lacrosse, Wisconsin. He has authored several books, including "Reflections of the Man in the Mirror" and publishes a daily devotional called "Morning Manna."  http://morningmanna-parker.blogspot.com

Little Things Mean a Lot

By Carol Warfield

After some bad experiences, I've never cared much for dogs. They dig up holes in the yard, shed hair on most everything they touch, they bark too loud and upset the neighbors, they chew up things, the smell turns me off, and they've been known to bite people.

One of my granddaughters went to an adoption show and saw this cute little shihtzu and yorkshire mixed dog, mostly black with some white. She decided to buy the dog for $350.00 and brought it home with her. She was raising two young children on her own and had to go to work to support them. Caring for the dog became too much for her, so she called her mother, (my daughter,) to take the dog. As we all know, our parents will, for the most part, be there when their children are in need. Mama took the dog, but she also had a big, dark chocolate lab and a cat, plus two birds and a fish tank. She and her husband work also.

One day, while stiiting in her living room floor, playing with this cute little dog, her husband said, "You have too many pets for us to care for, what with both of us working." So, as she wondered what to do, she felt that the Lord spoke to her and said, "Take the dog to your mother."

"But Lord, she doesn't like dogs!" she thought. The thought came again, "Take it to your mother." This was on a Friday morning. So she said, "If this is You, Lord, when I go there, let my father say, 'I always wanted a dog.'"

She called us and said, "Mom, I'm coming over." I agreed and she came in with this little dog following along. For some reason I couldn't understand, I loved that little cute dog at first sight, I did!

As she sat down in my living room floor with this dog, she began to tell the history of this special little dog. She had been in a hurricane in the south in 2005. She had suffered broken ribs and was with four puppies yet to be born then placed for adoption. As she talked about this dog, named "Minnie," (my mother's name,) my husband, who was suffering with gout in both of his feet and getting around with a walker, was sitting on the couch with the walker in front of him. He leaned over to take hold of the walker with both hands and said, "I always wanted a dog."

My daughter got a big smile on her face and said, "Dad, you just got yourself a dog!" Now we were hoping that Minnie would bond with dad, but that didn't happen. She bonded with me!

The moment that little dog came through our front door, my attitude changed toward dogs. The Lord placed a special love in my heart for this cute little dog. I soon learned that all the things I didn't like about dogs, Minnie didn't do. God designed this little dog especially for me, knowing my likes and dislikes.

For the past two years, the dog will be wherever I am, in the house, on the couch, by the living room table while I'm reading my Bible; she lays right by me. She loves car rides, so if my husband goes to get something at the store, he'll say, "Come on Minnie, you can go." Minnie will come over where I'm sitting and look as if to say, "Mom, are you going?"

I'll say, "No, but you can go." She'll just lay down on the floor as if to say, "If mom doesn't go, neither do I." My husband just laughs and says, "Mom, you got yourself a dog!" I cannot tell you how much joy and pleasure Minnie has given me since coming to live with us.

Extra work? Oh yes! Potty training her that first week, getting up in the night to let her out, keeping her bowl clean and full of water, providing food and treats when she does good, giving her a bath when she starts to smell like a dog, cutting her pretty, long, curly, black hair in the summer to keep her cool; these are just a few of the things involved in taking good care of our pets.

The Scripture comes to mind, "In everything, give thanks." With all my children grown and out of the house, God knew the void it left - time on my hands - and the need of something to care about. This little dog helps to occupy my time, to fill the gap, and keep me feeling needed and loved. He gave me this cute little dog to enjoy while finishing out my years in this life. These dogs live for about fifteen years. I'll be long gone by then and won't have to lay her to rest.

What a wonderful God we serve. He said He would supply all our needs. Thank You, God, for bringing little Minnie all the way from Hurricane Katrina to Michigan to bring happiness to a seventy-three year old lady who needed to know that all dogs are different, just like people. Live and learn!

Editor's Note: Carol Warfield and her husband, Don, senior saints here at New Life, are busy about the work of the Lord. He heads up our Home Bible Study ministry and teaches the Adult Sunday School class in rotation, both serve as ushers, and she reads through the Bible several times a year.

A Fresh Start

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: Luke 15:11-32

The purpose of medicine is to cure an illness or address its symptoms. Jesus' blood is the only medicine (antidote) for sin and sin's poison. Note that it's not how you start the race, it's how you finish it.

New Year's Eve is celebrated all around the world with the idea that in the passing of the old year and the entrance of the new, mankind has a "fresh start."

The prodigal son had an older brother, a father and mother,and a number of servants. This younger, prodigal son wanted his inheritance, got it, and went out to celebrate. In the process, he blew it all! He wound up bankrupt; physically, emotionally, financially, and most of all, spiritually. A fine, young, upstanding Jewish boy, hired to feed pigs, and so hungry that he thought about eating the slop he was supposed to be feeding those pigs!

Then, he comes to himself. Why, at home, even the servants have more than enough to eat! He decided, "I'm going home. I'll ask to be hired on as a servant."

Here are three keys to a fresh start...

1.) Have Proper Priorities - Matthew 6:33

• Not just exisiting -- but having abundant life!
• Not off in some wrong place -- but being in the right place!
• We need proper priorities physically and spiritually.
• "Flesh" wants the "easy" way -- leads to death!
• "Flesh" cannot be allowed to rule us!
• Our soul and Spirit desires God -- leads to life everlasting!

2.) Practice Good Behavior - Psalm 146:5

• Practice does make perfect!
• Train up children -- they need the practice!
• Maintain a good example -- children, grandchildren, and others are watching!
• The prodigal's father never stopped being a father... he kept hoping.
• He closed the door, but not his heart.
• Papa was watching -- when his son showed up, he ran to his son, embraced him, and celebrated his return with the robe, the ring, and the fatted calf.
• Be aware that 2013 will have bumps in the road; good days and bad days... BUT...
• Overcome evil with good!

3.) Be Willing to Worship God - Isaiah 1:19

• The older son was jealous of his brother; he saw the celebration as an affront.
• He pouted in anger -- only willing to celebrate on his terms.
• We need to think about Who HE is, and how worthy HE is.
• Worship in Spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)
• We need the Spirit of God indwelling -- cultivate the fruit of the Spirit.
• We need the heart of a servant -- to be great in God's eyes, be a servant.
• The father reminded his pouting son, "Everything I have is yours!"

I Want You But I Don't Need You...

By Steven Roach

I would have to say that my dad was one of the wisest men I have ever known. He ranks right up there with Mr. Solomon in my estimation. I say that because of the times when I witnessed how he handled situations that would arise, especially in the church.

I was always the drummer in my dad's church and had pretty much claimed ownership of the position. I started playing drums in church when I was thirteen. Dad always liked my drum playing. If I saw someone showing interest in playing the drums, I would say, "Nah, you won't enjoy it as much as playing the xylophone or accordion." I became very protective of that corner of my world!

When I was fifteen something happened in the church orchestra and I was really bothered by it. Things just weren't right and I decided to take thing into my own hands. Rule #602 - sometimes it's better to keep your nose OUT of things. Things have a way of backfiring and noses can get hurt!

Well, I waited for the right opportunity and went to dad's office. I explained the situation to him. Since he was the Pastor, I figured he'd correct the situation. But when I explained my concern he didn't seem to be agitated at all like I was. I figured he would drop everything he was doing and go after it! But all he said was, "Hmm..." And then he tried to change the subject.

I said, "Whoa! Just a minute... that's it? Aren't you going to do something about it?" He said, "No."

So I proceeded to tighten the screws a little, thinking I could persuade him to act. I boldly informed him that I would no longer be playing the drums! He simply looked at me and said, "Okay."

I was really agitated now, because he wasn't supposed to respond like that. As I turned to storm out of his office, he said to me, "Son, I want you but I don't need you." Those words I shall never forget!

The next service came and I was still bothered. I went to church and sat in the second row rather than taking my place at the drums. In my mind, I was saying to dad, we'll see if you need me or not.

As the song service started without a drummer, my dad got up from his seat and came down from the platform toward the people. I thought, "He's coming down to get me and to tell me he is sorry for not immediately fixing the situation I had complained about." Instead, he walked right past me! he didn't even look at me! He went directly over to one of the other young guys, leaned over, and whispered in his ear. The guy got up and walked up to the platform and took his place at my
throne!"

I was livid! I kept hearing dad's words, "I want you but I don't need you." Sadly, the guy actually did a pretty good job playing the drums. I probably don't have to tell you that I didn't get much out of that service. But before the next service came around, I was back in dad's office. This time my tone had changed and I found myself apologizing for meddling in something that wasn't any of my business. Dad responded by saying. "I kinda like the other guy's playing. He did a great job! I think you should take a little time off." Dad graciously allowed me "time off" to get my spirit right.

What I didn't realize is that dad already knew all about the situation long before I did and was dealing with it even before I tried to insert my two-cent's worth. Time went on and the problem corrected itself. I should have just kept my nose out of it. It would have been a lot easier for me!

II Hezekiah says, "He that meddleth in his neighbour's business shall surely be put off the drums!" There are actually a couple of places in the Bible that do advise against meddling. They speak of "meddling to thine own hurt."

Editor's Note: Steven and Esther Roach pastor Victory Harvest Church in Brownsburg, Quebec, Canada. He is fourth generation Apostolic Pentecostal, coming from a family of ministers. This piece was written for Father's Day 2012.

What Did God Say to You?

By Colleen Clabaugh

I asked this question during a kid's session of the Summons to Sacrifice conference a few weeks ago right after we lead the children in a time of listening for what God wanted us to do. An eight year old answered it. "God said, we are to keep praying!"

As simple as it may seem, this occurred after an extended time of prayer had already taken place. We were beyond the time for our lesson, bathroom break and even snack. Instead of the children choosing those things, they wanted to pray; they were hungry for something deeper. An intense move of God's Spirit moved over the room as children cried, travailed, and interceded for others. Several that night received the Holy Ghost and others felt God shared with them direction in ministry for their life. This intense move of God continued for the next two days.

If we as adults, believe that our children receive the Holy Ghost, we must also believe that the Holy Ghost is just as powerful in their lives as it is in us. We must trust that the children really can hear God speaking to them. We must train them to hear His voice and to answer, just as Eli trained Samuel. We must see them not just as the church of tomorrow, but an active part of the church of today.

   

When we trust a child to experience spiritual things we enable them to actively use the Holy Ghost power God has given them. If we are not enabling them, then we are hindering them, and may very well be hindering the move of God.

Trust them. Train them. Enable them. And watch what God will do.

Editor's Note: Colleen Clabaugh works at the UPCI Headquarters office in Hazelwood, Missouri. This wife and mother is involved with the World Network of Prayer and took part in children's ministry in the recent "Summons to Sacrifice" which incorporates several days of intense focus on prayer.

Parenting in Tough Times

(A Mother's Story)

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text:  I Kings 17:8-24

We're living in tough times, it's true. But tough times have been a constant throughout history. And parenting in tough times is always a challenge. Here are three things to remember in tough times...

The widow's story... After three and-a-half years of drought and famine, she was working on her last meal - a little bit of meal and oil, and a few sticks. Put together they would make one last little cake. She and her son would eat it and then, because there was no more, they would die.

Elijah's story... The prophet of God was also hungry. He'd experienced the same years of drought and famine. The difference was, the drought and famine were the result of Elijah's prophecy at the command of Jehovah. What's more, During those lean years God had sustained His prophet, and even now had sent him to Zarephath in Zidon (not Israel,) to this very widow woman, telling him that He had commanded her to sustain His prophet. So, Elijah approached her asking for a drink of water. As she was going to fetch it, Elijah added, "Bring me a morsel of bread." The widow responded with her sad tale of tough times, but Elijah said, "Fear not. Go and do as thou hast said, but make thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth."

1. Don't stop parenting just because times are tough. Be available! Be faithful!
2. Keep doing what's right. The same things that make you effective in the good times will make you effective in the tough times.
3. God has unlimited resources. They're available to those who place their trust in Him.

The end result was - Just as God said; Elijah ate, the widow ate, and her son ate many days - until the drought ended.

God's Story... "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." (Jeremiah 29:11) God is both Author and Finisher of our faith. What He started, He will finish! Remember...

• He changes circumstances!
• He changes you!
• His resources are limitless!

Covered

By Laurel D. Williams

I love to go to estate sales. There are always so many treasures to discover. My favorite finds are vintage linens. I purchase tatted, crocheted, and embroidered linens. I've bought dresser scarves, crocheted pot-holders, embroidered tea towels, and tatted runners. Vintage aprons are special finds. I especially enjoy gingham "chicken scratch" aprons. Each one is unique in design. I have frilly hostess apons, full-length embroidered ones, quilted aprons, and feed-sack aprons. Even my Aunt Barbara contributes to my vintage apron collection. I keep most of the aprons. But, I have passed along a few at bridal showers and special fund raising events at church.

When I think of aprons, two women come to mind. My grandmother Ruby and my mother Betty have donned aprons. Grandmother Ruby was a continual hostess. Every day she had company and she cooked three meals a day expecting to feed a large crowd. Grandma always wore a very servicable apron. It fit over her head and had large pockets in front. She usually wore this over a duster or a housedress.

My mother, Betty, always wears an apron to cook. It is a full-length apron. She is a wonderful cook. She bakes beautiful cookies and cakes. She is always trying new recipes. (We call these "guinea pig meals.") I can't picture her in the kitchen without her apron. When that apron comes off, she is finished with that kitchen!

Women in simpler times faithfully wore aprons. They did not have the large wardrobes of clothes that we have today and it was very important to protect what they had. Washing was a difficult and time-consuming chore. It was necessary to wear clothing wisely and protect it with aprons. Housework, gardening, and farm chores were accomplished by the apron wearer.

Many occupations necessitate the wearing of aprons. Maids, waitresses, bakers, and chefs readily come to mind. Welders wear leather aprons to protect them from sparks, as do workers of iron. Chemists wear aprons to protect themselves from exposure to harmful agents. X-ray technicians wear aprons to protect themselves from radiation. Even patients don lead aprons to protect vital organs during x-ray diagnosis.

Through the years, women at home have abandoned the use of aprons. It was a symbol of servitude to a generation seeking "liberation." It was a symbol of a woman who placed her priority to family, home, and children. It was a symbol of her committment to making her home a loving, secure, and orderly place. It is a symbol of love to her husband - I choose to serve you with the love of the labor of my hands. When she dons the apron, she is ready to work for the ones she loves.

It is essential that we, as women, are covered! It is God's plan. God is the Master of the Universe and everything is governed by His exact rules. It is HIS order of the commandment of His creation. God is the Head of us all. We come to God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ as we are covered by His blood and Name in baptism. The head of man is Christ. The head of woman is man. If we want to be effective in our homes, families, marriages, and occupations - we must follow the order to be covered! The order is: God, Christ, man, woman. Rearrange the sequence and the results are chaos.

In the tabernacle in the wilderness, God had a plan for every part of His dwelling place. There was a plan for what the coverings of the tabernacle and the Holy of Holies would be. There was an order for setting the tabernacle up and for dismatling. The precious, holy objects were covered before being transported. Aaron and his sons were the only ones that could cover those sacred objects. The holy things were for God, they were covered from the gaze of common man, How important in our marriage is it to keep the sacred and holy covered?

We are covered by Christ through baptism in His Name. His blood covers our sins! When we are covered by Jesus, the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds. When we are covered by His Name, we are His! We are committed to Him. He is committed to us. As the groom adores the bride, so God adores us when we are covered by His Name!

When we are covered by Christ and covered by the covenant of marriage, we are protected. Not only are we protected by our husband, but our minds and hearts are protected as well. The mind and heart are essential for our survival! Not only are we physically protected by our husband, we are spiritually protected. When two or three are gathered in His Name, (man and wife joined in covenant marriage with God,) He will be in the midst.

So, the next time you don an apron - dance to the Lord like Grandma Ruby! Let it be a spiritual renewing. You will be saying, "I am covered by His blood, and I am covered by His Name!" You will be displaying to your husband and children your love, your commitment to them, and that you are ready to dig in and work to give them your all. When you don that apron, you are a picture of the service God calls us to be. You are putting on holiness, you are proclaiming the sacredness of marriage. You are proclaiming, "My marriage, my family are my treasure." You are an example of love shining for your children. You are a beacon of security and refuge to your children and spouse, a safe place to dwell. In years to come, your memory will be sacred to the ones you've served. Then, the Master can say, "Well done!"

I Corinthians 11:3, 5, 12 - "But, I would have you know that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of every woman is man: and the head of Christ is God. But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered, dishonoreth her head. For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman, but all things of God."

Philippians 4:7 - "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Exodus 33:22 - "And it shall come to pass, while My glory passeth by, that I will put thee in the cleft of the rock, and will cover thee with My hand while I pass by."

Isaiah 51:16 - "And I have put My words in thy mouth, and I have covered thee in the shadow of mine hand, that I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art My people."

Galatians 3:27 - "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ."
"For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put Christ on as a garment." (HCSB)


Editor's Note: Laurel Williams is married to Johnnie Williams. Their family lives in Orange, Texas and attends Eastgate United Pentecostal Church, (Pastor George R. Edwards,) in Vidor, where Laurie teaches Sunday School and is faithfully laboring in her Father's vineyard..

Choosing the Christian Life

By Pastor Ken Foreman
[Sermon Notes]

Text: Proverbs 22:1-6

God made us to live a righteous life; to walk and talk with Him. Politeness and courtesy are important, but choosing the world and its' friendship is a sign of enmity with God. (James 4:4)

A Christian life is an abundant life! Some of the benefits include; a good name, (Bible names describe character,) and loving favor. Jacob's name meant deceiver, trickster, supplanter. His name described his character. He didn't wait on God's timing - he just rushed in and grabbed what he wanted. Note that God had already promised that "the elder would serve the younger." But Jacob was determined to do things his way. And "his way" brought heartache on all who were involved.

Years later, when God changed Jacob's name, He gave him a good name! Israel = "prince who has power with God." From the dark life of a deceiver and a supplanter, Jacob was brought into the light and was given a new life of favor with God.

Note: Be careful what you call your children!

God sees the rich the same way as the poor - every one of us needs His salvation! Jesus knew what the rich young ruler really needed and that was to learn that his worth was not guaged by his possessions. Your soul is priceless (precious) to God. Rich or poor, high and mighty or meek and lowly... God says, "All souls are Mine!"

In I Kings 3:9, Solomon asked God for wisdom and an understanding heart to discern between good and evil. God gave him his request and much more besides, because his request was right and proper. It reflected Solomon's fear of the Lord and his respect for the task that was set before him. It also marked the beginning of Solomon's wisdom.

When you make Jesus your choice...
     + You'll find the windows of heaven are opened,
     + God is going to shower you with blessings, and,
     + He'll give you wisdom (prudence) and understanding so you can avoid the pitfalls.

Note: The longer you know God and the closer you get to Him, you'll find you repent more (for what you used to think of as "little" things).

Note: When you seek His favor for righteous reasons, He will bless you abundantly and supply all you need.

Caution: Keep on keeping on - doing so triggers the blessings. Also, by listening to His voice and obeying, He'll spare you the thorns of life (skeletons in the closet,) and actually keep you far from them! You don't have to experience evil - if you'll learn from your God-given examples.

Parents: Children need to learn (while they're yet wet cement). (Ephesians 6:1-4) Their primary teacher is your life and your example, and faithful training. God gives you the responsibility to mold and shape them into what He'd have them to be. This is the most wonderful heritage you can give your children. It's two-fold: when they have matured - and - when the Word has matured in them.