Good morning from Michigan,
This is our final week here. We are visiting RV parks checking for opprotunities for summer preaching cites. We are also visiting friends we have met these past three years in the RV ministry.
Today's Bible Thought:
This is the day the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 (KJV)
Today is your best day because you can grow a little more in your faith, a little more in your maturity, and a little more in your intimacy with Jesus. Today you can take another step higher as He takes you from glory to glory.
Corrie Ten Boom once said, "God doesn't have problems; He only has plans." God doesn't make bad days for you and good days for you. God makes each day fit perfectly into His plans for you.
There are two ways that we can walk through a day. One is to walk by sight, and the other it walk by faith. To walk by faith means to walk in the truth of God's word and the presence of the Holy Spirit who lives in you. (Excerpt from Today is Your Best Day by Roy Lessin, DaySpring co-founder and writer.)
If you're holding out for a miracle today, don't be surprised if the one God sends you comes at the hands of your friends and neighbors. We can always count on Him to come through, but He very often uses those nearest to us to see us through a difficult time.
As always on behalf of LaVon and I, thank you for your continual support and interest in our ministry by giving in many ways, by prayer, e-mails, phone calls and your financial gifts. Without any of these we could not continue what God has called us to do and that is to share the Living Water with the world through the RV ministry.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Showing posts with label inspirational. Show all posts
Showing posts with label inspirational. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Sunday Is Coming
Good morning from Michigan,
We are visiting RV parks checking for opprotunities for summer preaching cites. We are, also, visiting friends we have met these past three years. And thoroughly enjoying it.
Todays Bible Thought:
There was a soldier who was wounded in battle. The padre crept out and did what he could for him. He stayed with him when the remainder of the troops retreated. In the heat of the day he gave him water from his own water bottle, while he himself remained parched with thirst. In the night, when the chill frost came down, he covered the wounded man with his own coat, and finally wrapped him up in even more of his own clothes to save him from the cold. In the end the wounded man looked up at the padre. "Padre," he said, "You're a Christian?"
"I try to be," said the padre.
"Then," said the wounded man "if Christianity makes a man do for another man what you have done for me, tell me about it, because I want it."*
You are the only Jesus somebody knows. Christ lives in you and will use you to help heal this hurting world if you'll let Him. The priest was willing to become uncomfortable for the sake of a dying man. Sometimes I don't feel like going out of my way to reach out to someone and sometimes I close the door. There are other times when I realize that I represent Jesus to the world around me and that I touch someone not with my love but with His love. And it makes a difference in their life and mine.
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Gal. 2:20
As always on behalf of LaVon and I, thank you for your continual support and interest in our ministry by giving in many ways, by prayer, e-mails, phone calls and your financial gifts. Without any of these we could not continue what God has called us to do and that is to share the Living Water with the world through the RV ministry.
Each of us should know what God wants us to do Paul said, "This one thing I do!" Know what it is that God wants you to do and do it with all your strength for His glory!
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
We are visiting RV parks checking for opprotunities for summer preaching cites. We are, also, visiting friends we have met these past three years. And thoroughly enjoying it.
Todays Bible Thought:
There was a soldier who was wounded in battle. The padre crept out and did what he could for him. He stayed with him when the remainder of the troops retreated. In the heat of the day he gave him water from his own water bottle, while he himself remained parched with thirst. In the night, when the chill frost came down, he covered the wounded man with his own coat, and finally wrapped him up in even more of his own clothes to save him from the cold. In the end the wounded man looked up at the padre. "Padre," he said, "You're a Christian?"
"I try to be," said the padre.
"Then," said the wounded man "if Christianity makes a man do for another man what you have done for me, tell me about it, because I want it."*
You are the only Jesus somebody knows. Christ lives in you and will use you to help heal this hurting world if you'll let Him. The priest was willing to become uncomfortable for the sake of a dying man. Sometimes I don't feel like going out of my way to reach out to someone and sometimes I close the door. There are other times when I realize that I represent Jesus to the world around me and that I touch someone not with my love but with His love. And it makes a difference in their life and mine.
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Gal. 2:20
As always on behalf of LaVon and I, thank you for your continual support and interest in our ministry by giving in many ways, by prayer, e-mails, phone calls and your financial gifts. Without any of these we could not continue what God has called us to do and that is to share the Living Water with the world through the RV ministry.
Each of us should know what God wants us to do Paul said, "This one thing I do!" Know what it is that God wants you to do and do it with all your strength for His glory!
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning from Michigan,
We are visiting RV parks, checking for opprotunities for summer preaching cites. We are also visiting friends we have met these past three years. We made a hospital visit yesterday with Jack Gordon as he had a procedure done; all went well and he will probably get to go home today.
Today's Bible Thought:
Your actions will speak much louder than any words you will ever say:
Shortly after World War II came to a close, Europe began picking up the pieces. Much of the Old Country had been ravaged by war and was in ruins. Perhaps the saddest sight of all was that of little orphaned children starving in the streets of those war-torn cities.
Early one chilly morning an American soldier was making his way back to the barracks in London. As he turned the corner in his jeep, he spotted a little lad with his nose pressed to the window of a pastry shop. Inside the cook was kneading dough for a fresh batch of doughnuts. The hungry boy stared in silence, watching every move. The soldier pulled his jeep to the curb, stopped, got out, and walked quietly over to where the little fellow was standing. Through the steamed-up window he could see the mouth-watering morsels as they were being pulled from the oven, piping hot. The boy salivated and released a slight groan as he watched the cook place them onto the glass-enclosed counter ever so carefully.
The soldier's heart went out to the nameless orphan as he stood beside him. "Son...would you like some of those?" The boy was startled.
"Oh, yeah...I would!"
The American stepped inside and bought a dozen, put them in a bag, and walked back to where the lad was standing in the foggy cold of the London morning. He smiled, held out the bag, and said simply: "Here you are." As he turned to walk away he felt a tug on his coat. He looked back and heard the child ask quietly:
"Mister. . . are you God?"
We are never more like God than when we give.
1 John 3:18 -" Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."
As always, on behalf of LaVon and I, thank you for your continual support and interest in our ministry by giving in many ways: by prayer, e-mails, phone calls and your financial gifts. Without any of these we could not continue what God has called us to do and that is to share the living water with the world through the RV ministry. You are an encouragement to us.
Each of us should know what God wants us to do Paul said, "This one thing I do!" Know what it is that God wants you to do and do it with all your strength for His glory.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
We are visiting RV parks, checking for opprotunities for summer preaching cites. We are also visiting friends we have met these past three years. We made a hospital visit yesterday with Jack Gordon as he had a procedure done; all went well and he will probably get to go home today.
Today's Bible Thought:
Your actions will speak much louder than any words you will ever say:
Shortly after World War II came to a close, Europe began picking up the pieces. Much of the Old Country had been ravaged by war and was in ruins. Perhaps the saddest sight of all was that of little orphaned children starving in the streets of those war-torn cities.
Early one chilly morning an American soldier was making his way back to the barracks in London. As he turned the corner in his jeep, he spotted a little lad with his nose pressed to the window of a pastry shop. Inside the cook was kneading dough for a fresh batch of doughnuts. The hungry boy stared in silence, watching every move. The soldier pulled his jeep to the curb, stopped, got out, and walked quietly over to where the little fellow was standing. Through the steamed-up window he could see the mouth-watering morsels as they were being pulled from the oven, piping hot. The boy salivated and released a slight groan as he watched the cook place them onto the glass-enclosed counter ever so carefully.
The soldier's heart went out to the nameless orphan as he stood beside him. "Son...would you like some of those?" The boy was startled.
"Oh, yeah...I would!"
The American stepped inside and bought a dozen, put them in a bag, and walked back to where the lad was standing in the foggy cold of the London morning. He smiled, held out the bag, and said simply: "Here you are." As he turned to walk away he felt a tug on his coat. He looked back and heard the child ask quietly:
"Mister. . . are you God?"
We are never more like God than when we give.
1 John 3:18 -" Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."
Each of us should know what God wants us to do Paul said, "This one thing I do!" Know what it is that God wants you to do and do it with all your strength for His glory.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Sunday Is Coming
Good morning from Georgia,
We will be leaving Monday for Michigan, God willing.
Once we got to Atlanta, we were looking for Peachtree Street. Do you know how many streets in Atlanta have the name Peachtree in it? Here we are on this wide road looking for the narrow road to get us where we need to go, you guessed it, we took the wrong road. Matter of fact, we took a couple of wrong roads before we found the one we needed. The sermon thought is this: the world will tell you there are many ways to Heaven, just take any of these roads and you will get there. That is a lie. There is only one way to Heaven and that is through the Lord Jesus.
John 14:6 (ASV) 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Jesus didn't say He was "a way." He is the only way, just like us on Peachtree Street. We didn't get to where we needed to go, but, when we found Peachtree North it took us right to where we needed to go. Don't believe the world. Put your faith in Jesus. Should He return today, don't get caught going the wrong way, on the wrong road.
As always on behalf of LaVon and I, thank you for your continual support and interest in our ministry by giving in many ways, by prayer, e-mails, phone calls and your financial gifts. Without any of these we could not continue what God has called us to do and that is to share the Living Water with the a thirsty world through the RV ministry.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
We will be leaving Monday for Michigan, God willing.
The Sunday we went to Atlanta to hear Charles Stanley, I came back with a few sermon thoughts. I shared one last week here is another. We were driving into the city and the road went from four lanes to 6 then 8, 10, 14.
My mind went to the passage:
Matthew 7:13 - 14 (ASV) 13 Enter ye in by the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many are they that enter in thereby. 14 For narrow is the gate, and straitened the way, that leadeth unto life, and few are they that find it.
John 14:6 (ASV) 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Jesus didn't say He was "a way." He is the only way, just like us on Peachtree Street. We didn't get to where we needed to go, but, when we found Peachtree North it took us right to where we needed to go. Don't believe the world. Put your faith in Jesus. Should He return today, don't get caught going the wrong way, on the wrong road.
As always on behalf of LaVon and I, thank you for your continual support and interest in our ministry by giving in many ways, by prayer, e-mails, phone calls and your financial gifts. Without any of these we could not continue what God has called us to do and that is to share the Living Water with the a thirsty world through the RV ministry.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning from Georgia,
We are still here and will be for another week and then we are off to Michigan.
John 4:10-14 (ASV) 10 Jesus answered and said unto unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. 11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: whence then hast thou that living water? 12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his sons, and his cattle? 13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Every one that drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall become in him a well of water springing up unto eternal life.
As always, on behalf of LaVon and I, thank you for your continual support and interest in our ministry by giving in many ways, by prayer, e-mails, phone calls and your financial gifts. Without your encouragement and support, we could not continue what God has called us to do and that is to share the living water with the world through the RV ministry.
We are still here and will be for another week and then we are off to Michigan.
Last Sunday, we went to Atlanta to go to church with Charles Stanley. We had a great experience and as always I came away with a thought that I would like to share. Monday, as I was sitting outside enjoying my quiet time with the Lord, I noticed they were pumping water from the running creek, living water, into the pond. (see picture)
My thought was, we are like that pond, we are in need of the living water. If we are not filled regularly with fresh water, we will become empty and stagnet. Once we are filled, we need to be like the stream, sharing with others what God has so graciously given to us. We have a choice either keep it to ourselves or to share with the world. God expects you and I to be a witness of the living water.
John 4:10-14 (ASV) 10 Jesus answered and said unto unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. 11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: whence then hast thou that living water? 12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his sons, and his cattle? 13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Every one that drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall become in him a well of water springing up unto eternal life.
As always, on behalf of LaVon and I, thank you for your continual support and interest in our ministry by giving in many ways, by prayer, e-mails, phone calls and your financial gifts. Without your encouragement and support, we could not continue what God has called us to do and that is to share the living water with the world through the RV ministry.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning,
It seems like this day gets here faster each week. We are still in Trenton, Georgia, visiting LaVon's mom and brother and family.
It seems like this day gets here faster each week. We are still in Trenton, Georgia, visiting LaVon's mom and brother and family.
I have received many prayer request, several are life and death concerns. There is a stream in this park so daily I walk to it sit and listen to the ripple of the water and pray. Yesterday, I felt a peace the Lord was saying, "I am the living water, whatever you are going through I am there."
"During distress, God comes, and when He comes, there is no more distress." - Gaelic Proverb
"There is no circumstance, however extreme, that is too great for God's power. He is even able to save from death (Hebrews 5:7) by simply turning His smiling face on His afflicted. People can do little, but God can do all things with a glance. Oh, to live forever in the light of Jehovah's countenance." - Charles Spurgeon, The Treasury Of David, pg. 710
Did you catch what was said here? When Jesus shows up, there is no more distress. Also, "People can do little, but God can do all things with a glance."
Psalm 31:16 says - "Make Thy face to shine upon Thy servant: save me for Thy mercies' sake."
Psalm 67:1 says - "God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause His face to shine upon us; Selah."
You may be going through a difficult time. No one seeks out adversity. However, when it comes, you can find hope by taking time to see your circumstances as opportunities for God’s glory to be displayed.
May God give you peace today by knowing whatever you are going through that He is there.
I want to thank each of you that trust us with your prayers; be assured, we do pray for each of them. Thank you for keeping us in your prayers, for your phone calls, e-mails and for your giving to our ministry.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning from Georgia,
We arived here yesterday in a rain storm but it didn't last long so we could set up in cooler temperatures. Thanks for your prayers, the trip was safe.
Last week I was talking about peace, well this morning as I was reading, Adian Rogers had this story about peace that I want to share .
True Peace and Satisfaction
"With long life will I satisfy him, and show him My salvation." Psalm 91:16
I was witnessing to a man one day in front of his house. He said, "I've got a good income. You see that house? It's paid for. You see that car? It's paid for. My wife is in that house. She loves me." He seemed completely satisfied.
I said, "Sir, I want to ask you a question. Will you be absolutely honest with me? Do you have peace in your heart?"
His chin started to quiver. His eyes brimmed with tears. He said, "No, I don't have peace in my heart. How did you know?"
I said, "Because the Bible says, 'There is no peace, sayeth my God, to the wicked.' These things cannot fill the longing of your heart. You need Jesus."
Pray for an opportunity to share today the peace you have in Jesus with someone who is lost and searching.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
We arived here yesterday in a rain storm but it didn't last long so we could set up in cooler temperatures. Thanks for your prayers, the trip was safe.
Last week I was talking about peace, well this morning as I was reading, Adian Rogers had this story about peace that I want to share .
True Peace and Satisfaction
"With long life will I satisfy him, and show him My salvation." Psalm 91:16
I was witnessing to a man one day in front of his house. He said, "I've got a good income. You see that house? It's paid for. You see that car? It's paid for. My wife is in that house. She loves me." He seemed completely satisfied.
I said, "Sir, I want to ask you a question. Will you be absolutely honest with me? Do you have peace in your heart?"
His chin started to quiver. His eyes brimmed with tears. He said, "No, I don't have peace in my heart. How did you know?"
I said, "Because the Bible says, 'There is no peace, sayeth my God, to the wicked.' These things cannot fill the longing of your heart. You need Jesus."
Pray for an opportunity to share today the peace you have in Jesus with someone who is lost and searching.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning,
Once again the time here is coming to an end. We leave Friday for eastern Oklahoma to be with CRM'S board of director president and go to church with him. I get to preach. YEA! Hope I remember how. Then on Monday we are off to Georgia, so as always please keep us in your prayers as we travel.
We are living in a time of great unrest. So much is going on in the world. Many of us pray for peace but let me ask “What is peace, what does it look like to you?” I read this story the other day and I think it shows us perfect peace.
There once was a King who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the best picture of peace. Many artists tried. The King looked at all the pictures, but there were only two he really liked and he had to choose between them.
One picture was of a calm lake. The lake was a perfect mirror, for peaceful towering mountains were all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.
All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace.
The other picture had mountains too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain fell and in which lightening played. Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. This did not look peaceful at all. But when the King looked, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest. There, in the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother bird on her nest ... perfect peace.
Which picture do you think won the prize?
The King chose the second picture. Do you know why?
"Because," explained the King, "peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace." - Author Unknown
Thank you for praying for us, encouraging us with your emails, phone calls and visits. Thank you for your financial support, even in trying times, you continue to believe in the Lord and do what He tells us.. that is, give.
Have a great day. Love you. Pass it on.
Don
Once again the time here is coming to an end. We leave Friday for eastern Oklahoma to be with CRM'S board of director president and go to church with him. I get to preach. YEA! Hope I remember how. Then on Monday we are off to Georgia, so as always please keep us in your prayers as we travel.
We are living in a time of great unrest. So much is going on in the world. Many of us pray for peace but let me ask “What is peace, what does it look like to you?” I read this story the other day and I think it shows us perfect peace.
There once was a King who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the best picture of peace. Many artists tried. The King looked at all the pictures, but there were only two he really liked and he had to choose between them.
One picture was of a calm lake. The lake was a perfect mirror, for peaceful towering mountains were all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.
All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace.
The other picture had mountains too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain fell and in which lightening played. Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. This did not look peaceful at all. But when the King looked, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest. There, in the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother bird on her nest ... perfect peace.
Which picture do you think won the prize?
The King chose the second picture. Do you know why?
"Because," explained the King, "peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace." - Author Unknown
Thank you for praying for us, encouraging us with your emails, phone calls and visits. Thank you for your financial support, even in trying times, you continue to believe in the Lord and do what He tells us.. that is, give.
The Lord gives his people strength.
The Lord blesses them with peace.- Psalm 29:11
Have a great day. Love you. Pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning,
It is a beautiful day and I will "rejoice and be glad in it.” I pray that is your outlook today as well.
We had a great week, first visit at our daugther and family, Stephanie, in Tulsa and then on to Branson to meet up with some dear friends that we have met doing this ministry. I have been thinking how blessed we are by knowing each of you and how you continue to encourage us every day. Some of you call us, some email, and many of you pray for us regularly and then some even give financially to keep us going. When I think of all of you and how you bless us, I start thinking how can I repay these. Today. I read the following and I believe it answers my question.
DAILY THOUGHT
The concept of "pay it forward" is built on the idea that people have done good things for you that you can't repay directly back to them - but for which you can show gratitude by doing something good for someone who can't repay you. You simply pay forward.
The ultimate expression of paying it forward is what Jesus Christ did for each of us. Even when we were sinners, even when we were enemies with God, He died for us so we could experience eternal life.
How do we pay that gift forward? Simple. We can never repay Him for His sacrificial love toward us, so we share His love with others who need the gift of life. When was the last time you paid it forward?
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
It is a beautiful day and I will "rejoice and be glad in it.” I pray that is your outlook today as well.
We had a great week, first visit at our daugther and family, Stephanie, in Tulsa and then on to Branson to meet up with some dear friends that we have met doing this ministry. I have been thinking how blessed we are by knowing each of you and how you continue to encourage us every day. Some of you call us, some email, and many of you pray for us regularly and then some even give financially to keep us going. When I think of all of you and how you bless us, I start thinking how can I repay these. Today. I read the following and I believe it answers my question.
DAILY THOUGHT
The concept of "pay it forward" is built on the idea that people have done good things for you that you can't repay directly back to them - but for which you can show gratitude by doing something good for someone who can't repay you. You simply pay forward.
The ultimate expression of paying it forward is what Jesus Christ did for each of us. Even when we were sinners, even when we were enemies with God, He died for us so we could experience eternal life.
How do we pay that gift forward? Simple. We can never repay Him for His sacrificial love toward us, so we share His love with others who need the gift of life. When was the last time you paid it forward?
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning again from Tulsa, Oklahoma.
LaVon and I drove to Tulsa Monday to spend some time with daughter, Stephanie and family. We have had a great visit and taken in some ball games as well. I can't help but think when we go to these games and activities that we are encouragers to our grand kids. Just as we are encourageing them we can and need to be encouragers for others as well. We want to thank each of you that encourage us on a regular basis by calling us, praying, emailing,visits and supporting our ministry. When we see how much we are missing of our grandchildrens' lives, we want to be there, but God has something for us to do, so we go and make disciples.
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. —Psalm 118:1
Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. --1 Thessalonians 5:11
Mark Twain once said, "I can live two months on one good compliment." People need your praise and affirmation. Be liberal with your gift of encouragement and always be on the lookout for opportunities to lift someone’s spirits.
A woman in a church has a ministry of affirmation. She must have stock in the local stationery store, because she is always writing affirming notes. Her willingness to praise someone for a job well done or encourage a person who needs a moment of inspiration has given her a profound ministry. She'll probably never give a sermon, write a book, or be famous, but I guarantee you that in God's eyes her notes of encouragement are more powerful than almost any sermon you've ever heard.
Is there someone in your life who needs a little affirmation and praise? What better gift to give them than the gift of encouragement!
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
LaVon and I drove to Tulsa Monday to spend some time with daughter, Stephanie and family. We have had a great visit and taken in some ball games as well. I can't help but think when we go to these games and activities that we are encouragers to our grand kids. Just as we are encourageing them we can and need to be encouragers for others as well. We want to thank each of you that encourage us on a regular basis by calling us, praying, emailing,visits and supporting our ministry. When we see how much we are missing of our grandchildrens' lives, we want to be there, but God has something for us to do, so we go and make disciples.
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. —Psalm 118:1
Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. --1 Thessalonians 5:11
Mark Twain once said, "I can live two months on one good compliment." People need your praise and affirmation. Be liberal with your gift of encouragement and always be on the lookout for opportunities to lift someone’s spirits.
A woman in a church has a ministry of affirmation. She must have stock in the local stationery store, because she is always writing affirming notes. Her willingness to praise someone for a job well done or encourage a person who needs a moment of inspiration has given her a profound ministry. She'll probably never give a sermon, write a book, or be famous, but I guarantee you that in God's eyes her notes of encouragement are more powerful than almost any sermon you've ever heard.
Is there someone in your life who needs a little affirmation and praise? What better gift to give them than the gift of encouragement!
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning once again,
We are in stormy Oklahoma. There are storms in the state again today so please keep us in your prayers.
Just as storms from the weather come, so do storms in our life. It may be from family, friends or work and even in the church, so what do we do when someone gets mad at you or you have a grievence with someone? I read a story this week that deals with this issue.
"Once, there were two brothers who lived on adjoining farms who fell into conflict. It was the first serious rift they'd had in 40 years of farming side-by-side. They used to share machinery and trade labor and goods as each of them needed, without a hitch. But the collaboration fell apart.
"It began with a small misunderstanding and eventually grew into a major difference until finally it exploded into an ugly exchange of words, followed by weeks of silence. One morning there was a knock on John's door. He opened it to find a man with a carpenter's toolbox.
'I'm looking for a few days work, he said. Would you have anything around here that I help you with?'
"Yes, said the older brother. 'I do have a job for you. Look across the creek at that farm. That's my neighbor. It's my younger brother's place! Last week there was a meadow between us. He took his bulldozer to the river levee and now there's a creek between us. He may have done this to spite me, but I'm going to do him one better. See that pile of lumber over there by the barn? I want you to build an 8-foot high fence so I won't have to see my brother's farm or his face anymore.'
"The carpenter said, 'I think I understand the situation. Show me where you have some nails and a post-hole digger and I'll be able to do a job that will please you.'
"The older brother had to go to town, so he helped the carpenter get the materials ready and then he was off for the day. The carpenter worked hard all that day--measuring, sawing and nailing.
About sunset when the farmer returned, the carpenter had just finished his job. The farmer's eyes opened wide, and his jaw dropped at what he saw. There wasn't a fence there at all. It was a bridge--a bridge that stretched from one side of the creek to the other! It was beautifully built with handrails and all! He then saw his neighbor--his younger brother, coming toward them, with his hand outstretched.
'You're really remarkable--to build this bridge after all I've said and done.'
"The two brothers stood at each end of the bridge, and then walked toward each other in the middle, taking each others hand. They then turned to see the carpenter hoist his toolbox on his shoulder. The older brother yelled out, 'No, wait! Stay for a few days. I have a lot of other projects for you to do.'
'I'd love to stay,' the carpenter said, 'but I have a lot more bridges to build.'"
And so do we whenever we have grievances against one another.
When someone attacks, our natural reaction is to fight back."
We need to keep in mind that "We're Christ's representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God's work of making things right between them." (2 Corinthians 5:19 - The Message)
I pray you are a bridge builder today.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
We are in stormy Oklahoma. There are storms in the state again today so please keep us in your prayers.
Just as storms from the weather come, so do storms in our life. It may be from family, friends or work and even in the church, so what do we do when someone gets mad at you or you have a grievence with someone? I read a story this week that deals with this issue.
"Once, there were two brothers who lived on adjoining farms who fell into conflict. It was the first serious rift they'd had in 40 years of farming side-by-side. They used to share machinery and trade labor and goods as each of them needed, without a hitch. But the collaboration fell apart.
"It began with a small misunderstanding and eventually grew into a major difference until finally it exploded into an ugly exchange of words, followed by weeks of silence. One morning there was a knock on John's door. He opened it to find a man with a carpenter's toolbox.
'I'm looking for a few days work, he said. Would you have anything around here that I help you with?'
"Yes, said the older brother. 'I do have a job for you. Look across the creek at that farm. That's my neighbor. It's my younger brother's place! Last week there was a meadow between us. He took his bulldozer to the river levee and now there's a creek between us. He may have done this to spite me, but I'm going to do him one better. See that pile of lumber over there by the barn? I want you to build an 8-foot high fence so I won't have to see my brother's farm or his face anymore.'
"The carpenter said, 'I think I understand the situation. Show me where you have some nails and a post-hole digger and I'll be able to do a job that will please you.'
"The older brother had to go to town, so he helped the carpenter get the materials ready and then he was off for the day. The carpenter worked hard all that day--measuring, sawing and nailing.
About sunset when the farmer returned, the carpenter had just finished his job. The farmer's eyes opened wide, and his jaw dropped at what he saw. There wasn't a fence there at all. It was a bridge--a bridge that stretched from one side of the creek to the other! It was beautifully built with handrails and all! He then saw his neighbor--his younger brother, coming toward them, with his hand outstretched.
'You're really remarkable--to build this bridge after all I've said and done.'
"The two brothers stood at each end of the bridge, and then walked toward each other in the middle, taking each others hand. They then turned to see the carpenter hoist his toolbox on his shoulder. The older brother yelled out, 'No, wait! Stay for a few days. I have a lot of other projects for you to do.'
'I'd love to stay,' the carpenter said, 'but I have a lot more bridges to build.'"
And so do we whenever we have grievances against one another.
When someone attacks, our natural reaction is to fight back."
We need to keep in mind that "We're Christ's representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God's work of making things right between them." (2 Corinthians 5:19 - The Message)
I pray you are a bridge builder today.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning.
We are on the road and I urge you to pray for our safety as we travel. We made it to Las Cruces, N.M. last night and will be somewhere in Texas tonite.
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33
When Whistler was at the height of his artistic career, a wealthy patron purchased one of his pictures on the condition that the artist would accompany him home and help select a spot to hang the picture. Once at his mansion, the man held up the picture first here and then there, each time asking, "How about this? Finally Whistler said, "You are going about this all wrong. What you must do is remove all the furnishings from the room, hang the picture where it will be best displayed, and then arrange the furniture in relationship to the picture."
Many would like to add God to the furnishings of their lives. What He requires is that He be placed as the focal point of our existence, and only then may we arrange the miscellaneous paraphernalia of our lives.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
The story is told about a pastor who was into telling stories to the children. He'd bring all the children up, and they'd sit on the floor, and he'd tell them a story. One day he said, "Boys and girls, I want to tell you a story about someone who likes to live in the woods, but sometimes we can see him in our yards. Anybody have any idea who I am talking about?"
No takers. He said, "I want to tell you about a creature that lives in the woods and sometimes in our yards, has a big bushy tail, likes to eat nuts. Anybody have any idea what I'm talking about?"
No takers. He said, "I'm talking about a creature that lives in the woods, sometimes in our yards, big bushy tail, eats nuts, likes to climb trees, jumps from tree to tree--now, does anybody know what I'm talking about?"
One kid raised his hand to take him out of his misery. The pastor said, "Do you know what I'm thinking about?"
The kid said, "Yeah. I know the answer should be Jesus, but it sounds like a squirrel to me."
We are on the road and I urge you to pray for our safety as we travel. We made it to Las Cruces, N.M. last night and will be somewhere in Texas tonite.
Seek First the Kingdom
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33
When Whistler was at the height of his artistic career, a wealthy patron purchased one of his pictures on the condition that the artist would accompany him home and help select a spot to hang the picture. Once at his mansion, the man held up the picture first here and then there, each time asking, "How about this? Finally Whistler said, "You are going about this all wrong. What you must do is remove all the furnishings from the room, hang the picture where it will be best displayed, and then arrange the furniture in relationship to the picture."
Many would like to add God to the furnishings of their lives. What He requires is that He be placed as the focal point of our existence, and only then may we arrange the miscellaneous paraphernalia of our lives.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
A Little Humor
The story is told about a pastor who was into telling stories to the children. He'd bring all the children up, and they'd sit on the floor, and he'd tell them a story. One day he said, "Boys and girls, I want to tell you a story about someone who likes to live in the woods, but sometimes we can see him in our yards. Anybody have any idea who I am talking about?"
No takers. He said, "I want to tell you about a creature that lives in the woods and sometimes in our yards, has a big bushy tail, likes to eat nuts. Anybody have any idea what I'm talking about?"
No takers. He said, "I'm talking about a creature that lives in the woods, sometimes in our yards, big bushy tail, eats nuts, likes to climb trees, jumps from tree to tree--now, does anybody know what I'm talking about?"
One kid raised his hand to take him out of his misery. The pastor said, "Do you know what I'm thinking about?"
The kid said, "Yeah. I know the answer should be Jesus, but it sounds like a squirrel to me."
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning,
And it is, after many days of fever, chills and upset stomach, I am feeling better. Thanks for your prayers!
Through the Holy Spirit, believers can access an endless well of supernatural power to triumph in any trial.
Our weakness frees God to make His greatest triumphs. His power is loosed when His children admit they are not in control and can do nothing to help themselves. Only then do we find the energy, courage, and peace we need to go on living for His glory.
This our last week in Arizona. Monday we will be on the road back to Texas first, then to Oklahoma for a while, then on to Georgia. I thank you so much for all your prayers, your emails and words of encouragement and a special thanks to each of you that give to our ministry that keeps us going to tell the good news. May God Bless You!
Speaking of giving I came across this story and wanted to share with you:
I Wish I Could Be Like That
It was the Christmas season and Paul had received a special pre-Christmas gift from his brother. It was a beautiful brand new automobile.
On Christmas Eve, when Paul came out of his office, a street kid was walking around the shiny new car, admiring it. When Paul went to get into the car the kid asked him, "Mister, is this your car?"
When Paul replied that it was, and that his brother had given it to him for Christmas, the boy said, "You mean your brother gave it to you, and it didn’t cost you anything? Free, for nothing? Gosh, I wish..."
The boy hesitated, and Paul knew what he was about to say. He had heard it many times over the past few days. He was going to wish he had a brother like that. But what the boy said jarred Paul all the way down to his toes. "I wish..." the boy went on, "...that I could be a brother like that."
"...remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35
Which do you wish you could be?
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
And it is, after many days of fever, chills and upset stomach, I am feeling better. Thanks for your prayers!
Through the Holy Spirit, believers can access an endless well of supernatural power to triumph in any trial.
Our weakness frees God to make His greatest triumphs. His power is loosed when His children admit they are not in control and can do nothing to help themselves. Only then do we find the energy, courage, and peace we need to go on living for His glory.
This our last week in Arizona. Monday we will be on the road back to Texas first, then to Oklahoma for a while, then on to Georgia. I thank you so much for all your prayers, your emails and words of encouragement and a special thanks to each of you that give to our ministry that keeps us going to tell the good news. May God Bless You!
Speaking of giving I came across this story and wanted to share with you:
I Wish I Could Be Like That
It was the Christmas season and Paul had received a special pre-Christmas gift from his brother. It was a beautiful brand new automobile.
On Christmas Eve, when Paul came out of his office, a street kid was walking around the shiny new car, admiring it. When Paul went to get into the car the kid asked him, "Mister, is this your car?"
When Paul replied that it was, and that his brother had given it to him for Christmas, the boy said, "You mean your brother gave it to you, and it didn’t cost you anything? Free, for nothing? Gosh, I wish..."
The boy hesitated, and Paul knew what he was about to say. He had heard it many times over the past few days. He was going to wish he had a brother like that. But what the boy said jarred Paul all the way down to his toes. "I wish..." the boy went on, "...that I could be a brother like that."
"...remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35
Which do you wish you could be?
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning once again.
I pray you had a great Easter. We had a great one, almost 200 in church and as usual several new faces. My prayer is that they heard from the Lord and lives will be changed.
I urge you to continue to pray for us. I know Satan doesn't like what we are preaching and how we are ministering here. He will continue to try to disrupt the work. I also want to thank so many of you not only for praying, but your visits, your phone calls and a special thanks for giving to our ministry. How blessed you make me feel, I can not explain, but to we say "thank you" and "we love you guys soooo." May God continue to bless you and keep you safe.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
The Privilege of Giving
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. -- 2 Corinthians 9:6
I heard the story of a Southern preacher who was speaking to his congregation and said, "We have to crawl before we can walk."
The congregation responded in unison, "Let us crawl, Preacher. Let us crawl."
Then the preacher said, "We have to walk before we can jog."
"We have to walk, preacher, then. Let us walk," came the reply.
The preacher continued, "We have to jog before we can run."
"Let us jog, preacher. Let us jog," they answered.
"But before we can run," he told them, "we have to learn how to give."
There was a moment of silence, followed by these words: "Let us crawl, preacher. Let us crawl."
I pray you had a great Easter. We had a great one, almost 200 in church and as usual several new faces. My prayer is that they heard from the Lord and lives will be changed.
I urge you to continue to pray for us. I know Satan doesn't like what we are preaching and how we are ministering here. He will continue to try to disrupt the work. I also want to thank so many of you not only for praying, but your visits, your phone calls and a special thanks for giving to our ministry. How blessed you make me feel, I can not explain, but to we say "thank you" and "we love you guys soooo." May God continue to bless you and keep you safe.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
The Privilege of Giving
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. -- 2 Corinthians 9:6
I heard the story of a Southern preacher who was speaking to his congregation and said, "We have to crawl before we can walk."
The congregation responded in unison, "Let us crawl, Preacher. Let us crawl."
Then the preacher said, "We have to walk before we can jog."
"We have to walk, preacher, then. Let us walk," came the reply.
The preacher continued, "We have to jog before we can run."
"Let us jog, preacher. Let us jog," they answered.
"But before we can run," he told them, "we have to learn how to give."
There was a moment of silence, followed by these words: "Let us crawl, preacher. Let us crawl."
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning,
Yesterday was a very busy day so I didn't get to my post but better late than sorry.
I pray all is well with you and if not, that you would share with me. LaVon and I will pray with you.
Yesterday, a brother in Christ went home to be with the Lord. He was my prayer warrior and encourager. I will miss him so but I know he is with Jesus today. I also know he wouldn't want me to be sad but to rejoice with him. The story that follows could be from him. Enjoy!
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
You will keep in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV).
Most of us have heard the song, “It is well with my soul,” and must have sung it a few times. A few of us are, however, aware of the story that is behind the writing of that song. Horatio G. Spafford's life seemed to be on a steep descend but in it all he never gave up on God, he held on! He was a lawyer and had a successful practice in Chicago. He was married to Anna and they were blessed with four girls and a boy, but the boy died when he was very young. Later Horatio invested heavily in real estate but the great Chicago fire caused great devastation in his life and he lost everything.
Booking passage on the luxury steamer S.S. Ville du Havre, the Spaffords planned to sail to England for a break. When Horatio was detained, his family sailed without him. In the middle of the Atlantic, the ship was rammed and sank in 12 minutes. Only 47 people were saved. Anna cabled two heartbreaking words to her husband: "Saved alone." Horatio immediately set out to join her. As he stood at the rail looking down on the billowing waves over the spot where his daughters had drowned, he wrote the words to the hymn that has comforted so many hurting people:
Are you hurting today because of the loss that you have suffered in your life? Has it been so painful you were thinking of ending your life? Just remember it is well with your soul! God loves you so much and His desire is to give you peace even in times of hurting. Jesus spoke and said,
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid,” (John 14 v 27).
Yesterday was a very busy day so I didn't get to my post but better late than sorry.
I pray all is well with you and if not, that you would share with me. LaVon and I will pray with you.
Yesterday, a brother in Christ went home to be with the Lord. He was my prayer warrior and encourager. I will miss him so but I know he is with Jesus today. I also know he wouldn't want me to be sad but to rejoice with him. The story that follows could be from him. Enjoy!
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
It Is Well With My Soul
You will keep in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV).
Most of us have heard the song, “It is well with my soul,” and must have sung it a few times. A few of us are, however, aware of the story that is behind the writing of that song. Horatio G. Spafford's life seemed to be on a steep descend but in it all he never gave up on God, he held on! He was a lawyer and had a successful practice in Chicago. He was married to Anna and they were blessed with four girls and a boy, but the boy died when he was very young. Later Horatio invested heavily in real estate but the great Chicago fire caused great devastation in his life and he lost everything.
Booking passage on the luxury steamer S.S. Ville du Havre, the Spaffords planned to sail to England for a break. When Horatio was detained, his family sailed without him. In the middle of the Atlantic, the ship was rammed and sank in 12 minutes. Only 47 people were saved. Anna cabled two heartbreaking words to her husband: "Saved alone." Horatio immediately set out to join her. As he stood at the rail looking down on the billowing waves over the spot where his daughters had drowned, he wrote the words to the hymn that has comforted so many hurting people:
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll -
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well; it is well with my soul.
Are you hurting today because of the loss that you have suffered in your life? Has it been so painful you were thinking of ending your life? Just remember it is well with your soul! God loves you so much and His desire is to give you peace even in times of hurting. Jesus spoke and said,
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid,” (John 14 v 27).
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Sunday's Coming
It is another beautiful day in Arizona. God continues to strenghen me and today's men's Bible study was great.
I want to thank you again for all your emails and phone calls informing us you are in prayer for us. Today, as I was reading I came upon the following. I pray you enjoy it as much as I did.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
The story is told of a king in Africa who had a close friend with whom he grew up. The friend had a habit of looking at every situation that ever occurred in his life (positive or negative) and remarking, "This is good!"
One day the king and his friend were out on a hunting expedition. The friend would load and prepare the guns for the king. The friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of the guns, for after taking the gun from his friend, the king fired it and his thumb was blown off. Examining the situation, the friend remarked as usual, "This is good!" To which the king replied, "No, this is not good!" and proceeded to send his friend to jail.
About a year later, the king was hunting in an area that he should have known to stay clear of. Cannibals captured him and took him to their village. They tied his hands, stacked some wood, set up a stake and bound him to the stake. As they came near to set fire to the wood, they noticed that the king was missing a thumb. Being superstitious, they never ate anyone who was less than whole. So untying the king, they sent him on his way.
As he returned home, he was reminded of the event that had taken his thumb and felt remorse for his treatment of his friend. He went immediately to the jail to speak with his friend. "You were right," he said, "it was good that my thumb was blown off." And he proceeded to tell the friend all that had just happened. "And so, I am very sorry for sending you to jail for so long. It was bad for me to do this."
"No," his friend replied, "This is good!"
"What do you mean, 'This is good'? How could it be good that I sent my friend to jail for a year?"
"If I had not been in jail, I would have been with you."
"God is good all the time and all the time God is good".
I just watched a beautiful and powerful presentation that really touched me, and I want to share it with you. I'm sure you'll enjoy the breath-
taking images and the inspiring message.
You can check it out here: http://www.movieofhope.com
I want to thank you again for all your emails and phone calls informing us you are in prayer for us. Today, as I was reading I came upon the following. I pray you enjoy it as much as I did.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
The story is told of a king in Africa who had a close friend with whom he grew up. The friend had a habit of looking at every situation that ever occurred in his life (positive or negative) and remarking, "This is good!"
One day the king and his friend were out on a hunting expedition. The friend would load and prepare the guns for the king. The friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of the guns, for after taking the gun from his friend, the king fired it and his thumb was blown off. Examining the situation, the friend remarked as usual, "This is good!" To which the king replied, "No, this is not good!" and proceeded to send his friend to jail.
About a year later, the king was hunting in an area that he should have known to stay clear of. Cannibals captured him and took him to their village. They tied his hands, stacked some wood, set up a stake and bound him to the stake. As they came near to set fire to the wood, they noticed that the king was missing a thumb. Being superstitious, they never ate anyone who was less than whole. So untying the king, they sent him on his way.
As he returned home, he was reminded of the event that had taken his thumb and felt remorse for his treatment of his friend. He went immediately to the jail to speak with his friend. "You were right," he said, "it was good that my thumb was blown off." And he proceeded to tell the friend all that had just happened. "And so, I am very sorry for sending you to jail for so long. It was bad for me to do this."
"No," his friend replied, "This is good!"
"What do you mean, 'This is good'? How could it be good that I sent my friend to jail for a year?"
"If I had not been in jail, I would have been with you."
"God is good all the time and all the time God is good".
I just watched a beautiful and powerful presentation that really touched me, and I want to share it with you. I'm sure you'll enjoy the breath-
taking images and the inspiring message.
You can check it out here: http://www.movieofhope.com
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Sunday Is Coming
Good morning,
I pray all is well with you today.
Repeat after me “This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it” Ps 118:24 I do pray you are rejoicing and glad today no matter what you are going through. The Lord is with you and is looking out for you.
This morning I want to thank each of you for your prayers, e-mails and phone calls during my surgery. If you have not read LaVon's blog, please read it now and see why I continue to Praise the Lord every day of my life.
We know God has a plan for us here and on down the road when we leave here. When the Lord puts us on your heart we thank you in advance for listening to Him and praying for us, contacting us by phone or e-mail, or giving to our ministry so we can continue what we know He has called us to do. May God Bless you today.
The story below is just a thought that maybe will encourage us to say "thank you" often to those around us and especially to God for all He does for us.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
NOT ONE THANKED HIM
Edward Spencer was a ministerial student in Evanston, Illinois, and also a member of a life-saving squad during his school years. In 1860, a ship went aground on the shore of Lake Michigan near Evanston, and Spencer waded again and again into the frigid waters to rescue seventeen passengers. In the process, his health was permanently damaged. Some years later at his funeral, it was noted that not one of the people he rescued ever bothered to thank him.
Worse than being merely discourteous, these people displayed a gross lack of gratitude. Especially as believers, we need to be aware that gratitude opens up our lives for God’s will to be done in and through us.
I pray all is well with you today.
Repeat after me “This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it” Ps 118:24 I do pray you are rejoicing and glad today no matter what you are going through. The Lord is with you and is looking out for you.
This morning I want to thank each of you for your prayers, e-mails and phone calls during my surgery. If you have not read LaVon's blog, please read it now and see why I continue to Praise the Lord every day of my life.
We know God has a plan for us here and on down the road when we leave here. When the Lord puts us on your heart we thank you in advance for listening to Him and praying for us, contacting us by phone or e-mail, or giving to our ministry so we can continue what we know He has called us to do. May God Bless you today.
The story below is just a thought that maybe will encourage us to say "thank you" often to those around us and especially to God for all He does for us.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
NOT ONE THANKED HIM
Edward Spencer was a ministerial student in Evanston, Illinois, and also a member of a life-saving squad during his school years. In 1860, a ship went aground on the shore of Lake Michigan near Evanston, and Spencer waded again and again into the frigid waters to rescue seventeen passengers. In the process, his health was permanently damaged. Some years later at his funeral, it was noted that not one of the people he rescued ever bothered to thank him.
Worse than being merely discourteous, these people displayed a gross lack of gratitude. Especially as believers, we need to be aware that gratitude opens up our lives for God’s will to be done in and through us.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning,
I pray all is well with you. I want to thank you for all your prayers, e-mails, phone calls and concern for my upcoming surgery. I know God is listening.
My sermon last week was on "Listening to God" I would like to continue that thought this morning.
“A four-year-old girl was overheard whispering into her baby brother’s ear, ‘Baby,' she whispers, 'tell me what God sounds like. I am starting to forget.'"
Seeking God requires listening, and listening is hard work. It takes energy, patience, time, effort, and most of all, silence. And, while most of us are okay with the energy, patience, time and effort, we shudder at the thought of being silent and quickly find ways of filling the widening void.
In silence, the hurts, pains, rejections and failures we have pushed away come rushing back. In silence, the voices of those who have authority over us can seem to overpower us. In silence, worry and fear linger strangely near us. But consider the paradox offered by Mother Teresa, “God is the friend of silence.” Elijah learned this while hiding away in a cave. Expecting God to show Himself in loud and magnificent ways, Elijah was offered instead the still, small whisper of God. Psalm 46:10 reads, “Be still and know that I am God.” The truth is, things are born in quiet that cannot be heard in the din of our overly verbal days.
Consider your day. Is it full of noise? Do radio, TV, Internet, iPods and other fillers clutter your mind with excess noise? Even good things can become clutter if they distract us from times of quiet.
Today, I challenge you to “unplug. Leave the cell phone and iPod at home and take a walk. Resist the temptation to speak. Walk in silence and ask God to speak to you. Become aware of the small joys you may have forgotten, like the sound of children playing in the distance, the sound of a bird or squirrel chattering in a tree, or even listen to your own heartbeat.
If you’re in need of a little more encouragement today, click here for a reminder about the power of purpose.
I continue to stand in awe of God and how He leads and provides for us. Thank you for your support in prayers and finances; without you we couldn't afford to go on.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
I pray all is well with you. I want to thank you for all your prayers, e-mails, phone calls and concern for my upcoming surgery. I know God is listening.
My sermon last week was on "Listening to God" I would like to continue that thought this morning.
“A four-year-old girl was overheard whispering into her baby brother’s ear, ‘Baby,' she whispers, 'tell me what God sounds like. I am starting to forget.'"
Seeking God requires listening, and listening is hard work. It takes energy, patience, time, effort, and most of all, silence. And, while most of us are okay with the energy, patience, time and effort, we shudder at the thought of being silent and quickly find ways of filling the widening void.
In silence, the hurts, pains, rejections and failures we have pushed away come rushing back. In silence, the voices of those who have authority over us can seem to overpower us. In silence, worry and fear linger strangely near us. But consider the paradox offered by Mother Teresa, “God is the friend of silence.” Elijah learned this while hiding away in a cave. Expecting God to show Himself in loud and magnificent ways, Elijah was offered instead the still, small whisper of God. Psalm 46:10 reads, “Be still and know that I am God.” The truth is, things are born in quiet that cannot be heard in the din of our overly verbal days.
Consider your day. Is it full of noise? Do radio, TV, Internet, iPods and other fillers clutter your mind with excess noise? Even good things can become clutter if they distract us from times of quiet.
Today, I challenge you to “unplug. Leave the cell phone and iPod at home and take a walk. Resist the temptation to speak. Walk in silence and ask God to speak to you. Become aware of the small joys you may have forgotten, like the sound of children playing in the distance, the sound of a bird or squirrel chattering in a tree, or even listen to your own heartbeat.
If you’re in need of a little more encouragement today, click here for a reminder about the power of purpose.
I continue to stand in awe of God and how He leads and provides for us. Thank you for your support in prayers and finances; without you we couldn't afford to go on.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good morning once again.
I pray you are well this morning and for those that sent us emails for prayer, know we are lifting you up. May the Lord bless and keep you.
I count all of you my friend and love you very much.
The last several weeks, God has put on my heart the subject of anger. I have to admit, at times, it still hinders me, just ask LaVon. I know what and how I'm supposed to act but as Paul says, in Romans 7, I don't do it. I am sure we all have this problem, so this morning, let's all agree to pray for each other and ask God to take this away.
I read the following again today:
Friendship
There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence.
The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next frew weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Finally, the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all.
He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper.
The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.
The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, 'You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. But it won't matter how many times you say 'I'm sorry,' the wound will still be there. A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one.
Remember that friends are very rare jewels, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed; they lend an ear, they share words of praise and they always want to open their hearts to us. I thank you for being my friend.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
I pray you are well this morning and for those that sent us emails for prayer, know we are lifting you up. May the Lord bless and keep you.
I count all of you my friend and love you very much.
The last several weeks, God has put on my heart the subject of anger. I have to admit, at times, it still hinders me, just ask LaVon. I know what and how I'm supposed to act but as Paul says, in Romans 7, I don't do it. I am sure we all have this problem, so this morning, let's all agree to pray for each other and ask God to take this away.
I read the following again today:
Friendship
There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence.
The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next frew weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Finally, the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all.
He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper.
The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.
The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, 'You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. But it won't matter how many times you say 'I'm sorry,' the wound will still be there. A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one.
Remember that friends are very rare jewels, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed; they lend an ear, they share words of praise and they always want to open their hearts to us. I thank you for being my friend.
Have a great day, love you, pass it on.
Don
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Sunday's Coming
Good Morning from sunny Arizona,
Finally, it's sunny... for a few days.
Thank you for your prayers and love that you send to us. Thank you, also, for the privilege to pray with you as you send your prayer requests to us.
We know we are being used here, as we have received word that the message last Sunday has 'stirred' some in the park. The Bible says that His word will 'offend' as it convicts. Praise the Lord. So, thank you for continuing in prayer for the ministry here as the Lord works in hearts.
While reading this morning, I came across a message I would like to share:
"A pastor received a package. It contained a one hundred dollar bill with this note: 'The only way I will know if you received this package is if you burn a candle in the window on Saturday night.'
He burned the candle. It bore two messages. One said, 'Gift received.' The other said, 'Gratitude revealed.'"
Thanks for your gifts and love. Just know that they are received and our gratitude is revealed... there's a candle burning in the window of our hearts for you.
God has sent you the Gift of gifts, His only begotten Son. Have you received His gift? If so, good. Now, reveal your gratitude. How? The Bible says, 'Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.'
Have a great day, I love you, pass it on,
Don
Finally, it's sunny... for a few days.
Thank you for your prayers and love that you send to us. Thank you, also, for the privilege to pray with you as you send your prayer requests to us.
We know we are being used here, as we have received word that the message last Sunday has 'stirred' some in the park. The Bible says that His word will 'offend' as it convicts. Praise the Lord. So, thank you for continuing in prayer for the ministry here as the Lord works in hearts.
While reading this morning, I came across a message I would like to share:
"A pastor received a package. It contained a one hundred dollar bill with this note: 'The only way I will know if you received this package is if you burn a candle in the window on Saturday night.'
He burned the candle. It bore two messages. One said, 'Gift received.' The other said, 'Gratitude revealed.'"
Thanks for your gifts and love. Just know that they are received and our gratitude is revealed... there's a candle burning in the window of our hearts for you.
God has sent you the Gift of gifts, His only begotten Son. Have you received His gift? If so, good. Now, reveal your gratitude. How? The Bible says, 'Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.'
Have a great day, I love you, pass it on,
Don
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