that the word of the Lord may run swiftly

and be glorified, just as it is with you.”

~2 Thessalonians 3:1~

From Charlene Blades

Update on my mom (Dell Phillips) she is home now. However we are making lots of adjustments. We now have nurses etc… coming in and out. A room full of medical equipment. It is a big change for us.
She felt pretty good yesterday but is very weak and tired today.
Please keep her and her caregivers in your prayers.

Mrs. Avis Sullivan is back at home and doing well.  She is an amazing lady!

Jadon Pailet is doing very well four weeks after surgery.  He has had some ups and downs, but has been seizure free for four weeks!   Yesterday, he added a new phrase to his vocabulary – “Go bye bye”.  He’s a miracle in so many ways!

CaringBridge: AdriunnaCavanaugh

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/adriannacavanagh

Mildred Ann Bass Spence
(June 7, 1949 – February 7, 2012)

Thought for the Day: Enjoy the grape

I read a parable recently that bothered me when I read it the first time. It is a story that was

reportedly told by Buddha: A traveler, fleeing a tiger who was chasing him, ran till he came to

the edge of a cliff. There he caught hold of a thick vine, and swung himself over the edge.

Above him the tiger snarled. Below him he heard another snarl, and behold, there was another tiger,

 peering up at him. The vine suspended him midway between two tigers.

Two mice, a white mouse and a black mouse, began to gnaw at the vine. He could see they were

quickly eating it through. Then in front of him on the cliffside he saw a luscious bunch of

grapes. Holding onto the vine with one hand, he reached and picked a grape with the other. How

delicious!

That's the end of the parable. That's it??? If you're like me, you want to know how the story

ends. Does the man get eaten by one of the tigers? Does he manage to find a way of escape? We

don't know. And how can a man possibly stop to enjoy eating a grape while in the midst of such

a crisis???

I can't tell you for sure what the parable was intended to teach, but after giving it considerable

thought, here's the lesson that I gained from it. We are sometimes so focussed on wanting to know

what's going to happen in the future that we fail to enjoy what we have right here, right now.

What is the doctor going to find when I go in for these tests? How can I possibly meet the

deadline my boss has given me since I have more work to do than I can possibly get done? How will

my wife react when I talk to her about the need to go see a counselor to deal with the deep-rooted

problems we're having? How am I going to pay the bills that are due next week when there's not

enough money in the bank to cover them? How should I react to the racial prejudice that's causing

students to say ugly things to me at school?

None of those things are unimportant (nor are the countless other trials and difficulties you

could add to that list from your own experience); some may even be life-threatening But today,

all day long, I am surrounded by countless blessings from God -- a beautiful sunrise, the changing

autumn leaves, a child's kiss, a bunch of grapes, a warm bed, hot water, and the list goes on and

on. Is it possible to focus on the blessings at hand even when we are surrounded by difficulties

and we don't know how the story will turn out? For a child of God, it is not only possible, it is

essential that we learn to do so.

"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever 

the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have 

plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether

well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." (Philippians 4:11-12)

Are you surrounded by tigers today? Take a moment to enjoy the grape that God has placed right in

front of you.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith

It's easy to see the miracles in Jadon's life, but do we see them in our own lives?  

Today is a great day to pay attention and see what God is doing in our own lives.

Anna Lee

“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources

he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.”

~Ephesians 3:16 NLT~

Great sorrow seems to have settled in with many families lately.  I don’t ever remember going to so many wakes and funerals of friends and family.  I refuse to continue to count them.  I ache for families who have lost loved ones lately, most of them in unexpected situations.  I know these times are much easier with God carrying us through the difficult days.  I cannot imagine what it would be like without that knowledge.

“Stand in the storm.  When the going gets tough, make adjustments, but keep standing.”           Unknown author

Life has given me some storms lately, but having God stand with me allowed me to seek Him more and to keep on standing.  I pray each individual and each family touched by problems of any kind will be able to keep standing because they have God walking through the journey of life with them.

I’m doing well with the storms of my life.  I can smile, face people, encourage others, etc.  Life doesn’t give “free passes” to us. We have to know God is with us and wants us to continue on.  If He is not your journey mate through life, I pray you will seek someone who can steer you in His direction.   He is the one and only way to travel through life!

That’s my sermon for today!

Baptist Press News

http://www.bpnews.net/

Thought for the Day: Jesus will give you rest (parts 1 & 2)

I heard a story about a young mother with three children. The phone rang one day and a voice on the other end of the phone said, “Honey, it’s Mom. I called because I know that you’re busy with the kids, and I want to give you some help. I’m going to stop by to clean the house, take care of the baby, and prepare dinner for when the boys get home from school.

“I want you to get ready to go to my beautician, I’ve paid her already, and she’s going to give you ‘the works,’ your appointment is at 1:00. Give George a call at the office and tell him that you’ll meet him at Olive Garden for dinner, it’s on me…”

At that point, the young mother interrupted and said, “George, who is George?”

“Your husband.”

She said, “My husband’s name is Fred.”

“Oh. Is this 365-3212?”

“No this is 365-3213.”

The caller said, “Oh, I’m so sorry. I’ve got the wrong number.”

After a pause, the young mother said, “Does this mean that you’re not coming over?”

Do you ever feel like you could use a phone call like that? Do you ever find yourself wishing someone would just come along and take care of things for you so that you can have a little rest?

I remember back in the 1970′s, there was a big concern that computers and technology would radically change how many hours a week people would work. In fact, there was testimony given to a Senate sub-committee forecasting that within 20 years, the average American would be working only 22 hours a week. They said, “The great challenge would be figuring out what to do with all the excess time.” Now here we are, 30 years later, after major advances in technology — how many of us are wondering what to do with all the excess time on our hands?

Our world has become the world of the Red Queen of Alice in Wonderland. She said, “It takes all the running you can do to stay in the same place. If you want to get somewhere else, you must run at least twice as fast as that.”

That’s why what Jesus offers is so very precious. He says, “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29)

It’s one of the most beautiful promises in all the Bible. It was a promise made to the Israelites as they headed toward the land of Canaan — forty years they traveled and traveled in the wilderness, until finally they arrived at a land of rest. And it’s the promise made to those of us who are Christians as we look forward to heaven. The Hebrew writer says, “There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.” (Hebrews 4:9).

I don’t know about you, but one of the things that I’m most looking forward to when I get to heaven is being able to rest. I’m not talking about sitting down in a Lazy-Boy recliner with my feet propped up and a remote control to a big screen television in my hand. That’s not heaven. I just know that heaven will be a place where we won’t experience the feeling of being so tired, so utterly worn out. Sometimes when people ask me how I am, I just want to say, “I’m tired. I’m just so very tired.” Heaven is going to be place of rest.

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on…that they may rest from their labors.” (Revelation 14:13)

But when Jesus said, “I will give you rest”, I think he was talking about more than just heaven…..

(to be continued)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith

In 1930, something very unusual happened. It’s still an open case in the FBI missing-person file. On August 15th of that year, after dining with his family, a New York State Supreme Court Justice named Joseph Carter hailed a cab and was never seen or heard from again. The FBI thought his disappearance might be worked-related because the judge had heard a lot of mob cases. But there was no real evidence to support that theory. All the investigations led to a dead end. The only clue was a note Joseph Carter left for his wife and family. It said: “I am very, very tired. Love, Joe.” That was it. That was the last anyone ever heard from him.

I can’t help but feel that there’s a lot of us who feel the same way. And Jesus has something to say to the person who is exhausted, to the person who is worn out, frustrated and weary. He offers rest.

“Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29)

As I said in part one, we are looking forward to the rest that awaits us in heaven. But I don’t think Jesus is talking about heaven here in Matthew 11. I think he’s offering rest for our souls here and now. Somebody to help carry our burden. In Galatians 6:2, Paul says to “Bear one another’s burdens” and we can do that for one another. There have been some times in my life when I’ve gone through some things that I just don’t think I could have handled if I didn’t have brothers and sisters in Christ to be there for me. But what we do for one another in a small way, Christ does for us to a much greater measure.

Whatever burden you are carrying right now, Christ says he’ll be there for you. Whether it’s problems in your marriage, or maybe your children are in trouble at school or with the law. Maybe it’s burdens of loneliness, burdens of taking care of sick relatives, burdens of disappointment, of rejection, of addictions. Maybe the burden of not knowing which way to turn next. Life is filled with stress, with cares, with worries.

The reality is that life can be very difficult. But these are the very kinds of burdens that Jesus wants us to bring to him. Jesus is saying, “Come to me all you who are struggling with life in any way and those of you who have burdens that you can’t carry alone, and I will help you with your struggles.”

Do you remember the last time you made a trip to the airport with all your luggage? A couple of years ago, we took our daughter to the airport. She had absolutely crammed her suitcases as full as she could get them because she was moving to Germany. One of them weighed 65 pounds and the other one weighed 83 pounds. Fortunately they had the little wheels on them, because I can’t imagine what it would have been like if we had to lug those things all over the airport trying to find the right ticket counter. And, I want to tell you, when the ticket agent took those suitcases from us and we didn’t have to carry them around anymore, that was a wonderful feeling. No more burden.

That’s what Jesus does for us. Jesus is always on the lookout for hurting people. People who are bold enough to admit — Lord, I need some help. I can’t carry these problems alone.” And he’s promised to do it. He said, “I will give you rest.”

Have a great day!

Alan Smith

Thankful for the journey-mate and the rest!

Anna Lee

pray without ceasing,

in everything give thanks;

for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

~1 Thessalonians 5:16-18~

Continue to pray for Mrs. Carol Jean Gill and her family.  Pray for improvement on her part and peace and comfort for the family as they wait.

Mrs. Gail Pittman-McDaniel is now back in Kentwood for some rehab.  Continue to pray for her and her family.

Mr. Earlo LaBauve, Sharon Martin’s dad, is improving, but still being treated at North Oaks.  Please continue to pray.

Andy Taylor is improving, but still has a ways to go to get past the gall bladder surgery.  Keep him in your prayers.

Continue to pray for Mrs. Pauline Strickland and for her family as they help care for her.

The wake for Mr. William Ed. Hatcher will be from 6-9 this evening at McKneely-Vaughn Funeral Home in Amite. Please continue to pray for his family.

Thought for the Day: Does God know about this?

There's a couple in Arkansas who have given their six-year-old son 

strict instructions to come home from playing every afternoon no later 

than 5 p.m. He is allowed to play with his friends, but his parents are 

quite serious about his curfew. If he is not home by 5 p.m., they begin 

to worry and call around the neighborhood to find out where he is. The 

boy knows this, though, and is careful to arrive every day on time. One

 April Monday, however, the day after Daylight Saving Time went into 

effect, the boy was late coming home. When he finally arrived, a few minutes

 before 6 p.m., his mother scolded him for being late. "You know you are

 to be home by five," she said, "and here it is nearly six." Puzzled, 

the little boy pointed out the window. "But the light," he protested, "the 

light; it's the light that tells me when to come home." Realizing what had

 happened, his mother smiled and gently explained that the day before the 

time had been changed, that everyone had reset their clocks and, now, the 

daylight lasted longer. The boy's eyes narrowed. "Does God know about this?" 

he asked suspiciously. It's easy to see why a young boy would ask such a 

question, but no matter what the circumstance prompting the question, the 

answer to "Does God know about this?" is always, "Yes, He knows." David 

reflected on this quality of God in Psalm 139: "Lord, you have examined 

me and know all about me. You know when I sit down and when I 

get up. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know where 

I go and where I lie down. You know thoroughly everything I do. 

Lord, even before I say a word, you already know it. You are 

all around me -- in front and in back -- and have put your hand 

on me. Your knowledge is amazing to me; it is more than I can 

understand." (Psalm 139:1-6)

 At times, it is a bit frightening to realize that God knows so much about

me, but ultimately it is a comforting thought -- that someone knows so

much about me, yet still loves me. Because God knows me so well, He knows 

my deepest needs. May you take comfort this day in the realization that

God knows everything about you there is to know. 

Have a great day! 

Alan Smith

This list is circulating among Forest Service employees. These are actual comments left on Forest Service registration sheets and comment cards by backpackers completing wilderness camping trips:

“A small deer came into my camp and stole my bag of pickles. Is there a way I can get reimbursed? Please call.”

“Instead of a permit system or regulations, the Forest Service needs to reduce worldwide population growth to limit the number of visitors to wilderness.”

“Trails need to be wider so people can walk while holding hands.”

“Trails need to be reconstructed. Please avoid building trails that go uphill.”

“Too many bugs and leeches and spiders and spider webs. Please spray the wilderness to rid the area of these pests.”

“Chairlifts need to be in some places so that we can get to wonderful views without having to hike to them.”

“Reflectors need to be placed on trees every 50 feet so people can hike at night with flashlights.”

“Need more signs to keep area pristine.”

“The places where trails do not exist are not well marked.”

“Too many rocks in the mountains.”

Too many rocks in the mountains? I suppose the sky is too blue, there are too many leaves on the trees and too much water in the ocean as well! It’s hard to imagine anyone complaining about God’s creation. I stand in awe every day of His handiwork, from the mountains to the deserts to the beaches and everything in between!

“Praise the LORD!….Praise Him, sun and moon;

Praise Him, all you stars of light!

Praise Him, you heavens of heavens, and you waters above the heavens!

Let them praise the name of the LORD, for He commanded and they were created….

Fire and hail, snow and clouds;

stormy wind, fulfilling His word;

mountains and all hills;

fruitful trees and all cedars;

beasts and all cattle;

creeping things and flying fowl….

Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted;

His glory is above the earth and heaven.”

~Psalm 148:1a,3-5,7-10,13~

Next chance you get, walk outside, take a look around, and offer your praise to God who created it all.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith

Share God’s love today!

Anna Lee

being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.”

~Colossians 4:2~

If we are to “continue earnestly in prayer” for some of those we have been praying for, I will remind you of some families to pray for.

Jadon Pailet                                Family of Ian Russ Guzzardo                          Family of Catherine Simmons

Carol Jean Gill                           Family of Roy Russell                                        Family of William Ed. Hatcher

Pauline Strickland                    Family of Lorna Smith                                      Family of Jason McKean

Boyd and Jennie Hatchel       Family of Dorothy Ricks                                   Family of Kelly Dunn Sofge

Earlo LaBauve                           Avis Sullivan                                                         Andy and Betty Taylor

Jill Brister                                  Gail Pittman-McDaniel                                     Family of Tripp Roth

Susan Rimes                            Billy Carl Strickland                                            Velta Morris

Dr. Derry Magee                     Raymond Anthony                                              Robbie Lynn Callihan Kirby

KaLeigh Powers                     Jimmy Tolar                                                          Jimmie Shaw Family

These are some of the people for whom we have prayed.  You can pray for these and your own additions.

Jadon Pailet (Late last night)

Please pray for Jadon. We were admitted to childrens today because his blood cultures were positive. We will not know what kind of bacteria it is until tomorrow. The culture may have been contaminated but they don’t think so because he is so sick. We need prayers right now.

Baptist Press

BPNews.net

Thought for the Day: When everything goes wrong

Here is a list of "Murphy's Laws for Churches" (author unknown):

* Video projectors always work before the class meeting begins.

* The probability of the preacher tripping over the mike cord is greater on "Bring A

Friend" Sunday than any other week.

* The largest Bible Class will show up when the teacher feels his/her worst.

* No matter how many bulletins you print, you'll always need one more.

* A member living 15 miles away will be 15 minutes early; members living two blocks

will be 15 minutes late.

* The shorter the agenda, the longer the business meeting.

* Saying "Let us pray" or singing "Just As I Am" causes babies to cry.

* When you answer the Bible teacher's question right, nobody remembers; when you

are wrong, nobody forgets.

* The furnace only fails when the outside temperature is more than 20 degrees

below zero. The air conditioner only fails when the outside temperature is 90

degrees or above.

* When the preacher misspeaks in a sermon, at least half of those taking notes

will write the remark down as an important thought from the sermon.

Murphy's Law ("Whatever can go wrong will go wrong") manifests itself in a multitude

of ways in our lives. In fact, there are times when it seems that EVERYTHING is going

wrong. How we react to those situations says a lot about our character.

Do we react by saying, "Everything will turn out all right eventually"? We

may be living in a dream world.

Do we react by saying, "How could God do this to me"? Our bitterness may cause

us to turn away from God.

Or do we react by turning to God, praying for strength, trusting Him to see

us through?

In Acts 4, the apostles were threatened by government officials and forbidden to

preach in the name of Jesus. They prayed, "Now, look on their threats, and grant

to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word...." (Acts 4:29)

Father, there may be those reading this message whose world has come crashing down

around them. May you bless them with strength; make them mindful of just how much

they need your help. May you use the times when things go wrong as opportunities to

manifest your glory in a special way. In Jesus name, amen.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith

Knowing Russ Guzzardo, I don’t think he will mind me sharing his thoughts on Facebook last night, just hours after burying his newborn son.

Just want to thank God for comforting me today. I want to thank him for all the people who have been praying for my family and put there words to action today by attending or participating in the services today. God you are an awesome GOD. Thanks for family and friends, I love you all.

With all the sadness around, especially the last two weeks, let’s remember we serve and awesome God who loves us dearly!

Anna Lee

while it was still dark,

Jesus got up,

left the house and

went off to a solitary place,

where he prayed.”

~Mark 1:35 NIV~

Lots of prayer time is needed in our local communities to pray others and ourselves through the tough times so many families have experienced lately.  The Good News is that God has walked every step with each one of us and carried those who were unable to walk on their own strength.

Thought for the Day: When the rains begin

A newcomer to Seattle arrives on a rainy day. She gets up the next day and it’s raining. It also rains the day after that, and the day after that. She goes out to lunch and sees a young kid and, out of despair, asks, “Hey, kid, does it ever stop raining around here?” The kid says, “How should I know? I’m only 6.”

Residents of Seattle don’t tan — they rust!

I hear it only rains twice a year in Seattle — August through April and May through July.

Q: What do you call two straight days of rain in Seattle?
A: A weekend.

Q: What does daylight-saving time mean in Seattle?
A: An extra hour of rain.

Seattle may have a reputation for having a lot of rain, but it’s impossible to think about much rain without Noah and the flood coming to mind. The story of Noah is well-known, even among children, and its lessons are deep. Through this brief narrative, we are reminded of all of the essential elements of our relationship with God: God’s hatred of sin and the assurance of His judgment, God’s grace in providing a way of salvation, and Noah’s faith which led him to obey God completely.

“By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” (Hebrews 11:7)

May your faith sustain you when the rains begin!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
White House Church of Christ
White House, Tennessee

I hope you have the faith to sustain you when the rains and floods of life happen in your world.  If not, please talk with someone who can guide you.  When you have that faith, life on this earth, no matter how good it is, does not begin to compare to life in heaven.

Anna Lee

]]> http://theprayerlink.com/index.php/2012/02/01/wednesday-216/feed/ 0 http://theprayerlink.com/index.php/2012/01/31/tuesday-201/ http://theprayerlink.com/index.php/2012/01/31/tuesday-201/#comments Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:20:42 +0000 Anna Lee http://theprayerlink.com/?p=7960

“Be anxious for nothing,

but in everything by prayer and supplication,

with thanksgiving,

let your requests be made known to God.”

~Philippians 4:6~

David’s niece Janet A. Melanxon has a teen daughter hospitalized in Baton Rouge.  Pray for Harley to get better soon, so she can continue her school week.

Pray for Mrs. Pauline Strickland to get stronger and for her children Donna Fay, Firma Kay, and Billy Carl as they help take turns with a sitter to care for her.  The family thanks you for your continued prayers for “Miss” Pauline and for themselves.

Today is the day the Hatchel family were scheduled to return to the Czech Republic.  Due to blood clots in his left calf, doctors and he IMB have put the return trip on hold indefinitely.  Pray for them as they seek God’s leadership during this time.  Also, pray for the doctors who are working with Boyd.

Modern slavery is known as human trafficking.  It is real and exists all over the world.

Slavery is a bigger problem today than it has ever been in human history. It is estimated that there are 27 million slaves around the world–most of them involved in human trafficking. In India alone millions of girls are without hope as their bodies are sold again and again. http://ow.ly/8CXMg Pray for these victims to be set free–physically and spiritually.

Dorothy B. Ricks
(March 28, 1934 – January 29, 2012)

A resident of Kentwood, LA, died on Sunday, January 29, 2012 at Specialty LTCH of Hammond in Hammond, LA. She was born March 28, 1934 in Tangipahoa Parish, LA and was 77 years of age. Graveside Services will be held at Mixon Cemetery, Tangipahoa, LA at 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 31, 2012. Services conducted by Rev. Joey Miller. Survived by daughter, Diane Turner and her husband, Roy, Kentwood, sister, Carolyn Morere, Ponchatoula, 3 grandchildren, Daniel Turner and his wife, Angela, Donald Turner and his wife, Andrea, and Ladd Turner and his wife, Christy, 4 great-grandchildren, Joshua Turner, Chloe Berberette, Chase West and Cheyenne West. Preceded in death by husband, Floyd G. Ricks, parents, Noah Booty and Mildred Fairburn Booty Wall. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Please pray for Diane and her family in the coming days.  Caring for “Miss” Dot has been one of her primary activities for a long time.

Thought for the Day: Fighting the Battle Alone

The story is told of an old lady who had moved to the United States from Europe when she was a child, but now she wanted to officially become a citizen of this country. After months of going through all the necessary red tape, she was finally ready to take the required oath.

“Raise your right hand, please.”

She raised her right hand.

“Do you swear to defend the Constitution of the United States against all its enemies, domestic or foreign?” was the first question.

The little old lady’s face paled and her voice trembled as she asked in a small voice, “Uhhh . . . all by myself?”

I know the feeling. When I read what the apostle Paul had to say about the great spiritual battle going on, I tremble a bit. Paul said,

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Eph. 6:12)

The thoughts of waging such a battle alone is enough to cause even the most stout-hearted to tremble. But we don’t go into battle alone! We go forth as a part of the army of God, led by the Son of God in all his glory, and side by side with every brother and sister in Christ on the face of this earth. The battle is still a difficult one. There will be many casualties along the way. But, thank God, we do not fight it alone!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
White House Church of Christ
White House, Tennessee

Have a blessed Tuesday!

Anna Lee

we’re pleased we can report that we’ve come out of this with conscience and faith intact,

and can face the world—

and even more importantly, face you with our heads held high.

But it wasn’t by any fancy footwork on our part.

It was God who kept us focused on Him, uncompromised.”

~2 Corinthians 1:12 MSG~

• Both “Miss” Gail Pittman-McDaniel and “Miss” Carol Jean Gill are improving.  ”Miss” Gail is no longer in ICU. Continue to keep these families in your prayers.  Pray also for the families of “Miss” Lorna Smith as her memorial service is today and “Miss” Catherine Simmons’ is tomorrow.  Continue to pray for two churches and a hurting community.
• “Miss” Lorna – Visitation begins at 10 A.M. with memorial service at 2 P.M. today
• “Miss” Catherine – Visitation begins at 9 A.M. with memorial service at Noon tomorrow
• Jadon Pailet was admitted to the hospital because of his high temperature.  So far, tests have not identified a problem, but thankfully have ruled out some serious problems little Jadon could have developed.  Continue to pray for Jadon and those caring for him.
• Holly Kliesch shared a request for prayer for the people of Senegal.

http://af.reuters.com/article/senegalNews/idAFL5E8CS00520120128?sp=true

• Barbara Ricks Reed

(Died January 28, 2012)

Heart to Heart with Holley: Walk On

]]> http://theprayerlink.com/index.php/2012/01/30/monday-196/feed/ 0 http://theprayerlink.com/index.php/2012/01/29/sunday-190/ http://theprayerlink.com/index.php/2012/01/29/sunday-190/#comments Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:46:10 +0000 Anna Lee http://theprayerlink.com/?p=7941 “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed;

perplexed, but not in despair;

persecuted, but not abandoned;

struck down, but not destroyed.”

~2 Corinthians 4:8–9 NIV~

Miracle video of the day. Jadon giving me a five with his right hand

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=956775003564&set=vb.50301338&type=2&theater

A Note from (Tripp Roth’s) Granny

http://randycourtneytripproth.blogspot.com/2012/01/note-from-grammy.html?spref=fb

Continue to pray for the families of the four ladies in Saturday’s accident.

There will be no AWANA meeting tonight at FBC, Kentwood due to the wake for Mrs. Lorna Smith.

Thought for the Day: Being prepared

Earthquakes can strike without warning, and being prepared for such a disaster can mean the difference between life and death. Here are some tips someone has offered to help you and your loved ones make it through a quake:

~ Those living in areas not prone to earthquakes can respond quickly to the plight of disaster victims in quake zones by complacently smirking and saying, “I told you so.”

~ To minimize loss and damage in a quake, try not to own things.

~ Practice your burrowing-out-from-under-40-tons-of-rubble skills ahead of time.

~ Look out your window often. If you see a large, zig-zag-shaped crevasse moving rapidly from the horizon toward your home, step either to the right or the left.

~ For those who fear earthquakes, it may comfort you to know that a majority of the damage during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake did not come from the tremors themselves. Instead, it was from the raging, out-of-control fires that consumed most of the city.

~ A doorway is the safest place to be during a quake. Eat, sleep, and work in doorways.

~ Be sure to mail your house-insurance payments a full five business days before a major earthquake strikes.

~ If you are caught in a major earthquake in Southern California and are part of the entertainment industry, take a moment or two to reflect on how grossly you’ve wasted your life.

As several of the suggestions above point out (with tongue firmly in cheek!), the problem with an earthquake is its unpredictability.
A few months ago, Hurricane Ike devastated the Galveston area, but there was at least warning for several days that danger was coming. With an earthquake, there is none — it simply strikes!

Jesus described his second coming as an event like that. He used terminology like “a thief in the night” to describe the unexpectedness of the moment. His purpose in using that image was not to suggest that he is coming to steal something. Rather, he is coming at a time when we least expect it. And the only way to be ready for that moment (just as with an earthquake) is to stay prepared all the time.

“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The skies will disappear with a loud noise. Everything in them will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be burned up. In that way everything will be destroyed. So what kind of people should you be?
You should live holy lives and serve God, as you wait for and look forward to the coming of the day of God.” (I Peter 3:10-12a, NCV).

My prayer is that you will be prepared so that you, too, can truly “look forward” to that day (whenever it may be!).

Have a great day!

Alan Smith

Repeat after me!

God is good (God is good)

All the time (All the time).

All the time (All the time)

God is good (God is good)!

This is God’s day!  Don’t take it form Him.

Anna Lee

we’re pleased we can report that we’ve come out of this with conscience and faith intact,

and can face the world—

and even more importantly,

face you with our heads held high.

But it wasn’t by any fancy footwork on our part.

It was God who kept us focused on him, uncompromised.”

~2 Corinthians 1:12 MSG~

Four fine, Christian ladies were in an awful wreck last night.  Two are now in heaven.  Four families, two churches, and the whole community.

From ActionNews17.com

Troopers investigate Double Fatality Crash in Kentwood

Kentwood, LA – Shortly after 6:00 pm this evening, Louisiana State Police Troop L investigated a double fatality crash on LA 38 east of Kentwood in Tangipahoa Parish.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the crash occurred as a 2005 Lincoln LS sedan, driven by Elizabeth Pittman (W/F age 66) of Kentwood, LA, was stopped in the eastbound lane of LA 38 preparing to make a left turn into a private drive. As the Lincoln remained stopped in the roadway, a 2007 Western Star 18-wheeler, driven by Stennis Taylor (B/M age 50) of Magnolia, MS, was eastbound on LA 38 approaching the Lincoln from the rear. Taylor failed to observe the Lincoln stopped in the roadway and attempted to pass the Lincoln on its left side to avoid a rear-end impact. As the Western Star 18-wheeler, towing a wood chip trailer, crossed into the westbound lane of LA 38, the Lincoln began to turn left and was impacted on its left side by the front end of the truck.

Pittman and front seat passenger, Carol Gill (W/F age 75), were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash and were airlifted from the scene with serious injuries. Pittman was transported to Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Covington and Gill was taken to Northoaks Medical Center in Hammond where they remain in serious condition. The two rear passengers in the Lincoln, Lorina Smith (W/F age 74) and Catherine Simmons (W/F age 73), were not properly restrained at the time of the crash and were pronounced dead at the scene by the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office. All four occupants in the Lincoln were from the Kentwood area.

Taylor was wearing a seatbelt and received no injuries in the crash. He was charged with two counts each of Negligent Homicide and Negligent Injuring and was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail.

Alcohol and/or drug impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash with toxicology results from each driver pending at the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab.

While motor vehicle crash fatalities have consistently decreased across the state over the past several years, troopers continue to see driver inattention and lack of seatbelt use as major factors in a large percentage of fatal and serious injury crashes. The simple act of avoiding distractions and properly wearing a seatbelt can mean the difference between life and death.

Jill Brister was feeling better yesterday and will be flying home today.  Thank God for the laser surgery that has improved her back.  Pray she will be more comfortable now.

Velta Morris

TO GOD BE THE GLORY – VELTA’S UPDATE WITH ONCOLOGIST VISIT JANUARY 27

First, I want to thank you, my praying friends and family, for all the love you have shown me since I was diagnosed with cancer earlier this month.  You have walked with me, prayed for me and comforted me.  I’m grateful and so very thankful for each of you.  I have received cards of encouragement from friends I have not communicated with in years! This has been such a blessing.  I’ve had prayers lifted from our fellow church members in Kentwood, LA and our church in Greenville, and just knowing we are one in the bond of love is such a source of strength.  My church here has covered me like a warm blanket in a cold, scary examining room!

Today my oncologist brought me the very best news I could have hoped and prayed for:  he confirmed that, yes, I do have B-cell lymphoma, medically defined as follicular lymphoma; it is slow-growing, low grade.  At this time he anticipates no meaningful negative impact in my daily routine.  The doctor will monitor me periodically with blood tests and scans, and if/when signs of aggression manifest later, at that time a course of treatment would begin.

Please continue your prayers in my behalf.   Having cancer is not something I would have chosen, of course.  But I want God to use this experience for His glory, and as someone aptly said, “Why not me?”  Being aware of the cancer will always be a constant reminder of my utter dependence on Him,for without Him I am nothing, as the song says, and my prayer for me is that I will honor Him with whatever number of years God gives me.

To God Be the Glory – great things He has done – and is doing!

Velta G. Morris

Baptist Press: Courageous is number one in DVD sales

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=37058

Thought for the Day: Do you know where you are going?

There was a time when Albert Einstein was going on a train to an out-of-town engagement. The conductor stopped by to punch his ticket. The great scientist, preoccupied with his work, with great embarrassment rummaged through his coat pockets and briefcase to no avail. He could not find his ticket. The conductor said, “We all know who you are, Dr. Einstein. I’m sure you bought a ticket. Don’t worry about it. Everything is okay.”

The conductor walked on down the aisle punching other tickets. Before he moved to the next car, he looked back and saw Dr. Einstein down on his hands and knees looking under his seat trying to find his ticket. He came back and gently said, “Dr. Einstein, please don’t worry about it. I know who you are.”

Einstein looked up and said, “I too know who I am. What I don’t know is where I’m going!”

Like Einstein, we often don’t know where we are going. That’s why we are often compared in the Scriptures to sheep — animals which have a very poor sense of direction. They have no idea where they came from or where they’re going. That’s one of the reasons they are in such dire need of a shepherd.

Like sheep, we have all “gone astray.” (Isa. 53:6). We need someone to show us the way. And Jesus not only shows us the way — he IS the way!

“Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” (John 14:5-6)

Thanks be to our God, who provides us with direction.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
White House Church of Christ
White House, Tennessee

There is sadness in Kentwood today because of the awful wreck that happened last night.  Thankfully, we can say all four of these ladies knew where they were going.  Two of them have already made the journey.  If the same thing happened to your vehicle today to you, could your family say you were in heaven?

As you pray for the four families represented by those in the wreck, please remember to pray for Spring Creek Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Kentwood.  Pray for Bro. Danny and Bro. Joey as they minister to the families and friends.

Anna Lee

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