Category: Devotional

Friday

“And forgive us our sins

as we also forgive those who have sinned against us.”

~Matthew 6:7-9 (NCV)~

David and I watch a Bill Gathier program about George Beverly Shea.  It was wonderful and so inspiring to hear him sing at age 95.  I hope some of you got to see the program too.  That program was like “icing on the cake” because I had read the following article earlier in the day.  May people will be in heaven because of the unselfish ministry of Billy Graham, George Beverly Shea, and Cliff Barrows.  May each of us use our opportunities to share the “Good News” in our part of the world.

Billy Graham’s Advice to Christians

http://www.bpnews.net/BPFirstPerson.asp?ID=34538

This devotional reminds many of us of the years when our children were growing up.  Now, we get emails that say “I love you”, phone calls that end with “Love you”, etc.  Each one is like a precious gift wrapped in gold!

THE GOLD BOX


The following article came to me author unknown:

“We often learn the most from our children.  Some time ago a friend of mine punished his 3-year-old daughter for wasting a roll of gold wrapping paper. Money was tight, and he became infuriated when the child tried to decorate a box to put under the tree.  Nevertheless, the little girl brought the gift to her father the next morning and said, ‘This is for you, Daddy.’

“He was embarrassed by his earlier over-reaction, but his anger flared again when he found that the box was empty.  He yelled at her, ‘Don’t you know that when you give someone a present, there’s supposed to be something inside of it?’  The little girl looked up at him with tears in her eyes and said, ‘Oh Daddy, it’s not empty.  I blew kisses into the box.  All for you, Daddy.’

“The father was crushed.  He put his arms around his little girl, and he begged her forgiveness.  My friend told me that he kept that gold box by his bed for years.  Whenever he was discouraged, he would take out an imaginary kiss and remember the love of the child who had put it there.  In a very real sense, each of us as parents has been given a gold container filled with unconditional love and kisses from our children.  There is no more precious possession anyone could hold.”

Though my children are now all grown and out of the house, I cringe when I think of the times I may have done something similar while raising them.  Between all the occasions for fussing and discipline, I needed an occasional reminder to stop and remember what a treasure my children are (all three of them!) and how thankful I am to God for blessing me through them.

“Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is His reward.” (Psalm 127:3)

May those of you who are parents truly treasure your children as a blessing from God, and may all of us show our heavenly Father the love and adoration that He is due from His children.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

There are many who are sick and many who are grieving.  There are also many who are rejoicing for various reasons.  Make your prayer list today to pray for those in your world.

The sunset last night was as beautiful as the sunrise this morning.  Get out and enjoy a little of this beautiful day God has blessed us with.  Then, do a deed that will bless someone else.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“When you pray, you should pray like this,

‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name …”

~Matthew 6:7-9 (NCV)~

Baby Abigail Wilson

Our great niece who is 6-weeks old is undergoing heart surgery tomorrow at Vanderbilt Childrens Hospital. They hope to repair a twisted aorta. The grandmother is the daughter of Wayne’s brother. Please keep her and her family in your prayers.
Thank you,
Mary Criswell

Unborn MK Baby

The family made it to the other country and was seen by a doctor who confirmed the heart problem.  Surgery to deliver the baby and work on the baby’s heart will be Thursday.  Both grandmothers on hurrying to get with the family.  Please pray for all involved.

Stacey Scarle

Stacey had a Dr appt today. She will have to have more chemo before radiation. We see oncologist on Feb 10 and will know more at that time. Thanks for the continued prayers.

Joan (mother)

Lois Widas Bennett
(March 9, 1922 – January 24, 2011)

“Aunt” Lois is my uncle’s sister and was in my life periodically as I grew up.

A resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 4:45 a.m. on Monday, January 24, 2011 at Flannery Oaks Nursing Home in Baton Rouge. She was born March 9, 1922 in Foxworth, MS and was 88 years of age. A private family graveside will be held at Arcola-Roseland Cemetery, Arcola. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Michael L. Clevenger
(June 16, 1945 – January 23, 2011)

Michael L. Clevenger was born June 16, 1945 and passed away at 11:40 p.m., Sunday, January 23, 2011 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was 65, a native of Wilmington, Ohio and a resident of Roseland.

Michael served our country in the United States Air Force.

He is survived by 3 daughters, Michelle Miller, Roseland, Shanna Clevenger, Metairie & Victoria C. Fields and husband Patrick, Roseland; son, Mathew Clevenger, Loveland, Ohio; 2 sisters, Barbara Riehle, Morrowe, Ohio and Janet Zurface and husband Terry, Wilmington, Ohio; 8 grandchildren, John, Seth & Noah Miller, Alexandra, Michael & Brooke Fields, Tiffany and Taylor Markins.

Preceded in death by his parents, Garner & Mildred C. Clevenger; wife Joyce Ann Clevenger; 2 daughters, Sheri Clevenger & Carrie Clevenger; brother, Harley and 4 sisters, Julie, Joyce, Dorothy & Judith.

As Michael’s request his body has been donated to the LSU Anatomical Services, New Orleans, La for medical research.

Visitation at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Friday January 28, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home is located at I-55N (Exit 46) and Hwy 16W next to Hood Chevrolet and behind Mr. Tom’s Car Wash, Bond Eye Clinic and Holiday Inn Express.

TODAY’S PRAYER
IMB
JANUARY 26, 2011

“Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galations 6:2)

WORLD LEADERS. “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Please pray today for Prime Minister Johanna Sigurdardottir of Iceland (island in the North Atlantic Ocean).

VOKKALIGA OF INDIA (vo-kah-LEE-gah). “The sound of praises being lifted up in a foreign language still resounds in the American’s ears. It is his first opportunity to attend a training, and although he cannot understand the words, he is humbled by the worship that is taking place. In the new year, lots of volunteers from the United States will be coming to our state to lead conferences in order to equip and disciple national believers. More than 100 nationals will be attending. God is at work in K state! Please pray for safety during these trainings, and ask that the hand of the evil one will be stayed from hindering any from coming who plan to attend. Please also pray for the health of the trainers, and ask that those coming from the United States will return home and spread the word of what God is doing in South Asia.”http://www.go2southasia.org/

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN UNENGAGED PEOPLES. “The Makonde (pronounced mah-KON-deh) of northern Mozambique are a Muslim people group with strong animistic roots. They have received a limited Christian witness. The area where the Makonde live is isolated and not easy to get to. We continue to seek and pray for personnel to fill the priority request to live and work among the Makonde in northern Mozambique. Would you please pray that God will put it on the heart of someone to serve in this area?” http://prayerthreads.imb.org

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2.10

Mike Benson, Editor

I CANNOT OVERSTATE how frightening it is to lose a sense of control or influence…

People will even chose to stay in familiar situations that they know are not working rather than face the ambiguity of the unknown.  Many times, a battered wife will remain for years, even a lifetime, with a physically violent husband.  Women have reported that, among other reasons, they have stayed with brutal husbands because breaking out of the relationship was even more frightening than the beatings.  Even though the situation may be physically and emotionally abusive, such women have at least learned what to expect, and there is an odd comfort in being able to anticipate the future–even a negative future.

Before you discount the “battered-wife” syndrome as an unusual predicament that doesn’t reflect your situation, ask yourself when you last stayed in a bad situation longer that you should have.  For most of us, the unknown is so terrifying that we will remain with what we have long after it is apparent that it is punishing to do so.  Daryl Conner, “The Process of Change,” Managing at the Speed of Change, 89

15 “When the morning dawned, the angels urged Lot to hurry, saying, “Arise, take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be consumed in the punishment of the city.” 16 And while he lingered, the men took hold of his hand, his wife’s hand, and the hands of his two daughters, the LORD being merciful to him, and they brought him out and set him outside the city.” Genesis 19.15-16  (emphasis mine–mb)

Thank-you for praying.  Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Lord, every morning you hear my voice.

Every morning, I tell you what I need,

and I wait for your answer.”

~Psalm 5:3 (NCV)~

Thank-you for praying for the unborn MK in another country.  The family has been granted permission to enter a nearby county.  Now, pray for the airlines to allow the mother to travel so late in her pregnancy.  begin to pray for the doctors who who deliver the baby and perform the heart surgery he needs.

Mr. Gordon Price continues to improve at home.  Thank God for home health care.  Continue to keep him in your prayers.

Please continue to pray for Jon Michael Williams and his mother.

http://www.actionnews17.com/News/tabid/59/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/5461/Big-Brother-hopes-1000-letters-will-deliver-Extreme-Home-Makeover-for-Jon-Michael-Williams.aspx

Daniel Edwards “Dan” Brabham

A former operator with Shell Chemical, native of Greensburg and resident of Prairieville, he passed away Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011, in Baton Rouge, at the age of 69. He also formerly taught high-school chemistry and math in Tangipahoa Parish. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force Reserves. He attended the University of Arkansas and LSU, receiving a bachelor’s degree in vocational agriculture and numerous academic recognitions through honor societies: Omnicron Delta Kappa, Gamma Sigma Delta, Alpha Tau Alpha, Phi Beta Phi, as well as Academic All-American. He played football at college and professional levels, receiving distinction as an All-Southwest Conference recipient (1962) and as the third leading rusher in the SWC during his first year as fullback. He was the first-round draft pick for the Houston Oilers and later traded to the Cincinatti Bengals, his career spanning from 1963-1968. He was a lifelong crusader for change, having smoking banned in his workplace in the 1980s and founding the Louisiana Fisherman’s Forum. He enjoyed genealogy (tracing his family history to Scotland and organizing reunions), hand-grabbing for catfish (featured sportsman in Louisiana Conservationist and in a filmed documentary), aviation (acquired his pilot’s license), writing poetry and music, and spinning yarns surrounded by family and friends. Additionally, he was a steam locomotive and history buff, a self-taught player of the guitar and piano, and an avid reader. Visitation at Ourso Funeral Home, Gonzales, on Wednesday, Jan. 26, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Visitation will resume Thursday at Pine Ridge Methodist Church, Greensburg, from 8 a.m. until religious service at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. John Locascio. Interment will follow at Pine Ridge Methodist Church Cemetery, Greensburg. He is survived by his wife, Tricou “Bunny” Petit Brabham, of Prairieville; sons and daughters-in-law, Bart and Mary Lou Brabham, of Tulsa, Okla., and Dan Jr. and Ilusion Brabham, of Jacksonville, Fla.; a daughter and son-in-law, Payton and Ricky Mincey, of Prairieiville; brother and sister-in-law, David and Connie Brabham, of Kentwood; four grandchildren, Josh and Luke Brabham and Darien and Zachary Mincey; sisters-in-law, Linda Craddock, of Hammond, and Virginia Brabham, of St. Helena. Preceded in death by his parents, William Hardy and Emma Lee Blades Brabham; and brothers, Billy and Ronnie Brabham. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Sports Legacy Institute, (for research on brain-related sports injuries), P.O. Box 181225, Boston, MA 02118 or Alzheimer’s Services of the Capitol Area, 3772 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806. To offer condolences to the family, please visit www.oursofh.com.

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2.10

Mike Benson, Editor

WE ARE ALL going to make house payments, and we are all going to try to raise our kids, and we are all going to do the mundane stuff that life just includes…

What are you going to do that is great for eternity?

What are you going to do that is great for the kingdom of God?

What are you going to do that is going to make you feel proud when you stand before your Savior someday with some calluses on your hands saying I was a player?

What are you going to do?  Aubrey Malphurs, Appendix B, “Developing a Vision for Ministry,” 216

“…So they said, ‘Let us rise up and build.’  Then they set their hands to do this good work.” Nehemiah 2:18b


Have a wonderful day!

Anna Lee


Monday

“We have placed our hope in Him that He will deliver us again.

And you can join in helping with prayer for us,

so that thanks may be given by many

on our behalf for the gift

that came to us through the prayers of many.”

~2 Corinthians 1:10b-11~

Bro. Joey said “Miss” Sadie’s family will meet at McKneely-Vaughn at 1 P.M. today.  Anyone who wishes to join them there is welcome.  There will be a graveside service at Woodlawn Cemetery in Kentwood at 2 P.M.

Please continue to pray for the many people who have colds, coughs, flu, viruses, or sinus problems.  It seems had to recover from some of these issues. but not hard for the problem to go from one member of a family to another one.

Thought For The Day

A teenager, Elizabeth, was nervous as she took the wheel for her first driving lesson. As she was pulling out of the parking lot, the instructor said, “Turn left here, and don’t forget to let the people behind you know what you are doing.”

Elizabeth turned to the students sitting in the backseat and announced, “I’m going left.”

Though it may not have been understood properly, the instruction of the teacher was a valuable piece of advice: “Let the people behind you know what you are doing.”

In Hebrews 2:10, Jesus is referred to as “the author of our salvation” (NKJV). The RSV, though, translates that phrase as “pioneer of our salvation” because the Greek word used in this verse (“archegos”) was a word sometimes used for a pioneer or trailblazer who opened up a territory so that others could follow.

I love the Appalachian Mountains. When I lived in Boone, I often wondered what it would have been like in the early 1700’s to cross those mountains — no interstates, not even any dirt roads, just trees and bushes. There were mountain men who had braved the frontier, but there was no safe and reliable way to get settlers over the mountains. What was needed was for some brave man, a “pioneer”, to open the west by finding the best mountain passes and building a passable road to the west.

The idea of the pioneer is an appropriate image of Christ. He went before us and opened up the way so that we can follow.

But you, too, are called to be an “archegos”, a pioneer who blazes the way for others to follow. There are those who work with you and live around you who are looking to you as they struggle to find the way in their own lives. You may have children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and countless others who will be influenced by the legacy you leave behind. Choose your path carefully. And let the people behind you know what you are doing.

May we be able to say with Paul: “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” (I Cor. 11:1)

–Alan Smith

Do you remember the book In His Steps or the WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) fad?

If you think about that question this week, will you live your life any differently?

Anna Lee

Saturday

“Don’t just pretend that you love others.

Really love them.

Hate what is evil.

Stand on the side of the good.

Love each other with genuine affection,

and take delight in honoring each other.”

~Romans 12:9-10 (NLT)~

Pray for Savana Allen, David and Fannie’s daughter.  She was diagnosed with H1N1 flu yesterday.  Pray for the other family members as they try to care for Savana and stay well.

Jadon’s Story: Quick Update

The topamax wean is going great so far. I’m not having any increase in seizures. I’m now on 45mg in the morning and 45mg at night. We will decrease it again next Thursday. Please continue to pray that I can get off this medicine. Other than that my mommy and daddy are enjoying seeing me happy and more alert. They are also very thankful that my seizures are staying about the same. Obviously we would like them to decrease but we are very thankful that they are staying under 100. They are also very mild. I’m not losing control of my entire body like I was. In fact, I can have them and still remain sitting. I’m also not hitting my head on things. So this is all great news. Thanks for praying for me!! Love, Jadon

Pray for older folks.  Weather extremes are often hard on them.  See if one of your neighbors or friends needs some special help with something.  Both of you will be blessed!

Find some time to help others with errands or appointments.   Make yourself available.  Again, you will be blessed.

I just received an urgent request for prayer for an unborn MK baby who has developed a problem that will require surgery at birth.  Pray they can quickly and safely get to a place where the baby can receive the proper care.  I do not know this family, but will pray for them and hope you will too.

Baptist Press Stories for Jan. 21, 2011
—————————————
  • Sudanese secession vote could open door for Gospel
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34489
  • Thanks to caring employee at pregnancy center, mom keeps baby, finds Christ
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34490
  • Bills would bar federal funds for abortion
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34491
  • Lankford pro-life speech gains following
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34492
  • ‘Turn toward home,’ Wright urges SBC
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34493
  • CRISIS IN TUNISIA: Arab world, Mideast Christians ponder populist revolution
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34494
  • Tunisia: Fertile ground for early Christianity
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34495
  • Land withdraws from interfaith coalition
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34501
  • LIFE DIGEST: Ruling may draw abortion-seeking teens to Ky.;
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34496
  • SANCTITY OF LIFE: ‘A Scent of Jasmine,’ a novel, Chapter 6
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34497
  • FIRST-PERSON: The deadly logic of abortion
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34498
  • FIRST-PERSON: One family’s adoption choice
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34499
  • FIRST-PERSON: Nutty Berkeley strikes again
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34500

Charles Anthony “CA” Hammatt

(March 28, 1942 – January 21, 2011)

Charles Anthony “CA” Hammatt was born March 28, 1942 and passed away at 6:25 a.m., Friday, January 21, 2011 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. He was 68, a native of Donaldsonville and a resident of Greensburg.

CA is survived by wife of 29 years, Earline A. Hammatt, Greensburg; 3 daughters, Lisa Cutrer, Roseland, Joyce Bryant and husband Roger, Amite & Debbie Hammatt, Amite; 3 step daughters, Evelyn Evans and husband Donald, Magnolia, MS, Cathy Stewart and husband Duck, Greensburg & Sue Ball, Danville, OH; son, Curtis Hammatt, Zachary; 2 step sons, Elmer Whitehead, Greensburg & Clint Whitehead and wife Louise, Denham Springs; 3 sisters, Joyce Core, Central; Catherine “Cat” Bradley, Gonzales; Mamie Cade, Gonzales; 2 brothers Ricky Rodriguez, Gonzales & Paul Rodriguez, Gonzales; 11 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; 14 step grandchildren; 39 great step-grandchildren & 2 great great-step-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by parents, George Wilson and Louella Fugler Hammatt; sister, Josie Berceajuey.

Visitation at House of Prayer, Walker, LA from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 22, 2011 and on Sunday, January 23, 2011 from 9:00 a.m. until Celebration of Life Worship Service at 12:00 Noon in the Church with Bro. Ray McDonald officiating . Interment in the Church Cemetery.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2.10
Mike Benson, Editor

THIS VERY DAY, among some 300 million Americans…

  • The number of people identified as “nonreligious” or having “no religion” will grow by 10,337.
  • The number of Mormons will grow by 1,787.
  • The number of Jews will grow by 1,063.
  • The number of Muslims will grow by 414.
  • The number of Buddhists will grow by 406.
  • The number of Hindus will grow by 288.
  • The number of Wicca followers will grow by 115.

But how many, this very same day, will decide to follow Jesus?  From Missing in America, p. 9

How will these people learn about Jesus?  Who will teach them His Word?

“Then He said to them all,

‘If anyone desires to come after Me,

let him deny himself,

and take up his cross daily,

and follow Me.'”

~Luke 9.23~


Thanks for praying today.  Please feel free to share requests, updates, and praises.

Anna Lee

Friday

“Just as our bodies have many parts

and each part has a special function,

so it is with Christ’s body.

We are all parts of his one body,

and each of us has different work to do.

And since we are all one body in Christ,

we belong to each other,

and each of us needs all the others.”

~Romans 12:4-5 (NLT)~

CaringBridge: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/calliecole

Lillian Josephine Casiano

(September 30, 1937 – January 18, 2011)

A resident of Amite, LA, died at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at her home. She was born September 30, 1937 in New York, NY and was 73 years of age. Memorial Services will be held at First Southern Methodist Church, Amite, LA on Saturday, January 22, 2011. Survived by Children Grace Lopez of Fortson, Georgia; Luis Alfonso Lopez, Joseph Michael Lopez of Belleville, New Jersey and Francis Herlindo Lopez of Ridgefield, New Jersey.Grandchildren: Luis Pagan of Fort Riley, Kansas; Juan Pagan of Chatanooga, Tennessee; Grace Martin of Franklin, New Hampshire and Wayne Martin of Concord, New Hampshire. 10 Great-Grandchildren: Erica Sanford, Gabriel and Lilliana Pagan, Tenarra and Lexi Pagan, Taylor Tilley, Lana White, Dylan and Amaya Marcoux and Aoife Pyke. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Herlon Cole Taylor

(November 21, 1919 – January 20, 2011)

Mrs. Herlon Cole Taylor was born November 21, 1919 and passed away at 9:35 a.m., Thursday, January 20, 2011 at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was 91, a native of Booneville, MS and a resident of Greensburg. Mrs. Herlon was lifelong and a founding member of Darlington Baptist Church.

Mrs. Herlon is survived by 5 sons, Morris and wife Barbara Painter Taylor, Don Taylor, Jimmie and wife Sandy Taylor, Randy and wife Marilyn Taylor, Butch and wife Linda Beauchamp Taylor; 10 grandchildren, Steve Taylor, Debbie Athey, Cathy Peever, Lisa Taylor, Tammy Rick, Clint Taylor, Brantley Taylor, Anna Maria Bullinger, Landon Taylor and Abby Taylor; 18 great grandchildren; 7 great great-grandchildren; sister, Willodean Cole ; numerous nieces, nephews & extended family.

Preceded in death by husband, Roy Taylor; mother, Mertie Lovell Cole; father, Huey Cole; sister, Vister Sagely; brothers Warren G. Cole, Melton Cole, Guy Cole, L. C. Cole and Cecil Cole; daughter-in-law, Dot Carruth Taylor and great granddaughter, Hannah Peever.

Visitation at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Friday, January 21, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at First Baptist Church, Greensburg from 10:00 a.m. until Celebration of Life Worship Services at 12:00 Noon with Rev. Mark Robinson officiating. Interment in Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home is located at I-55N (Exit 46) and Hwy 16W next to Hood Chevrolet and behind Mr. Tom’s Car Wash, Bond Eye Clinic and Holiday Inn Express.

THE GOD OF TRUTH

There once were four preachers who had a series of theological arguments, and three were always in agreement against the fourth.  One day, the odd preacher out, after the usual “3 to 1, majority rules” statement that signified that he had lost again, decided to appeal to a higher authority.

“Oh, God!” he cried. “I know in my heart that I am right and they are wrong!  Please give me a sign to prove it to them!”

It was a beautiful, sunny day.  As soon as the preacher finished his prayer, a storm cloud moved across the sky above the four.  It rumbled once and dissolved.  “A sign from God!  See, I’m right, I knew it!”  But the other three disagreed, pointing out that storm clouds form on hot days.

So the preacher prayed again: “Oh, God, I need a bigger sign to show that I am right and they are wrong.  So please, God, a bigger sign!”  This time four storm clouds appeared, rushed toward each other to form one big cloud, and a bolt of lightning slammed into a tree on a nearby hill.

“I told you I was right!” cried the preacher, but his friends insisted that nothing had happened that could not be explained by natural causes.

The preacher was getting ready to ask for a *very big* sign, but just as he said, “Oh God…,” the sky turned pitch black, the earth shook, and a deep, booming voice said, “HEEEEEEEE’S RIIIIIIIGHT!”

The preacher put his hands on his hips, turned to the other three, and said, “Well?”

“So,” shrugged one of the other preachers, “now it’s 3 to 2.”

It’s a serious problem.  The problem of putting God’s words on an equal level with man’s words.  But spiritual truth is not determined by taking a vote.  In fact, even if 1,000 people agree with us, it makes no difference unless we agree with God.

As Jesus prayed in the garden of Gethsemane, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” (John 17:17)

That’s why Paul was so determined that the Thessalonians know the source of his teaching.

“For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.” (I Thess. 2:13)

Father, in the confusion of so many voices telling us what is right and what is wrong, may we look to your word for truth.  Thank you for being a God of truth, one in whom we can place our utmost confidence.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Someone suggested I add Crain Funeral Home to the links at the lower right.  I did.  I even added four more to the ones that were already there.  I hope this is a convenience you will use.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Anna Lee

Thursday

“Now he who plants and he who waters are one,

and each one will receive his own reward

according to his own labor.

For we are God’s fellow workers;

you are God’s field,

you are God’s building.”

~1 Corinthians 3:8-9~

Please continue to pray for these people who have been on our prayer list:

  • Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell
  • Mrs. Kathryn Sanders
  • Mrs. Sadie Hilburn
  • Jeff Birch
  • Mr. Gordon Price
  • Elizabeth Cooper
  • Mrs. Shirley Frazier
  • Rev. Gary Weiborg
  • Mrs. Frances Gay
  • Ashlyn Neal
  • Stacey Scarle

There are several funerals today.  Please pray for the Baugh family in Florida, the family of Tressie Gayle Foster in Denham Springs, and others.

Don’t forget the “Third Thursday” meeting at the cabin tonight at 6:30.  Join us for food, fellowship, devotional time, and prayer.  You’ll be blessed!

TODAY’S PRAYER
IMB
JANUARY 20, 2011

“But as for me, my prayer is to You, O LORD, in the acceptable time.” (Psalm 69:13)

WORLD LEADERS. “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Please pray today for Supreme Pontiff, Roman Catholic Church – Benedict XVI, Pope of Holy See (Vatican City, within commune of Rome, Italy).

AR OF COLOMBIA (ahr). Thank you for your prayers for the missionaries who work with the Ar of Colombia, asking that God would walk with them as they adjusted to a new city, new environment, and renewed work strategy. They are now comfortably settled in their home and neighborhood, their daughter is in school, and they have begun to make contacts with the Ar people. One woman, V, has invited them to visit in her home once a week for a time of Bible study. Two other women have expressed an interest in studying the Bible but live in a more isolated area, making it more difficult for the missionaries to coordinate a regular time of meeting. Pray that God will go before and open times for the missionaries to meet with these two Ar women. Pray that all three women will receive Jesus as Lord and Savior and that many other Ar people will have the desire to know God. brenlar@kastanet.org

OSAKA, JAPAN (OH-sah-kah). Mrs. E rises early each morning to make sure that all of her housework is completed before she leaves for her job of selling rice cakes at a sports complex. Recently when she met a Christian for the first time, she said, “Oh, every morning I listen to a radio program about Jesus being the Light of the world.” She then quoted some verses she had memorized from that program. Pray that as she reads God’s Word with her new Christian friend, she will have the faith to believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord. She was fascinated with the idea of Jesus being Light. Pray that she, too, will become a light among her lost friends and neighbors.

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2.10
Mike Benson, Editor

ONE CHURCH CONSULTANT SAYS: “Most Christians don’t have a clue to what the mission of the church is…

Up to 80 percent of church members believe that the primary purpose of the church is to provide a place of fellowship where Christians can share God’s love with one another rather than reach out to those who are unchurched…”

…According to researcher George Barna, “Nine out of ten preachers call their church ‘evangelistic.’  However, less than one of of three church attenders has shared his or her faith in Christ with a non-Christian within the past twelve months…”  Tom Clegg, Warren Bird, “Discovering What We All Have in Common,”Missing in America, 87

“How I kept back nothing that was helpful,

but proclaimed it to you,

and taught you publicly and from house to house.”

Acts 20.20

Have a terrific Thursday!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“Do not think of your self more highly than you ought,

but rather think of yourself with sober judgment

in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.”

~Romans 12:3 (NIV)~

The Amite Mission Team made it safely home from their trip.  Keep your ears open for reports from various members of the team.  Thank God these people willingly gave of themselves to help introduce others to God.  Thank God for people who seized the opportunity to be a witness for Him.

Jeff Birch is doing well, even though he is sore.  He was up walking the halls twice yesterday.  Sandy is able to stay with him.  They are thankful for the surgeon and the hospital.  Thank God for the progress he is making.

An opportunity you have to help a sick child:

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

Baptist Press Stories for Jan. 18, 2011
—————————————
  • Voters silenced: Sup. Court lets stand D.C. ‘gay marriage’ ruling
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34456
  • House to vote on health-care repeal Wed.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34457
  • Snowbound, pastor preaches via web
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34458
  • Floods take a toll in 3 countries
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34459
  • EU calendar omits Christmas, Easter
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34460
  • SANCTITY OF LIFE: ‘A Scent of Jasmine,’ a novel, Chapter 3
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34461
  • FIRST-PERSON: Jesus’ journey to us
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34462

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2.10
Mike Benson, Editor

WHEN A LIFE is at stake, people respond instinctively to the crisis…

  • The fireman hurls himself into a burning building to rescue a frightened boy.
  • A mother darts in front of an onrushing automobile to grab a stray child.
  • An average swimmer jumps into a rushing stream to grab a drowning stranger.

What is it that prompts such heroic acts?  One thing–the sure knowledge of the consequences if they do not attempt the rescue.

If evangelism is to become natural in the church, we must have a full knowledge of the consequences if we fail to reach out.  Ken Hemphill, “Passion for the Lost,” The Antioch Effect, 153

“But others save with fear,

pulling them out of the fire,

hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.”

~Jude 23~

May your blessing be many today.  May you realize the many ways God has blessed you!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“God will bless us,

and all the ends of the earth will fear Him.”

~Psalm 67:7~

Ferrin Hendry is improving and at home.  Thank-you for praying for her.

The people on the mission trip from Amite have enjoyed passing out “shoe boxes”.  Pray for them as they complete their mission and return to Amite.

Jeff Birch is doing still well.  Pray for him as he recovers from yesterday’s surgery.

CaringBridge: Macy Gueldner

Hazel Golmon Shelby
(December 9, 1909 – January 17, 2011)

A resident of Franklinton, she died at 12:40 a.m. on Monday, January 17, 2011 at her home. She was born December 9, 1909 in Pike County, MS and was 101 years of age. She is survived by her daughter, Bonnie Baker Correnti and her husband, Frank, Kenner; 3 sons, Douglas Baker and his wife, Ann, Pensacola, FL, Edgar Albert Baker, Hammond and Jimmie Stokes and his wife, Elizabeth, Franklinton; 9 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; 3 sisters, Dora Hafford, Post, TX, Thelma Stevenson, Hammond and Christina Milani, Jackson, MS. Preceded in death by her husbands, Edgar Baker, Otis Stokes, Dave Gill and Marvin Earl “Jack” Shelby; 2 sisters, Maybelle Cleveland and Mamie Golmon; 5 brothers, Mack Henry Golmon, Mack Henison Golmon, Archie Golmon, Herman Golmon and Tollie Golmon. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 11 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, January 19, 2011. Services conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Stokes. Interment Roberts Cemetery, Osyka, MS.

After son’s death, parents continue ministry in Africa (Baptist Press)

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2.10
Mike Benson, Editor

AUBREY MALPHURS DESCRIBES a leader without a clear vision to that of a person trying to drive blindfolded…

If this is the case, then according to research, the majority of church leaders are driving congregations blindly.  In these cases, there is a mixture of “no vision” and “unclear vision.”  This is to say that there are a number of times that as church leaders we believe that a vision is clear when in reality it is not.

A vision cannot be clearly communicated to others until God’s vision has been articulated within a congregation’s leadership.  Clarity yields clarity while uncertainty yields doubt and uncertainty.  Kenny Norris

“Then I said to them, “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.”  Nehemiah 2.17; cf. Luke 6.39


Thanks for praying.

Anna Lee

Sunday

We plan the way we want to live,

but only God makes us able to live it.

~Proverbs 16:9 (Msg)~

Baptist Press Stories for Jan. 14, 2011
—————————————
Staggering: U.S. passed 53 million abortion mark in 2010
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34441
Ultrasound machines ‘save babies’ lives’
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34442
Novels help convey pro-life perspective
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34443
SANCTITY OF LIFE: A Scent of Jasmine, a novel, Chapter 1
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34444
INTERNATIONAL DIGEST: Chavez digs in against less-friendly congress; …

SPORTS: Ravens receiver points to ‘the best thing’ a person can do
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34446
FIRST-PERSON: ‘Eggsploitation’ on college campuses
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34447

Thought for the Day: BACK TO THE BASICS


One of the world’s most famous merchant captains died, having long been admired by his crew and fellow officers.

They remained puzzled, however, over a strange ritual he performed daily.  While at sea he would lock himself in his cabin and open a small safe, take out an envelope with a note inside and read it.  After locking the paper back in the safe, he would return to his duties.

For years this went on, and his crew became very curious.  Was it a treasure map?  Was it a letter from a long lost love?  Everyone speculated about the contents of the strange envelope.

After laying the captain’s body to rest, the first mate led the entire crew back to the ship and into the captain’s quarters.  He opened the safe, got the envelope and read the words aloud to an astonished crew:

“Port: Left,  Starboard: Right.”

Sometimes we need to be reminded of the basics!  That’s true of those of us who are Christians as well.  We would all do well to lock away the basics of Christianity in a safe and get away to ourselves daily and go over them once again.  So that we never forget.  So that we don’t get so caught up doing a million different things that we forget the most important and the most basic rules of life.

What belongs in the safe?  We don’t have to wonder.  Jesus himself told us:

“’You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’  This is the first and great commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” (Matthew 22:37-39)

That’s what’s in the safe — “Love God.  Love others.”   Don’t ever forget.  If you need to, put those words in a secret place and go to that spot daily.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Loving God and loving others,

Anna Lee