Category: Devotional

Wednesday

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.

Everything is uncovered and laid bare

before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

Hebrews 4:13 (NIV)

Todd Lee said Mr. Buster Lee has been found to not have a blood clot and is doing well. Thank you for your continued prayers for Mr. Lee and his family.


Carl Wayne Stevens will be seeing doctors today to set up a treatment plan. Pray for the family today. It doesn’t hurt to have several doctors in the family who know how to ask the right questions.


Ronald Putman is doing much better. He may be about to come home in about three months. Pray for his family during this long hospital stay.


David Gullota is doing a little better this week. Pray this continues.

Update on Don Denton:

Let it Snow……

Today reminded Joshua and I of being up at Mayo. The most beautiful snow came today. About 5pm this evening I looked at Joshua and said. Lets go play. We put our layers on and took our sleds out, shovels and trucks. We played till it turned dark.

I want to thank Nancy B. who has suggested the Concert of Prayer for our family. Please see the previous posting for date and time. I believe in the power of prayer and we need it. Don continues to improve physically. His dizziness does not improve. He actually is working in physical therapy with his physical therapist trying to push through the most difficult exercises to do with balance.

WE have a praise as well. Don took his first steps walking between the balance bars in PT on his own. He was able to walk a few feet without the help of any support. It is a difficult thing to have to learn how to walk again.

Don has more doctor appointments this week and next week. He will have another “lumbar puncture” at Cox South on Tuesday Feb. 3rd. He will be there all day. If all goes well he will get to come home that afternoon late.

He has set goals to start going into the office a few hours a day a few days a week. We have to get new glasses for him as his vision has changed and he still has double vision in the peripheral range of view. With the double vision getting better, we have discovered that his eye sight has gotten a little worse. He has a tough time reading. The good thing is that it can be corrected.

Please pray for the following:

  • Don’s test go well this next Tuesday.
  • His dizziness improves.
  • Pray that Josh can begin to sleep through the night. He still is waking up in tears and fearful every night.
  • This is very insignificant, but pray that our dishwasher will be fixed soon, because of the smoke and small fire, the company has decided to replace it, but it will take longer.
  • It would be wonderful if I could just get one good nights sleep.

I wish I could name every name of every person who has touched our lives. I would shout it from the mountain top for all to know how precious you all are to us. God continues to show us His amazing love for us through you all. Your words spoken to us are a healing balm to our souls. I find myself holding onto your words of hope and going back to reread them. Your acts of kindness have been a model of who Christ is to His people when one is hurting, and our son Joshua witnesses this as well.

One thing I have not really shared with you all is that Don’s employer, his peers, the staff, co-workers and students continue to bless us. They continue to reach out to us and pray for us. I have worked in the secular world myself. For me to witness what a christian employer does different from the secular employer is awesome.

The precious students at SBU have ministered to us and reached out to us and continue to pray for us. WE truly have seen God’s amazing love through this very difficult time in our life. The acts of kindness toward us and understanding and support from the University has been overwhelming and we experience Gods love and power through them. We are so blessed to be a part of SBU. The leadership, the wisdom, the grace and care we have received from them has helped me not to worry about how we are going to get through this. We can see a light at the end of the tunnel. Our goal is for Don to get back to the classroom. I invision him doing that and I can invision a time were we as a family can thank SBU as well.

Please continue to pray for my sister in law – Lynn. She is currently being treated for her 4th bout with cancer. Pray that the drugs they are using will do what the doctors want them to.

We will know in the next several weeks whether the steroids Don is taking is working as well. I will update you all on any changes.

Bless you our family and friends. God be with you!

Diane

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
AN ELDERLY GENTLEMAN was traveling alone on a train in France…
A much younger man, sitting next to him, watched the older man take out his Bible and begin to read. After a while, the younger man decided to strike up a conversation, and he asked, “What are you reading?”
The older man replied, “I am reading from the sixth chapter of John in the New Testament.”
“What does it say?” the young man asked.
“Oh, it’s the story of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. The Gospel writer tells us about a vast crowd that had followed Jesus because of the signs He was performing for the sick, and how Jesus preached to the crowd until it was dark. They were hungry, and with only five barley loaves and a couple of dried fish, Jesus fed the entire crowd of 5,000. And the leftovers filled twelve baskets.”
Scornfully and cynically, the younger man said, “Surely you don’t believe that!”
But the older man answered, “Oh, yes I do.”
To which the younger man said, “Well, I can see that you have been brainwashed by ancient superstitions. Not me! That could never happen to me because, you see, I am a scientist. The only thing I trust and believe in is what can be proven scientifically. The story you have read defies the laws of science, and therefore I can’t accept it. Give me facts, provable facts. As a man of science, I have no faith in miracles. But, of course, I can’t expect you to understand that.”
At that point, the train began to slow down. “Here is my station,” said the young man as he rose from his seat. “It was nice talking to you, Mr.–I’m sorry, I didn’t get your name.” With that, the older man reached into his pocket and pulled out his business card. He handed it to the younger man. The younger man looked at it. Imagine his surprise; the name on the card was Louis Pasteur…one of the great scientists of all time. (James W. Moore)
“And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:30-31).
Stay dry today!
Anna Lee

Tuesday

He causes the sun to rise on good people

and on evil people,

and he sends rain to those who do right

and to those who do wrong.

Matthew 5:45 (NCV)


It seems lots of people are having tests. I’ll not mention names, but pray in general for them at this point.


Emily Panter:

Monday, January 26, 2009


Dear Family and Friends,

I am so happy to finally be writing you this particular mote. It has been long overdue.
Isn’t God wonderful? I am home and doing wonderful. My strength and appetite are coming back steadily and God continues to show His goodness and mercy to our family. Neither my family nor I could have made it through this without the knowledge that prayers were being rendered on our behalf. I would just like to write this little note (which in no way comes close to expressing adequately how I feel,) to say thank you! You are amazing and your thoughts, prayers, gifts, and helpful hands have done so much to make all of this go easier and smoother. We are so grateful!

For those of you who are interested, I will keep up the blog and write some of what God continues to show me, and maybe some funny family anecdotes. I pray that God blesses you as you have blessed us.

In Him,

Emily Panter

& family

Ronald Putman continues to slowly improve. Keep him and his family in your prayers.

CONTENT TO BE DISCONTENT

Jones, a wealthy financier, had on many occasion in the good old days — when trains were flourishing and coaches were the last word in technological luxury — crossed the continent by Pullman. He was well known and well served and was accustomed to every convenience, particularly when dining. Imagine his exasperation, then, when it turned out that the chef did not have tutti-frutti ice cream.

“No tutti-frutti?” he shouted. “I always have tutti-frutti.”

“I’m sorry, sir,” said the waiter, soothingly. “We have chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, black walnut, cherry, mocha almond –”

“I want tutti-frutti,” cried Jones, banging the table and turning red. “I have always had tutti-frutti and I won’t have anything else.”

For miles he muttered, scowled, growled, and snarled at everyone, so that every train employee on board had visions of angry reprisals. Finally, the train stopped at a station; a word to the conductor kept it there while the crew scoured the town for tutti-frutti ice cream.

A whole pint of the dessert was found and all of it was presented to Jones, with huge gobs of cherry sauce on it, together with a sliced banana and a swirl of whipped cream.

“Here is your tutti-frutti ice cream, Mr. Jones,” said the quaking waiter.

Jones looked at it with a scowl, then with a sudden swipe of his arm hurled it to the floor, shouting, “I’d rather have my grievance!”

As embarrassing as it is to admit it, I have been in that same situation. There are times when I have been most content to be discontent and have received great enjoyment from being unhappy. And pity the person who tried to appease me and deprive me of the “pity party” I was throwing myself! Have you been there as well?

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

May you find joy this day in a God who richly supplies all your needs!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

I hope you are content today and every day.

Anna Lee

Monday

Jesus told him,

“I am the way, the truth, and the life.

No one can come to the Father except through me.”

John 14:6 (NLT)

Mrs. Bill Hughes continues to need our prayers for her continuing health issues.

Mr.James Miller’s oldest daughter is hospitalized. He would appreciate you praying for her.

John Wesley Parker
(March 29, 1926 – January 24, 2009)

John Wesley Parker

U.S. Veteran Died at 1:59 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. He was a native of Dossville, MS and a resident of Kentwood. Age 82 years. He was a U. S. Navy Veteran of World War II and retired from Baton Rouge, Zachary, Angola and LSU Fire Services. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday and from 8 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Tuesday. Services conducted by Rev. Richard Sandburg and Rev. Joe Starns. Interment Centre Cemetery, Greensburg. He is survived by his wife, Myrtis Newsom Parker, Kentwood; 4 sons, Wilbur G. Parker, Kentwood, Floyd W. Parker and wife, Rosemary, Waskom, TX, John M. Parker and wife, Janice, Central, and Wesley A. Parker, Kentwood; 2 sisters, Flo Goynes, Baton Rouge, and Retta Bellgraph and husband, Eugene, Zachary; 3 brothers, Carlton Parker, Zachary, Shade M. Parker and wife, Evelyn, Springfield, IL, and Amos Parker and wife, Colleen, Summit, MS; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Elva Wooten Parker; 4 sisters, Marie Bankston, Agnes East, Pauline Walker, and Roxie Parker; 3 brothers, James, Gus and Guy Parker. Pallbearers will be Travis Parker, John Parker, Jason Parker, Blaine Parker, Jimmy Parker and Blanton Burgess. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Louisiana Firemen’s Association.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor

PEOPLE AROUND THE world reacted with shock in September 2006 when news broke that Steve Irwin, the “Crocodile Hunter,” had died…

His enthusiasm for life and for God’s creatures was contagious, making him a favorite personality worldwide.

When his wife Terri was interviewed shortly after Steve’s death, her love for him was obvious as she said through her tears, “I’ve lost my prince.” What an affectionate way to memorialize her husband! She saw him as her prince and her best friend.

The husband-wife relationship is often viewed today as anything but the tender one Terri and Steve must have shared. We see bitterness, insults, and animosity presented in the media as the norm. How much more desirable it is to see true love—to see a husband unashamedly cherish his wife, to unselfishly be her “prince.”

How can a husband continue to love his wife in a more princely way? Try these suggestions: Listen—enjoy those tender times when she can unburden her heart without fear. Love life—find ways to add fun to your marriage. Lead spiritually—guide the way into prayer and intimate fellowship with the Lord.

Men, be a prince to your princess. (Dave Branon)

Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered” (1 Pet. 3:7).

There will be a free showing of the movie “Fireproof” at FBC,Kentwood. If you have not seen this movie, please work this event into your schedule. The movie’s focus is on improving marriages.
Have a marvelous Monday!
Anna Lee

Sunday

“Cast your bread upon the waters,

For you will find it after many days.”

~Ecclesiastes 10:6, NKJV~

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, January 23, 2009

We are “persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:9, NKJV).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the Office of Global Prayer Strategy, praying with you for believers facing persecution.

The deaf Japanese women were on the edge of their seats as they studied the trials and persecutions Paul faced in scripture. When asked if Christians were persecuted in Japan W answered, “No, we aren’t beaten or stoned or put in prison because we believe on Jesus.” “So if a person tells his Buddhist or Shinto family he has believed on Jesus and wants to be baptized, that family will be happy?” W was thoughtful. “Oh, I had not thought about that being persecution. I can see that Christians are persecuted here by being ridiculed and pressured.”

A brother in the Last Frontier, Mr. H, preaches in two churches in one of the most persecuted areas in his country. The members of his group have been jailed numerous times, and Mr. H himself has been jailed more than 50 times in the last 10 years. Mr. H boldly said, ‘They beat me and kept me in jail for days. How can I compare that with what Jesus did for me? I am not afraid. No, I am not.’ One of Mr. H’s churches meets in his home, and the other church is 40 kilometers away in a different city.

Pastors in Iran are undertaking huge daily risks. Recently a pastor told workers that every morning when he and his wife wake up, they say, “Thank you, God, that we were not taken by the authorities during the night. Help us to make the most of these precious 24 hours and plant your church TODAY!” Police usually come at 4 a.m., so each morning that pastors wake up safely, they know they have 24 more hours to labor.

* Please pray for believers to be strong in the face of persecution.

* Give thanks for the growth of the church despite persecution from families and governments.

* Thank the Lord that He will never leave nor forsake His children.



KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
A WELL-KNOWN preacher once gave the following advice to a group of churches concerning their approach to evangelism:
“Don’t tell people about the cross, it doesn’t work. Too many evangelistic efforts fail because they focus too much on the cross. Just tell them God loves them and has a plan for them.” He continued, “The message of a crucified Jew is ridiculous to the modern mind. So move onto something better. A crucified Messiah is stupid, but promise them prosperity, give them emotional experiences, provide them with self-esteem and then you’ll fill the pews.”
THOUGHTS: Avoiding the cross and catering to people’s external needs might “fill the pews,” but they will be pews filled with people still dying in their sins. Without the cross, the Bible is just another neat story book. Without the cross, Christianity is no more than a self-help seminar. It was the cross that God displayed His wisdom and power. (Mitchell Skelton)
“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Cor. 1:18).
May this Lord’s Day be a blessing to you!
Anna Lee

Saturday

“Go therefore and make disciples

of all the nations,

baptizing them in the name of the Father

and of the Son

and of the Holy Spirit.”

~Matthew 28:19a~

Philip Dykes is home and doing fine. Thank you for praying for him.

Mrs. Faye Price appreciates your prayers. Her family does too. Keep praying.

James Alton Fairburn Sr. passed away on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2009, at Harvest Manor Nursing Home in Denham Springs. He was 75, a resident of Denham Springs and a native of Amite. Mr. James enjoyed hunting and fishing. Visitation at Seale Funeral Home in Denham Springs on Saturday, Jan. 24, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Graveside service at Hayden Grove Cemetery in Amite at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, conducted by Brother Sam Cutrer. Survived by his daughters, Betty Fairburn, of Walker, and Shelia Barthol and husband Jack, of Denham Springs; son, James A. Fairburn Jr. and wife Kendra, of Walker; 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his wife, Betty Irene Fairburn; and parents, David L. and Vemie Cutrer Fairburn.


Roberts Sr., Wiltz Richard Hartman-Sharkey Funeral Home, McComb, Miss., at 2:30 p.m.

Baptist Press

January 23, 2009

WASHINGTON–Obama reaffirms Roe on 36th anniversary. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29716

TENNESSEE–Embryonic stem cell trial gets FDA approval. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29717

NEW YORK–Roger Goodell: NFL responsible to fans & communities. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29718

FLORIDA–PROFILE: Kurt Warner — The player & the person. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29719

FLORIDA–Baptist Press returns to the Super Bowl.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29720

WASHINGTON–MARRIAGE DIGEST: ‘Gay marriage’ getting boost in U.S. Senate. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29721

TEXAS–Church planting passion sparked in Bluebonnet. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29722

TEXAS–Couple starts orphanage in El Salvador. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29723

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): This is change? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29724

CALIFORNIA–FIRST-PERSON (David Jeremiah): Making a way. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29725

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor

THE TAX COLLECTORS of Jesus’ time were some of the most despised people in the land, considered untrustworthy, cheats, and traitors…

Yet it was Levi (Matthew) whom Jesus called to follow Him. This brave man arose from his tax office and went with the Lord. Later, as Jesus dined in his house, the scribes and Pharisees began their grumbling. No doubt, Levi was used to this kind of back-biting talk. Now his honored guest was being criticized for even associating with him. Jesus heard their talk and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” Our Lord knew their hearts, their needs, and their resistance to Him.

This is not to say that we should not seek to maintain a good reputation through godliness and an exemplary Christian lifestyle. We should live in such a way that our critics have no just charge to level against us. Still, I am glad that Jesus cares more about sinners than He did about what the social and religious elite were saying about Him.

Regardless of what other people say against us, we must not stop doing what is good and right. We must not sacrifice our search for truth for tolerance of every false teacher in the neighborhood. We may be accused of being narrow and closed-minded. We may be told that we will be excluded unless we are unconditionally inclusive of all other ideas and dogmas. (Think about that!)

When it comes to others around us, we need to remember that Jesus came and died for the sins of the whole world, not just for those whom the world says are worthy. We need to have the heart of Jesus, reaching out to all of our friends and neighbors, rich and poor, powerful and powerless, because they all need Christ’s saving blood and the hope of eternal life that only He can give. Let us be bold in caring for others and always reaching out to them. Let us seek God’s approval and not the approval of the crowd and bring the lost to Him. (Roger Wright)

“And when the scribes and Pharisees saw Him (Jesus) eating with the tax collectors and sinners, they said to His disciples, ‘How is it that He eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners?’” (Mark 2:16).
Enjoy your weekend, but don’t leave Jesus out of it!
Anna Lee

Friday


“But know that the Lord

has set apart for Himself him who is godly;

the Lord will hear when I call to Him.”

Psalm 4:3

Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell continues to have tests done in Baton Rouge. Please pray for her as she works hard to get better.

Mrs. Faye Price continues to slowly improve. Pray for her and her family as they work together to restore her health.

Mike Nason is scheduled to come home from OLOL today. He has been there this week to get his regular “tune-up”.

Two requests from Sue Minor Tucker:

Please add a co-worker of mine, Richard Kennedy to your daily prayers, Richard has been having health problems lately and has had Bladder Cancer before and today he was diagnosed with Esauphagial Cancer and now has to decide just what options he has and which ones he wishes to take. Thank you again for your daily prayers.


Please pray for our pastor’s new grandson, Johnathon Inman, who is not quite 2 weeks old and was Jaundice when he was born, got a little better went home and was put back in the hospital in ICU last night with a very high count and if they cannot get it down he may have to have a blood transfusion and they said that if that doesn’t work then something is wrong with his little liver. Please remember Brother Larry Inman and his wife Sandy and their son Johnathon and his wife Joanie and of course little Johnathon. Pray that he will get better and not have to go through all of this additional problems. Thank you for praying daily.

Wiltz R. Roberts Sr.
Wiltz Richard Roberts Sr., 92, died Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2009, at his home in Osyka, Miss. He was born June 19, 1916, in Osyka. He was the son of Amos and Janie Blades Roberts. He was a retired truck driver. Mr. Roberts also was known for a number of years as the “sack man” when he was in the sack and feed business. He was a very active member of Osyka Baptist Church until his health began failing and where he taught Sunday School for many years and influenced many young people. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, having served and fought in the Tunisian, Algeria-French Moroccan, Sicilian and Naples Foggia campaigns. For his dedicated service, Mr. Roberts was awarded the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with four bronze stars and five Overseas Service Bars. Preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Lawrence, Bilbo, Alton and Clyde Roberts; and three sisters, Jessie Hilbun, Golda Davis and Tina Rodriguez. Survived by his wife of 63 years, Joan Austin Roberts, of Osyka; son and daughter-in-law, Wiltz Richard Roberts Jr. and Kaye, of Kentwood; two daughters and sons-in-law, Ann and James Reid, of Jayess, Miss., and Margaret and Wayne Frazier, of McComb, Miss.; four grandchildren and their spouses, Daniel and Kim Roberts, Brandon and Rebekah Frazier, Blake and Penny Frazier and Dalton and Kim Rawls; three great-grandchildren, Ela Frazier, Brittany Rawls and Trey Rawls; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation at Hartman-Sharkey Funeral Home, McComb, on Saturday, Jan. 24, from noon until service at 2:30 p.m., with Dr. Milton Kleisch officiating. Burial in Roberts Cemetery, Osyka. Pallbearers will be Wayne Frazier, James Reid, Brandon Frazier, Blake Frazier, Dalton Rawls and Daniel Roberts. To share sympathies, condolences and memories go to Hartman-Sharkeyfuneralhome.com.

KOMpray

(Kids on Mission Pray)

Prayer requests

“Let the little children come to Me, and don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,” Luke 18:16b

THANK GOD FOR MUD

“Walira mvula walira matope.” No, I don’t know how to pronounce it, but I know what it means. It says, “He who asked for the rain also asked for mud.” I think you say it something like this: Wah-LEE-rah meye-U-lah Wah-LEE-rah mah-TOE-peh. If you know someone from Zambia, ask them if I’m right!

When God answers our prayers, we should give Him thanks for the answer. Well, here’s a story from one of our missionaries in Zambia:

It was SO hot and we finally got rain. I was driving out to a Bible teaching center—“I shouldn’t have been surprised about the muddy road. I didn’t complain (much) until I came upon pigs wallowing in a huge mud-hole—right in middle of the road! … I was ashamed of my complaints.”

My students at the center asked for a Bible for two of her friends who are ‘shut ins’. She didn’t have the money to pay that day, but she promised to save her money then pay. Other students stepped up and told her not to worry—God would provide. They put their money together and had plenty for the two Bibles. On the drive home, this student rode part of the way with the missionary. At a simple path, she asked the missionary to stop. It was the path to the ‘shut ins’. This woman said it was an honor to deliver the Word of God to her friends on that very day.

“The muddy roads just didn’t seem too bad anymore.” Thank God for the mud that comes when we have the rain.

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please ask God to Help my parents teach the people about Jesus. JOY, age 8, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Please pray that more people would come to know Jesus. Sometimes, there is persecution (people who hate Christians bully them) and Christians get hurt. Please ask God to protect the Christians. Ask God to help the sick too. CALEB, age 9 (Pacific Rim)

Pray that I will find a Sri Lankan friend. I live near a very beautiful beach. We have a lot of palm trees. We have to wear skirts a lot because it is the culture. MELODY, age 11 (South Asia)

Botswana has one of the world’s highest rates of AIDS. Please pray against the strongholds in this country. Please pray that I stay strong in the faith and that I have an unquenchable thirst for the Word. Oh yeah, please pray for exams! Especially my music exam and design technology exam. EMILY, age 15, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

My mom and dad are trying to raise a teenager—their first—me!

My dad goes into the village every day so he can plant churches. We want to pray that the people of Basoga would be open to the gospel. Pray that the Bible study students will tell others about what God has done in their lives.

ETHAN, age 14 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Please pray for the countries in Central Asia. There is a lot of corruption. Amen. JONATHAN, age 12 (Central Asia)

Pray for all of Mozambique and ask God to help my parents in their ministry. LUKE, age 8, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)


KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
I CAN COUNT on one hand my most intimate friends, those with whom I would share anything…
I can hardly think of a boundary on our conversations. We reached that plane of relationship after long hours together and considerable risk. If a doctor informs me tomorrow that I have a terminal disease, they will be my first calls.
Most of my intimate friends live in other cities, and as a result I may see them only once a year. When we meet, though, we skip the chitchat and go right to the heart of what concerns us most. I don’t worry about being judged or second-guessed or made the subject of gossip. With true friends, I feel safe.
Friendship with God encompasses each of these levels of communication. God cares about the ordinary and everyday as well as the peak experiences. I bring to God my failures and sins (confession, repentance) as well as my triumphs and joys (praise, thanksgiving). I bring to god my worries and concerns (petition, intercession). The very attempt to hide something from God is folly, for God know all of who I am: the genetics as well as the environment, the thoughts and motives as well as the actions. (Philip Yancey)

“And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God” (James 2:23).

Thursday

Carefully consider the path for your feet,

and all your ways will be established.

Proverbs 4:26 (HCSB)

Andy Taylor said his daughter, Melissa, had some surgery and then had to go back in the hospital because of an infection. Pray for her to soon be better.

Jimmy Schwartz will be seeing a neurologist about his health problems. Pray he gets some relief from pain.

Jimmy Harrell will be having eye surgery soon. Pray for the surgery to be effective.

Continue to pray for Lauren H. Fowler in the last weeks of her pregnancy. Staying home and resting has been good for her.

Mike Nason is in Our Lady of the Lake in Baton Rouge. His health requires periodic stays there. Pray he will feel better by the end of the week.

Phillip Dykes is also in Our Lady of the Lake. Doctors are trying to determine his problem.

Tracy Williams, Debbie Miller’s cousin, is in ICU at Tulane. Please pray for him and his family.

Ronald Putman is still in ICU at Our Lady of the Lake with heart and kidney problems as well as pneumonia. His family will be thankful for your prayers.

Quinton West is no longer hospitalized and is able to attend school again. Pray his asthma allows him to return to a normal schedule.

Update on Don Denton:

Don’s parents left to go back to Louisiana today. They have been with us since January 2nd. We again find ourselves most grateful to God for them and the time, love, support and work and care they have given to us.

We surely could not have done this without them. They continue to bless us. They will make their journey back to their home, please pray for safe travel.

Each day is new for us in so many ways. Don continuing to improve physically. The depth of the dizziness does not subside and that is a difficult thing to deal with when trying to attempt much of anything.

We now see that this will take time as well. So we continue with doctor appointments and therapy.

Please pray for healing of the nerve endings in the base of the brain. This is were the Hydrocephalus is as well.

We have more doctor appointments next week.

Thank you for your wonderful words of encouragement and support and the special acts of kindness toward us. Some days seem long and tireing and it is on those days that God blesses us with your words, your phone calls and acts of kindness toward us. We love you all. Words can’t express the depth of how we feel, how we have been deeply touched and ministered to by you all.

We will keep you posted. Next week is another big week of meeting back with specialist.

Blessings to you our friends and family

Diane

Continue to pray for Mrs. Annie Belle Harrell, Mrs. Kathryn Sanders, and Mrs. Catherine Yarborough. Each one of them will be thankful for your prayers.

Hilda Yarborough Hanks
(April 1, 1929 – January 21, 2009)

Died on Wednesday, January 21, 2009 at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home in Greesburg, LA. She was a native of Liverpool, LA and a resident of Greensburg, LA. Age 79 years. She was employed at Bank of Greensburg for 42 years, was a church choir member, and enjoyed her grandchildren. Visitation at Greensburg United Methodist Church, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Thursday and from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Friday. Services conducted by Rev. LaMarylis Smith Cotten. Interment Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg, LA. Survived by 2 daughters, Janet Hanks Sukkar, Baton Rouge and Sandra Hanks Dykes and her husband, Scott, Kentwood, 7 grandchildren, Colin Salim Sukkar, Cameron Lawrence Sukkar, Caroline Alexandria Sukkar, Adam Yarborough Sukkar, Christopher Cody Foster, Rodrick Lawrence Dykes and Scotti Marie Dykes, 2 sisters, Doris Venable, Zachary, Alyne Campbell and her husband Kirby, Liverpool, 1 brother, Elbert Yarborough and his wife, Donald, Summit, MS. Preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Sitman Hanks, mother, Gussie William Yarborough, and father, Harvey O. Yarborough. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Joel A. Davis
(April 16, 1937 – January 19, 2009)

Joel A. Davis

Died at 6:50 p.m. on Monday, January 19, 2009 at Sherwood Manor Nursing Home in Baton Rouge, LA. He was a native of Amite, LA and a resident of Baton Rouge, LA. Age 71 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10 a.m. on Saturday until religious services at 11 a.m. Saturday. Survived by wife, Patricia Addis Davis, Baton Rouge; 2 daughters, Elizabeth Davis Blanton, Robert, and Bonnie Davis Fruge, Madisonville; 3 brothers, James A. Davis, Destrehan, A. Thomas Davis, Montpelier and David M. Davis, Alvin, TX; 3 grandchildren. Preceded in death by father, John Albert Davis, mother, Myrth Bornes Davis Cambre.

Baptist Press

January 21, 2009

CALIFORNIA–Calif. group launches petition drive to reverse Prop 8. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29702

GEORGIA–Baptisms alter church’s culture. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29703

ARKANSAS–Missionary surgeon: ‘God may be calling.’ http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29704

LOUISIANA–Coach acknowledges he’s ‘a little unusual.’ http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29705

GEORGIA–FIRST-PERSON (Howard Dayton): Who you gonna believe? http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29706

ONE THING LEADS TO ANOTHER

The story is told of a country lad who was hired for a salesman’s job at a city department store. It was one of those massive stores that has every department imaginable. In fact it was the biggest store in the world – you could get anything there.

The boss said, “You can start tomorrow, Friday morning, and I’ll come and see you when we close up.”

When the boss looked up the young man the next day at closing time, he saw him shaking hands with a beaming customer. After they parted, he walked over and asked, “Well, that looked good! How many sales did you make today?”

“That was the only one,” said the young salesman.

“Only one!?!” blurted the boss. “Most of my staff make 20 or 30 sales a day. You’ll have to do better than that! Well, how much was the sale worth?”

“$227,340 and change,” said the young man.

The boss paused for a moment, blinking a few times. “H… H… How did you manage that?!?”

“Well, when he came in this morning and I sold him a small fish hook. Then, I sold him a medium hook, and then a really large hook. Then I sold him a small fishing line, a medium one, and then a big one. I then sold him a spear gun, a wetsuit, scuba gear, nets, chum, and coolers. I asked him where he was going fishing and he said down the coast. We decided he would probably need a new boat, so I took him down to the boat department and sold him that twenty-foot schooner with the twin engines. Then, he said that his Volkswagen probably wouldn’t be able to pull it, so I took him to the car department and sold him the new Deluxe Cruiser, with a winch, storage rack, rust proofing, and a built-in refrigerator. Oh, and floor mats.”

The boss took two steps back and asked in astonishment, “You sold all that to a guy who came in for a fish hook?!”

“No,” answered the salesman. “He came in to buy a blanket.”

“A blanket?”

“Yeah, an extra blanket for the couch. He just had a fight with his wife. I said to him, ‘Well, your weekend’s ruined, so you may as well go fishing…'”

One thing leads to another. And that’s the way it should work in our spiritual lives. An old Chinese proverb says, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” So it is with Christianity. We look ahead to where we want to be, and we take a step. Then another. And another. As we grow and mature in Christ, we continue to add virtue upon virtue.

“But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.” (2 Peter 1:5-7).

Wherever you are in your spiritual life, I pray that you’ll take a step up today, adding something that will make you a little more in the image of Jesus Christ. As you add one thing to another, you will be much closer to that goal by the end of 2009.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thank you for praying today. Your prayers mean so much to so many. You make a big difference!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“And this gospel of the kingdom

will be preached in all the world

as a witness to all the nations,

and then the end will come.”

~Matthew 24:14~

Emily Panter

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Baby Steps

Well, Luke started back to school yesterday. Because of that, and the fact that my strength is growing. I have stayed home alone with all the kids for a few hours at a time. So far no real problems have arisen. I am allowed to lift Sarah, and the older kids have been very helpful when there is a task I don’t think I shoud attempt yet. I have loaded the washer and dryer, sorted clothes, cleaned the kitchen and helped the kids in their rooms some. (And I am not doind these things all of the time so don’t start calling Luke to reprove him.) Luke still bears the brunt of the chores sround here, and since he is also responsible for many other things, it is not always perfect around here (as if it ever was when I was in charge!) But God seems to be using it to help me let go of the things that are not as important as I once thought they were.

It seems that daily I am still running into someone I have not seen since before the hospital, and the conversation inevitably insues about how miraculous my journey has been. I continue to agree whole-heartedly and am amazed that God brought me through something which, for all intents and purposes, I should not have survived. He has healed me very quickly. He has given me the honor of seeing so many of the blessings that have affected peoples lifes, either through their faithfulness to pray, or through the testimony of God’s grace, mercy and undeniable power and soverenty. Last week the door bell rang and I got to it before Luke. I was expecting it to be the kids coming home from school, but it was the paramedic. The first one on he scene; he came back a few days after the insident to check on me and had come again to get an update.

I hope I continue to learn of God’s grace the rest of my life and i pray that I am always useful to Him in His plan. I hope I never again miss an oportunity.

Posted by Emily Panter

A Young Daughter’s Evangelistic Prayers

http://www.baptistmessage.com/articledetail.php?articleID=2c1cda9e1f37f1f6173d7cbbbc1a9124

Baptist Press

January 20, 2009

WASHINGTON–Obama calls for ‘era of responsibility’ at historic inauguration. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29695

WASHINGTON–WhiteHouse.gov now backs abortion rights, ‘gay rights.’
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29694

WASHINGTON–Southern Baptist in Congress express hope. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29696

WASHINGTON–Warren mentions Jesus’ name in invocation. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29697

WASHINGTON–Warren’s inaug. prayer only latest by a Southern Baptist. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29698

WASHINGTON–TRANSCRIPT: Obama’s inauguration speech. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29699

LOUISIANA–NOBTS announces austerity budget. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29700

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Art Toalston): An inauguration we will remember. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29701

Mildred Davis Thompson
(February 10, 1921 – January 19, 2009)

Mildred Davis Thompson

“I am now home in heaven, oh so happy and so bright. There is perfect joy and beauty in this everlasting light”

Our beloved Mildred Davis Thompson, was called home at 1:03PM, Monday, January 19, 2009 at the St. Helena Parish Hospital, Greensburg. She was 87, a lifelong native & resident of St. Helena Parish.

Mrs. Mildred is survived by 2 brothers, Huey Davis and wife, Doris, Amite & Wilson Davis and wife, Mary, Amite; also numerous nieces & nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Freddie Thompson; her parents, George & Caroline Reeves Davis; & a sister, Lillie Davis Newell.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Thursday, January 22, 2009 from 6:00PM until 9:00PM and on Friday, January 23, 2009 at the Hillsdale Baptist Church after 9:00AM until Religious Services at 11:00AM with Rev. Jim McGriff officiating. Interment in the Hillsdale Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to:

International Mission Board of Southern Baptist Convention for Guatemala Kekchi Indians Food Projects, PO Box 6767, Richmond, VA 23230-0767

or

Contributions may be made locally to the Hillsdale Baptist Church for the same mission fund. Hillsdale Baptist Church Guatemala Kekchi Indians Food Projects, 3621 Hwy 1045, Amite, LA 70422

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

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.


TARGETED BY GOD

Everybody has difficulty in life, but several years ago, Brian Hise of Provo, Utah experienced more difficulty in one day than many of us go through in a year. First, a water pipe broke in the upstairs apartment above his own and flooded his apartment. So the manager told him to go out and rent a water vacuum.

That’s when he discovered his car had a flat tire. He changed the tire and went inside to phone a friend for help. Standing in the water, the electric shock he got from the phone startled him and he ripped the phone off the wall.

Before he could leave the apartment a second time, a neighbor had to kick down his apartment door because water damage had jammed it tight. While all of this was going on, somebody stole Brian’s car. But it was almost out of gas, so he found it a few blocks away. He then had to push it to a gas station.

That evening, Hise attended a military ceremony at B.Y.U. and he injured himself severely when he somehow sat down on his own bayonet which had been tossed onto the front seat of his car. Doctors were able to stitch up his wounds but no one was able to resuscitate Brian’s four canaries which were crushed to death when wet ceiling plaster in his apartment fell on them while he was gone.

When he got home, he slipped on the wet carpet and badly injured his tailbone. Mr. Hise said he began to wonder if “God wanted me dead but kept missing.”

Ever had days you felt that way? I recall an Old Testament character who felt the same way. After suffering hardship upon hardship, listen to these words of Job spoken to God:

“Will you never look away from me, or let me alone even for an instant? If I have sinned, what have I done to you, O watcher of men? Why have you made me your target?” (Job 7:19-20a, NIV)

We know that Job was not “targeted” by God. In truth, God was his source of strength in time of trial and his Redeemer when the story was over. But in the midst of adversity, when everything seems to be going wrong that possibly could go wrong, it’s tempting to feel the same way.

Be assured — God has not made you a “target.” He is, in fact, your source of strength to get through those tough times. May you rely on that today.

“Hear, O Lord, and have mercy on me; Lord, be my helper!” (Psalm 30:10)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Hear me when I call,

O God of my righteousness!

You have relieved me in my distress;

have mercy on me,

and hear my prayer.”

~Psalm 4:1~

Carl Wayne Stevens, formerly of this area, has been diagnosed with lung cancer. Please pray as decisions are being made for his care.

We’ve been praying for Mr. I.W. Simmons. Now, let’s add Mr. Benny Simmons to our prayer list.

At the WMU meeting yesterday, Mrs. Glory Wheat Thompson shared about her mission work in Canada. It was very interesting and very informative.

Frank and Mary Alice Fox attended the funeral for Riley Clark:

….It was one of the nicest funerals I have ever attended – a real tribute to Riley. The last report I got was Sat. evening. At that point she (Frann) was improving though she still had a long way to go. They had reduced the oxygen they were giving her to 50% – down from 100%. They have not told her about Riley. As soon as the doctors think she is well enough to hear it, Kerry will tell her. She is still in ICU. They did video the funeral so that she could see it when she is able….


Update on Don Denton:

We continue to be amazed and thankful for this journey we are on. Today we met with the Neurosurgeon expecting to have to have surgery as soon as possible. WE were told by our neurologist this would happen.

Today the neurosurgeon said No surgery. Surgery is not needed at this point. He had several very good reasons as to why he would not perform surgery on Don at this time. If a shunt should be put in at this time and there is just one bacteria left if could be a problem. He also said that Don’s hydrocephalus is mild. He did not see that it is high/severe. He feels that Don’s body is absorbing the fluids for the most part. The neurosurgeon also gave us symptoms to look for.

The downside to this is that Don still has severe dizziness, to the point that it is debilitating. He struggles to walk and function. The neurologist indicates that dizziness is not a symptom of Hydrocephalus. The neurosurgeon believes that although Don’s dizziness has worsened, that it still is from having menningittis. He tells us that he does not believe Don is free from it as of yet.

The neurologist wants to continue gathering data through lumbar punctures, MRI and CAT Scans.

He is saying that it is taking longer for Don to recover because of the severity of the disease.

The neurosurgeon has excellent credentials and he is more than willing to work with our Infectious Disease doctor. The outcome from today only confirms what all the other doctors are saying. We will have to wait to see how Don does as he tapers off of the steroids.

So we continue to wait and hope and pray for complete healing. We believe it will happen and so do the doctors, it is just taking longer.

Things to pray for:

  • Don’s dizziness begins to subside.
  • He does not get sicker as he tapers off of steroids.
  • That we can find strength we need from day to day to continue to look outside of our circumstances and live as normal as possible.
  • Pray for my sister in law, Lynn. Her doctor appt. is on Thursday on what they can do for her, with her cancer.

Don sees opthamoligist tomorrow hopefully they can help him with vision changes.

Blessings to your our friends and family

Diane

ADD-ON OPTIONS

A local farmer had come to the conclusion that the local car dealer had profited greatly by all the add-on options that increased the price of cars sold to the hapless farmer. Then one day the car dealer informed the farmer that he was coming around to buy a cow. In the spirit of justice, the farmer attached the following price information to the cow:

Basic cow $500
Two-tone exterior $45
Extra stomach $75
Product storing compartment $60
Straw chopper $120
Four spigots at $10 each, $40
Cowhide upholstery $125
Dual horns $15
Automatic fly swatter $38
Fertilizer attachment $185

TOTAL: $1,233.00

Aren’t you glad God doesn’t charge us for all the extras He provides us in life? You know what I mean — the beautiful sunrise and sunset, the changing color of the leaves in fall, the glory of the stars at night, the beautiful scenery ranging from the majestic mountains to the pounding surf of the ocean. How blessed we are! And not a single penny extra!

“Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.
Oh, give thanks to the God of gods!
For His mercy endures forever.
Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords!
For His mercy endures forever:
Him who alone does great wonders,
For His mercy endures forever;
To Him who by wisdom made the heavens,
For His mercy endures forever;
To Him who laid out the earth above the waters,
For His mercy endures forever;
To Him who made great lights,
For His mercy endures forever —
The sun to rule by day,
For His mercy endures forever;
The moon and stars to rule by night,
For His mercy endures forever.” (Psalm 139:1-9)

As you go through this day, try to be mindful of each and every blessing you enjoy from the hand of God. It is so easy to take everything for granted. But, how richly God has blessed us! Praise and thanksgiving be to our Lord!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Today is an important day for our nation. Let’s pray for our nation to work together and be a shining light to the rest of the world. Let’s pray for the president-elect as he takes over and for the president as he begins a new phase of his life in Texas.

Let’s pray for Christians in our nation live the life they profess so others will want to follow Jesus. God reigns over all of us! He is the same today as He was yesterday and will be tomorrow!

Anna Lee

Monday

“I cried to the Lord with my voice,

and He heard me from His holy hill.”

~Psalm 3:4~

Pray for Mrs. Faye Price to be able to work toward getting off the ventilator. That is her biggest need for now.

Mrs. Annie Belle Harrell has undergone some tests ordered by a new doctor and will have more this week. Pray she will get some improvement as a result of these tests.

Mrs. Bill Hughes is having some continuing health issues. Please remember her in your prayers.

Pray for Floyd and Lauren H. Fowler as she stays at home and rests for the final time before the birth of her baby.

Pray for Mr. Bud Kliesch. He is hospitalized in McComb with several serious health issues

Continue to pray for Mr. Raymond Anthony. Pray for an answer to “What should we do next?”.

David Gullota had another surgical procedure Friday and is not doing as well as hoped for. Please continue to pray for him and his family. He’s in University Hospital in New Orleans.

David Lockwood has been battleing cancer. He is in North Oaks now. Please be in prayer for him and his family.

WILLING TO PAY THE PRICE

Though skeptical of his teenage son’s newfound determination to build bulging muscles, one father followed his teenager to the store’s weight-lifting department, where they admired a set of weights.

“Please, Dad,” pleaded the teen, “I promise I’ll use ’em every day.”

“I don’t know, Michael. It’s really a commitment on your part,” the father said.

“Please, Dad?”

“They’re not cheap either,” the father said.

“I’ll use ’em, Dad, I promise. You’ll see.”

Finally won over, the father paid for the equipment and headed for the door. After a few steps, he heard his son behind him say, “What! You mean I have to carry them to the car?”

The comparison to our Christian lives is all too obvious. We can be told how much commitment is involved in being a Christian. We can be told how much will be required of us when we become a Christian. We say that we understand all that is involved and we are still willing to give our “all” to Christ. But, often, we are barely dried off from our baptism before we are complaining about what is expected of us — “Surely you don’t expect me to spend that much time, that much money, that much effort!”

The truth is, those of us who are Christians rarely see Christianity as much of a struggle. Christianity is an easy way of living for most of us. Perhaps too easy. I think there’s enough in scripture to label Christianity as a struggle for our faith. In Luke 13:24, Jesus said, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” We don’t just walk through the narrow gate; we have to strive to get through. That word suggests there is to be a great deal of effort on our part.

In Ephesians 6:12, Paul describes the Christian life in this way: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” The picture Paul paints for us is a picture of struggling, a picture of constant battle.

The Hebrew writer constantly alludes to the fact that we need to put a great deal of effort into our Christian lives. The word diligent is frequently used. “Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest….” (Hebrews 4:11).

It has been said that our favorite hypocrisy is to make a choice and then to refuse to pay for it. We have a word for that in this country — it’s called credit! Thanks to credit, I can go to the store and pick out something I want, and then not have to pay for it now. In fact, some stores go so far as to say, “Come in and buy our furniture and make no payments until January 2010!” But how many people do you suppose have gotten themselves into severe financial difficulty because they made a choice that they were not really willing to pay for?

But that truth applies to far more than just financial matters; it applies to all of life. Rudyard Kipling once said that if anyone did not get from life what they really wanted, it was because either he didn’t really want it or because he began to quibble about the price. That may be a bit of an overstatement, but I do think there’s a great deal of truth there. We must be willing to pay the price for what we want.

The price for the Christian life is high, and Jesus wants us to count that cost as part of our decision to follow him.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thank-you for praying each day. People ask for your prayers knowing you make a difference.

Anna Lee