Category: Devotional

Sunday

“Watch therefore, and pray always

that you may be counted worthy

to escape all these things

that will come to pass,

and to stand before the Son of Man.”

~Luke 21:36~

Latest post from Emily Panter

One of the pros of being a P.K.

by Emily Panter
This past Sunday night we had our monthy mission meeting at church. As the good Baptists that we are, we met in the fellowship hall and had food. There is a room of to the side where the kinds can play during the meeting. Noah came up to Luke while we were eating and said: “Dad, Becca is doing ….(I can’t remember).” As usual, when Noah taddles od someone Luke sent him away with a “go on son.” But then Luke happened to be walking by the room just as Noah went back in and he overheard Noah say: “Becca, I told the pastor!” Ha! I thought that was priceless:)

On a more serious note, please contine to pray for my kiddos, especially the older two. I got the stomach bug that has been going around this past week and I could see the concern of Hannah’s face. She asked me if I was sure I would be ok, and then she apparently had a very vivid and scary dream of me screaming and the whole ordeal happening again. It has really been hardest on her to deal with. She understood the implications of what might have been. I appreciate the prayers.

I continue to get stronger, and learned this week that a plus of this whole thing is that it has helped me deal with my obsesive dread of throwing up. I can now handle it much more gracefully.

Lawrence Dale “Larry” Sibley
A native of Holden and a resident of Pride living in Zachary Manor Nursing Home, he passed away at Lane Regional Medical Center at 7 a.m. Friday, Jan. 16, 2009. He was 86, born on Dec. 5, 1922. Self-employed in the finance and railroad maintenance business for many years, he was past master of Plains Lodge No. 135, a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Acacia Shrine Temple in Baton Rouge. Visiting at Charlet Funeral Home Inc. in Zachary on Sunday, Jan. 18, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with a Masonic service at 7 p.m. Visiting resumes at the funeral home on Monday from 11:30 a.m. until religious service at 1 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Greg Davis. Graveside service at Pine Grove Methodist Church Cemetery in Pine Grove at 3 p.m. Monday. Survived by his daughter, Laura E. Sibley, of Pride; and a brother, Lemuel “LeRoy” Sibley, of Denham Springs. Preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Frances Dutsch Sibley; father, Lemuel Sibley; and mother, Lessie Phenald Brown Sibley; half sister, Ellen Sibley Smith, who was of Kentwood; half brother, Elvin Sibley, who was of Central; half brother, Walter Brown; half sisters, Tincey Marie Brown Booker and Flossie Brown Vickers Sibley; and adopted brother, James “Junior” Sibley, who was of Pride. Pallbearers will be Thomas Harrison, Kelvin Johnson, Lee Smith, Mark Mitchell, Henry Baxter and Robert Snider. Honorary pallbearers are Richard Harrison and Arthur Schabla. Share sympathies, condolences and memories at www.CharletFuneralHome.com.
Today is set aside as Santity of Life Sunday. I thought you might enjoy reading some of these Baptist Message articles:
Baptist Press
January 16, 2009

TEXAS–ADOPTION: Couple advocates adoption in word & deed. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29675

GEORGIA–‘Sanctity of Human Life Sunday’ set for Jan. 18. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29676

KENTUCKY–ADOPTION (Russell D. Moore): Finding Jesus in a Russian orphanage. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29677

TENNESSEE–ADOPTION (Michael Foust): Journey through infertility was worth it. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29679

TENNESSEE—ADOPTION (Dwayne Hastings): Celebrating God’s gift of life during Chinese New Year. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29678

VIRGINIA–ADOPTION (Shawn Hendricks): A few fatherly thoughts for daughter Laura. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29680

TEXAS–ADOPTION (Thomas White): The heart of the Gospel. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29681

WASHINGTON–Bush: Acted for U.S. ‘best interests.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29682

WASHINGTON–LIFE DIGEST: ‘Culture of life’ made progress, Bush says; … http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29683

NEW YORK–Planned Parenthood cuts HQ staff. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29684

EL SALVADOR–Open doors abound in El Salvador. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29685

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): Heroes for life. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29686

Don’t forget:
-the baby shower for Lauren H. Fowler today at 2 P.M.
– WMU meeting at 4 P.M.
-Soup Drive
– Lottie Moon Chirstmas Offering
KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
HAVE YOU EVER felt truly alone…?
After my father died, I gathered with our family at a funeral home to choose the casket and arrange specifics for the memorial service. As I drove away from the funeral home, I made it only about two hundred yards before I broke down and wept, and had to pull the car over and stop.
This wasn’t the first time I’d cried after my father’s death, but it was the first time I’d cried alone, and the tears and the grief were so strong. Cars streamed past me, their passengers and drivers unaware of what was taking place in my car, and I vividly remember how alone I felt.
But in truth I wasn’t alone, because only two hundred yards away were people who loved me with all their hearts. To be comforted, all I needed to do was turn around and go back to the funeral home. I felt alone–but I really wasn’t.
For me, personally, the sense of aloneness in that moment was overwhelming; yet I know that many others have experienced far worse than anything I went through. Many have wept as I did, but could never be assured there was someone nearby they could turn to for comfort, whether two hundred yards away or two hundred miles.
And yet, even in comparison to such unbearable experiences, there’s Someone else whose pain of isolation and abandonment goes infinitely deeper.
Before being nailed to the cross, Jesus already knew what it meant to be forsaken; He had become intimately acquainted with being rejected or abandoned by men. Yet whenever it happened, He could always say, “Though forsaken by men, I am not alone, for My Father is always with Me.”
But not now.
He who for all eternity has never been alone is now wholly abandoned. Such utter desolation has never existed before in all eternity, because of the infinite love and fellowship of the Godhead, which can never be broken. But not the incarnate Son must be forsaken by the Father…because the Father is holy, and there in the Father’s sight is “the most grotesque display of ugliness imaginable.” It’s the monstrous sight of the unbounded totality of human sin resting upon one Man.
Therefore that Man must be utterly removed from the presence of the holy God, utterly separated, as far as the east is from the west.
Jesus didn’t just feel forsaken; He is forsaken. (C.J. Mahaney)
“And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?’ that is, ‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?'” (Matt. 27:46).
Have a special Lord’s Day today.
Anna Lee

Friday

“With men this is impossible,

but with God all things are possible.”

~Matthew 19:26~


Kitty Bennett Lapreyrolerie got to go home yesterday. She will have lots of care by home health. Pray she continues to improve.

Quinton West also got to go home. Pray his asthma problem is under control now.

Don Denton

Don Update:

WE received the results from Don’s MRI he had earlier this week. He has Hydrocephalus which is higher than what they would like. We will meet with a Neurosurgeon on Monday. It looks like Don will enter back into the hospital for this surgery sometime next week, although we won’t have that information until we meet with the surgeon. He will have to be off of some of his meds and that monitored before surgery. This surgeon will place a “shunt” at the base of the brain and run a tube into the stomach. This will drain the pressure from the brain.

This could be a theraputic thing for Don possibly relieving the dizziness he is having. At the same time they may collect further data from this such as fluid and possible tissue to do further research.

So we see this as an opportunity for further relief for Don.

The neurologist is unsure as to why this is happening. If could be from scare tissue that has set in from having miningittis. We hope to have further answeres next week.

I had my procedures today. They scoped my stomach and I had a colonoscopy today. So far so good. No answers as of yet.

Please pray for Joshua, until life resumes to somewhat normal, he will continue to have separation anxiety issues. He is so glad to see daddy improving. The look on this childs face when he saw his daddy for the first time get up from a sitting position without the use of some kind of support was pretty amazing. Joshua was so excited he said mommy look, daddy is getting better. Maybe next daddy will be able to make my chocolate milk for me. These are huge places where “normal” is beginning to happen for Josh.

Joshua is so keenly aware of his daddys step backs and his daddys improvement and it brings hope and excitement to Joshua’s day when he sees his daddy making improvements.

In the background of all of this, our dishwasher had caught on fire, as we discovered there was a recall, which we had not been notified about. So for two weeks we are washing dishes by hand, as the process for repair is extremely slow. Our car broke down again in Springfield last week and we just found that there are 5 different things wrong with the car. And we also discovered that our kitchen is not safe with how the contractors set up our circuit breakers.

I sometimes sit and think, wow, what else could happen. Then I get perspective somehow and realize that all of these incidents are “just things” that happen in life, especially when compared to life with one another. Life with one another as we know it. When all of this happened with Don back on September 20th, we were leading a new Sunday School class called “The Journey” – We were starting to teach from the book: “Life Together” by Bonhoffer. We have been compelled to do this study about what life together looks like among believers. What does walking together really look like as Christ taught about it.

We are now experiencing what that looks like as you the church walks with us. I could have never imagined. I am still learning.

We continue to be so thankful to God for bringing Don home to us.

Please pray for Don, he is working in the direction of going back to teaching. He is so hopeful, yet this next week will determine how much better he will be after the surgery.

I will keep you posted. Thank you for your continued love and support and wonderful words of support to us. We have been so encouraged by your cards, your letters and emails.

One more important request:

My sister in law Lynn has her 4th reoccurrence of cancer. This one is on the T4 of the spine. She and my brother Steve were just here helping us out this last time Don was in the hospital. Please pray for her that they will be able to treat this area with radiation. Pray for her husband, STeve and their children. She is a beautiful person. When she was here with us, she gave of herself tirelessly and her spirit is precious. She blessed us in this precious way and we are so grateful to her and my brother for their time spent with us.

Blessings to you our family and friends

Diane

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
OF THE DOZENS upon dozens of funerals that I have conducted, I have never conducted one where the casket was occupied by anyone who had anything in his hand…
And none of the suits wrapped around those bodies required pockets. “You can’t take it with you.”
Solomon forces us to face that moment we all tend to ignore — the moment of death. He backs up three spaces and looks at the crash and says, “This is the grievous evil: Those who have clutched can quickly crash.” Put another way, “Those who grabbed and rose to the top will ultimately release and drop to the bottom.”
Can you imagine the scene? I envision a man who hoarded what he had and then lost it through a bad investment. I can see another who fights and wins his way to the top, only to have the bottom drop out of his life as the stock market plunges. And how about the individual who spends himself in a maddening pursuit of some financial goal, who drops dead of a heart attack? It happens every day. In Solomon’s words, he “toils for the wind.” He departs exactly as he entered life…naked and without a thin dime to his name. (Charles Swindoll)
“There is a severe evil which I have seen under the sun: riches kept for their owner to his hurt. But those riches perish through misfortune; when he begets a son, there is nothing in his hand. As he came from his mother’s womb, naked shall he return, to go as he came; and he shall take nothing from his labor which he may carry away in his hand” (Eccles. 5:13-15).

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

SIMPLY TELL THE STORY

One day after a Bible class, some Christian friends went out to lunch. They had just learned how to tell one of the Bible stories to others. One of the Filipino men (people from the Philippines) asked the waiter if he would like to hear a story. The waiter said, “Yes.” He even went to another room and got the workers in that room to come and listen. The Filipino man told the story he had just learned with his friends. It is called “Jesus Calms the Storm.” All the waiters listened and then answered questions about the story. Everyone listening said they understood the story.

The Filipino man then asked them if they knew Jesus. They all said no. That Filipino man told them all about how Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave. He told them they could go to heaven if they followed Jesus. He told the people at the restaurant, “Repent of your sins; just pray these words aloud.” Wow! They bowed their heads and four people accepted Jesus as Savior that day!

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray for me. I have had a LOT of change in my life. Right now, I need to learn how to speak French and Malagasy. We live in a neighborhood with lots of very poor children. Please pray for me and my family while we work with very poor children in our neighborhood. GRANT, age 5, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Please pray for the people of Philippines; and more than that, pray that the people of the world will know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. JAMES, age 11 (Pacific Rim)

Please pray for God to show me if I should go to a country in the Pacific Rim to help. BRENNA, age 8 (South Asia)

Please pray for my grandfather to know God. CHANG, age 9 (Pacific Rim)

Pray for my school. JONATHAN, age 9 (Pacific Rim)

We live in Tanzania in a small village half an hour away from Morogoro (moh-roh-GO-roh). Our village is mostly full of mud houses (that is quite common around there.) Our village has many religions—Muslims, African Traditional Religion, Roman Catholic’s, and Christians. We have 3 witch doctors in our village and they have a strong grip on our village. Please pray for; KR a new Christian, FR—my sister and have told them about Jesus.

LAURYNN, age 12 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Please pray for MD, an African friend who does know Jesus. Pray for MM too. She braids her hair but does not know Jesus. Pray that my Muslim friends will get to know Jesus

REBECCA, age 7 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Pray for our people group that they may know Jesus. PG, age 12 (East Asia)

I want to pray for my brother and sister and my parents. Also, please pray for the people in the town where I live that they will worship that God and be in heaven. PEYTON, age 8, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)


Thursday

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.

1 John 4:16 (NIV)

Pray for Carol (Mrs. Edward)Bridges who has had heart surgery and Nadine (Mrs. Murphy) Bridges who will be leaving the hospital and facing treatment choices.

Quinton West (13) was doing better while hospitalized. Pray he will be able to come home without another relapse due to asthma.

Pray for the Nunnery family of Kentwood who lost their home and contents in a weekend fire. Some of the family is staying with local relatives and some at a hotel in Hammond.

Mrs. JoAnn Carter continues to deal with her health issue. Pray for strength for her as she continues her battle.

Mrs. Faye Price is now in Regency Rehabilitation in Covington. Hopefully, as she improves she will be able to be moved closer to home. Please continue to pray for her, the medical staff, and the family.

Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell has a new doctor and is undergoing tests. Pray for a diagnosis and treatment that will be effective in improving her quality of daily life.

Continue to pray for Mr. Raymond Anthony as his health has not been good lately.

Aubrey Perry, brother of Karen Miller, had surgery Monday. Pray for him and his family as they wait to see if it will be helpful in his treatment.

Cliff Titus continues to have health issues. Pray for Cliff and Lauree as they deal with these problems on a daily basis.

Help the children of the AWANA group by bringing in cans of chunky soup which will be delivered to some of the senior adults in our community. The collection will continue through the end of the month.

Buy a ticket ($15) from a youth for the Valentine Banquet and support them as they plans for a summer mission trip. The banquet will be February 13th at FBC, Kentwood.

Pray for the Smith and Clark families as they plan a memorial service for Riley and deal with Frann’s health issues. Pray the family will see God’s love in this difficult time.

KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT

The Arizona Republic reported this story (so I’m assuming this story really is true!):

“As Terry Mikel was speeding toward Tucson, he passed a car, an unmarked Arizona Highway Patrol car. The officer pulled Terry over. When Terry explained that he was late for a class he was teaching at the University of Arizona, the officer took pity on him and let him off with a warning. Before he went back to his car he said, `Slow down and drive safe.’

“Terry felt obligated to correct him. `Excuse me, Sir, but it should be “Slow down and drive safely. You said, “Drive safe.”‘

“The officer walked back to his car and wrote him a $72 speeding ticket.”

We can’t do it, can we? We just can’t seem to keep our mouths shut! Looking back, we know we shouldn’t have said a word, but at the time we felt so compelled to speak.

Maybe you didn’t get a ticket as a result, but you’ve done something just as foolish, haven’t you? Maybe even this morning, before reading this message. Maybe even before leaving your house! James was so right when he wrote,

“If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body….. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue.” (James 2b,7-8a)

That’s not an excuse, incidentally, to let our tongues run wild. Rather, it’s a challenge. As hard as it may be to control our tongues, it is essential that we as Christians strive to do just that. We stand to lose more than $72 if we fail to do so.

“He who guards his mouth preserves his life, but he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction.” (Proverbs 13:3)

“Lord, we truly want to use our tongues to Your glory this day. As difficult as it may be, help us to guard our mouths as we resist the temptation to speak at those times when we ought to keep quiet. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Don’t forget the share group meeting at the cabin tonight at 6:30. Everyone is invited.

Be careful in the cold weather this week. Stay safe!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!

You have relieved me in my distress;

Be gracious to me and hear my prayer.

~Psalm 4:1 (NASB)~

Debbie Miller called to say Tracy Williams has been moved to Tulane Hospital when he is undergoing additional tests. Tracy has received eleven units of blood. Please pray for Tracy.

Quinton West (13) has been readmitted to the hospital. He is in Lakefront in Covington. Pray he is soon better.

Ronald Putman is hospitalized in McComb with heart problems. Pray for him and his family.

Update on Don Denton

Today Don had MRI of the brain. We will await the results of this. We also saw many doctors last week including an oncologist.

At this point we are waiting again. Waiting to see if the steroids will do its job.

We are also waiting for doctors to discuss possible further treatment if necessary.

At the same time, I need to say that I have noticed that just within the past two days, Don’s dizziness and nausea have improved. He is looking better. He is getting stronger.! Thank you to God our Father!

These are the specific things I am asking for prayer:

  • That these steroids will continue to do its job and that Don continues to get better.
  • That as the steroids are tappered off, Don not relapse.
  • The improvement we see now only continue.
  • We will not have to go back to Mayo or another facility outside of Missouri.
  • Complete healing for Don.
  • I have outpatient tests in Springfield on Thursday. Doctor thinks I may have an ulcer.
  • Pray for Joshua that he starts sleeping better. He wakes up every night crying.
  • Pray for Don’s parents as they continue down this path with us.

I believe in our Father who says that all things are possible. I believe in “what I can not see”. I am holding onto the hope that is in Christ. Christ in me the hope of Glory.

The waiting is a most difficult thing. Since September 20th we have been walking down this path, this season in our life and we will continue to wait and hope and trust. And in the waiting I have found that I am changed. I look forward to each new day with my family. Even in the everyday responsibilities of this life and in the exhaustion. I am getting more sleep. More than ever I find myself learning to laugh more, try not to take myself too seriously, and be present with my family and friends.

I will keep you posted. God bless you for continuing to walk with us. For being Christ to us. For praying for us, loving and supporting us. For speaking words of encouragement. For showing us the church in action in a beautiful way.

Bless you our friends and family

Diane


Pray for the families who are grieving. Pray they will find the peace in their grief.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
TWO MONKS WERE walking together through the country-side…
Both had taken the vow of silence and the vow of cleanliness, which meant they were not to speak to or touch anyone. Their journey brought them to a shallow stream, but the water was moving rapidly. As they prepared to cross the river, they noticed a woman stranded there on the bank’s edge. She was obviously afraid of the water and just stood there, petrified and helpless.
One of the monks just ignored her and began to cross the river. However, the second monk saw the woman, sensed her fear, and his heart went out to her. He knew that the law of his religion told him not to speak to her and not to touch her, but he also knew that a higher law told him to love and help people. So he picked the woman up and gently and carefully carried her across the swollen waters. On the other side, he tenderly put her on solid ground. She thanked him profusely. He smiled and waved, and then caught up with the other monk.
The other monk was disgusted with him for helping the woman. The two monks walked along in silence for several miles, and the first monk became angrier and angrier with the second monk. How could he have done that? How could he have broken his vow of cleanliness to help that woman? Finally, the first monk could hold it no longer. In total frustration, he turned to his fellow monk and shouted, “How could you have done that?! How could you have broken your vow like that? How could you have touched that unclean woman?”
“She was afraid. She needed help,” replied the second monk.
“That’s no excuse,” said the first monk. “You broke your vow!”
The second monk paused for a moment, and then answered, “Oh my good Brother, I dropped that woman off ten miles ago. What are you still carrying her?” (James W. Moore)
“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14).
“Moving on” is often very hard. We have a tendency to want to “stay” where we do not need to be. Pray to stay focused on God and let Him lead your body and your thoughts to where He would have you to be.
Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me,

for I am gentle and lowly in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.

For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

~Matthew 1:29-30~

Marjorie “Joyce” Russell
(December 13, 1928 – January 11, 2009)

Marjorie “Joyce” Russell, 80, was born in Tylertown, Miss., on Dec. 13, 1928, and died peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2009, at the Landmark Nursing Home, Hammond. She was preceded in death by her parents, Odis and Inez Hope Dier and her only two siblings, Odis Dier Jr. and Mary Dier. Surviving are her husband of 46 years, Cleo Russell; son, Kevin Russell; daughter, Marianna Ursin and husband Ed; stepdaughter, Cynthia “Cindy” Payne and husband Bill; four grandsons and a great-granddaughter. Marjorie worked at various jobs after completing high school in Kentwood in 1949, the first year, incidentally, the completion of high school required 12 grades rather than 11. Marjorie’s long work record included employment with Olan Mills Photography, accounting for various car dealerships, banks, the Roseland Wirebound Box Factory and last but not least, Accountant for School Food Services for the Tangipahoa Parish School Board. She passed the required test and became a certified Notary Public. Marjorie was a member of the Church of Christ and worked for years with her husband in teaching Sunday School classes for the children, participated in singing groups, assisted in the production of Church plays, etc. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, on Wednesday, Jan. 14, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursday in the chapel from 8 a.m. until religious service at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Kenneth Istre. Interment in Russelltown Cemetery, located at Big Creek Church of Christ, east of Arcola.

Baptist Press

January 12, 2009

TENNESSEE–Homeschooling numbers on the rise. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29647

TENNESSEE–Homosexual bishop to pray for Obama. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29648

GHANA–Volunteers help sustain medical center in Ghana. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29649

GHANA–‘Trailblazer’ hospital changes lives in Ghana. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29650

GHANA–Public health ministry serves rural Ghana. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29651

INDIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Dwight Mabury*): Horrific sights in Orissa. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29652

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Richard Land): Your prayers can change our country. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29653

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (John L. Yeats): When inflation accelerates. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29654

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
WHENEVER YOU FIND yourself going through times of testing, there is always a reason…a very good reason…
In fact, there are several reasons. Testing times are to:
UNCOVER something: When God allows pressures and trials, it is so that you might uncover something in your life He wants to deal with. Hardships reveal areas of weakness and vulnerability. God wants to strengthen us in those very areas, and better equip us not only to stand strong in the storms ourselves, but also to be a shelter for others.
RECOVER something: God allows us to be tested so that we might recover something we’ve lost over the months and years. Perhaps it is our delight in the Word of God, a habit of daily prayer, or the delight of regular fellowship with those of like-precious faith. Trials may force us back to that “first love” walk with the Lord that has slipped away from us.
DISCOVER something: Even though it’s a test you may not like or enjoy, you discover that He’s your God, you’re His child, and that He loves you. He’ll care for you and see you through.
I hear people talk about this trial and that trial, this test and that test. People will say, “Pray for me, I’m going through a trial in my marriage (or in my job or in my finances or in my relationships at home).” But in reality, those aren’t the things being tested at all. What’s being tested is our faith, whether we will really trust Him to work in and through our circumstances.
That’s what’s really at stake. When the heat’s on…when the shadows fall…when disappointment rips through my heart…am I going to trust Him? Am I going to wait on Him, worship Him, and give my anxieties to Him? Or am I going to turn away from Him in my doubt and discouragement? (Ron Mehl)
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Rom. 5:3-5).

Have a terrific Tuesday!
Anna Lee

Monday

Let us think of ways to motivate one another

to acts of love and good works.

And let us not neglect our meeting together,

as some people do,

but encourage one another,

especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT)

Saturday’s On Mission in Kentwood was another busy day of helping others. The workers and the home owners were all blessed.

A week from today, January 19, the quarterly associational WMU meeting will be held at FBC, Kentwood. Gloria Wheat Thompson will be the speaker. Join us at 10 A.M. for the meeting which will be followed by a covered dish lunch.

Friendship Circle Sunday School Class will provide Soup & Salad for Senior Adults the last Sunday of February.

Holly K. shared a photo of her new home in West Africa. She is dealing with the dust and loving the people. Please continue to pray for Holly.

There will be a share group meeting at the Alford cabin Thursday night at 6:30 P.M. Join us for food, fellowship, and a devotional time.

KneEmail

Knees

abknees.jpgON FEBRUARY 26, 1829, A Jewish boy named Loeb Strauss was born in a cottage in the Bavarian village of Buttenheim…

As a young man, Loeb changed his name to Levi and wound up in California where he opened a textile company in San Francisco. One day a gold miner walked into Levi’s shop and assailed the young merchant. “Look at these,” said the miner, pointing to the pants. “I bought ’em six months ago, and now they’re full of holes!”

When Levi asked why, the miner explained, “We work on our knees most of the time.”

What you need is some really strong material,” replied Levi. “We have some canvas. It’s used to make tents. If we make your trousers out of canvas, I’m sure they won’t get holes.”

A tailor was called, and presently the miner had a set of trousers — and the rest is history. Soon minors across the West were wearing Levi Strauss’s jeans. (Stephen Van Dulken)

Christians should have the same problem that plagued that miner — pants with worn-out knees — for we ought to do most of our kingdom work on our knees.

“For this reason I bow my knees

to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Eph. 3:14

Posted by Mike Benson at December 19, 2008 1:48 PM

I don’t “wear out the knees” enough. Do you?

Anna Lee

Saturday

Work hard to show the results of your salvation,

obeying God with deep reverence and fear.

For God is working in you,

giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

Philippians 2:12-13 (NLT)



Read the first three news articles from Baptist Press to get a modern day example of God using a young man who is very well know and still a servant witness for Him. You may have heard his name – Tim Tebow!


Baptist Press

January 9, 2009

FLORIDA–Scripture & faith were ‘secrets’ to parenting Tim Tebow, mom says. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29633

FLORIDA–Pastor calls Tebow ‘servant leader.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29634

FLORIDA–Tebow’s faith takes center stage. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29635

GEORGIA–Recession prompts NAMB to enact spending slowdown. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29636

TENNESSEE–SPLASH people with God’s love. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29637

TENNESSEE–INTERNATIONAL DIGEST: India’s Christians celebrate Christmas in peace. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29638

CALIFORNIA–Missions thrust readied for San Diego & Tijuana. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29639

TEXAS–FIRST-PERSON (O.S. Hawkins): God’s economy in 2009. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29640

ISRAEL–FIRST-PERSON (Jim Sibley): The news from Jerusalem. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29641

Mrs. Nadine Bridges’ surgery went well yesterday. The doctor was very optimistic about the results. Please remember to pray for “Miss” Nadine as she recovers from surgery.


Quinton West is home. Doctors told him to stay in for a few days. Pray for him and his family in the next few days.


On Mission in Kentwood will be this morning at 8:00. Come out and join others as they minister in Kentwood. Pray the rain does not keep the needed work from being done.


Don’t forget AWANA and children’s choir will be resuming after a Christmas break. Pass the word. Pray for both ministries to be effective in influencing you lives in a positive Christian way during the coming months.


Margaret Constantino DiVincenti
(December 4, 1926 – January 9, 2009)

Margaret Constantino DiVincenti

Died at 9:52 a.m. on Friday, January 9, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was a native of Independence, LA and a resident of Amite, LA. Age 82 years. Visitation at St. Helena Catholic Church, Amite, from 8:30 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 12, 2009. Services conducted by Fr. Joe Camilleri. Interment Colonial Mausoleum, Independence, LA. She is survived by her 2 daughters, Phyllis DiVincenti, Amite and Mary Margaret DiVincenti, New Orleans; son, Louis G. DiVincenti, Jr., New Orleans; sister, Mary Rose Tarsney, Metairie; She was preceded in death by her husband, Louis G. DiVincenti, Sr.; parents, John and Mary Constantino; 3 sisters, Catherine Fasullo, Elizabeth Gagliano and Frances Barcelona; brother, Leo Constantino.

KneEmail

Tell

I HEARD ABOUT a baby camel that asked, “Mom, why do I have these huge three-toed feet…?”

The mother replied, “To help you stay on top of the soft sand while trekking across the desert.”

“And why the long eyelashes?”

“To keep sand out of your eyes on our trips through the desert.”

“Why the humps?”

“To store water for our long treks across the barren desert.”

The baby camel considered that and then said, “That’s great, Mom. We have huge feet to stop us from sinking, long eyelashes to keep sand out of our eyes, and humps to store water, But Mom…”

“Yes, son?”

“Why are we in the zoo?”

That’s a question for all of us to consider. If we’ve been given all the resources we need to carry our Lord’s message far and wide, and if we’re completely equipped to fulfill the Great Commission, why do we keep it within the four walls of our church buildings? The Gospel isn’t something we come to church to hear; it’s something we go from church to tell. (David Jeremiah)

“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,

teaching them to observe all things

that I have commanded you…”

( Matt. 28:19-20a).

Posted by Mike Benson at January 8, 2009 11:12 AM

Have a super Saturday!

Anna Lee

Thursday

“But from there you will seek the Lord your God,

and you will find Him

if you seek Him with all your heart

and with all your soul.”

~Deuteronomy 4:29~

Mrs. Faye Price continues to slowly improve. The doctors are now talking about being able to move her from ICU soon. Thank you for your prayers. Continue to pray.

Jimmy Schwartz has been to the doctor this week and is doing better. Continue to pray for Jimmy.

Quinton West, the son of a KHS secretary, is hospitalized in New Orleans. Please pray for him and his famiy.

Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell continues to have problems that have sent her to the hospital again. Please continue your prayers for her and for Mr. Phillip.

Continue to pray for Mr. Tut Young and his family as he makes decisions about treatment.

Pray for Mrs. Parmys Stegall as she continues to recover from her fall and surgery. Pray for her caregivers too.

We have a request to pray for a mother and two young sons as the family goes through a divorce.

Gaza Pastor Gives Update from War Zone
By Staff

RICHMOND, Va. (BP)–No Christians in Gaza have been injured despite living in hard-hit areas, a Baptist pastor there reported to Baptist Press late in the afternoon Jan. 6.

News staff at Christianity Today, meanwhile, were reporting three Christians have died since the hostilities began in Gaza Dec. 27 but Baptist Press has not yet independently confirmed the circumstances of those deaths. One death was attributed to a heart attack but no supporting information was provided about the deaths of the other two individuals named.

Lack of food, water and electricity is a major concern for the population, the Baptist pastor said.

The pastor (name withheld for security reasons) asked that Southern Baptists pray for a quick and peaceful resolution of the strife between Israeli and the Palestinian Hamas faction.

Israel tentatively welcomed a proposal Jan. 7 from Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and French President Nicolas Sarkozy calling for a Gaza cease-fire to allow aid to reach Palestinian civilians, the Associated Press reported.

The temporary cease-fire took place in the “whole of the Gaza Strip” Jan. 7, Israeli Defense Ministry spokesman Peter Lerner told CNN. The truce is scheduled to take place every other day for a three-hour time span until a permanent resolution is formed.

Israel will continue its discussions with Egypt and France about how to achieve an extended cease-fire.

(Reported by the Richmond, Va., bureau of Baptist Press.)

FBC, Kentwood

* Deacons for the Week – Robert Wilson & Tom Brister

* “Miracle on Main Street” DVDs available for $5.00 in church office

* AWANA begins again Sunday at 4:45 P.M.

*WMU association meeting at FBC Monday, Jan. 19 at 10:00; Gloria Wheat Thompson – speaker; covered dish lunch

* Adult discipleship resumes Sunday @ 5 P.M. with “How to Pray for Your Family”.

*On Mission in Kentwood – Saturday at 8 P.M.

*Baby shower for Lauren H. Fowler @ 2 P.M. Jan. 18

*So far $14,220 has been given toward the $18,500 goal for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.


After seeing “Fireproof” Sunday, this devotional may act as a reinforcement or reminder to you.

SEVEN AGES OF A MARRIED COLD

I first saw today’s bit of humor a number of years ago in Bulletin Digest, which relayed an article that first appeared in Saturday Evening Post a number of years before that. It reveals a sequence of actions where a husband reacted to his wife’s colds during seven years of marriage.

1st year cold: The husband said, “Sugar dumpling! I’m really worried about my baby girl! You’ve got a bad sniffle and there’s no telling about these things with all the strep going around. I’m putting you in the hospital this afternoon for a general check-up and a good rest. I know the food is lousy there, so I’ll be bringing you food from Tosini’s. I’ve already got it all arranged with the floor superintendent.”

2nd year cold: “Listen, darling! I don’t like the sound of that cough! I’ve called Dr. Miller to rush over here. Now you go to bed like a good little girl just for Poppa.”

3rd year cold: “Maybe you better lie down, Honey. Nothing like a little rest when you feel lousy. I’ll bring you something. Do you have any canned soup?”

4th year cold: “Now look dear, be sensible! After you’ve fed the kids, washed the dishes and finished vacuuming, you’d better lie down.”

5th year cold: “Why don’t you take a couple of aspirin?”

6th year cold: “If you’d just gargle or something, instead of sitting around barking like a seal!”

7th year cold: “For Pete’s sake, stop sneezing! Are you trying to give me pneumonia!?”

Things do change over the years, don’t they? But they don’t have to. May I encourage those of you who are married to do something special for your spouse today. Write a sweet note or buy a card. Pick up some flowers or a small gift (yes, I know, be prepared for a response like, “What did you do now, wreck the car?”). Just make a conscious effort not to take one another for granted.

Those of you who aren’t married, sorry, I have no words of wisdom for you today. But, print this out and save it. Who knows when it may come in handy! 🙂

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it.” (Ephesians 5:25)

“…admonish the young women to love their husbands….” (Titus 2:4)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thank you for praying. You impact many lives! Have a terrific Thursday!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened,

and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,

for I am gentle and humble in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)

Mrs. Faye Price is improving. Continue to pray for her, the medical staff caring for her, and the family. (Her surgery was five weeks ago today.)

Mr. Raymond Anthony seems to have had one problem after another the past few months. Pray for him and his wife, “Miss” Velma, as she cares for him.

Joshua Reece

Thank you for praying for Joshua. Read the great news below but continue to pray for his complete healing.

Love,

Melinda

Dear Prayer Partners,

We just got off the phone with our daughter, Heidi Reece, and she told us that Joshua is being released from the hospital. This is an amazing recovery sent down from above by our loving Heavenly Father. Joshua was taken to the hospital in Hannibal on Jan. 1st. Several hours later he was air-lifted to St. Louis by helicopter because he was in such terrible shape. Now, after only 5 and a half days of hospitalization, he is well enough to go home. Miracle!!

Of course, there are follow up visits and things that they want to see much improvement in, but for now, it is back home. Caleb, the big brother, will be waiting for his family to arrive. He has been in the care of David’s parents, out on the farm.

Thank you is not near enough to say to all of you faithful, praying friends. When we heard what the situation was, the only things we could do was to pray, and to ask others to pray. Since we asked, many of you have told us you were praying, and that you were asking your friends, church families, and prayer networks to pray. Only God knows how many people were praying for one little boy.

I am learning about the powerful answers that come from our powerful God, when we all unite in prayer on the same subject. May God richly bless you for what you have done for us.

Your grateful brother and sister in Christ, Bob and Margie Craig, Craiova, Romania

Mr. I. W. Simmons takes his last treatment Thursday. Pray for him as he completes this process.

Holly K. has safely arrived in West Africa. Thank you for praying. She is staying a a guest house and making purchases of items she will need in her new home. Please continue to pray for her as she continues to make adjustments and learn about what her responsibilities will be.

Paula Braud Guzzardo
(June 6, 1949 – January 5, 2009)

After a courageous battle with cancer, she passed away at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center on Jan. 5, 2009, at 3 a.m. She was born June 6, 1949. Paula was surrounded by loving family and friends. As a native and resident of Baton Rouge, she was an educator, business woman and Realtor. Visitation at St. Jean Vianney Catholic Church on Wednesday, Jan. 7, from 11 a.m. until funeral Mass at 1 p.m., with the Rev. Tom Ranzino, celebrant. Burial in Amite Cemetery, Amite. A celebration of Paula’s life will be held after the burial on Wednesday at the home of Paul and Diana Burns, 7381 Woodstock Drive, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Survived by her children, John Paul “J.P.” Guzzardo, Chad Nicholas Guzzardo and Erin Katherine Myers Guzzardo; father of children, Nick J. Guzzardo; grandchild, Ainsley Katherine Marie Hammack; mother, Edith Gainey Braud; and brothers, John J. Braud, Steven J. Braud and Charles R. Braud. She was predeceased by father, Paul H. Braud; and brother, Gary P. Braud. She was a graduate of Redemptorist High School and LSU with a master’s in education and history. Paula studied under the Jesuit Order at Millsaps College. A lover of great friends and family, she was a proud mother of three. Please send donations to The Sister Dulce Foundation, P.O. Box 77526, Baton Rouge, LA 70879. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

WEDNESDAY WINDOW ON THE WORLD – January 7, 2009

CARIBBEAN YOUTH. Team West writes: “We asked you to pray that a new work would be started in a neighborhood in Barbados. We are happy to announce that it began in November, had its second gathering in December, and will have the third on Jan. 11. God has opened many doors for sharing testimonies and doing acts of kindness in this neighborhood. Please continue to pray for His Spirit to move over this place and to do wondrous and mighty things in the lives of the residents.” http://www.macregion.org/

NEAPOLITANS OF ITALY (nee-uh-PAHL-uht-n). The Harvesting Naples Team writes: “There is already a small evangelical presence in Napoli (Naples); however, there has not been an emphasis on evangelism until recently. Churches are beginning to offer English Second Language (ESL) classes, Italian lessons and music lessons, as well as feeding the homeless as a way to reach others with the gospel. As we partner with the churches, we will have an opportunity to teach English lessons and feed the homeless. Please pray that the church members will support these new ministries, that there will be an interest in the language classes, and that the partnership between our team and the churches will prosper.” paulandmackenzie@gmail.com

CITY H, EAST ASIA. January is an important time in City H as families gather to celebrate the new lunar year. However, for new believers who made a recent decision to follow Christ, it is a spiritually difficult time. Many are sharing with their families for the first time that they have decided to follow Christ. And they will be ostracized, mocked and even beaten for their newfound faith. As a result of this persecution, some will fall away from Christ while others will bear this crushing burden alone. Pray for the strengthening and encouragement of these new brothers and sisters during this “spiritual dead zone” in the month of January. Pray especially for non-believing family members to come to faith in Christ when these believers share their testimonies and the gospel. prayfor.cityh@gmail.com

Baptist Message

January 6, 2009

TENNESSEE–Radio network gives Obama ad money to pro-life groups. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29612

ECUADOR–Unlikely church planters prove effective. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29613

ECUADOR–Former gang members now share Christ. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29614

ECUADOR–Changed man uses rap to spread the Word. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29615

ECUADOR–Ecuadorian house churches support own missionary. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29616

KENTUCKY–FIRST-PERSON (David E. Prince): A lesson about work over sausages. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29617

THINGS WE KNOW FOR SURE

A newspaper editor was instructing a new reporter in some of the important details of his job. “Never state as a fact anything you are not absolutely sure about,” said the editor. “To avoid putting the paper in the position of stating something which it may not be able to prove, you should always use the words ‘alleged,’ ‘claimed,’ ‘reputed,’ ‘rumored,’ and so on, unless you know positively that everything is true as stated.”

The reporter was sent out to get society items, and soon thereafter the following paragraph appeared in the society column:

“It is rumored that a bridge party was given yesterday by a number of reputed ladies. Mrs. Smith, it is said, was hostess. The guests, it is alleged, with the exception of Mrs. Brown, who says that she comes from Illinois, were all local people. Mrs. Smith claims to be the wife of Alexander Smith, who is rumored to be doing a thriving business in town.”

It is important to know those things that we are absolutely sure of. That’s one of the reasons why the letter of I John was written. John had some things to say to those Christians who referred to themselves as “gnostics”. The Greek word “gnosis” means “knowledge” and these Christians thought they had more knowledge than “normal” Christians. John writes this letter to say (1) The Gnostics didn’t know nearly as much as they thought they knew; and (2) All Christians know those things which are of greatest importance (“I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it.”, I John 2:21)

Among the things which we can “know”:

“Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.” (I John 2:23)

“…We know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” (I John 3:1)

“And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.” (I John 3:5)

“By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us.” (I John 3:16)

“By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.” (I John 4:13)

“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life…” (I John 5:13)

“We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.” (I John 5:19)

“And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life.” (I John 5:20)

Take confidence in those things which you know to be true!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“We give thanks to You, O God,

we give thanks!

For Your wondrous works

declare that Your name is near.”

Psalm 75:1

Joshua and Paula Splane

Paula Splane asked that you put her nephew, Joshua Splane, age 22, on the prayer link. He is in ICU at Tulane. He has a shunt in his head and is having problems.

also, Paula fell last night a tore a tendon behind her knee and will be out of school this week and perhaps next week. Please put her on link also. Thanks,

Janet A. Hammons

Pray for Mrs. Catherine Yarborough as she continues to work to work to get pain relief. She is hopefully on the road to improvement.

Joshua Reece

Thank you so much for praying for Joshua. As you will read he is doing better but still has a ways to go in his recovery.

Melinda

Dear Prayer Partners,

God is answering your prayers for Joshua Reece, our grandson. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Like firemen, you heard the plea for help, and you ran to the rescue. Our Heavenly Father is full of mercy and grace, which He delights to pour out on His children. I talked with our son-in-law David, and received this report. Joshua has taken a 5 ounce bottle of formula, and has eaten about an ounce of solid food—the first intake by mouth in days. His IV for fluids has been disconnected, but is still in place just in case it is needed. The oxygen tube on his nose is still in place but has been reduced to almost no flow at all, since he is breathing on his own. He is coughing more now, which hurts his chest, which he does not like, but this is a sign that the congestion is beginning to break up in his lungs. His father, David, was playing some “peek-a-boo” with him, and he was chuckling, a little, so that is a sign that he is feeling some better.

Heidi and David have been able to get some rest and wish to thank all for their prayers for Joshua and for them. The different specialists are already making plans for follow up visits so they can analyze his development issues—-underweight, never crawled yet, fluid on the brain, etc. Because of this, please pray for wisdom from on high, that God would lead them to know how to help his little body grow. We all are so grateful for the excellent care given to him at Cardinal Glennon Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. We highly recommend their services.

I knew that God had led us to gather the best Prayer Partner Network available, and once again, I want to thank you. We could do nothing from here but pray, and to ask others to pray. God was very faithful to us and His grace was more than sufficient. Please, communicate with your prayer networks our gratitude. We would consider it a privilege if you would give us your prayer requests and allow us to hold you up in prayer, too. All praise and glory and honor goes to our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. Bob Craig—missionary

Don Denton

Don Update:

Don came home from the hospital on Friday. We again find ourselves so grateful to God for his mercy upon us. It was a long exhausting very tireing week. I am so grateful to my brother Steve and his precious wife Lynn for flying in from Texas to help out. We are so blessed. Joshua justs continues to be blessed by his family. We are so grateful to them for their generosity to us. We could not have made it through the week without them and I am most grateful to them.

We need more prayer. Don has numerous doctor appointments this week. Hopefully we can get to the bottom of why he continues to be so sick. We will have a few new “eyes” looking to help us. We are thankful for a doctor from Mayo who called me this week, a Dr. Whineshakker. He believes we need to continue asking questions. We are so thankful for Dr. Trotman for his passion and tenacity in not letting go of this. He is one of the finest doctors we have encountered. We know we are in excellent hands. And we know more than ever that God’s hand is upon us and directing us in a way that we know we will get answers.

Please pray for wisdom and discernment for these doctors and for us as we continue to ask the important question that need to be asked.

Sorry for the delay in the update. I literally got maybe three hours a night of sleep this last week. This next week will be a good week.

I will post as soon as we get more information.

Blessings to you our family and friends.

Diane


From the IMB:

PALESTINIAN ARABS OF THE MIDDLE EAST. Once again war is ravaging Gaza. Palestinian believers tell workers that it has never been as bad as it is right now. Hundreds have already been killed. There has been no electricity for a week. Food and water are in short supply. No one can sleep because the bombs fall all night. Ordinary people are terrified. Please pray that the violence will stop and that no more people on either side will be injured. Pray for those on both sides of this conflict whose hearts are hardened by hate and fear. Pray especially for those who are followers of Jesus. Pray that they will experience God’s peace in the midst of turmoil. Pray that they will find opportunities to share His peace with others.

LAST FRONTIER. Workers focused on a Last Frontier people group are planning a training conference for national partners. Join them in asking the Father to lead them to the right people to be invited. Ask that the learners will understand the information shared and will then be able to use the information to share with many members of the people group. Whenever there is an opportunity like this, there is always the challenge of gathering safely. Ask our Father to protect all the participants as they study together.

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. In early December, you were asked to intercede for J, who is carrying twins. She writes: “On Christmas Eve, we went in for a follow-up ultrasound and we could easily see two healthy babies with strong heartbeats! It’s been quite an emotional roller coaster after having lost a baby, then going for an ultrasound, expecting to see nothing, then seeing two instead! Most likely, the doctors think there were triplets and we lost one. The last couple of weeks we’ve been waiting and hoping that those two have been growing steadily and remaining healthy. Today’s ultrasound confirmed just that. We’re ecstatic that mother and babies seem perfectly healthy now and chances for another miscarriage continue to drop with each passing day. We’re scared to death of being the parents of five, but we also feel extremely blessed and fortunate. Thanks for your prayers!”

Larry Roberts
(August 27, 1944 – January 4, 2009)

I have fought the good fight and kept the faith. Mr. Roberts died at 9:55PM on Sunday, January 4, 2009 at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center in Independence, LA. He was a resident of Kentwood, LA. Age 64 years. Visitation at Greenlaw Baptist Church, Kentwood, from 8 a.m. on Tuesday until religious services at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Services conducted by Rev. Joseph Warden. Interment Roberts Cemetery, Osyka, MS. Survived by uncle and aunt, Wiltz Roberts, Sr. and Joan Roberts, Osyka, MS, numerous cousins, friends, and church family. Preceded in death by mother, Golda Davis, uncles, Lawrence, Bilbo, Alton, and Clyde Roberts, aunts, Jessie Hilbun and Tina Rodriguez. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Greenlaw Baptist Church, 14407 Greenlaw Baptist Church Road, Kentwood, LA 70444. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.
Baptist Press
January 5, 2009

TENNESSEE–Gaza Baptist Church damaged in air strike. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29605

WASHINGTON–Survey: Large majority favors abortion limits. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29606

CALIFORNIA–Rose Parade outreach yields Kingdom results. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29607

TENNESSEE–Rural church is missions ‘greenhouse.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29608

TENNESSEE–CP giving 4.99% behind ’08 pace. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29609

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Rebecca Powell) Spend more time around the table. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29610

FBC, Kentwood

– On Mission in Kentwood will work Saturday @ 8 A.M.

– AWANA will resume Sunday evening at 4:50.


Command

JUST BEFORE JESUS went to Calvary He said to His disciples, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” ( John 13:34, 35)…

Is it right for God to command us to love one another?

Imagine a young man on a college campus who sees and falls in love with a young lady. But she’s not the least bit interested in him. So, he goes up to her one day and says, “I command you to love me!” Can a man do that to a young lady? Of course not.

It’s important that we understand that Christian love is not an emotional feeling that we manufacture. But it means we treat each other the way God treats us. Christian love is not a matter of feeling, it’s a matter of willing. “For God so loved…that he gave” ( John 3:16). God’s love wasn’t a sentimental feeling, but it expressed itself in action.

How does God treat us? God forgives us, so we forgive one another. God is kind to us, so we are kind to one another. God receives us, so we receive one another. We may not have the same personalities, or we might not even have the same interests; but we willingly and deliberately treat each other the way God treats us. This helps us to understand what it means to love one another.

I’m going to have a difficult time washing your feet if I don’t love you. I’m going to have a difficult time forgiving you if I don’t love you. The interesting thing is this: the more we deliberately will to love one another, the more our feelings begin to change; and lo and behold, we even start to like one another. You may not want to spend a week’s vacation with some people, but you can still treat them the way God treats you. As we love one another more and more, we learn to like one another. We can get along with one another.

God commands us to love one another because He revealed to us His love. He said, “Greater love has no one than this, that a man lay down one’s life for his friends” ( John 15:13). “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us…For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life” ( Rom. 5:8, 10). Jesus gave us the perfect example of what it means to “love one another” by His life and by His death. His command to love one another shouldn’t be looked upon as a burdensome commandment ( 1 John 5:2, 3), but a joy. (Howell Ferguson)

KneEmail: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” ( John 13:34, 35).

Posted by Mike Benson at December 18, 2008 3:01 PM

Finally brothers, whatever is true,

whatever is honorable,

whatever is just,

whatever is pure,

whatever is lovely,

whatever is commendable—

if there is any moral excellence

and if there is any praise—

dwell on these things.

Philippians 4:8

Anna Lee