Devotional – Page 246 – The Prayer Link

Saturday

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth,

where moth and rust doth corrupt,

and where thieves break through and steal:

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven,

where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt,

and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

For where your treasure is,

there will your heart be also.”

~Matthew 6:19-21, KJV~

The V.B.S. Family Night Program was wonderful. You could fee the excitement of the week of VBS. Parents and grandparents of the children were in abundance. I’m already looking forward to my next VBS! I’m sorry for those of you who do not get to participate in VBS. You’re missing out!

Thank God for the showers that were so needed. If you haven’t received one, maybe this will be the afternoon you get your turn.

I started reading the Baptist Press articles from the bottom of the list. Your heart will be blessed if you take the time to do the same.

Baptist Press
June 13, 2008

INDIANA–WRAP-UP: Messengers elect Johnny Hunt president, launch evangelism initiative. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28274

IOWA–Iowa facing ‘historic hydrological event.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28275

INDIANA–Weather affects registration total. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28276

INDIANA–Loving a leader is ministers’ wives’ topic. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28277

INDIANA–Cullen receives ministers’ wives’ award. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28278

INDIANA–Pastors’ wives hear from Donna Gaines. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28279

INDIANA–Top chaplain: Prayer keeps us on God’s agenda. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28280

INDIANA–Seminary luncheons draw alumni, guests. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28281

TEXAS–At 104, he aims ‘to be a blessing.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28282

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Tim Ellsworth): Hug your kids a little longer. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28283

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Keith Manuel): Dream again, Daddy. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28284

INDIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Tony Kummer): It’s just a walk across the street. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28285

Ruby O. Hayden
(June 24, 1916 – June 12, 2008)

In loving memory of our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Ruby O. Hayden. She died on her wedding anniversary on June 12, 2008. She was born to Walter and Edith Ford almost 92 years ago on June 24, 1916. She is survived by her daughter, Bettie Ziebarth, her 2 grandsons, Wesley and Dale Ziebarth, and her granddaughter, Tona Phillips. She is also survived by 4 great-grandson, Brandon, Van, and Kevin Ziebarth and Jacob Phillips, 2 granddaughters, Brianna Ziebarth and Sara Phillips, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be sorely missed but not forgotten. Rest in Peace Grandmaw. We love you. Visitation at Oak Grove Church of Christ, Independence, from 9 a.m. on Saturday until religious services at 11 a.m. Saturday. Services conducted by Bro. Dale Ziebarth and Brandon Ziebarth. Interment Loranger Cemetery, Loranger, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

WATER AND DESPAIR FLOOD COLUMBUS, INDIANA
The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team of crisis-trained chaplains has deployed to Columbus, Indiana, approximately 40 miles south of Indianapolis. According to media updates, the floods have brought casualties, the hospital has been evacuated, millions of dollars of damage are estimated, and there are reports of looting arrests as residents attempt to dig out in the aftermath of the tragedy. It appears that most of the victims do not have flood insurance for their homes.

We want to be a light in this community that was plunged into darkness and despair as the Haw Creek overflowed last week, says Jack Munday, director of the Rapid Response Team. In many cases people’s lives are shattered right now. Their homes are badly damaged or destroyed, along with the memories the home represents. Their feeling of safety and security is gone. They are badly in need of hope in a seemingly hopeless situation.

Please pray:

* for those who lost their homes
* for the patients and employees of the hospital that was evacuated
* that many will come to know Christ in the midst of sorrow

When you pass through the waters,

I will be with you;

and when you pass through the rivers,

they will not sweep over you.

When you walk through the fire,

you will not be burned;

the flames will not set you ablaze

Isaiah 43:2

Thank you for your prayers and support. We also greatly value your financial support.

*Online – https://www.billygraham.org/donate.asp?d=40

*Check or money order – Billy Graham Evangelistic Association,

1Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201

A PEOPLE OF OUR WORD

A duck walked into a feed store and asked the owner, “Do you have any duck food?”

The proprietor replied, “No, we don’t have any duck food.”

The next day the duck walked into the same feed store and asked the owner, “Do you have any duck food?”

The feed store owner was an ill-mannered, impatient man. He yelled at the duck, “I told you yesterday! We don’t have any duck food. Now get out of here and don’t come back or I’ll nail your webbed feet to the floor!”

Again, on the next day, the duck walked into the same feed store. This time he asked the store owner, “Do you have any nails?”

“Nope. We don’t have nails.”

“Then do you have any duck food?”

I suppose we’ve all made threats from time to time that we never intended to carry out. There have been many times I’ve heard a parent say to his or her child, “You better do this before I count to three or else!” only to count to three and, not seeing any response from the child, say, “This time I mean it — “You better do this before I count to three or else!” Our children catch on very quickly as to whether or not we intend to carry through on the promises and threats we make to them.

Sometimes things happen that keep us from following through on a commitment. But that should be the rare exception, not the rule. The apostle Paul wanted to make sure that the Corinthians knew the difference. He had told them that he intended to visit them twice, but he was only going to be able to see them once. Some of his critics used this as an opportunity to accuse Paul of being fickle and untrustworthy. Here’s Paul’s response:

“I had originally planned two great visits with you – coming by on my way to Macedonia province, and then again on my return trip….That was the plan. Are you now going to accuse me of being flip with my promises because it didn’t work out? Do you think I talk out of both sides of my mouth – a glib yes one moment, a glib no the next? Well, you’re wrong. I try to be as true to my word as God is to his…” (2 Cor. 1:15-18, The Message)

What a powerful statement to make — “I try to be as true to my word as God is to his.” Can we say the same? As Christians, we need to be known as a people of our word. We shouldn’t have to play word games like, “Well, if I say it like this, then I mean what I say, otherwise I don’t.” We need to develop a reputation for being a people of our word.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thanks for being there to pray each day. Please feel free to share praises, requests, and updates so we can all pray.

Anna Lee

Friday

So don’t get tired of doing what is good.

Don’t get discouraged and give up,

for we will reap a harvest of blessing

at the appropriate time.

Galatians 6:9 (NLT)

Ruby Hayden
(June 24, 1916 – June 12, 2008)

Passed away Thursday, June 12, 2008 at the age of 91. Visiting will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, on Saturday, June 14, 2008 from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Interment will be in the Loranger Cemetery. More details will follow when available.

Please pray for all the grieving families in our area. There have been numerous deaths lately. Each death touches many family members and friends.

The AGM I wrote about will be in Hungary, not Slovakia.

KOMpray

June 13, 2008

“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

I LIKE TO PLAY

Some of the people here in West Africa have asthma like me. When I found that out, it made it a lot easier to relate to them and have good relationships. People here have made up lots of games that are fun. One of the games is called “Yali Dor.” You start out by throwing a ball up in the air. When it comes down, everyone tries to kick the ball between someone else’s legs. If the ball goes through someone’s legs, they have to immediately try to run to base and while they are, everybody else tries to tackle him.I like to play soccer, too (they call it football here). I am usually a goalie and sometimes I even play on the field. My friends and I make slingshots out of sticks shaped like a “Y,” rubber strips from an inner tube, and pieces of the sole from tennis shoes. After we make them, we usually go hunting for 1 to 3 hours. Please pray for my friends that they will come to know and believe in Christ and that I can be a good witness to them. NATE, age 10 (West Africa)

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray for my brother to do well in school. CR, age 6 (East Asia)

I live in a big city, Lusaka. My family and I go to a Baptist church, and when the kids have children’s church, I go out with them, helping out, and playing guitar for them. I have a great Youth group there! I’m strongly thinking, and wanting, to go to a boarding school, in August. Pray that God will make it clear to me and my family whether I should go or not, and when I get there, that I survive for more than 3 months! ANNA, age 14 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Please pray that God will give me wisdom as I decide what university to attend. Pray, too, that I will be diligent in my schoolwork. Ask God to help me be a witness always to those around me, every time I have an opportunity. NATE, age 17 (Pacific Rim)

My family serves in Zambia. Please pray that we will enjoy ourselves while in the United States. Please pray that we will make the most of our time with our relatives. In July we return to Zambia. Pray for help to serve and lead people to Christ. TROY, age 13 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

I really like this devotional. It teaches us to be very careful in the way we handle little lives. We make lasting impressions, either positive or negative, on children.

PRICELESS SCRIBBLES

I saw this story this morning on eSermons.com and just had to share it with you:

Richard Fairchild tells about a story that appeared years ago in the Christian Reader. It was called “Priceless Scribbles.” It concerns a father who touched his child’s life in an unexpected way. A young boy watched as his father walked into the living room. The boy noticed that his younger brother, John, began to cower slightly as his father entered. The older boy sensed that John had done something wrong. Then he saw from a distance what his brother had done. The younger boy had opened his father’s brand new hymnal and scribbled all over the first page with a pen.

Staring at their father fearfully, both brothers waited for John’s punishment. Their father picked up his prized hymnal, looked at it carefully and then sat down, without saying a word. Books were precious to him; he was a minister with several academic degrees. For him, books were knowledge. What he did next was remarkable. Instead of punishing his son, instead of scolding, or yelling, his father took the pen from the little boy’s hand, and then wrote in the book himself, alongside the scribbles that John had made.

Here is what that father wrote: “John’s work, 1959, age 2. How many times have I looked into your beautiful face and into your warm, alert eyes looking up at me and thanked God for the one who has now scribbled in my new hymnal. You have made the book sacred, as have your brother and sister to so much of my life.”

The author of the story, now an adult, goes on to say how that hymnal became a treasured family possession, how it was tangible proof that their parents loved them, how it taught the lesson that what really matters is people, not objects; patience, not judgment; love, not anger.

“And you, fathers,

do not provoke your children to wrath,

but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”

(Eph. 6:4)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

I hope you have had a great week. Now, I wish for you a fantastic weekend!

Anna Lee

Thursday

“But to You I have cried out, O Lord,

and in the morning my prayer comes before You.”

~Psalm 88:13~

I forgot to mention that Richard Dunn was able to come home until his next treatment. Please continue to pray for Richard, Kathy, and the other family members.

Today at VBS the children will have the plan of salvation presented to them. Pray for Bro. Joey as he talks to the children. Pray for the children. May what they have heard so far have prepared their hearts for the ABC’s of salvation.

OLYMPICS 2008. As the world counts down to the beginning of the Beijing Summer Olympics, many eager volunteers are also counting down to their involvement in Olympic-related ministries. Pray that God will guide and empower all who seek to serve Him through unique opportunities that are present. Pray that many Chinese people will lay hold of something that is even more precious than Olympic gold: salvation through Jesus Christ.

JAPAN. Mrs. K, who lives in a small town in Niigata prefecture, which borders the Japan Sea, is a widow with two children. All three of them are Christians. However, because she is a widow without any specific training, it is very difficult for her to get a job to support herself and her children. She reads her Bible and prays with her children, but there is not a Christian community to encourage her. Her home is surrounded by temples and shrines, fortune-tellers, etc. The people are very superstitious and suspicious of outsiders. They turn deaf ears to her witness and make fun of her. As she and a missionary went prayerwalking around her neighborhood, she indicated that there are no other believers near her home and people shun her because she is a Christian. Pray that Mrs. K will find strength through God’s Word and that she will look to Him daily for grace and provision. Intercede for Him to pour out His Spirit and blessing on her and her family, revealing Himself to be strong and mighty both to her and to those who live in darkness around her. http://www.jgpnetwork.org/

SANTA CATARINA, BRAZIL (sahn-tah cah-tah-REE-nah). Over recent months, you have prayed for a new church plant among the middle/upper class in downtown Florianopolis. Missionaries Jim and Linda Malone are praising God for doors that are opening to reach professionals through weekly lunch meetings to which Brazilians come to practice their English. Pray particularly for the newest outreach that meets in a restaurant three blocks from their home and provides new contacts for the worship times on Saturday evenings in the Malones’ apartment. Also, Jim has been slowly developing relationships with the owner of a health club on the top floor of a nearby shopping mall and also with one of the elite personal trainers there. M, the owner of the gym, has been demonstrating more openness and friendliness week by week. P, the personal trainer, has been more of a challenge since he is not too sure about the “North American.” However, this relationship, too, is now showing more acceptance. Pray specifically that after nine months of “walking across the room” to these men, Jim will now be able to lead them to the place where they may begin a relationship with Jesus, be discipled, and become involved with the new congregation.

NAIROBI, KENYA (ny-ROH-bee). S is a strong Christian leader among the South Asian community of Nairobi, Kenya. For some time now, he has served the Nairobi community faithfully while having a good work opportunity; his family has remained in India. Last year he answered the Lord’s call to East Africa, and now he feels that his family needs to be with him. Pray that the Lord will provide sufficient work in order for his family to join him in Nairobi.

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

FOR YEARS I wondered why firefighters carried axes to the scenes of fires…

Hadn’t the fire done enough damage without chopping away at the remaining roof or walls? Then I learned that those axes serve a valuable purpose: They uncover smoldering hot spots that might later ignite. It keeps the firemen from having to return.

A famous passage in the Bible regarding fire is found in Jeremiah 20. Jeremiah had to confront strong opposition to the message he preached. And why did he preach that unpopular message? It was what the Lord gave him to speak. In verses 7 and 8 he described those who opposed him: “O Lord, you induced me, and I was persuaded; you are stronger than I, and have prevailed. I am in derision daily; everyone mocks me. For when I spoke, I cried out; I shouted, ‘Violence and plunder!’ Because the word of the Lord was made to me a reproach and a derision daily” (NKJV). The prophet faced hecklers whenever he spoke, and it was getting wearisome.

Jeremiah resolved what any of us likely would have: “Then I said, ‘I will not make mention of him, nor speak anymore in his name'” (v. 9a). But that plan didn’t work for long: “… But his word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, and I could not” (v. 9b).

That kind of motivation to speak up for the Lord is needed in all ages. Jeremiah was not the first to face opposition for preaching the truth, and he wasn’t the last. But where was the “hot spot” in this man that compelled him to speak up for God when others fought him?

He pointed to the source in verse 11: “But the Lord is with me as a mighty, awesome one. Therefore my persecutors will stumble, and will not prevail. They will be greatly ashamed, for they will not prosper. Their everlasting confusion will never be forgotten.” Beyond the daily frustration of fighting the enemies of God, Jeremiah could see the awesome Lord for whom he spoke. That was what kept the fire burning in his heart. That was how he could press on against such great opposition.

When problems come, we can’t help but focus on the problems. When they are especially large, we grow discouraged. But the same formula that worked for Jeremiah will work for us. By shifting our focus from the trials to the almighty God we serve, we’ll find new courage and energy. We’ll soon be able to exult with words like Jeremiah’s: “Sing to the Lord! Praise the Lord! For he has delivered the poor from the hand of the evildoers” (Jeremiah 20:13). (Tim Hall @ http://www.forthright.net/)

Then I said, “I will not make mention of Him, nor speak anymore in His name.” But His word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, and I could not (Jer. 20:9).

What good advice: Don’t focus on the problems. Focus on God!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

You need to persevere

so that when you have done the will of God,

you will receive what he has promised.

For in just a very little while,

“He who is coming will come and will not delay.”

~Hebrews 10:36-37 (NIV)~

VBS – Day 2 – FBC, Kentwood – 8:30-11:30 A.M.

Dear Prayer Partners,

Please take time to pray for a very dear friend of ours. Beverly Coleman, 44, was injured in a car accident on June 6. She is currently undergoing her 3rd surgery in 3 days. She has a tear in her aorta, both thigh bones are broken, and both arms are broken. She also has a fracture at the base of her skull. Two of her daughters, Heidi (around 11), and Marta (around 7), were also injured though not as severely.

We spoke with her husband and he reported that Beverly has been alert, awake, and seems in good spirits. She is a strong Christian and has recently surrendered to the chaplain ministry. She is a hospice nurse in the Jackson, Mississippi, area.

Please pray that God will continue to use her during this time as He has used her daily to minister to those in need. Pray for successful surgeries that will allow her to continue to be mother, wife, and servant of the Lord.

Blessings,

Donna

California Baptist University Volunteers’ Mission Trip

The team got in last night and all went well on their trip. Thank you so much for all your prayers! Please continue to pray as we head for the orphanage today and later try to figure out public transportation together! That will be quite the adventure 🙂

For updates from the team you can visit the California Baptist University ISP website: http://www.calbaptist.edu/isp/default2.aspx?id=7370
This should lead you to the Romania team, but if for some reason it doesn’t, click on Romania in the left column where all the countries are listed.

Be blessed,
aura

TODAY’S PRAYER
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
JUNE 10, 2008

“And take the helmet of salvation,

… praying always with all prayer

and supplication in the Spirit,

… that utterance may be given to me,

that I may open my mouth boldly

to make known the mystery of the gospel,

… that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” ~Ephesians 6:17-20~

Some of the IMB requests:

LAST FRONTIER. A worker among a Last Frontier people group writes: “God has been faithful! I appreciate your prayers very much! God has been blessing us so much by having the ‘JESUS’ film in the language of the P people. We have a P team of translators who are doing a version of the New Testament in their own language and also preparing P discipleship material. Also, Bible stories need to be recorded in their own language so that people who cannot read can have access to God’s Word. A three-and-a-half-month training session will be held in another country, and we need to send one person or a couple to that session. This training will be wonderful, because the P will then have everything they need to reach their own people–but I need your prayers. My prayer is this: That the Lord will raise up a P young man or a couple who will be willing to do this ministry for His glory! The first part of the training session will start in July, and the rest will take place in October. Please help me to pray for this urgent need.”

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. “‘Watch for moving personnel.’ We have several in our area who are moving country to country, town to town, and street to street. This can often be a time of stress and chaos. Pray that there will be minimal distractions and that rough ways will be made smooth!”

MUSLIMS: PRAYING BEYOND THE WALL. Last summer, a 50-year-old Tatar woman made the decision to follow Jesus, and to show everyone her loyalty by being baptized! She loves the Lord and continues to be devoted even though she is the only follower in her town. While her father-in-law and her children are open to hearing the Truth, her husband is not interested at all. Ask that her devotion and understanding will grow so that her family and others who live in her town will also believe, and pray that a church will be started.

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Newsletter Update

https://mail.google.com/mail/#inbox/11a6ddcf99fb03e3

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
WE WILL PUT up with things in the world that we cannot tolerate in the church…

We do it because we have been sent into the world to preach the gospel of salvation.

Jesus ate with publicans, prostitutes and sinners, not because he was greedy, sensuous or sinful, but because the doctor went to the patients.

The Corinthians misunderstood Paul’s instructions in a previous letter. Others have also read the Bible wrong and tried to flee the evils of the world in monasteries, on tall poles or lonely mountains.

The whole sense of Scripture, the whole character of God, the entire mission of the Lord, is to go after rebellious man, to pursue the fleeing sinner, to enter the fray of frantic mankind and pull him back to his original design for divine fellowship.

The direction toward the immoral and sinful is demanding. The heart breaks in the presence of distorted souls. The saint wants to shrink from the filth that flows from mouths, the degradation of sex, power and possessions.

But more overpowering than the stench of moral corruption or the decay of spiritual death is the love that wants to revive a lost person for his true destiny, the compassion to rescue the perishing, the drive to save as we have been saved.

To go out of the world was unthinkable to Paul.

Such a worldly exit is no more an option for us.

Because Jesus came into the world. Because he sent us into the same world. Though divided by millenia and separated by language and technology, the world is still the world.

And salvation still comes exclusively through the message that Jesus Christ died to give life to all. (J. Randal Matheny)

“I wrote in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people. In no way did I mean the immoral people of this world, or the greedy and swindlers and idolaters, since you would then have to go out of the world” (1 Corinthians 5:9-10 NET).

Go out into the world today to share the Good News!

Anna Lee

Monday

“Now to Him who is able to do

exceedingly abundantly

above all that we ask or think,

according to the power that works in us,

to Him be glory in the church

by Christ Jesus to all generations,

forever and ever.”

~Ephesians 3:20-21~

Randy Taylor of St. Helena Parish is going back to M.D. Anderson today. Please pray for Randy, his family, and the medical staff as they consider new problems and how to treat them.

Vacation Bible School begins at 8:30 this morning at FBC, Kentwood. Children from four years old to those who just complete the sixth grade are invited to attend.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Monday, June 9, 2008

“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another” (Romans 12:5, NKJV).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, asking you to pray for isolated believers.

Have you ever gone to bed at night with the heaviness of loneliness in the pit of your stomach? Isolation is one of the hardest phenomena for the human psyche. We need a support system. Yet H and M, Mbunda believers in Western Zambia, have taken up the cross of isolation for several years now, as they have lived far away from their homes and families. After H and M believed on the Lord, they felt His strong calling to be missionaries to their own people and live in a remote area, where they have sacrificed much to teach Mbunda people the truth of Jesus.

In Morocco a young man huddled by the radio in his bedroom, tuning into the frequency that he has listened to every week for a year. On this program he learned the truth about Jesus, the Messiah, and accepted the invitation to follow Him. His family does not know of his decision, and he feels alone-knowing no other Christians. In the same city, S. furtively glances over his shoulder as he enters the address of a website. Six months earlier, he dreamed of a man in white robes proclaiming Himself as God’s Son and telling him to believe the Bible. S. struggled with questions about Christianity, and found this website one night at an Internet cafe. Questions satisfied, he trusted in Jesus; but S. has never heard of another Moroccan Christian. So he keeps his faith a secret and reads an online version of the Scriptures.

*Please pray for isolated believers that they will find fellowship in the Lord.

*Pray for national workers, H and M, that when they call out to their Abba Father, He will hear and ease the pain of their loneliness.

*Give thanks for your own church family and for the body of Christ around the world.

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

“LET EVERY SOUL be subject to the governing authorities…

For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil” (Romans 13:1-4 NKJV).dynasty, Nepal’s newly elected government declared the country to be a Republic, abolishing the throne and deposing the reigning King. The precise nature of the new government has not yet been completely determined, as a new constitution is scheduled to be written. It will be different however from what has existed before.

Changes in government will take place in many nations over the next months. Elections will be held in the United States as well as in a number of other countries. People are understandably concerned whenever change comes. What will a new president, congress, prime minister, parliament, etc. bring about? Will peace continue? Will the economy be strengthened or will hard times prevail? What about personal liberties, human rights, environmental protection, international relations and a host of other legitimate concerns? Will our way of life continue as it is or will drastic change occur?

The fact is that all human conditions and institutions are temporary. “Nothing is constant except change” is a historic fact. We have no certainty regarding security or stability. But that does not mean that we must be fearful, pessimistic, or paranoid about our future. God is sovereign. He is in control. Whatever comes will be in accordance with his eternal will and purpose. That does not mean that we will always have the prosperity or freedom that we desire. He does not guarantee those things. But we will have circumstances in which we can serve him, and in which he can bless us. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).

It is interesting that Paul wrote the book of Romans on his third missionary journey, probably only months prior to being arrested in Jerusalem by Roman authorities. He would spend more than 4 years in Roman prisons before being set free to preach again (as many New Testament scholars believe), but then would evidently be arrested once again and finally executed under orders from Nero (according to early Christian sources). The man who stated that those who do good have nothing to fear from government was put to death by that same government for preaching the gospel of Christ. Was Paul mistaken? Is this a conflict or an untruth? It depends on one’s definition of good or of fear. Jesus taught, “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28). Paul himself considered that “to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). He saw no threat in the prospect of going to be with Christ in Heaven.

If our trust is in God, and our primary goals and concerns are spiritual, then our attitude toward government can be that of confidence. We will do what is right, what honors God and serves our fellow man. We will trust God to provide for us and to protect us eternally. We will not fear. This does not mean that we cannot or should not work and pray for good government that is sensitive to and supportive of human needs, and that promotes Biblical values. Certainly those things are greatly to be desired. But in places or times where those are not available we still may trust in God. For that we are grateful. (Michael E. Brooks @ http://www.forthright.net/field_notes/gods_ministers.html)
KneEmail: “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil” (Romans 13:1-4 NKJV).

Make this a great week!

Anna Lee

Sunday

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth,

where moth and rust destroy

and where thieves break in and steal.”

~Matthew 6:19, NKJV~

The California Baptist University team is all packed up and ready for their 3 week trip to Romania!
Please pray for them as they get ready to get on a plane this afternoon. Pray that all of their flights will be on time so that they can make all of their connections and also pray that all of their luggage will make it here at the same time as them!
Pray for them as a team will they are here. Pray that they will be flexible and open to learning what the Lord wants to teach them during this time. Pray for us as we travel around the city and outside the city. Especially be praying for the team for the few days they will be here on their own and their time at camp when they will be away from every kind of modern convenience and technology!
Pray for us as we continue to plan on this side of things and that everything will come together and that glory will be brought to His name through everything that we do. Pray for my neighbors as the 7 girls will be staying with me in my apartment. Overall I’ve gotten along well with them, but we’ve had our moments.

Thank you so much!
aura

A HEAVENLY PERSPECTIVE

It is reported that the German controllers at Frankfurt Airport expect pilots to know their gate location and how to get there without any assistance from them. This conversation is said to have taken place between the control tower in Frankfurt and a British Airways 747 (radio call Speedbird 206) after landing:

Speedbird 206: “Good morning Frankfurt, Speedbird 206 clear of the runway.”

Ground: “Guten morgan, taxi to your gate.”

The British Airways 747 pulls onto the main taxiway and stops.

Ground: “Speedbird, do you not know where you are going?”

Speedbird 206: “Stand by, ground, I’m looking up the gate location now.”

Ground (with impatience): “Speedbird 206, have you never flown to Frankfurt before?”

Speedbird 206 (coolly): “Yes, in 1944. But I didn’t stop.”

Things look different from the ground than they do in the air! (especially when the view from the air has crosshairs that get in the way 🙂 Our perspective makes all the difference in the world.

Which raises an interesting question — what is our perspective? Do we tend to look at things from an earthly point of view or from a heavenly point of view?

“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:1-2)

Erwin W. Lutzer once said that, “Worldliness is excluding God from our lives and, therefore, consciously or unconsciously accepting the values of a man-centered society.” If things in your life aren’t looking so good from “ground level”, perhaps it will help to take a look at things from a heavenly perspective.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

There will be no activities or services at FBC, Kentwood tonight.

There will be a bridal shower for K.K. Womack, bride-elect of Job Hulkaby, this afternoon at FBC, Kentwood.

Keep the Lord in the Lord’s Day.

Anna Lee

Saturday

Surely your goodness and unfailing love

will pursue me all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

~Psalm 23:6 (NLT)~

VBS at FBC, Kentwood begins Monday at 8:30. Children who are four through those who just completed sixth grade are invited to attend. If you have not already registered you child or grandchild, please do so Sunday.

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

May 23, 2008

“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~

SHE NEEDED JESUS

On a bright sunny day, a missionary in Paraguay met a little girl on the street. She was standing at a table with her mom. The girl is a 6-year-old with a sad smile, long black hair, and a very thin body. The table and a chair is the mom’s office-no walls or bookcases or cash register-just a table and chair. The little girl smiled at Iracema Kunkel, the missionary, when she stopped to talk to her mother. The little girl usually stayed beside her mother for 12 long hours, playing with some ragged and dirty dolls. Iracema Kunkel talked with her mother and just knew she needed Jesus.

The missionary told her about the love of Jesus and the mother asked Jesus to be her Savior! Now this little girl spends half a day in school and the other half at her mother’s ‘office.’ But now she has a beautiful smile (and her mother does too) because she is learning about Jesus. They keep a Bible on the table where everyone can see. They go to a Baptist church near where they live. Please pray for this little girl and this mother that they will keep on studying God’s Word and trust God to take care of them every day.

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray for my sister who is going to university. I am homeschooled, please pray for my grades. MATTHEW, age 13 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Pray that more college students come to our summer program, SA101, and lots of people come to know Christ in India. ALLAN, age 13 (South Asia)

TR is my friend who lives in Japan. He has a younger sister and a younger brother. Please pray for them. He goes to my Japanese school and is in my class in 3rd grade. He’s funny. He loves nature and always talks about bugs and plants. We have a job in our classroom of taking care of all the nature stuff, like feeding the fish. I have been telling TR about Jesus, but he’s not interested in getting baptized. He doesn’t want to get baptized, because he doesn’t want to go under the water. I don’t know if he’s a Christian or not. I want him to be a Christian. Please pray for TR. RICKIE, age 8 (Pacific Rim)

My mom teaches my three brothers and me. Please pray for us and our homeschool. Pray for my dad. He is the Logistics Coordinator for Malawi-that means he helps other people who come to work in our country and he is really busy. ANNA, age 13 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Our next door neighbors have a daughter, AI, about fifteen years old. She and her family are Muslims and she goes to a school where she learns about the Koran. People have told AI and her family about Jesus, but they are still Muslims. Please pray that AI and her family will understand what they have heard about Jesus and that they would choose to believe in Him. ELIZABETH, age 17 (West Africa)

Please pray for me to learn more Thai and for me to read my Bible more. Ask God to help me to find a good friend. MORIAH, age 10 ½ (Pacific Rim)

Correction:

Thanks to those of you who let me know about the mistake I made in Wednesday’s TFTD (you get brownie points for your Bible knowledge and skills of observation). I made reference to a question brought to Jesus by the Sadducees. I mentioned that the question involved one man married to seven women. The question, of course, actually involved one woman married to seven men (Matthew 22:23-33).

Thanks for helping to keep me straight. This feeble mind doesn’t always fire on all cylinders.

While I’ve got you, I may as well share a humorous story with you (no point, just humor):

One week a Sunday school teacher had just finished telling her class the story of the birth of Jesus — how Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem and how Jesus was born in a stable and laid in a manger. After telling the story the teacher asked, “Who do you think the most important woman in the Bible is?”

Of course, the teacher was expecting one of the kids to say, “Mary.” But instead, a little boy raised his hand and said, “Eve.” So the teacher asked him why he thought Eve was the most important woman in the Bible.

And the little boy replied, “Well, they named two days of the year after Eve. You know, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.”

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Friday

So don’t get tired of doing what is good.

Don’t get discouraged and give up,

for we will reap a harvest of blessing

at the appropriate time.

~Galatians 6:9 (NLT)~

David Lockwood, husband of Sumner teacher Phyllis Lockwood, is hospitalized with complications of radiation. He and his family need our prayers.

Jan Hammons

Please be in prayer for the Gideons this Monday. We will be going into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail to distribute Bible’s and New Testaments.

Thanks, Harrell and Susie

Please continue to pray for Jesse Dean’s sisters.

Patsy Benefield is in Kentwood Rehab. She is having back problems and can’t walk. Theresa Cutrer is in Southwest in McComb. She has a severe colon infection. They are both better, but still have a long way to go to be well.

Majel Dean

Jan Yarborough’s brother-in-law is doing well. Jan’s sister was to have surgery yesterday. Please continue to pray for this family.

Please continue to pray for Charley and Katheryn Kuss as they deal with health issues. Thank God for the sweet spirit they possess even in times of difficulty.

As always, there are several others who have concerns in their life that need to be addressed with prayer. Please always remember to take some time to remember the unspoken requests.

Somehow I managed to not mention that the Nason family lost a brother in North Mississippi the end of last week. Pray for Dorothy Gill, Theople Hurst, Mike Nason, and Bobbie Magee as well as other family members as they deal with the loss.

Havre Maru Newman Klein
Havre Maru Newman Klein of New Orleans passed away on Wednesday, June 4, 2008. She was 85, born April 9, 1923, in Osyka, Miss., to Dennis and Leola Newman. She was a graduate of Joseph Kohn High School and Soule Business College. Mrs. Klein was a retired secretary, having worked in the construction industry for many years. Havre Maru is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Elvin Frank Klein; as well as numerous other loving family and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral service at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home Chapel, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, on Saturday, June 7, at noon, with visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m. Interment in Greenwood Cemetery. To sign and view the family guestbook, please visit http://www.lakelawnmetairie.com.

FBC, Kentwood will not have regular Sunday night worship during the months of June and July.

KneEmail

“At te name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10

Mike Benson, Editor

Compartments

“HERE IS A great eternal truth…

Life cannot be divided into compartments in some of which God is involved and in others of which He is not involved; there cannot be one kind of language in the church and another kind of language in the shipyard or the factory or the office; there cannot be one kind of conduct in the church and another kind of conduct in the business world. The fact is that God does not need to be invited into certain departments of life, and kept out of others. He is everywhere, all through life and in every activity of life. He hears not only the words which are spoken in His name; He hears all words; and there cannot be any such thing as a form of words which evades bringing God into any transaction. We will regard all promises as sacred if we remember that all promises are made in the presence of God.” (William Barclay)

“That you may approve the things that are excellent,

that you may be sincere and without offense

till the day of Christ.”

~Philippians 1:10~

Reminder:

So don’t get tired of doing what is good.

Don’t get discouraged and give up,

for we will reap a harvest of blessing

at the appropriate time.

~Galatians 6:9 (NLT)~

Anna Lee

Thursday

Surely your goodness and unfailing love

will pursue me all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the Lord

forever.

~Psalm 23:6 (NLT)~

Pray for the family of Justin Mixon. Justin was killed in Iraq at the end of last week. His father is pastor of Friendship Baptist Church.

Please keep the following people on your prayer list:

Chuck Pittman
Blanch Wheat
Richard Dunn
Randy Fairburn
Aubrey Perry
Joann Carter
Linda Longoria
Darren Fairburn
Charley Kuss
Nat McKinney
Jimmie Shaw

Baptist Press

June 4, 2008

MINNESOTA–McCain & Obama: Where they stand on the issues. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28183

CALIFORNIA–Calif. court won’t delay ‘gay marriage’ ruling. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28184

IOWA–Relief workers still on call in Iowa. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28185

TENNESSEE–Poll: Americans split on if homosexuality is sin. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28186

NEW YORK–‘Fox on Faith’ podcast available. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28187

TENNESSEE–SBC seminaries send forth their graduates. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28188

LOUISIANA–Ph.D. couple sustained by God’s call. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28189

GEORGIA–EDUCATION BRIEFS: NOBTS opens 3rd prison program; … http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28190

TENNESSEE–Dockery calls for consensus, renewal. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28191

NORTH CAROLINA–Bob Carey to lead photographers’ assoc. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28192

KANSAS–FIRST-PERSON (Phil Boatwright): Kirk Cameron is ‘Still Growing.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28193

VBS

FBC, Kentwood

Outrigger Island

June 9-13

Call the church office to register. (229-8111)

Cookies and Kool-Aid can be donated.

T-Shirts are now available – $6.00 each

Family Night – Friday, June 13th at 7 P.M. Please being homemade cookies and brownies.

Harold D. “H” Henderson, Sr.
(August 15, 1931 – June 4, 2008)

Mr. Harold D. “H” Henderson, Sr. died Wednesday,June 4, 2008 at 12:40PM at Hood Memorial Hospital, Amite. He was 76, a native and resident of Amite. Visitation will be at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, from 6:00PM until 9:00PM, Friday, June 6, 2008 and Saturday, June 7, 2008 from 8:00AM until Religious Services at 11:00AM in the Funeral Home Chapel. Services conducted by the Rev. Mike Foster. Interment will be in Amite Memorial Gardens. Survived by: Son, Harold D. Henderson, Jr. and wife, Laura Leigh-Amite. 2 Daughters, Kathy Walker Rispone and husband, Jerry-Amite; Bonnie Sue Walker-Tickfaw; Grandchildren, Melissa Blair Rispone Latino and husband, Benny-Hammond, Jerry Vincent “Jero” Rispone, Jr., Amite, Hollie Dean Henderson, Amite, Harold Daniel Henderson, III-Amite; Great Grandson, Benny Joseph Latino, IV-Hammond. Preceded in death by; Parents, William L. & Minnie C. Henderson, First Wife, Ruby Dean Henderson, Second Wife, Donis P. Henderson and a Brother, Leslie “Jr” Henderson. An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com. Funeral Home is located at I-55N and HWY 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

THE POWER OF GOD

The story is told of a hospital’s Intensive Care ward where patients always died in the same bed, on Sunday morning, at about 11 a.m., regardless of their medical condition. This puzzled the doctors and some even thought that it had something to do with the supernatural. No one could solve the mystery… as to why the deaths occurred around 11 a.m. on Sundays.

So a world-wide team of experts was assembled to investigate the cause of the incidents. The next Sunday morning, a few minutes before 11 a.m., all doctors and nurses nervously wait outside the ward to see for themselves, what the terrible phenomenon was all about. Some were holding wooden crosses, prayer books and other holy objects to ward off the evil spirits.

Just when the clock struck 11… Pookie Johnson, the part-time Sunday sweeper, entered the ward and unplugged the life support system so that he could use the vacuum cleaner.

The story isn’t true (despite what you may have heard to the contrary). But the principle is an important one — where there is no power, the results can be deadly.

I am reminded of what Jesus said to the Sadducees when they came to him asking a question about the resurrection. They asked the question — involving a convoluted situation with a man who married seven women who all died — because they hoped to demonstrate to Jesus that there could not possibly be a resurrection from the dead.

Jesus response was this: “”You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” (Matthew 22:29).

Any time we deny (or limit) the power of God — denying what He can do if He wants to — we find ourselves on dangerous ground. The New Testament is filled with passages which emphasize God’s power. There is power in the gospel (Rom. 1:16), power in the message of the cross (I Cor. 1:18), and power in the resurrection of Christ (I Cor. 6:14).

If you’re noticing that others are spiritually dying around you (or maybe even that you yourself are dying), maybe it’s time to check the “power source.” Are you connected to the One through whom our power comes?

May you be filled with a knowledge of “the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,” (Eph. 1:19-20). Don’t underestimate (or unplug yourself from) the great power of our God!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Stay connected!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“In the day of my trouble I will call upon You,

for You will answer me.”

~Psalm 86:7~

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. “Return, O LORD! How long? And have compassion on Your servants” (Psalm 90:13, NKJV). Missionaries often pray this verse, perhaps without even realizing it. When a new missionary moves to a country and starts settling in, they might think the first task to accomplish is getting a phone. After several trips to the phone company and experiencing interminably long lines, the priority may change–and I’m sure the missionary has often prayed, “O Lord! How long?” The same missionary begins language training and learns word after word after word, and then proudly heads to the market to shop. How frustrating to have the sentences so well formed–”I would like one kilo of tomatoes please”–then not understand the clerk’s response! Again, the missionary prays, “O Lord! How long?” Suddenly one day, the missionary looks around to realize that the phone has been hooked up and the language flows pretty easily. God has answered prayer. But that Scripture passage is still needed. National friends and co-workers do not know Jesus. They may have heard the Word of God, but it is falling upon deaf ears. Many have never had a chance to hear, and the missionary longs for more opportunities, more hours in the day to share. “O Lord! How long?…Have compassion on Your servants….And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, And establish the work of our hands for us; Yes, establish the work of our hands” (Psalm 90:13, 17b).

Baptist Press

(I only included three Baptist Press articles, but I suggest you read all three. Your heart will be touched.)

June 3, 2008

KENYA–As Kenya strife eases, refugee still suffer. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28177

CHINA–China quake assessment focuses on pure water. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28178

KENYA–FIRST-PERSON (Sue Sprenkle): A child’s scream in a Kenyan shack. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28182If you like sports or have an interest in Christian athletes, you may enjoy read about Tim Tebow.

http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5858

Mr. John W. Notariano, 47, died June 2, 2008 at the Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center, McComb, MS. Visitation will be at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Thursday, June 5, 2008 from 5:00PM until 9:00PM and from 8:00AM until Religious Services at 10:00AM, Friday, June 6, 2008 at the Funeral Home Chapel. Services conducted by Bro. Jason Skipper. Interment will be at the Wilmer Baptist Church Cemetery. He is survived by his Wife, Sherri Creel Notariano, Kentwood; Son, John Phillip Notariano & Wife, Mandy, Amite; 2 Daughters, Stacy Notariano Costa & Husband, Eric, Independence; Kylie Callihan Sharkey & Husband, Danny, Kentwood; 3 Grandchildren, Savanna Klair Notariano, Luca Andrew Costa, Klinton Rilee Sharkey; Special Nephew, Kole Graham; 2 Brothers, Charles “Pat” Notariano & Wife, Bobbie, Loranger; Anthony Notariano & Wife, Elaine, Ponchatoula; 3 Sisters, Gloria “Gay” Notariano Huber & Husband, Eddie, Hammond; Kathy Notariano Apperson & Husband, Mark, Robert; Rose Ann Notariano Zimbro & Husband, Marvin, Ponchatoula; Numerous Nieces & Nephews & Extended Family. Preceded in death by Parents: Anthony & Millie Pierson Notariano, and a Nephew. An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com. Funeral Home is located at I-55 and Hwy16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

KneEmail

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

Day

HAVING A BAD day…?

This morning you woke up tired and grumpy, and things haven’t gone right from that moment. You took the dog out and he wouldn’t come back in, so you spent a lot of time coaxing him in the house. Either you didn’t have time for breakfast, or it burned. Traffic on the way to work was horrific. Now you’ve opened up your computer, and it’s giving you one of those messages that you can’t interpret but you know means you can’t do your work until you find out what’s wrong.

We all have days that go awry, ones where we’d like to be able to go back to bed, pull the covers over our heads, and sleep away twenty-four hours. It’s hard to recognize on tough days that this, too, is a day God made and one He made to benefit us. But unless the day is already gone, it’s not beyond repair. Turn around your less-than-impressive day by giving it back to God (Pamela McQuade).

“This is the day which the LORD has made,

we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

~Psm. 118:24~

Wednesday, hump day, may normally get you down. Don’t let that happen. God created Wednesdays for our benefit. Find the benefits!

Anna Lee