You are not a slave to SIN!

God loves me this I know. I really do know the love of God. He shows me this love in many ways. Some times he tells me "no" when I pray for things that don't fit into his plan for my life. I always ask for God's will to be preformed in my life. So when he leads into a certain situations, even the ones I don't understand, I say "the will of the Lord be done"and walk on in faith.

S.O.A.P.

1-28-2015      Romans 6:15-23

S.            15 What then? Shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. 19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. 20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. 21 What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. 22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

O.           Righteous people are dead to sin and do not serve sin.

A.           People who sin are sinners, not Christians. It is impossible to be both Saint and sinner at the same time. If I am dead to sin then the doctrines of sin being a normal part of living are a lie. I “can” sin but I am not doomed to sin.

P.            Father; keep me from sin and teach me to always be an overcomer. My flesh, mind and soul are yours. Give me wisdom to see each temptation and never fail. Amen.

IS THIS A SIN?

If you can't make up your mind about whether a "thing" is, or is not, sin ..... it is!  The fact that you have the question rolling around in your mind makes it sin. If a "thing" is pure, holy, righteous, good and acceptable then questions never arise in the first place. So when the questioning begins ... Run!

S.O.A.P.

1-27-2015      Romans 6:11-14

S.       11 likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

O.      Sin must stop for righteousness to abide.

A.      We must stop sinning, I don’t mean the occasional slip followed by quick repentance, I mean that we must stop deliberately sinning. No excuses, no reasoning sin away and no justifying.

P.       Father; you hate sin and will not overlook sin. If I harbor sin then I am un-presentable before you. Teach me to hate sin as you hate sin. Send your Spirit into my life to reveal sin, that I may repent and stay clean before you. Amen.

Victory

With every great battle comes a great victory.  Looking ahead to that victory in the middle of the battle is where our faith comes in. Do not quit! Do not even think of defeat! With God ALL things are possible.

S.O.A.P.

1-26-2015      Romans 6:8-10

S.       8 now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9 knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.

O.      Dying to sin brings eternal life.

A.      Avoiding sin is a constant war that must be won. God gives me the word, the Holy Spirit and fellow Christians so I can be victorious. With His help I can live a holy life, but, only with his help.

P.       Father; I desire to live pleasing you, helping others and overcoming any sin that I may be tempted with. Help me to be this person. Amen.

God is healing his children ..... TODAY!

Raise up and claim your healing children, for our God has not changed, his word will never fail and he is longing to share his blessings with you. He is a loving father ...... with healing in his wings!


S.O.A.P.

1-25-2015      Romans 6:1-7

S.       1 what shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? 3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

O.      Those covered by grace no longer sin because they are dead to it.

A.      Sin should become our enemy when we are made new in Jesus Christ. People that teach that sin can’t be overcome are teaching in error. If God is powerful enough to redeem us from sin, he is powerful enough to help us to stop sinning. God sends the Holy Ghost to infill us and lead (teach) us away from sin … all sin!

P.       Father; help us to overcome the false teaching about sin and live the life you designed for us. Amen.

Brother's Birthday

Today is my brother's Birthday. Jerry is one of a kind: Good friend, hard working, honest, guitar playing, God fearing and loyal. I have two wonderful brothers and I want the world to know that these are two of the best men on earth. Happy Birthday Jerry. I love you.

S.O.A.P.

1-24-2015      Romans 5:20-21

S.       20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 that as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

O.      Grace is superior to the law and ushers in eternal life.

A.      More Grace is available to me than I could ever need but I must not misuse this knowledge. Deliberate sin may cause me to go past the point of no return. I choose th fight sin on every level and with God’s help come out victorious.

P.       Father; cover me with grace, fill me with wisdom to see sin for what it is: failure, shame, disgrace and separation from you. Amen.

Don't die in sin..........

Set your life in order for tomorrow you may die. Have you made things right with everyone? Have you paid the debts you owe? Is your sin forgiven and abandoned? One of my more difficult responsibilities being a Pastor is helping people prepare to die. Most people just fly through life and never even think about the end until it's too late. You and I are not sure when our time will come, so be ready. Pay the debt, give and receive forgiveness, stop sinning and ask God to make you his. NOW!

S.O.A.P.

1-23-2015      Romans 5:13-19

S.       13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

O.      Death and Judgment came because of Adams disobedience as pardon and justification comes through the obedience of Jesus.

A.     To please God and honor the gift extended to me through Jesus (his death on the cross to pay for my sin) I will embrace faith, abandon my fleshly desires, learn obedience to prepare myself to stand before him and be justified, whole and redeemed.

    P.       Father in Heaven; thank you for loving man and sending your best gift to redeem our souls.              Cleans me afresh and make me new as I rejoice in your favor and grace. Amen. 

He's still working on me!

Learning God's will for my life is a slow, on-going process. In the beginning of my walk, God made it clear, that I was to be a pastor. Since I was young, uneducated but eager and fearless I said "yes"to the call. The path was before me and God was by my side. Soon I learned that being a pastor required you to live by faith, trust God, do without many of life's pleasures and invest most of your time into others. This lifestyle was not matching my ambition or my nature. Forty eight years later and I am still working out the kinks. I'm not complaining, sorry or trying to gain sympathy, just letting you know that I am still a work in progress.

S.O.A.P.

1-22-2015      Romans 5:12

S.       12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

O.      Sin is common to all.

A.      The war of sin rages in every life. We are born under sin because of Adam. We can be victorious over sin because of Jesus. The war will be won or lost depending on which of these two men we follow. I chose Jesus.

    P.       Father; teach me how to live a life pleasing to you. Show me the path of righteousness and                 strengthen me that I could overcome my flesh. Amen.

Dry and dusty

The rain is falling on my thirsty land. Any day now I will be setting out onions in the garden. This rain will help my garden soil to be workable. Seems like some Christians I meet could use a little rain on their souls.

S.O.A.P.

1-21-2015      Romans 5:9-11

S.       9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

O.      Atonement comes by the blood of Jesus.

A.      Jesus has paid my sin-debt and empowers me to live a justified life. How can words express the gratitude, peace and joy that is mine today? The only word that covers this is Grace!

P.       Father; I stand before you today washed in the Blood of your son Jesus; whole, safe and complete. Thank you God for loving me. Amen.

 

Loved ones passing.

Yesterday was a hard day for me. Two members of my family passed away just hours apart. My uncle Bill and cousin Sonny played very important roles in my young life. Uncle Bill taught me how to box, and Sonny taught me how to laugh when I lost the fight. Bill's passing leaves dad as the last of his family. I know he is heart broken. Sonny, even though he is my cousin, is the same age as my father and was more like a brother to my dad when they were all young. I can't be there for my dad or any of the funerals because of distance and time. So I am praying for all me hurting loved ones. Please whisper a prayer for us all.

S.O.A.P.

1-20-2015      Romans 5:4-8

S.       4 and patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

O.      Growth comes to completion in salvation.

A.      I will experience each step of growth with anticipation and expectancy knowing that salvation is my goal. My salvation will not be complete until I am face to face with Jesus and hear him say “well done”.

    P.       Father; give me strength for the struggle and faith to endure. Amen.

Energy all gone!

Long hard days will either stretch us or shrink us. I have been stretched to my limit today. Not in a bad way. I have been on my feet for twelve hours. This is a miracle for me. So........Thank you Lord for the strength and endurance, Amen.

S.O.A.P.

1-19-2015      Romans 5:3

S.       3 and not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh                           patience;

O.      Tribulation can lead to patience.

A.      In the midst of a problem I seldom look far enough down the road to see added blessing resulting from my dilemma. But, God’s word is true and hind-sight reveals his handiwork does bring a new level of trust and patience when I listen and obey.

   P.       Father; walk with me and let me see your foot prints each step of the way. Amen.

My favorite day of the week!

Sunday morning is a happy time. Church, worship, fellowship and a slowed down day, what could be better? Hope to see you at Elm Grove today.

S.O.A.P.

1-18-2015      Romans 5:1-2

S.       1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

O.      A right stand with God is obtained through faith in Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. This brings joy and hope.

A.      Jesus gave his life for me on the cross. I ask for forgiveness of my sin based on that death. I live in hope and with great joy, knowing that I am his and he is mine.

P.       Father; I accept your gift of love even though I am unworthy. I give you my life, use me as you will. Amen.

Worry, Worry, Worry.

Worry is the "on ramp" to the freeway to failure. I can't change the weather, the national debt, radical Islam or your mind for you. What I can change is how much time I waste worrying over the impossible. I choose NOT to worry. I choose to trust God......Amen.

S.O.A.P.

1-17-2015      Romans 4:14-25

S.       14 for if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: 15 because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, 17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. 18 Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, so shall thy seed be. 19 And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb: 20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. 22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. 23 Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; 24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; 25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

O.      Like Abraham, all must come to God by faith and not by legalism.

A.      Faith must be used to increase and become strong. Faith will keep us from worry and fear and will aid us in our search for peace.

     P.       Father; my faith is in you, keep me from straying. Open my eyes and let me see. Amen.

Let's Fight!

If you fight, you will be hurt. The word tells us to fight the "good fight of faith". If we are trying to build or use faith, sooner or later, there will be pain, sorrow, loss, fear, doubt, worry, loneliness, and many other difficult circumstances. With all this in store, why bother? Every boxer knows that even in a winning match, some of the blows of the opponent will land. The reason we "bother"is found in the other side of the faith coin. Growing, alive and healthy faith brings: joy, health, friendship, gain, peace, love, power, overcoming, endurance, laughter, hope and praise. If I look at these two options ........ I fight!

S.O.A.P.

1-16-2015      Romans 4:4-13

S.       4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, 7 Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. 8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? For we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: 12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

O.      Outward legal signs (circumcision) are not tokens of righteousness. Abraham was found to be righteous before he was instructed concerning circumcision.

A.      Righteousness is from the inside out; first the soul, then the body. I must conquer the secret, hidden and concealed sin in my heart and mind. Then, and only then, can I conquer the outward sin. All this is done with prayer, study of the word and the aid of the Holy Spirit. God supplies the word and his Spirit so all I need to supply is: heart, mind, hands ……… ME!

P.       Father; I come humbly before you seeking a full surrender, victory over sin, strength to endure and joy for the journey. I bring you my all: body, soul and spirit. Use me as you will. Amen. 

Representing Jesus

I represent Christ in all I do. This should be our goal and desire each day as we go through life. I am no longer my own, I have been bought with a very high price; the Blood of Jesus. The very best that God had to offer, his son, took my place on the cross and paid the ultimate price to redeem me. I will live in gratitude and appreciation and represent myself in a Christ-like manner.

S.O.A.P.

1-15-2015      Romans 4:1-3

S.       1 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? 2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. 3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

O.      Believing brought Abraham into a righteous place before God, not his works.

A.      Works are a natural by-product of real faith. Righteousness comes from believing; in God, Jesus as the son of God and in the plan of redemption by grace. If I truly believe these things then my life will be filled with the “works” or righteousness.

P.       Father; I believe you are who the Bible says you are; you are my God, my Saviour, my King, my Lord, creator and Redeemer. Thank you God for loving me! Amen. 

Famous Last Words!

Famous last words of a "redneck"; Hey y'all watch this! Trying to out-do the other fellow will often have poor results. The only guy I need to out-do is the guy I was yesterday.

S.O.A.P.

1-14-2015      Romans 3:28-31

S.       28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. 29 Is he the God of the Jews only? Is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: 30 seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. 31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

O.      It is faith that justifies, whether Jew or Gentile.

A.      Faith comes from God and is given to all, how we use that faith will determine our eternal destiny. I choose to invest my faith into Gods perfect will for my life.

P.       Father; increase my faith as I exercise my spiritual man to bring my physical man into subjection to your perfect will. Amen.

Sin is not a secret!

Do I own this "stuff" or does it own me? Cleaning out the garage should be rewarded with some kind of national honor! How do I manage to haul off three truck-loads of, I don't need this any more, and still have more than the garage can hold? I still park two cars in this garage so I only use the three walls for storage. One wall gets Christmas decorations, another is for kitchen overflow and the last is a catch all for yard and garden stuff. Listen to me complaining when I should be praying; Lord teach me to get along with less, Amen. Lord, deliver me from the need to horde and if greed is my base desire, clean my spiritual garage, Amen.

S.O.A.P.

1-13-2015      Romans 3:19-27

S.       19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

O.      Old Testament law reveals sin but Jesus reveals righteousness. All are under sin and only faith in Jesus will justify.

A.      The knowledge of sin is resident in my soul and every soul. Man doesn’t need a law to reveal sin to him. The Holy Spirit is our spokesman, speaking directly to our heart. We can resist, explain away, ignore, close our mind and in a thousand ways block our knowledge of sin but nothing will change the fact that we do know what sin really is. If we don’t accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour we will receive the results of our sin. Listen to the voice of God, admit, confess and convert.

P.       Father; speak again to me and any who rea this prayer about the dangers of sin and its results. I seek to be clean in your eyes and I long for the words, “well done”. Amen.  

The Thief

The thief comes to kill, steal and destroy. The thief is busy around the world. Murder in the name of God by the hundreds. Rape and humiliation and total disregard for women. The destroying of civility between peoples. These are the daily news stories, not Old Testament references. How long will God hold back his wrath? How long until he puts an end to this barbaric, animal-like insanity? This God they serve is not the God of the Bible. These deluded, blind and deceived people are pawns of satan, the thief. satan has always wanted to be god and now he has many whom he has deceived but what is their reward for following him; hate, destruction, murder and a doomed soul. I pray for these poor souls that their eyes will be opened. As Jesus was hanging on the cross he said; "Father, forgive them, they know not what they do". I pray; Father; forgive.

S.O.A.P.

1-12-2015      Romans 3:9-18

S.       9 What then? Are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; 10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: 11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. 12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. 13 Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: 14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: 15 Their feet are swift to shed blood: 16 Destruction and misery are in their ways: 17 And the way of peace have they not known: 18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.

O.      The character of sinful men who do not respect God or anyone else.

A.      I want my legacy to be completely the opposite of the one described here. I want my respect of God and love for my fellow man to shine bright well after I am dead and buried. I love God and I want my actions to prove it.

P.       Father; may I be your hand of mercy, extended to every person I contact today. Help me show love to all, even the wicked. Amen.   

Jesus will return!

Was Jesus a real person? Was he born of a virgin? Did he live a sinless life? Did he die on a Cross? Was he resurrected on the third day? Is he going to return? To each question I say yes! Each Sunday I gather together with others that believe the same as I do, we call it church. I like church. I worship, fellowship, preach and pray, receive encouragement, hug and enjoy my relationship with God and my fellow Christians. I don't enjoy everything that happens on Sunday, or should I say "doesn't happen". Each Sunday I look around and I notice empty seats, empty because so many Christians have stopped going to service. The reason I mention this today is because of the last question asked in the beginning of this post. "Is he going to return?" Jesus will return!  And according to the Bible he is coming to "catch away his church (bride)" and begin judgement upon those left behind. Please come to service today, come and let's prepare to welcome the return of Jesus.

S.O.A.P.

1-11-2015       Romans 3:5-8

S.       5 But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man) 6 God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world? 7 For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner? 8 And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? Whose damnation is just!

O.      No sin will ever be justified; no amount of wrong is tolerated because of a good outcome. God treats all sin in the same manner.

A.      God hates sin, so I must hate sin, all sin, mine and that of others.

    P.       Father; teach me how to hate sin and never hate the sinner. Teach me true forgiveness that I                may forgive as you forgive. Amen.

What is your WORD worth?

A man should keep his word. If he does not, he is dishonest. Harsh words that are much easier to say than do. I have lived with my own failures long enough that I know that there are times when keeping your word is just impossible. What do we do then? I have been taking inventory on this subject and found a solution that works in most cases. I don't make promises as often, I pray before I "give my word" and I make every effort to be sure that the promises I do make will bring attention to God instead of Bill. I am even applying this to my credit usage. Something to think about because God says; Let your yes, be yes and your no, be no.

S.O.A.P.

1-10-2015       Romans 3:1-4

S.       1 what advantage then hath the Jew? Or what profit is there of circumcision? 2 Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.3 for what if some did not believe? Shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? 4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, that thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.

O.      God’s law is given to man through the Jews beginning at Abraham and then in all generations since. The unbelief of some Jews does not cancel the promises of God.

A.       Man’s failure to obey God’s law does not alter that law. I must live an obedient life to the laws of God. When I slip and fail I must return to grace as quickly as possible. I want to be an over comer in all things.

P.       Father; thank you for grace, mercy and long-suffering patience with man. I am incomplete without them. Hold my hand and be my strength. Amen.

So Simple

These sub zero temperatures remind me of Sunday morning, right after we sing our last song, give our offerings and share the last testimony. Preaching starts and some folks go into a deep freeze. Don't get me wrong, I'm not judging anybody, most people don't even realize that this is happening. We hear the word sin, or law, or commitment and our brain tells us; we know all about this. We do hear about these things often, don't we. So why do we fail to put them into actions as often as we do?
Application is the problem! For over twenty years I have used a proverb of my own creation; "you ARE what you DO, and you DO what you ARE". Simple; you LIVE what you believe, if you don't live it, you don't believe it.

S.O.A.P.

1-9-2015         Romans 2:21-29

S.       21 Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?22 Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?23 Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God?24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.25 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?27 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

O.      It is not the outward showing of obedience to the law that brings righteousness; it is the obedience of the heart that God calls righteous.

A.      It is my heart that I must keep clean first. God starts me on this path at the cross through salvation, teaches me 

          his way from the Bible, aids me with the Holy Spirit and empowers me with faith. Sin is born in the heart before it appears in my hands or spouts from my lips.

   P.       Father; I open my heart, mind and soul to you. Clean and keep me on the path of righteousness. Amen. 

46TH Wedding Anniversary

Forty six years ago, on a Wednesday night before evening service, Nancy and I stood before the pastor and became husband and wife. I was eighteen and she was sixteen and most people thought we were too young to get married, that it would not last, well they were wrong! I am married to the most wonderful woman in the world, She is beautiful, talented, strong, hard working, intelligent and best of all she is a woman of God. Nancy is also a fun person to be around and we laugh and smile and our days are filled with joy. I thank God that he gave me a perfect wife. Happy Anniversary, Sweetheart, I love you more with each passing year.

S.O.A.P.

1-8-2015         Romans 2: 12-20

S.       12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.14 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.17 Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God,18 And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;19 And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness,20 An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law.

O.      The Jews were to follow all the law, exclude nothing, and those acts would be counted as righteousness and they could teach or lead other peoples. If they avoid any part they would be guilty of sin before God.

A.      God’s covenant with me is sealed by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross when I follow all of his commands. Like the Jewish law, if I turn my back on any one of his commands I will be guilty. This is an “all or nothing” covenant; God commands, I obey.

P.       Father; give me insight into your word as I hide it in my heart. Reveal my every sin and weakness by your Holy Spirit. I cannot overcome sin alone; I come to you in the name of your son, Jesus, for direction, cleansing, and overcoming power to fully walk in your perfect will. Amen.

Carry the Cross!

Jesus carried that heavy cross as long as he could. When his strength was gone another man was compelled to carry it for him. Will I carry the cross? Will I help Jesus finish his work? I have nothing of worth to give to the Lord. I will give him my love and my life. Oh God; help me carry the cross!

S.O.A.P.

1-7-2014         Romans 2:6-11

S.       6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds:7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.

O.      A man’s works will judge him, not God. All men stand before God equally.

A.      If my works will judge me I must keep my actions holy, I must avoid sin (repent quickly when I do) and invite the Holy Spirit to be my guide and comforter.

P.       Father; I want to stand before you and hear the words “well done”. I put my trust in Jesus and fall before you in worship. Lead me today into your perfect will. Amen.

Change is Good

Today I will say goodbye to a special blessing of my life. Change is coming so quickly this year that my head is spinning. Change requires adjustment, re-thinking, evaluation and some rearranging. For many years I have kept old cars around, repairing, upgrading and certainly enjoying driving them around. Today I deliver my favorite old car to it's new owner. I have my memories and lots of pictures to cherish and enjoy. May the new owner be blessed with joy as I have been. Goodbye old friend. (sorry for the mush, just feeling a little sentimental today)

S.O.A.P.

1-6-2014         Romans 2:1-5

S.       1Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things.3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;

O.      God judges in truth and is patient and kind thus giving sinful man opportunity to repent. When we judge others and are guilty of the same things our judgment will condemn us.

A.      My judgment will be of myself and the parameters of that judgment will be God’s Holy Word. I will not throw stones!

P.       Father; reveal your judgments to my mind and soul. Lead me and keep me strong in the faith as I lean on you. Help me to see others through your eyes and love with a holy love. Amen. 

deep hurt

Praying for a Brother today that has a deep hurt. Asking God to lift him past this pain and set him free. He has carried this for many years and it effects every area of his life. He has a wall built around him and he keeps everyone out, even God. My heart breaks for this man, he is alone, in fear and knows little comfort or peace. God; please hear my plea; set my brother free and love him through me. Show him that the lie he is hearing is from satan (I never use a capital for satan), the father of all deception. Amen.

S.O.A.P.

1-5-2015         Romans 1:25-32

S.       25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

O.      These sins are unto death. No person active in these sins will be considered holy, righteous or a child of God. God calls them “reprobate”.

A.      This list of sins describes common practices of everyday America. I must warn as many as I can of the possibility of being condemned by God. Man must come to the place where he hates sin, all sin and especially sexual sin. The love of God is the only way of being set free from these sins. Please Lord; show the world your love through me.

P.       Father in Heaven; reach out to the people trapped in sexual sin and show them a way out, a path of deliverance, a holy and pure standing in your eyes. Keep me from being judgmental, hard or self-righteous when ministering to these deceived individuals. Amen.

Finding Grace

How long will God hold back judgement? As I read the old testament I see that God was angry at man and decided to erase him altogether. But one man was given special consideration because he was different. How was he different? He had developed a relationship with God, he respected God, he made acceptable sacrifices unto God, he did not practice sin and he listened to God! So God spared him (and his family) as he erased everyone else. Looking at the condition of the world today I am amazed that God has held back his wrath for so long. Just for the record; I am going to learn and practice Noah's relationship secrets.......and find Grace in the eyes of the Lord.

S.O.A.P.

1-4-2015         Romans 1:18-24

S.       18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:21Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

O.      God will not let wickedness, sin or self-pleasing go un-punished. He will not tolerate idol worship.

A.      I must guard against self-indulgence of every type or kind. Self-indulgence is idol worship and I am the idol. My focus will be on God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit as my teachers, leaders and protectors of my life. I will live to please God and bring my body into subjection and surrender to God’s will for me.

    P.     Father; without your help I can’t live a holy life, think holy thoughts or be a holy man.                        Cleans me, fill me, lead me and hold my hand that I do not stumble or fail. May the world see              Jesus living through me, Amen.

Times of testing are opportunities to either serve God or serve yourself. The more we serve God the more we speak his word, the more we sacrifice the more likely we are to win another soul into the Kingdom of God. What most people need in this world is a relationship with God. We can aid them in this discovery by being living examples, being consistent, loving, sin-avoiding and Christ-like. You know what I am saying......."Be a Christian", real, happy, and holy.

S.O,A.P.

1-3-2015         Romans 1:16-17

S.       16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

O.      Declare the gospel and find faith.

A.      I will live, speak and be a living example of faith. I will learn to think, feel and react to life’s events as Jesus did when he walked as a man. I will use the gospel as my guide and rule of life and share with as many as possible.

P.     Father; I cannot find my way alone, be my guide, teacher and friend and may the world see 

        you in me. Amen.

Praying for others.

You load sixteen tons, what do get, another day older and deeper in debt, Saint Peter don't call me cause I can't go, I  owe my soul to the company store. Woke up singing that this morning. Don't know why, not even heard it in many years. Praying this morning for all the soldiers around the world. Praying for everyone that may read this page; God bless you with health and give you extra Joy! Amen.

S.O.A.P.

1-2-2015         Romans 1:8-15

S.       8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;10 Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;12 That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

O.      Paul prays for the Christians at Rome and tells of his desire to minister among them.

A.      Praying for others is my primary reason to pray. When each of us prays for the others we learn not to be too self-centered, self-important and selfish. As I pray for you and you pray for me all our needs are brought before God and we also learn love for one another.

P.       Father; teach me to pray as I should, to focus outside myself. Amen. 

Romans

Trouble, trials and a stretching of our faith on this first day of the new year. Both daughters in hospital and wife and I are trying to cover all the needs as well as possible. Nancy spent the night with Christi and for the first time in our 46 years of married life we were apart on new years eve. Roads may be icing over and we need to get back and forth. We will find out if I can still drive in bad weather. Pray protecting Angels over me Please. God gave us a wonderful "Last" service at church last night, sweet spirit and many wonderful testimonies on last years blessings.
Blessed New Year and welcome 2015!

S.O.A.P.

1-1-2015              Romans 1:1-7

S.       1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

O.      Paul’s salutation to the Saints at Rome and his declaration of Jesus the Christ.

A.      Paul speaks of several important aspects in this salutation: He identifies Jesus in all his power and glory, declares peace to his readers and calls them saints. I need to remember every day that I am in Jesus. I am not a looser, a failure, a sinner; I am a holy follower of Jesus Christ, an overcomer. I am a saint, made so by the cleansing blood of Calvary.

P.       Father; cleans my memories of the stain of sin. Renew a right spirit within me and reveal the mind of Christ to me. Amen.