27 REASONS WE SHOULD TRUST GOD

WE SHOULD TRUST IN GOD BECAUSE OF “WHO HE IS”, and “WHAT HE HAS DONE!

1.    We should trust in God… for our Salvation

 Genesis 49:18 (NLT)  

I trust in you for salvation, O Lord!

2.    We should trust in God… because He is All-Powerful (Omnipotent)

1 Cor. 2:5 (NLT) 

    I did this so that you might trust the power of God rather than human wisdom.

3.    We should trust in God… because of his Miraculous Works

Psalm 73:28 (NKJV)  

But it is good for me to draw near to God;

I have put my trust in the Lord God,

That I may declare all Your works.

4.    We should trust God…because of He is our Protector

Psalm 18:2 (NKJV) 

    The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer;

    My God, my strength, in whom I will trust;

    My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Nahum 1:7 (NLT) 

    The Lord is good. When trouble comes, he is a strong refuge. And he knows everyone who trusts in him.

5.    We should trust God because… He Hears our Cries

1 Chron. 5:20 (NKJV)  

And they were helped against them, and the Hagrites were delivered into their hand, and all who were with them, for they cried out to God in the battle. He heeded their prayer, because they put their trust in Him.

6.    We should trust God… because He Delivers us from our Enemies

Psalm 37:40 (NKJV) 

    And the Lord shall help them and deliver them;

    He shall deliver them from the wicked,

    And save them,

    Because they trust in Him.

7.    We should trust God…because He is our Helper

Psalm 115:9 (NLT) 

        O Israel, trust the Lord!

            He is your helper; he is your shield.

8.    We should trust God… because He Brings us Success

2 Chron. 20:20 (NLT) 

Early the next morning the army of Judah went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. On the way Jehoshaphat stopped and said, "Listen to me, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be able to stand firm. Believe in his prophets, and you will succeed."

9.    We should trust God… because He is our Defender

Psalm 5:11 (NKJV)  

But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You;

Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them;

Let those also who love Your name

Be joyful in You.

10.    We should trust in God… because of His Mercy

Psalm 32:10 (NKJV) 

    Many sorrows shall be to the wicked;

    But he who trusts in the Lord, mercy shall surround him.

11.   We should trust in God… because of His Strength

Psalm 20:7 (NKJV)  

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses;

But we will remember the name of the Lord our God.

12.   We should trust God because… He has Demonstrated His Faithfulness

Psalm 37:3 (NKJV) 

    Trust in the Lord, and do good;

    Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.

                   

13.   We should trust God… because of His Righteousness

Psalm 31:1 (NKJV)  

In You, O Lord, I put my trust;

Let me never be ashamed;

Deliver me in Your righteousness.

14.    We should trust God…because of His Goodness

Psalm 34:8 (NKJV) 

    Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good;

    Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

15.     We should trust in God… because His Word is True

Psalm 119:42 (NKJV) 

    So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me,

    For I trust in Your word.

16.    We should trust in the Lord… because He brings us Joy

Psalm 40:3 (NKJV) 

    He has put a new song in my mouth--

    Praise to our God;

    Many will see it and fear,

    And will trust in the Lord.

1 Peter 1:8 (NLT) 

    You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him, you trust him; and even now you are happy with a glorious, inexpressible joy.

17.    We should trust in the Lord… because He is our Provider

Psalm 34:10 (NKJV) 

    The young lions lack and suffer hunger;

    But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.

18.    We should trust God… because He is our Redeemer

Psalm 34:22 (NKJV)  

The Lord redeems the soul of His servants,

And none of those who trust in Him shall be condemned.

19.    We should trust God… because He Calms our Fears

Psalm 56:3-4 (NLT)  

But when I am afraid,

I put my trust in you.

4O God, I praise your word.

I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?

What can mere mortals do to me?

20.   We should trust God… because He is our Hope

Jeremiah 17:7 (NKJV) 

    "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord,

    And whose hope is the Lord.

21.    We should trust God… because He Cares for Us

Psalm 112:7 (NLT)  

They do not fear bad news;

they confidently trust the Lord to care for them.

22.    We should trust God… because He is Trustworthy

Psalm 119:138 (NLT) 

        Your decrees are perfect;

            they are entirely worthy of our trust.

23.    We should trust in the Lord… because He is our Security

Psalm 125:1 (NLT) 

        Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion;

            they will not be defeated but will endure forever.

24.    We should trust God… because He Loves Us

Psalm 143:8 (NLT)  

Let me hear of your unfailing love to me in the morning,

for I am trusting you.

Show me where to walk,

for I have come to you in prayer.

25.   We should trust in God… because He Directs Us

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)  

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him

And He will direct your paths.

26.    We should trust God… because He Gives us Peace

Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV) 

    You will keep him in perfect peace,

    Whose mind is stayed on You,

    Because he trusts in You.

27.    We should trust God because… He Rewards Us

Hebrews 10:35 (NLT) 

    Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord, no matter what happens. Remember the great reward it brings you!

Purple w/lyrics by Donnie McClurkin

Detoured But Not Deserted

Finding God's Presence at Every Bend in the Road
by Dr. David Jeremiah

If we could map our routes through life, we would opt for a smooth ribbon of freeway, with no bumps, construction zones, or detours. But life has a way of taking unexpected turns—forcing us to take alternate routes.

A few years ago, at a routine doctor's examination, I was diagnosed with lymphoma—a cancer that attacks the lymphatic system. Without warning, my life took a serious and unplanned detour. It came out of left field, unannounced, and unexpected. In that moment, I knew the road ahead would not be easy.

These kinds of moments confront us with life's harshest realities. They force us to move in directions we never wanted to go and would have gone to great lengths to avoid because they are characterized by pain and suffering. They confront us in the form of death, divorce, illness, disease, accidents and more. Most of the time they change our lives forever.
But friend, no matter what we are facing as we look down that long stretch of road, God offers hope.

WE'RE NOT ALONE
During our darkest moments, God is there. When we are at our lowest point, a place where even those closest to us cannot walk with us, it is God who walks at our side. "Yea, thought I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me," declares Psalm 23:4.
In the depths of discouragement, when we're so depressed we're ready to flee all human companionship, God is the only One who will not let us go. "Where can I go from your Spirit?" David ponders in Psalm 139:7-10. "Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me."

WE CAN TAKE COMFORT IN HIS WORD
So how do we feel the presence of God when we so desperately need it—when we feel devastated and deserted? The psalmist tells us that in our very lowest moments, God's Word has power to refresh us. "My soul clings to the dust," he says. "Revive me according to Your word." (Psalm 119:25).
When we read the Bible through the lens of pain, we see God's handwriting with fresh, poignant meaning. His words can breathe hope back into our damaged lives.

GOD CARES THAT WE SUFFER
Our sufferings do matter to God. In fact, Scripture tells us we are exceedingly precious in His sight. Zechariah 2:8 says, "He who touches you touches the apple of His eye."
Many of he sufferings that come our way are not from the hands of God; they only pass through His hands. And in that passing, God takes full measure of them. He takes careful note of any pain being inflicted on the apple of His eye.

GOD WILL GIVE GRACE
As God permits pain in the lives of His children, He also bestows equal measures of grace never experienced outside of suffering. Heartache can result in intimacy with God. In trials and tragedies, we enter into a fellowship with Christ's sufferings.

You can't always prepare for life's disruptive moments nor can you always avoid them. You may never even discover the answers to all your questions. But this you can know: God is with you. He wants to wrap you in His presence where you can feel His love. And, as you take an unexpected detour, no matter how deserted you may feel, you'll discover grace you never knew before. That grace will take you through your journey.

His Will by Destiny Praise

This Song Was so Nice...I had to Post it Twice!

Be Encouraged!

It Happened to Me

(by Darryl Harris)

Blindsided! That’s how I describe it. Like an unsuspecting quarterback, blitzed from the backside by a fiery linebacker with visions of destruction, it hit me.

Of all persons I suspected I would be the least vulnerable. For years I had viewed myself as one of God’s dispensers of truth. Bible student and teacher. Preacher in waiting. Pastor to be. Encourager and calming influence in the midst of a storm, were all attributes I believed accurately described my life and demeanor. Not that I held any of the before descriptions with pride. I thought I realized that none of us can glory in only what God has made us. They were just a manifestation of a life who had been touched in so many ways by God’s grace and saving hand.

Thanksgiving flowed from my lips because of the manifold blessings God had showered on my life. Who could ask for more. A loving wife and three beautiful children who make each day a privilege to watch them grow and develop. Parents who sacrificed so my dreams could come true. A six-figure income following a satisfying athletic career. Promotions, accolades, and recognition from peers, as well as the perks of business success. Exotic travel to exciting destinations, posh hotels, and exquisite cuisine, were all part of the benefit package God allowed me to partake.

What makes this all the more shocking is that I thought I had it all in it’s proper perspective. “The Lord is number one in my life” I often proclaimed. I recognized that it was Jesus Christ who made all these things possible, and encouraged others to trust in his saving power, because he had “a wonderful plan for your life too.”

Then on March 25, 1996 it happened! I made the mistake I had so often warned others. Like Peter, and Thomas, I took my eyes off of the only one who could hold me. In the midst of a painful trial, I took my eyes off of Jesus, and for the first time “entertained doubt”. It’s painful to admit, but I doubted if Jesus would help me through the trial. I even doubted if this place called heaven, this promised place of eternal life, existed. Living in the horizontal will do that to you. And what I soon found out was that doubt’s twin brother for a Christian is misery!

Was this the total rejection of the truth I had so boldly proclaimed? No, I knew deep inside that only God could change my circumstances, but I entertained it. I played the “what if” mind games that lead only to depression and hopelessness. I gave the enemy and opportunity to flood my mind with despair, because that is what life is without God.

Maybe it was the excruciating pain in my body. Maybe it was the medication which clouded my mind and vision. Maybe it was the reality that I could not even control my next breath, and that life was indeed a “vapor” Maybe it was not knowing if life would ever be “the same” again. But it blindsided me. For the first time in my life I felt as if I was falling with nothing to catch me.

But God! If you don’t remember anything I say, remember those two words. But God truly is a God full of grace, and rich in mercy. My problem was not the size of my circumstances, but the size of my God. What I now realize is that I had entered into a process where God was taking me through something, so I could become something. How could I talk about faith and courage to my children if I never had to exercise it myself? How could I minister to those who hurt, if I never hurt? Whatever lay ahead, I needed to realize it ultimately will be for my good.

But God in His mercy, has shown me a wife, who has portrayed “supernatural” strength, through the painful loss of her best friend, her mom. I marvel as she continues life through the pain, with the confident assurance that they will be reunited as promised in God’s Word.

But God in His mercy, has shown me a mother, who despite medical problems that would have crippled even the strongest individuals, continues on her mission of unconditional support for her family. Who listened to my problems when no one else would. Who never gave up because she wanted us to have a chance to see some of our dreams come true. Headlines won’t proclaim her accomplishments or remarkable endurance, but a “crown of life” for those who faithfully endure hardships, truly awaits her in heaven. Her legacy has already touch several generations. She taught me to enjoy the good moments and thank God for life itself.

But God in His mercy, showed me a sister whose faith grew in adversity. Who refused to allow bitter disappointment and disillusionment overtake her. God used her to bring me words of hope and life. I am eternally grateful for her restoring my perspective.

Throughout my physical, mental, and emotional struggle, God simply continued to whisper two phrases to my heart, “believe in me, trust in me”. I’ve discovered, only faith and trust brings peace in the midst of adversity.

Doubt is without question a very human response, but it is also sin. The recognition of your ability to fall headlong into sins such as pride and doubt is truly humbling. When a quarterback is blindsided, the first thing he asks is “where was my left tackle.” Thank God, when I look back, I see that my left tackle, Jesus Christ, was always there. It was me who momentarily scrambled out of the pocket, when the heat was on, and got sacked! Thank God, this backside hit did not permanently injure me. I can still get back in the game!

Will I be blindsided again? Probably. In what form? I don’t know. However, I’ll never fall flat if I remember theses two words.....................But God..................But God...............But God! It’s only then, that you can answer His question, do you trust me, and do you believe?

DON'T GIVE UP! IT AIN'T OVER UNTIL GOD SAYS IT'S OVER!
dedicated to my friend Pastor Darryl Baker of Church of the Harvest in Columbus, Ohio

It Ain't Over by Maurette Brown Clark

How Great Is Our God

A team of astronomers from the University of Minnesota say they have found a giant hole in the universe. The void they’ve discovered is in a region of sky southwest of Orion. The mysterious empty place has no galaxies, stars, or even dark matter. One of the astronomers said that the hole in the heavens is a billion light-years across.

When I try to capture the meaning of such immensity, something happens to me. The fight goes out of me. I don’t know what to do with my thoughts. Who can relate to the magnitude of such emptiness?

Then I remember what the Lord did with Job. He drew His suffering servant’s attention to the same part of the night sky. Using the region of the constellation Orion along with the wonders of the weather and the natural world, the Lord brought Job to the end of his reasonings and arguments (Job 38:31; 42:5-6).

In the presence of such wonder, I want to join Job in collapsing before the Lord in surrender to His inexpressible power and wisdom. I want to let go of my anxiety, my anger, and my resistance to the mysterious leading of God. I want to claim my only confidence as being in the immeasurable greatness of our God. — Mart De Haan of Day of Discovery

How Great is Our God by Chris Tomlin

NEW YEAR 2010

In 2010 in all of your “changes” make sure you ask the Lord to:

“Change my thinking”… Philippians 4:8-9
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

Whatever is true…We are to program our minds with things that are true
* Jesus loves me
* He died for me
* He rose from the dead
* He has promised me eternal life
* He has forgiven me from all my sins
Romans 8:1 – “there is therefore NO CONDEMNATION for those in Christ Jesus”

Whatever is noble…
* He called me to the ministry
* He wants me to shepherd hundreds of people
* He wants me to lead my family in a way that honors Christ

Whatever is right…
* Run from sin
* Forgive others
* Love my wife
* Respect authority
* Give
* Lead with integrity

Whatever is pure…
* Personal holiness… keep my mind and body clean
* Love of others
* Servant leadership
* Helping those in need
* Putting Christ first

Whatever is lovely…
* God’s creation
* Beautiful sunrise and sunset
* Giving to others
* Helping the poor

Whatever is admirable…
* Helping others in need
* Calling the sick
* Praying for those in need
* Trying to make a difference in this city
* Putting the needs of others before yourself
* Giving beyond your means
* Rejoicing in trials
* Serving for the glory of Christ alone

Whatever is excellent…
* Doing your best at all times
* Working for Christ
* Our Care ministry
* So many serving with excellence

Whatever is praiseworthy…
* The matchless name of Jesus everyday!

No matter what you are going through, will you change your thinking and trust God in 2010?

listen to James Fortune and FIYA - "I Will Trust You"

How Can I Know this Jesus?

Psychologists have long known that every person has two great longings and inward needs. The first is to be loved, and the second is to love. But when pressures and heartaches come into our lives, many give up any hope of ever finding love.

The tragedy is that we often look in the wrong places to fill this deep, deep need and longing. Some substitute lust for love. Others pursue material things or superficial relationships - all in the futile attempt to fill a God-shaped vacuum in the human heart.

But there is good news! There is a love worth finding and a love worth sharing. The Bible says, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). On the cross of Christ, God's mighty love was revealed and offered unconditionally to all who would be saved.

Do you long to know this mighty love? Then I need to ask you the most important question you'll ever be asked: Do you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God loves you, that your sins are forgiven, and that you are saved and on your way to heaven?

The great news is, you can know! Let me share with you how to discover the greatest love worth finding.

Admit Your Sin

First, you must admit that you are a sinner. The Bible says, "There is none righteous, no, not one" (Romans 3:10). "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).

It is our sin that separates us from God and from fulfilling our deepest needs and longings. Sin is an offense against God that carries a serious penalty. According to Romans 6:23, "The wages of sin is death [eternal separation from the love and mercy of God]."

Abandon Your Efforts

Second, you must abandon any efforts to save yourself. If we could save ourselves, Jesus' death would have been unnecessary!

Even "getting religion" cannot get you to heaven. The Bible says it is "not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His [God's] mercy He saved us" (Titus 3:5). Salvation is by God's grace, "not of works, lest any man should boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Acknowledge Christ's Payment

What you cannot do for yourself, Jesus Christ has done for you! "But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). He died on the cross for you and then rose from the dead to prove that His payment was acceptable to God. But you must acknowledge and believe this fact. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved" (Acts 16:31).

Accept Christ as Your Savior

Salvation is God's gift to you. "The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23). When someone offers you a priceless gift, the wisest thing you can do is accept it! This very moment, you can receive Christ's gift of salvation by sincerely praying this simple prayer from your heart:

Dear God, I know that I am a sinner. I know that You love me and want to save me. Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God, who died on the cross to pay for my sins. I believe God raised You from the dead. I now turn from my sin and, by faith, receive You as my personal Lord and Savior. Come into my heart, forgive my sins, and save me, Lord Jesus. In Your name I pray, Amen.


Message by the late Adrian Rogers ("Prince of Preachers")

Miami Signs Impressive 2010 Class

My Christmas Present for 2009

OXFORD, Ohio — Miami University Head Men’s Basketball Coach Charlie Coles announced today the signing of three student-athletes to national letters of intent. Inked to join the RedHawks in 2010-11 are 6-foot-8 forward Jon Harris (Twinsburg, Ohio/Twinsburg), 6-foot, 180-pound point guard Quinten Rollins (Wilmington, Ohio/Wilmington) and 6-foot-4, 200-pound Josh Sewell (Louisville, Ky./Trinity).

Jonathan Harris averaged 14.5 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 3.0 apg, 1.55 spg and 2.2 bpg as a junior for Twinsburg High School. He helped the team to a 14-6 league record in 2008-09 and was a first-team all-conference selection and earned all-district accolades.

“If someone would ask me who has the most professional potential of any guy that I’ve signed since (Wally) Szczerbiak, it would be Jon Harris,” remarked Coles. “He’s 6-foot-8, very thin, but very skilled. He shoots an outside jump shot and really can shoot the ball. Plus, unlike most 6-foot-8 kids, he can get the shot off on his own. He doesn’t need a screen. His biggest drawback right now is physical strength. It may take him a month or two when he gets here, but there’s no doubt in my mind that that young man is headed for basketball success.”

Charlie Coles - Head Basketball Coach, Miami-Ohio Redhawks (MAC Conference)

Jon Harris with a slam. "Play for Him" .

Love is an Action by Priscilla Shrier

John 3:16

For this is the way God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

The Father loved you enough to give—not just some insignificant treasure but His most valued one—Christ, His son. Love is much more than a feeling. It is an action that is sacrificial in nature. Do you love your husband? Your children? Your mother? Your father? Do you love them enough to give not your leftovers but the best of what you have to offer of your time, your resources, your energy or your effort?

Make sure that those you say you love can point to an action that proves it.


DAD'S DO YOU LOVE YOUR DAUGHTERS LIKE THIS SONG?

Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman

Why Bad Things Happen to Good People by Pastor Myles McPherson of the Rock Church, San Diego

* Job was blameless and upright and shunned evil (v. 1)
* God Himself admired the faithful qualities of Job's character (v. 8)
* Job had a large family of ten children (and as Miles interpreted, Job and his wife got along well) (v. 2)
* Job was a wealthy man (v. 3)
* Job's family members spent time together regularly, and thus probably had close-knit relationships (v. 4)

Read Job 1:1-2:1

1. Good people regularly pray for others.

So it was, when the days of feasting had run their course, that Job would send and sanctify them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, "It may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts." Thus Job did regularly. Job 1:5

Part of Job's faithfulness included the habitual practice of interceding on behalf of his loved ones. We can learn from this, too, by praying for our family and friends regularly

2. Good people live constantly accused by Satan.

Satan wants to destroy the relationship that each of us has with God.

In verse 6, there takes place what Miles explained as something of a board meeting with God-and Satan shows up, too. During this interaction, God and Satan discuss Job and his faithfulness. Satan claims that Job only praises God because his life has been blessed, but that once his blessings are removed, Job will curse God (v. 9-11).

Satan wants to destroy the relationship that each of us has with God. That is his priority and his purpose: to rally as many people against God as he can. This is important for us to know because our faith isn't tested when things are good, when we have money, time and luxuries. Our faith is tested when things don't go our way. What happens when things don't go your way? Do you curse God?

God tells Satan not to lay a hand on Job, but that everything else in Job's life is fair game (v. 12). After this, a messenger suddenly comes to tell Job him that oxen and donkeys have been raided and all of his servants but one have been killed (v. 14-15). Next, another messenger comes to tell Job that his sheep and the servants tending them have all died (v. 16). Following this, Job loses his camels; the last of his wealth, and more servants (v. 17). As if this is not enough, another messenger then relays that all of Job's children have died (v. 18-19).

Have you ever wondered why bad things happen all at once? In Job's case, the devil's purpose is to push Job to the breaking point, so that he will finally renounce God.

3. Good people accept the good and the bad from God.

In only a few minutes, Job has lost everything. What is his response?

Life is not often fair, but God has a plan and a purpose for you. If you trust God, He will do miracles.

"…The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord." In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong. Job 1:21-22

Have you ever asked God, "Why? Why did You let this happen? Why did You allow this to be?" God will tell us to wait and see the whole story.

Check out the dynamic Myles McPherson, Pastor of The Rock Church, San Diego (former San Diego Charger)

The Light of Christmas

They dazzle our eyes! Brilliant color, illuminating the darkness. Neighborhoods everywhere sparkle and shimmer with an awesome display of beauty and light, which once again ushers in the Christmas season. Christmas without lights, wouldn’t seem like Christmas at all.

There is however a light shining this Christmas season that the world has chosen not to see. A light proclaimed by John when he declared that “Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light .......” John 3:19. A light rejected by many, but still shining for all to embrace. The greatest gift God has offered us this Christmas season, is the light of His Son, Jesus Christ. In John 8:12 Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

Has the “Light of Christmas”, Jesus Christ, pierced the darkness of your heart? Is He the “Eternal Lord” sitting on the throne of your life and heart, or is he just one of the glittering ornaments that decorates our lives only on special occasions? As we submit to His authority, follow His leading, and yield to His will, we begin to walk in the light, and cease stumbling through a world covered by darkness.

When we allow Jesus Christ to become Lord, the Christ of Christmas begins to shine in our life. Only Jesus can bring light to the darkness of despair. Only Jesus can bring light when our hopes dim, dreams fade, and we seem to lose our way. Only Jesus can bring light to a world that marvels at twinkling lights that only last a season, and rejects The Light that shines for eternity. This Christmas season, are you dazzled by the “Eternal Light” that leads to Eternal Life? He’s still shining in a dark world. Is He shining in you?

We’ll Walk in The Light
Beautiful Light.........
Jesus, the Light of the World

Amazing Grace by Whitley Phipps


HOW IS THE LIGHT OF CHRIST SHINING IN YOUR LIFE?

A PROMISE TO YOU AT CHRISTMAS

The downtown square was aglow with twinkling Christmas lights and festive holiday decorations. As I passed by admiring their splendor, I couldn’t help but notice the tiny Nativity scene tucked quietly away in the far corner of the square. Amidst the magnificent evergreens and brilliant displays, I realized that this scene (although biblically distorted) represented a miraculous birth prophesied long ago. Seven hundred years before the birth of Christ, God through the prophet Micah, foretold of this glorious occasion. “But you Bethlehem... though you are small among the clans of Israel, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times.” Micah 5:2 He was to be “Immanuel,” God with us. Jesus, who would “save his people from their sins.” Matt. 1:21-23. What we call Christmas is actually the fulfillment of God’s promise made years before.

As I left the scene on the square, amidst the sights and sounds of Christmas, thoughts of another wonderful promise of God flooded my mind. Awestruck, I pondered the promise of his coming return. Jesus said He was coming again! First for all believers... then finally in judgment! I Thess. 4:16-17 says “and the trump will sound... and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that we who are still alive and left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

Two promises. One fulfilled, one yet on the horizon. No longer was I looking at the magnificent trees, I was listening for that marvelous trump! No longer was I glancing at the wonderful lights, I was looking for our wondrous Lord! As you anxiously look forward to this Christmas day, remember that we have another glorious event to anticipate. Because he came to Bethlehem as promised, I’m fully confident he is coming again. Count on it... because “He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23.

MERRY CHRISTMAS,

HOW CAN YOU THANK GOD FOR HIS GREAT PROMISE TO YOU?

Awesome God by Helen Baylor

NO GREATER GIFT

It’s that time of year again. Jingle Bells ring as the cash registers sing. While we’re dreaming of a White Christmas, the merchants are dreaming of a green one. As children anxiously anticipate that extra special present, store owners drool over their extra profit. Even the threat of a sluggish economy cannot thwart a Christmas shopper’s pursuit of the “perfect” gift.

Motivated by many things, the world pursues Christmas giving with all the gusto of a wild stallion gone mad. By Christmas Eve, stockings will be stuffed, and trees will almost topple over with gifts that will likely please, but never satisfy. Missing amidst the beautifully arranged decorations will be God’s greatest gift made available to all mankind... Eternal Life through Jesus Christ. It comes in no wrapping paper, but it’s waiting to be opened. For those who have received it, the Christmas tree is never empty and the stockings are always full.

Jesus says in John 10:27-28, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them Eternal Life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” What a gift! What a God! What a Savior!

As you reflect on the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ this Christmas season, remember your priorities when you give and receive gifts. That watch from Macy’s may be marvelous. Those new jeans from Nordstroms may be wonderful. However, until you have received the glorious gift of Eternal Life through faith in our wonderful Savior Jesus Christ, Christmas really isn’t Christmas at all. God can give no greater gift. Let’s pray that many will know the joy of receiving it!

WHAT WAS YOUR GREATEST GIFT AT CHRISTMAS? HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO GOD'S GREATEST GIFT? WHO WILL YOU TELL THIS YEAR ABOUT GOD'S GREATEST GIFT?

A Christmas Dream

“Let Them See Jesus” ©

Oh how I love Christmas! Everywhere I look, I see the sights, and hear the sounds that make this season so special. Each evening, the moonlit night paints the perfect backdrop for the dazzling array of color that abounds throughout the city. Downtown at night is aglow with a rainbow of twinkling lights reflecting off the fresh-fallen powdered snow. Such is the spectacle that dreams are made of.

My dream… is that the world might understand that Jesus is the true light of Christmas! Joseph learned of that light when the Lord appeared to him in a dream saying “... that which is conceived of Mary is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matt. 2:20-21. My dream…is that just as the lights of the season shine brightly, our lights will so shine that men and women, boys and girls will see JESUS illuminated before them, in all His Glory! Let them see the darkness that is sin, and the light of salvation that is JESUS.

Why God has chosen to use us to reflect His light to a sin darkened world, I don’t know. Why He has scattered us, as the twinkling Christmas lights into the dark corners of His own creation, I’ll never understand. Nevertheless, we must shine wherever God has placed us, so men might see JESUS!

Let them see how we love one another! Let them see how we care for them! Let them see how Christ has changed our lives, our priorities, as well as our eternal direction!

In John 8:12 Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Let us shine, so many will come out of the darkness and into His marvelous light… the light of Christ…in whom dreams do come true!

Now Behold the Lamb by Kirk Franklin

Sailing in the Current by Tony Evans

Are you happy where you are? Happy with your job and your prospects for growth? Happy with your home life, whether married or single? Happy with the house you live in? Happy with the car you drive? Happy with much of anything right now in terms of where you’d like to be?

When God allowed a Babylonian king to swoop into Israel and cart the Hebrews off into exile, you can be sure they weren’t very happy. They’d lost their homes, lost their security, lost their ties to everything they owned. But as a way of further growing their character and painting their future with promise, God gave his people these instructions: Build houses there. Start a family there. Work for the good of your neighbors there. Make the most of this unwanted season by bearing fruit in an unhappy place.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” God told them, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). But don’t expect these promising days just to kick in as payback because you’ve been suffering for a while. Don’t expect to build much on the backs of your constant complaining. Commit to doing something special even in the midst of your current situation. And you’ll find that those “plans” for a “hope and a future” required the relationships you built, the work you invested, and the contentment you chose in the present. Dig in to dig out.

Pray this prayer: Lord, you know I’m not very happy right now. But I’m going to take your advice and let you grow me here. Thank you for not letting me waste my experiences—even these experiences.

Never Could Have Made It by Marvin Sapp

THE BOTTOM OF THE NINTH

This story is dedicated to all who have loved ones who have never accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. NEVER GIVE UP HOPE!

It was a cold raw early spring morning in Blacksburg, Virginia in 1980. As I arose from my bed and glanced out of the window I knew our baseball game against the Virginia Tech Hokies was in jeopardy A light but steady rain pounded its drumbeat against the ground, and the ominous cloud’s shadow invited another rainout. We were down to our final games in my senior season and each to me was precious. My professional aspirations which once burned bright now seemed to be a faint dream. But that didn’t matter. I was having the best season of my life! Every ball I hit seemed to be right on the button. I felt totally in control. Athletes call it “in the zone”, when the game seems to be played in slow motion and you are controlling the action. After three years of sitting on the bench, my time had arrived and I looked forward to sharing today’s game with my number one fan. They called him “Broadway John” for his flashy smile and lifestyle, but to me he was just Dad. I knew this dreary morning he was making a difficult nine hour drive just to get a final chance to see me play for the Bearcats of the University of Cincinnati. By the time he arrived on his journey from East Orange, New Jersey, the ballgame had called off and I saw the deep disappointment on his face. I spent time with Dad and his friend Larry who helped drive the long distance through the winding mountains to Blacksburg. As he left on his way home, I realized he would never again see me play the game he introduced to me as a young kid. He left without a complaint about the long drive back he now faced. It was then I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that my father loved me. As I faced “the bottom of the ninth” of my baseball career, despite the obstacles, my father was there for me. He didn’t see my baseball career end, but the fact that he cared enough to be with me, carried me through my final games and last out.

The flight was unusually bumpy to Tampa this evening. The hastily prepared trip had taken me through a lengthy delay in Detroit on my journey. The flight seemed to take an eternity. When I arrived on the ground in Tampa, I quickly grabbed my bags and headed to catch the slow shuttle service to my parents home in Brandon, Florida. When I arrived, the home looked marvelous as always. New plush carpet greeted me and a beautiful glistening chandelier lit my path. Mom was so peaceful and sweeter than even she normally is. As we toured the home we laughed and smiled. Our conversation was so upbeat that we forgot the time was late. We needed to go to bed now that it was past midnight. Tomorrow was a big day. Tomorrow we would see Dad.

The Florida sunshine was particularly bright that morning as we drove to the VA Hospital where my father was a patient. The elevator seemed awfully slow as we got off on the fourth floor and headed for room 431. As I walked in, he was in the far bed behind the curtain. When I stepped past the curtain and glanced at the bed, a sweet, familiar voice and toothy smile greeted me with just the simple word “Darryl”. With all the strength I could summon from the Lord, I smiled back at a man I hardly recognized and simply responded “Dad”. Cancer had taken its toll on the outward appearance, but disease could not touch his heart and spirit. For the next five days I had the God given privilege of sharing life stories with my number one fan. I knew deep in my soul it was once again “the bottom of the ninth”, but this time, I was there for him.

The call that everyone dreads came at 4:30am, on April 22, 1999. That day will always be special because it was also my twins birthday. It’s a call that can only mean one thing, and it did. The tender voices of my sister and mother had let me know his journey had ended peacefully. The game was over for “Broadway John”.

But this game did not end with a rainout. This is a game that ended with the Son-shining! Two months before he left us, what I thought was impossible, happened. After 43 years of faithfulness and selflessness from his wife. Through the desire of his children to see their father spend eternity with God. At the leading of his daughter, now focused on sharing the good news of the gospel, and by the amazing grace of God, in “the bottom of the ninth” inning of his life, John Harris invited Jesus Christ to be his Savior! Jesus Christ allowed my Dad to not only see a victory, but to be a victor!

He was there for me. I was there for him. Jesus is there for us. I thank the Lord for allowing “Broadway John” to finish the game with Him. Victory is so sweet, even if it comes in “the bottom of the ninth”!


Hallelujah I’m Free
Darryl Harris

ARE YOU THIS MAN?

God Has a Purpose for Your Life

When God called me to the ministry he called me through His Word! For nine years I did everything in my power to

Evade the call,
Elude the call,
Excuse the call,

but one passage in scripture I just could not avoid. They have become my life verses, and it’s in context of a powerful passage that has confirmed my call by Almighty God. That is Joshua 1:6-9:

6 "Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

My first questions always were…

Who…. Me?
Lead… Who?
Do… What?
After all…who cares?
Who will follow?

Nineteen years later many of those questions have been answered, and the meaning of the biblical command is now clearly in view. Although it was spoken to Moses’ assistant, Joshua, applies to me.

“Be strong and courageous”? We’re talking about the ministry, not the military! What seemed challenging but easy then, seems at times overwhelming now. The great thing is that each day, I begin with the sobering thought…I can take on the challenges of this day in my own strength and fall flat on my face, or I can ask God for His strength, put on the armor of God, and courageously stand against the enemy of our soul who is determined to destroy me relationally, professionally and physically each and everyday. God will fight for me.

Short Message by Tony Evans….”God Didn’t Make A Mistake”

Experiencing God's Goodness

READ Psalm 31:19-24

When life is pleasant, we find praising God easy because His kindness is abundantly evident. However, we may have difficulty recognizing pain and trouble as an expression of His loving care. In difficult times, we need to trust today’s Scriptures, which tell us that the Lord has stored up goodness for those who trust and obey Him.

If you feel that God is good only when your circumstances are enjoyable, then you misunderstand His nature and have become numb to the expression of His benevolence toward you. Those who have learned to know His character and trust His ways will be able to see evidence of His goodness in all situations.

I haven’t always felt that the Lord was being good. While I was growing up, my goal was to be obedient so He wouldn’t do anything bad to me. The difficult and painful situations in my life hindered my understanding of His goodness. Now as I look back, I can see His love and wisdom in allowing and using those trials to shape my character.

Today when God does something that I don’t like, I pour out my heart to Him. After seeking His perspective and listening, I am filled with gratitude and trust in His character. And then I am willing to accept His wise choice for my life.

We live under the umbrella of God’s goodness. When circumstances and feelings tell you otherwise, rely on what you know. Throughout the day, look for signs of His loving care for you. As your perspective changes, you will be able to see the signs of His goodness everywhere you turn.

From In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley

Video classic - "Through It All" by Andrae Crouch

Profiles of People of Faith - Tony Dungy

Tony Dungy led the Indianapolis Colts to Super Bowl victory on February 4, 2007, the first such win for an African American coach. Dungy had taken eight of his previous ten teams to the playoffs. With this victory, he joined Mike Ditka and Tom Flores as the only individuals to win the Super Bowl as a player and head coach.

Dungy joined the Colts in 2002 after serving as the most successful head coach in Tampa Bay history. He has also held assistant coaching positions with the University of Minnesota, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Minnesota Vikings. Before becoming a coach, Dungy played three seasons in the NFL.

Dungy has been involved in a wide variety of charitable organizations, including the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Athletes in Action, Mentors for Life, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys & Girls Clubs, the Prison Crusade Ministry, and All Pro Dad. He also works with Basket of Hope, the Black Coaches Association National Convention, Indiana Black Expo, the United Way of Central Indiana, and the American Diabetes Association.

He and his wife, Lauren, are the parents of six children: daughters, Tiara and Jade, and sons, Eric, Jordan, and Justin, and the late James Dungy.

Q & A with Tony Dungy

1. What is your favorite food?
Florida Grouper

2. What is your favorite junk food?
Chocolate Cake

3. What is your favorite film?
Coach Carter

4. Who is your favorite actor?
Denzel Washington

5. Who is your hero?
Jackie Robinson

6. If you could waste one day, what would you do?
I would go fishing somewhere.

7. What is your favorite vacation location?
Italy with my wife.

8. What is one phrase that describes you?
Old School

9. Who is your favorite person in the Bible?
Paul

10. What is God teaching you right now?
God is in control of all phases of life.


Tony Dungy on who's FIRST in his life!

Don't Worry, Wait on the Lord

1. Worry is like a weight on a person

Proverbs 12:25 (NLT)
Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.

• I WILL NOT WORRY BUT SEEK ENCOURAGEMENT!


2 Since the Lord is the cornerstone of the foundation of our faith, we need not worry.

Isaiah 28:16 (NLT)
Therefore, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: "Look! I am placing a foundation stone in Jerusalem. It is firm, a tested and precious cornerstone that is safe to build on. Whoever believes need never run away again.

• I WILL NOT WORRY BECAUSE THE LORD IS MY ROCK!


3. We are not to worry about having the necessities of life

Matthew 6:25 (NLT)
"So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food, drink, and clothes. Doesn't life consist of more than food and clothing?

• I WILL NOT WORRY ABOUT THINGS BECAUSE GOD WILL PROVIDE!


4. We are not to worry about the troubles of tomorrow

Matthew 6:34 (NLT)
"So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.

• I WILL NOT WORRY ABOUT WHAT COULD HAPPEN TOMORROW!


5. We should not worry about the sins of others until we first examine our own life

Matthew 7:3 (NLT)
And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own?

• I WILL NOT WORRY ABOUT OTHERS SINS BEFORE CHECKING MYSELF!


6. Don’t let the worries of this life choke out the gospel in your heart

Matthew 13:22 (NLT)
The thorny ground represents those who hear and accept the Good News, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares of this life and the lure of wealth, so no crop is produced.

• I WILL NOT WORRY ABOUT LIFE CARES AND NEGLECT THE GOSPEL!


7. Instead of worrying we should pray

Philip. 4:6 (NLT)
Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.

• I WILL NOT WORRY BUT PRAY!


8. Don’t worry about suffering for doing what is right

1 Peter 3:14 (NLT)
But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't be afraid and don't worry.

• I WILL NOT WORRY ABOUT SUFFERING AS A CHRISTIAN!


9. Worrying can’t add one moment to your life

Matthew 6:27 (NLT)
Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not.

• I WILL NOT WORRY ABOUT DEATH!

SO DON'T WORRY! REMEMBER JESUS LOVES YOU...HE'S GOT YOU!

Jesus is Love by Heather Headley

How To Win The War Over Worry

Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. And He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. (Psalm 37:1-7)

Years ago there was a song entitled, “Don’t worry. Be happy.” It had a catchy tune, but do you know the problem with this phrase? It’s missing a “how to” in between “Don’t worry” and “Be happy.”

It’s like telling an alcoholic, “Don’t drink. Be sober.” Or a person trying to lose weight – “Don’t overeat. Get healthy.” There’s a missing link. And it’s the “How does a person stop worrying and be happy?” Let me share with you four ways you can win the war over worry:

Trust In The Lord
God wants to prove Himself to you. Let me ask you, “How do you know that the Lord is the joy of your life?” You don’t know, until He takes away your automobile or your health or your home or your family. When you say, “Jesus is all I need” make sure you can prove it. You’ll never know Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have.

Do Good
One of the signs that you’re not trusting God is that you drop out of your usual activities. They get down. You say, “I lost my job!” Well, what are you doing about it? “Well, I’m just sitting around the house!” Well, quit it! Get out there and do something because you’re trusting God to provide!

Delight Yourself In The Lord
Do you want to have a life of joy? Then, put your faith in something, or should I say Someone, who cannot be touched – the Lord! God isn’t finished with you until you find your greatest joy in Him alone. Now take the sentence very slowly – God is going to keep giving you this test until you pass it. He doesn’t flunk anybody out. And so, if you don’t pass this time, He’ll just run you through again.

Commit Your Way To The Lord
“Commit” literally means “to roll.” It means to roll your burden on the Lord. Whatever that burden is, you are to give it to God. His shoulders are broad enough. Matthew 11:30 says, “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Is someone critical of you today? Give it to Jesus. Has someone hurt you? Give it to Jesus. Are you unsure about your future? Give it to Jesus.

Rest In The Lord
This word “rest” means “to be silent.” We want our answers yesterday. And God is saying, “Hush! Rest in Me!” Friend, God isn’t interested in time. He’s interested in timing. He’s never in a hurry. And He’s never late. Waiting on the Lord is like waiting for the sun to rise. You can’t hurry it. And you can’t stop it.

Trust. Do Good. Delight. Commit. Rest. What is the key to all of this? Jesus. When He is your focus, you can win the war over worry.

Taken from a message
by Adrian Rogers

THE IMPORTANCE OF ATTIUDE

Philippians 2:3-5

This may shock you, but I believe the single most significant decision I can make on a day-to-day basis is my choice of attitude. It is more important than my past, my education, my bankroll, my successes or failures, fame or pain, what other people think of me, or say about me, my circumstances, or my position. The attitude I choose keeps me going or cripples my progress. It alone fuels my fire or assaults my hope. When my attitudes are right, there’s no barrier too high, no valley too deep, no dream too extreme, no challenge too great for me.

Yet we must admit that we spend more of our time concentrating and fretting over the things that can’t be changed than we do giving attention to the one that we can change, our choice of attitude. Stop and think about some of the things that suck up our attention and energy, all of them inescapable: the weather, the wind, people’s action and criticisms, who won or lost the game, delays at airports or waiting rooms, x-ray results, gas and food costs.

Quit wasting energy fighting the inescapable and turn your energy to keeping the right attitude. Those things we can’t do anything about shouldn’t even come up in our minds; the alternative is ulcers, cancer, sourness, depression.

Let’s choose each day and every day to keep an attitude of faith and joy and belief and compassion. Take charge of your own mind!


Taken from Charles R. Swindoll, Day by Day with Charles Swindoll (Nashville: W Publishing Group, 2000). Copyright © 2000 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

WAITING “NINE BE-ATTITUDES” (JOSHUA 1:6-9)

Be Strong - not physical strength, but spiritual. Recognize that your strength comes from the Lord

Be Courageous - step out in faith without doubt. Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the ability to do what you’ve been called to do despite your fear.

Be Obedient - apply what we read and hear

Be Undistracted - don’t let money, growth, and acclaim distract us from serving Christ

Be Studious - stay in God’s Word at all times

Be Prayerful – develop personal intimacy with God. (pray, meditate, and reflect)

Be Thorough - do everything the Lord commands you to do, and do it well.

Be Confident - do not fear life’s circumstances
“do not be afraid or dismayed”

Be Encouraged - God is with us. He won’t fail us

COMMENT ON WHAT ATTITUDE YOU WILL CHOOSE TODAY?