David and Goliath

Is God's Word relevant today?

2012-01-30T13:23:00.001-05:00

Is the power of the resurrection relevant today? Is the Bible relevant today? Is the Christianity that the pagans saw in the first century relevant today?
NO; absolutely not.
The only message you could preach from the Bible today from the Word of God and be somewhat relevant is ‘God is love’, and ‘Love your neighbor’.
God is love is understood by society that God accepts and tolerates us.
‘Love your neighbor’ is understood to mean toleration of the acts of your fellow human being. This is why abortion is legal, gay marriage is legal, children rights in the home are on the court docket to undermine the authority of the parent, pedophilia organizations are working to lower the age of consent, drunkenness is now an ‘ism’, God’s law is restricting to our very self being, and the biggest proof of the irrelevance of the Bible today is that it does not promote me, it does not make ME feel good for who I am.
The definition of relevance is ‘appropriate or to the purpose’. With this meaning of the word relevance, God’s word is not, should not, and never has been relevant for us. The real question should be, ‘are WE relevant to the Word of God?’
The normal procedure for most people is to remove and get rid of items that are not relevant to one’s life, or lifestyle. Example being the microwave replaced the toaster oven, the mp3 player replaced the walkman, the VHS replaced the BETA, email has mostly replaced paper mail, cell phone has replace the home phone, each decade or less we improve something to replace something. This has created a dangerous habit of thought that we see today: we must reprint or replace the Bible.
‘I will put no wicked thing before my eyes’ has been replaced with movie ratings from the world that make it relevant for us to go see things according to society’s standard. The ‘abstain from all appearance of evil’ has been replaced with the cushy word of ‘balance’, and a misinterpretation of the word of God.
The fact is WE are not relevant to God. But he has given his Spirit for us to walk in, not as a tool to get close to him, not as the method to live according to his Word, but the only way to be relevant to himself. Walk in the Spirit and ye won’t fulfill the lust of the flesh. Flesh is not relevant to God, but the Spirit is. God has to make us relevant to his purpose; he must make us appropriate for his use. Man has this thing turned around which has caused the diminishing of the Word of God in our society today.
Pilate asked Jesus, ‘what is truth?’, and today we ask, ‘what is relevant?’ William James, the father of psychology, said ‘truth is relevant to situation, circumstance, and time’. This philosophy has found its way into the church today, as a plague. WE need to be relevant to God.
America in her arrogance may think God owes her revival because of the missionaries she has sent worldwide; The declaration of ‘who we trust’ on our currency; the godly monuments displayed across this great country; the fundamental truths of God’s Word buried deep in the fabric of this land. BUT, Revival doesn’t come to America because it’s America, just as produce doesn’t come to a grocery store because it’s a grocery store. But because a need was seen, a deficiency was found, and a call was put in to the supplier. God is our supplier, and though we have served him well with our land: AT ONE TIME. We need to see the need, the deficiency, and make the call!
The call to our supplier: God.
The urgent call to fill the empty pews of our churches.
The urgent call to fill our empty hearts.
The urgent call for a cleanup in aisle one, two, and three., with the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
The urgent call to bring people to the altar and get filled up.
God has not changed, WE have. WE have changed, NOT God.
Let's begin now.

A time to laugh

2010-06-01T20:22:00.002-04:00

It's bad enough that there is a major industrial accident at the bottom of the ocean that seems to be out of control. BUT when the concern of the outcome of the oil damage is directed toward 450 birds, and 30 dolphins, and some protected wetlands, it's time to realize that MAN is out of control. This could easily be a rant about the millions of babies we purposely murder, (that's Bible language for abortion). This could easily be a rant about how we worship the creature rather than the creator. But I digress.
I read Proverbs 1:24-27 the other day and immediately thought of this situation. The passage says that God called, and we refused; he stretched out his hand, and no man took it; we ignored his word, and listened to none of his advice, (All Paraphrased), but in verse 26 and 27 says, "I also will laugh at your calamity, I will mock when your fear cometh. When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you."
Some may say 'how mean!, I thought God was love'. Yes, he is love. Not a door mat. God's judgement is here in America today. More of it is coming soon. We allow the gay crowd to get into our teaching institutions, we allow science (this includes psychology) to take a dominant role in our existence. We teach tolerance, remove absolutes, and expect our kids to stand for something.
God is probably laughing now. So, what do we do? Be still, know that he is God, and that there is none other, then repent.

The Appointment

2010-05-30T01:15:00.005-04:00

Send this to your lost friends.

The Potter

2010-05-30T00:16:00.004-04:00

The God of second chances.

Jeremiah 18:4 And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.

Balance?

2010-01-05T18:55:00.004-05:00

Where in the Bible does it teach to have a 'balanced' life? Maybe in Ecclesiastes where it talks about 'a time for this a time for that'? The more I read the Bible and the lives of the apostles, Jesus, and those that came after outside the Bible like Whitfield, Spurgeon, Moody, Hyles, Booth, Bounds, and countless others I find that balance is definitely not what God wants.
To us balance is to put the Bible away, put the tracts away, and spend time with family. Maybe watching TV, or going to a sports game, or visiting relatives, or whatever. THAT is good stuff. BUT why leave the Bible at home? Why leave the tracts on the counter? I think many Christians will be caught in the balances, and found lacking.
For the past year I have observed my church, visited churches, talked to other people about their own church, visited numerous websites of churches, talked to people on the street about church, and this is my conclusion. Put your seat belt on.
#1 I believe there is a close percentage of equal value between backslidden Christians outside the church and dead Christians inside the church.
#2 I have seen a very close resemblance between a social club with rules and standards and many of our independent churches today. Instead of being ALIVE, HOLY toward God, and making a difference in the lives around us, the church today has seemed to settle in to a comfortable padded, gas warmed, electric cooled, indoor plumbing, running water building where a group of really, really good people congregate to listen to a weekly message of which the majority have no intent of applying to their lives.
#3 I am under the impression that sign up sheets for get-togethers for food, fun, or fellowship activities use more ink in comparison to the gas it would take to drive to the church to come for a prayer meeting. That gas is still in the tank.
#4 I have literally seen a parking lot full of cars going to a youth rally but empty for visitation. Then the youths are not rallied to do anything other than wait for the next youth rally.
#5 It use to be when men were called to preach they would go off to school and learn as much as possible about the Bible and then go out and serve the Lord. But many who now are called run to the nearest 'sign up' sheet for any open preaching opportunity and think they have fulfilled their godly calling.
#6 As we continue to teach about David and Goliath, Samson and Delilah, Noah's Ark, Jonah and the whale, we have Jehovah Witnesses, Muslims, Mormons,Shamanism, New Agers and other cults falsely indoctrinating their youth to proselyte others.
#7 I have seen a wicked contentment of 'waiting on the Lord'. I am not encouraged
'to go' as often as I think I should be by others.

So, what does all this mean? Well, first of all, if you are offended by any of this then you may be part of the problem. I am not the perfect Christian by any stretch of the imagination, but I do desire to get back to what Jesus actually had in mind for his church. AND if hell is real, and heaven divine, then why are we so selective in our witnessing? I want to see families unite their time for Jesus. I want to see our churches under attack by Satan. Isn't that a sign that we are doing something for Christ? I think it is.
Well, this could go on and on, but I want it to end with an emotion from our Lord and Saviour, author of our salvation, Jesus. Found in John 11:35 'Jesus wept'.
I believe Jesus wept because of those around him weeping. He saw they knew they had NO HOPE. We need to see others around us that they have NO HOPE.
I trust if this blog did anything, it would be to ask yourself, 'what did Jesus really want my church to be like?"

God bless.

Christ is coming!

2009-09-28T17:16:00.001-04:00

What if Christ was to come this Friday at 4:45? God dropped fliers from heaven! The whole world knows! Would we jump for joy? Not go to work?Not do the dishes? Not make our beds? Forget the lawn and yard chores? Quit school? Would we be rejoicing? Would we be singing hosanna, and holy, holy, holy, Hail Christ Almighty? Would we be calling all our friends/family and begging them to listen to the plan that Jesus laid out for eternal life? Would we pray to God for power in our 'last of the last days' of witnessing? Would we fast and witness? Would we stay up without sleep praying at night and witnessing by day KNOWING that the Lord of the harvest returneth this Friday at 4:45? What would you be doing at 4:44? crying, because you KNOW those left behind will never sit on a curb of the streets of gold with you? Will your heart be so swollen with hurt because you know your loved ones will NEVER be standing with you watching the river sparkle from the glory that Jesus provides as he is the LIGHT? At 4:44 on that Friday afternoon, one minute before Jesus BUSTS through the clouds to receive unto himself those that believe and trust the blood he shed for the remission of sin, where will you be? Who will you be leaving behind? Who will you never see again, until the Great White Thrown judgement where they will be cast into the Lake of Fire, forever? Well, we don't have a flier, but we do have where Jesus says 'get busy' in so many words, and he did give us signs to look for and these signs are definitely being fulfilled, so, it may not be prudent to quit school, or your job, BUT how about joining your church with its soul winning outreach program? How about calling a friend and inviting them to church? how about praying for courage now? memorize some soul winning passages now? How about fasting and praying now? NOW, is the time we have to work. NOW is the time we have to pray. NOW is the only time there will ever be for salvation. NOW is the accepted time, behold TODAY is the day of salvation. God help us.
I am not afraid to admit to others that I do not want to see Christ come right now. I believe this is why God offers a crown of righteousness to those who love his appearing as He understands how heart breaking it will be to depart this world with loved ones lost forever to an eternal hell without hope. Let's get busy while there is still time.
God bless.

Church Invite

2009-08-27T19:07:00.006-04:00

I hope this encourages you to invite someone to hear the gospel this Sunday.

Sweet sound

2009-07-28T21:00:00.003-04:00

Day Two of VBS

God has blessed day two of our Vacation Bible School with an attendance of 79! This is the 5th and 6th grade class reciting their Bible verse.

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 20:11 that 'Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether they be right.'

It most certainly is a sweet sound, isn't it?

Add to your faith

2009-06-30T19:41:00.007-04:00

Add to your faith virtue.

Virtue is strength of mind. Once we step out in FAITH to God our mind is the next thing He wants. First our hearts, then our minds. Then from virtue we add knowledge. II Peter 1:5

We can also use the 'adding to our faith' the fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22,23

Hearing from God

2009-06-27T20:40:00.004-04:00

Hearing from God is always exciting as manifested prayers are an encouragement to pray more often. Don't take things for granted when something appears that you have asked for. Be sure to give thanks always.

Hidden sin ahead

2009-05-31T19:30:00.004-04:00

Unlike the sign "Hidden Drive Ahead", sin doesn't make itself so well known. There are TWO ways to deal with sin as a christian: participate in it and later get on the 'recovery' program, or avoid it and get in the 'orchard' program (bearing fruit). The fruit of the Spirit is a good way to measure your walk with Christ. Look at Galatians 5:22,23 and see how your walk is doing. For comparison jump back a few verses (19-21) where the works of the flesh are manifest.

Remember, to walk in the Spirit is a sure way to stay out of the way of the mysterious Pringles content.

God bless.

What will you remember?

2009-05-29T08:50:00.004-04:00

Do you remember your first homework assignment? Probably not. But do you remember your first day in drivers ed? or when you got to drive alone? or your first date? how about the first time you used the rearview mirror?

Homework assignment? Rearview mirror? Who remembers those things, not me! BUT, though they weren't as instantly gratifying or rewarding as the 'first drive' they were extremely important to getting you to where you are today.

The point of the video is to be careful of the decisions you make from the choices you will you have in life. If you don't use the rearview mirror some very bad things can happen ahead.

Spiritual readiness

2009-05-25T06:13:00.004-04:00

Baseball practice, soccer practice, football practice, band practice, new employee orientation, 4 years of training before each Olympic event, drivers ed, reciting the ABC's over and over and over! YIKES!! When do we get to do the real thing??

Well, practice is training, and both help against defeat. Both require 'repetitive action to become more skillful'. So, I challenge myself and you to practice and train for the christian life.

Young Christians are often confused about certain situations they may be faced with during the course of their day and NOT know what to do. Even mature Christians are sometimes indecisive. This comes from a couple reasons: untrained to make the right decision, or knowing the right choice but choosing not to do right.

I want to give a few suggestions for training, as the 'choosing' is a matter between you and God. (though I do encourage you to do right)

How to train/practice the Christian walk.

1. Knowing what you believe is the start, and probably the most basic principle to grasp. I Peter 3:15 tells us to 'be ready always to give an answer of reason why we believe what we believe'. THIS comes from reading AND studying.

2. Surround yourself with other Christians who can encourage you and share with you what they have done in similar situations, and the blessings they received.

3. Situational rehearsing. Role play. Yes, this is the practice and training. I will give an example of soul-winning. Sharing our testimony to a group of non-believers can be intimidating if you don't know what you are gonna say. Practice among a small group or one on one. Possible introductions, question and answer, asking the person if they want to make a decision, and a sinners prayer. These should all be things we as Christians know how to address. Let's be fruitful.

How about peer pressure? SEX! I most certainly hate Satan's attack on our young people today! 'Everyone is doing it', 'what's so special about what you got', 'don't you love me', 'you're not hurting anyone'. Whether it's your friends, or Satan telling you these things YOU are the one to make the final decision. Young person, listen to me, you only have one 'first time' with everything. Don't be in such a hurry to give something away that is so precious. Virginity. Practice saying 'NO' in the mirror. Once you realize that this is a sin it may be a little easier for you to commit to 'NO'. Our society has disregarded the truths of God, and are now suffering the consequences. Just because abortion is legal in government does not take it off the 'sin list' with God. Just because 'gay marriage' is legal in government does not take it off the 'sin list' with God. Just because 'everyone is doing it' does not take it off the 'sin list' with God.

I hate sin, more so now than ever. I have struggles in my life today that are there because of seeds planted over 30 years ago. Satan is a master farmer. He knows how to work the soil, cultivate, feed, and grow a crop. BUT! his crop is not good for digesting, it is poison.

I will stop now before this turns into a sermon. I have just recently had some news of a very dear person I know who has chosen to sign his virginity over to Satan. I wish I had a crowd of teenagers to preach to right now. I have love to preach, and deliverance that God offers. Satan is NOT your friend.

Satan is NOT your friend. You are created in the image of God, how could Satan possibly like you? He is a deceiver, remember that.

Practice goodness, practice soul-winning, practice saying NO. NO. NO to Satan. And YES, YES, YES to what is right. Plant good seed.

I love you all who read this, in Christ.

Greater is HE in me!

2009-05-22T07:27:00.008-04:00

WE go through struggles that keep us apart from God. This is nonstop. A full time job for Satan. And he loves it! Some from seeds planted many years ago, or recently. Some struggles we bring on ourselves because we don't feed our spiritual body. BUT, all struggles can be overcome through aligning ourselves up with God's Word. Be careful what you look at today. What you listen to. Where you go. What you say. And remember, someone is feeding! Is it the carnal side of you, or the spiritual?

God bless.

I have not forgotten

2009-05-12T05:30:00.004-04:00

A very influential person early in my life died last year. She gave me my first Bible when I was 8 years old (1971). What a Christmas gift.

She was my neighbor, invited me to church and became my Sunday School teacher, she was also my sitter when my parents were working. Then when I was 12 years old she led me to the Lord in salvation.

Ann was influential in a lot of childrens lives. She had a calling that way. I also know she prayed for me often. I don't know how many years she kept this up but one verse comes to mind as I ponder my life.

Psalms 119:61 says, "The bands of the wicked have robbed me: but I have not forgotten thy law."

My full joy in Christ has been robbed as I allowed sin to rule a good portion of my life. And I am sure it was the early teaching, and prayers of an obedient servant that kept me from falling off the page of God's will. The many scriptures I have memorized were often tugged at by the Holy Spirit, and I always knew that I should be serving God.

I tell you this for two reasons: To honor Ann, as a great lady of God. Teaching, praying, and being an example for all the children she led during her life here on earth.

And to encourage YOU. Christian sitter, Bible teacher, Sunday School teacher, prayer warrior, christian neighbor. YOU are building a foundation for some kid today that may have a way out of sin later in life when they say, "The bands of the wicked have robbed me: but I have not forgotten thy law." It is God's pressing word that brought me back into service. Who will I influence? Who will you influence?

Ann also helped me memorize my first Bible verse. John 3:16

This Bible sits in my office as a memorial.

In memory of Ann Pritchard. My first Sunday School teacher. The giver of my first Bible. And the one who showed me how to have life more abundantly through Jesus Christ.

Happy DAY Mother's!

2009-05-08T08:19:00.003-04:00

God bless all you mom's. I don't want to say "Happy Mother's DAY" because being a mother is a 24/7 job that is probably the most under-appreciated position a female could have. Like a good farmer, you are over-worked and under appreciated, but very, very necessary. YOU are the glue, the staple, the paper clip, you are the hinge that makes it ALL work. Like a seasoned CEO from a Fortune 500 company, you know how to meet deadlines and schedules. The early morning madness of getting the kids ready for school; packed lunches, breakfast, last minute homework, making sure the kids clean behind the ears, tying the shoes, then the standard declaration "I love you, and be good".
After work you rush to meet schedules of sports practices or games. 'Soccer Mom's, Basketball Mom's, Football Mom's, MOM's! (Manager Of Mountains). The mom mobile is on the road with the troops getting to places quicker than a New York taxi driver in rush hour. You are probably a candidate for 'mom of the year'. Of course things change when the kids get older. They drive now, more time away from home with friends, and your 'worry-years' begin. I know great moms never stop worrying about their kids, my mom still worries about me and I am 46! I tell her not to worry and her reply to me is, "Larry, you will never know what it is like to be a mom. I will always worry about my two kids, and no matter how old you are you will always be my little boy."
A special God bless you to the single moms, and the grandmas who are caring for your own children's kids. Your heart is bigger than the world, and your reward is bigger than the universe.
A farmer knows things about the land that one may never understand; a great mom knows things that we will never understand.
Happy DAY Mother's!
Larry

Copy and forward as you like. (but send people back to my blog)

Hath God Said? (Part Two)

2009-05-07T09:39:00.005-04:00

Here is Part 2 from 'How do I commit?'
Often times we want to commit to God but are so overwhelmed with the little details we loose progress, or worst yet, we don't make any progress. Let God know you want to follow him. Then I suggest, read his word, pray for guidance, ask for wisdom to know when guidance comes, and discernment to know that it is from God and not Satan. THEN, rest, and wait.
REST AND WAIT.
Yep, these are actually action verbs! Put it in God's hands. Listen for direction. REST AND WAIT.
Enjoy.

Be sure to look up Psalms 119:32. Then get ready for some real action. Commitment. "I will run......, WHEN THOU...." Like the ole saying from the basketball coach, he says 'jump', you say 'how high'.

Have a great day!

What's in your garden?

2009-05-05T09:20:00.007-04:00

Good seed, bad seed, good fruit, yucky fruit, we all experience it. And when we go to the fruit stand we certainly don't pick the bad, ugly flowers or apples to take home with us. Right? Sure we don't!

A garden is something you want to enjoy, whether it is a flower garden, vegetable garden, or orchard. Each type needs care. Proper seed. Proper and timely weeding, watering, pruning, more timely weeding, watering, pruning, and even more timely weeding, watering, pruning.

I just want to make mention of the seed for now. The seed is the first step to the fruit. No matter what seed it may be, it will produce fruit in the future. For the christian, seeds can be our friends, the places we go, the thoughts we have. OH YES, my friend, thoughts are the master mind of great things, BIG and small. Pondering, planning, wishing, desiring are all seeds. Always look at the seed as a road, because it will certainly take you somewhere. And know this> often the roads are ONE WAY. The only way to change the destination is to get on another road. Possible to do but usually not easy. This is why I encourage you to carefully look at the seed you are getting ready to plant or nurture today.

Our Youth need to be taught how to pick and nurture good seed. It's easier to plant than to pull weeds. God Bless Our Youth.
Galatians 5:22,23

Hath God Said?

2009-05-01T20:57:00.004-04:00

Hey all, I have been toying with getting a fun comic type thingy together mainly for another page on my website http://www.larrydschultz.com/ and thought I would try it here as well.

This series will mostly be a lesson through Psalms and Proverbs.

Enjoy.

Is TRUTH perished from your life?

2009-04-29T07:31:00.005-04:00

Without proper support any structure will fail when a load is placed upon it greater than it can handle. This support is TRUTH.

In the late 1800's William James, 'the father of modern psychology' wrote of the notion that 'Truth was relative to time, place, and purpose." This philosophy makes provision for what once was truth to be changed according to circumstances, and situations.

Alcoholism is being considered a disease instead of a conscience choice. Pedophilia is being studied to see if a disturbance in the brain causes this desire, if so, then that will become a disease instead of a sin. Abortion has been a news worthy item for years as a choice.

What a world we would live in if we had an excuse for everything we did. All the sins were relative to time, place, and purpose. It is ok to steal food because I was wanting to feed my family. The good outways the bad syndrome. Very dangerous attitude. Do we truly rely on God anymore for our DAILY BREAD? Go to my blog about FAITH and check it out.

Read Deuteronomy 4:7-9 (the entire chapter is worthy of reading) God says in part ".....what nation that hath statutes and judgements so righteous as all this law....". He goes on and tells the people to teach them to their sons and their sons' sons. Truth does not change. And TRUTH must be protected by memory, and passing it along.

Years later in Jeremiah 7:28 we see that the nation does not obey the voice of God; nor receiveth correction; is cut off from their mouth (stopped passing it down); AND 'truth is perished'. Scary. Read chapter 8:7-12 (sound like AMerica?) Check out the next few chapters to see how God handled this.

Oh, Larry, this is the Old Testament and this is the history of Israel. Yep, you are correct. BUT, is there not a lesson to be learned for today? Is obeying God now different from obeying God then? I think not. He is longsuffering, but his judgements are still true.

Jesus said in John 14:6 "I am the truth." And in Hebrews 13:8 we read, "Jesus Christ, the SAME yesterday, and to day, and for ever." Verse 9 tells us that 'it is a good thing that the heart be ESTABLISHED'.

Is your heart established today?

Things may look good today, and promising for tomorrow, but if you don't have established truth in your life it could all disappear. These two snow people I made a few years ago are gone. After I created them they were happy for a season. But they were subject and bound by the laws of 'thawing and melting'.
Today I am going to search my heart and be sure I am on the path that will help me NOT to melt when trouble comes. I want the truth in my heart.
"I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me."
Psalm 119:19

"Thy Word is very pure; therefore thy servant loveth it." Ps. 119:140

"FOREVER, O Lord, thy Word is settled in heaven." Ps. 119:89

Have a great day! and please feel free to post a comment.

Adam and Jesus

2009-04-22T22:58:00.006-04:00

It's nice to know for certain about things. And one thing we can be thankful to God for is He makes it clear about sin. And He makes it clear about what to do about it. This video (12 minutes long) covers the dramatic events leading up to the immediate punishment for sin.
After seeing on the news all the debates about capitol punishment, water boarding, putting your hands on children in a punishing way, it got me thinking about the original sin. God was swift, some would say harsh, but one thing for certain, he was clear. There was no wondering if God hated sin or not.

Disobedience was the outward action. Was 'listening' to someone question God's Word the real sin? Was the 'willingness' to go against God's Word the real sin? We mostly judge sin and crime by the outward action, but God often warns of the inside.

'From the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh'. Matt. 12:34

To lust on a woman is adultery. Matt.5:28

God looks inside. Like a seed, once it gets growing it is hard to stop. Once we see sin the way God sees it, we will definitely have a different attitude about what we look at, or what we think. Now maybe with these things in mind we can understand a little more about why God hates sin so much. By time is gets to the 'action', it has already caused internal damage.

This too is why it is such an insult for someone to think they can get to heaven by being good. I Corinthians 15:22

Faith that will or can?

2009-04-20T07:41:00.005-04:00

There is often an area in our faith called doubt. Sometimes it shows up at the beginning, sometimes at the end, often in the middle, but is does show up. It is always between the 'can he do it' and 'will he do it'. An acronym I use for doubt is 'Defeat Over the Unknown By Thinking'. This is not a blind faith, but often we ask 'how is he going to do that, when the doctors say there's no hope?', or 'why would he do this for me?', or what do I need to do to help?, or 'when will he do this?' These are seeds of doubt festering in our mind.

We control only two parts of the prayer cycle.
*Making time for prayer. *And our measure of faith.

'Hath God said?' (Genesis 3:1) has reigned in the hearts of men since that time in the garden. This is why when Jesus talks about prayer he tells us to believe. He really sums it up in Matthew 21:22 where he says, "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, BELIEVING, ye shall receive."
Hmmm, I ask you and myself, 'Hath God said?'

Jesus also tells us in Mark 11:24, "What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, BELIEVE that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." WOW, even my desires! Listen, this is awesome, and let me add that if you have the faith to believe God for answers, then your desires will be his desires. So, no winning lottery numbers, sorry.

Here are some passages you may want to check out.

Luke 11:1-13 Luke 18:1-8 Matthew 14:25-33

These are only three of many passages that cover asking, faith, and doubt. Look in the back of your Bible's concordance for those words and read the passages, not just the verse but the story around that verse.

Prayer is our only link with God to receive. Don't be afraid to expect things from God. He wants us to. If God had no intention or little intention of answering our prayers why would Satan make such an effort in causing us to doubt? Maybe he knows something we don't? Maybe.

Enjoy the video.

Bible Study-Step One

2009-04-20T07:25:00.006-04:00

Studying is hard enough in itself but especially if you don't have the proper tools or even know what they are. I have prepared a little video to share the tools I use in my Bible study time.

There are five kinds of action here, and each builds itself on the previous: reading, studying, memorizing, using, and sharing. And they usually come in that order. We all know how to read, so this short series begins with studying. I hope you can begin seeing changes in your approach today.

"Commitment with accountability closes the gap between intention and results."--Sandra Gallagher

II Timothy 2:16 exhorts us to study.

Psalms 119:9 asks a question and gives a very, very clear answer.

Enjoy the video.

Cleveland Tea Party

2009-04-15T23:33:00.006-04:00

This is how our Tea Party Started. It was a blessing since just last night we were fighting to get it in a community school.

Cleveland's Tea Party went well. My guess is between 1,500 and 2,000 people came out to show support. It is one thing to see these things on TV but quite another to participate. I want my readers to know this is more than just about taxes. We have lived in the 'complacent era' in America and things are beginning to quickly get out of hand.

How far are you willing allow things to go down hill?

Do you know what you can do? Most American's don't have a clue how to get things done in America. I think most think their voice doesn't matter. I didn't either until recently. And I am just starting out, so we can learn together.

Some things I have been doing to get involved.

I watch community newsgroups and websites to see what people are talking about and where certain things may be happening.

Most school boards announce their upcoming issues online. Find the website (call the school to get it) and save that site to your favorites drop down tab to easily find it again, and check it for upcoming issues. (Removal of pledge for example).

Know who your councilperson is, and senator especially. Your senator can be found at http://www.senate.state.oh.us/senators/index.html if you are in ohio. Our senators want to know what we want. Now, DO NOT say, 'yeah, sure they do'. That is the attitude that put us where we are today. Call them and see for yourself, but please don't expect them to meet you for coffee. But maybe your neighborhood councilperson will.

The next step is to go to a meeting and see what it is about. If you never been to one, just do it. Anything worth knowing about is worth stepping outside your comfort zone for. Yes, you will step out of your comfort zone, so be sure to have your comfy shoes on.

Read about the issues online using at least 3 sources.

This is a start. You will become more passionate about an issue once you learn about it. Then before you know it, you will be in your comfort zone again. A new one.

Don't get involved in too much or you will get burnt out and overwhelmed. My passion is about the pledge, and anything else I can get in the schools that have to do with America's beginnings. Including prayer and Bible reading if that should ever offer and open door somewhere. I am also passionate about reducing our tax base. That's enough for me. That's on the political side.

Here are a few photos that show the message of the tea party.

American Pledge of Allegiance

2009-04-15T07:22:00.005-04:00

This was my stand at an Oberlin City School Council Meeting on April 14, 2009 about reinstating the American Pledge of Allegiance. I made sure I was the first to speak with a quick uplift of my hand when asked for comments.

"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and
to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible,
with liberty and justice for all.
I learned this as a child in school at an early age. I don't know where
our children will learn this and be able to commit it to memory if not
here, in school.
With the act of burning our flag as a legal form of expression through
freedom of speech, it would be a good thing if our youth can at least
learn what it symbolizes before they go on to destroy it.
If the future of our nation (our children) are not taught to respect
what symbolizes freedom AND hope, how can we expect them to
grow up and embrace the HOPE that freedom has provided us?
It starts here. It starts TODAY. Thank you."

About three words in to my little speech most of the thirty (30) people that were at this meeting stood and placed their hands over their hearts and recited the pledge with me. I was so happy to see the support. My fellow Americans, there comes a time when we must say STOP with the raping of our symbols. Our flag is our uniform. It represents not only who we are but more importantly WHAT we are and what we stand for. To deny the pledge anywhere in America because it offends someone is like a McDonald's employee refusing to wear the uniform because it makes them itch.
You may ask; what can I do? Support America by attending meetings when things are in question about our country, or your beliefs.
You may ask; how can I know when something is in jeopardy? You can add to your 'favorites' the websites of your child's school committee meeting updates, get on an email list of events that let you know of events in your community.
Please take my poll about the Pledge. You are welcome to copy this post and pin it up at your place of business or anywhere you feel people need to be aware of our fundamental standards for America.
God Bless America.

The Pirates and the Devil

2009-04-11T16:06:00.004-04:00

As I watch the story of the 4 pirates capturing a huge supply boat and taking the captain hostage, I had to wonder how this could be. They were better prepared. It reminded me of I Peter 5:8 " Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:"
The pirates were armed, and hunting for opportunity to complete their goal. The supply ship was floating along, unarmed, and obviously not ready to fight. God tells us to be serious minded, and alert to danger (sober and vigilant). The devil is subtle, wise, and very resourceful. We must be well read in God's Word, prayed up, and guarding ourselves with faith. As the devil will tempt, intice, and use peer pressure to accomplish his goals: tarnishing our testimony, and life.
Let this example of a small group of men controlling three (3) navy battle ships, confusing a government into indecisiveness, and ultimately getting their way, be a lesson for us to be sober and vigilant in our faith and walk. Don't let satan hold you hostage!

Jesus is the risen example!

2009-04-09T12:34:00.003-04:00

Wow, talk about knowing your destiny in life, this sums it up. In John 18:37 Jesus before Pilate confirms his lot in life is to be crucified. Read the chapter for yourself, and the next few to get the full take on the unselfish sacrifice and resurrection that has been one of the most controversial stories in history for over 2,000 years. It is Easter Sunday coming up, and since Christ IS my living saviour, I want to take a look at how His life not only was a sacrifice for my sins but a practical example of staying the course to accomplishment. I have to admit I do not know my destiny in life, but I do believe we forge our own destiny with each decision we make daily. Here are a few lessons we can take with us from someone who was once in our shoes, or sandals. Jesus Christ was subject to all things as we are; his flesh got hungry, tired, tempted, his nails grew, his hair grew, he even sneezed (not sure if they said ‘God bless you’ back then), he slept, he got angry, he had goals, vision, purpose, and a support group.
Lesson 1. Our adversary is the flesh: I don’t feel like pushing myself each day toward my goals. Not because I don’t want to but mostly because I need to submit to being tired, anxious, double guessing what I am doing, and wanting to just do other things. *Readjusting goals for a day is ok. I need to tell myself this all the time. Yes, I am one of those people who would rather go home early from a party with friends just to get up early and greet the sun, read a book, and just get more done before noon than the average person. That in itself is not bad, BUT, this can also put unwarranted strains on relationships. Our friends want to see us too. One day off course will not normally change the outcome of ones life. BUT, constant submission to our flesh will not benefit us.
Lesson 2. Tell your friends what your dreams are. Not every single person you know is your friend, so be selective and sure for the most part that these people will support you, and encourage you. They may not and will not always understand certain goals for the dream but they are great for always asking, ‘how’s that dream coming along?’ Some people have ‘dream-catchers’ hanging from a window, or the rearview mirror of a vehicle, and that is a cool way to always have a reminder for yourself. But, staying on course sometimes comes from the subtle expression of a friend. And yes, sometimes not, but the benefits are greater when friends and family know what you are trying to accomplish. Like Jesus' disciples.
Lesson 3. Don’t fall to temptation and quit. After 40 days of being wore down in the wilderness, Jesus was offered all the things that would seemingly be a quick fix to his current situation. BUT, with each temptation his rebuttal began with the same words: ‘It is written’. Here the lesson is that we need to write down our goals, dreams, even our reasons for accomplishing whatever it is that we are trying to accomplish. Say our goals out loud (audio affirmation) so it is written in our minds. When we are tempted to quit, we need to go back to what is written and reaffirm what we are trying to accomplish and why. Don’t just have a weekly goal sheet that gets accomplished and then tossed, have a master copy of the big picture. Like a business plan. Don’t be afraid to write these things down.
‘Is it written’ somewhere for you?
Christ’s victory path certainly was an unselfish one.
Here’s what his life has taught me. Not everyone will support your vision. Not everyone will admit they know you when you act upon your belief. BUT, everyone will watch. Christopher Columbus, Wright brothers, Noah and his arc, Pollack the artist, Howard Hughes, the founding fathers of our country, and (put your name here). YOU are bigger than you may be allowing yourself to be. Find strength in Jesus. If you are a believer, He wants you to have a more abundant life!
Praise God for resurrection Sunday!

"We are not a Christian nation"

2009-04-06T16:37:00.003-04:00

President Obama at the G-20 meeting today speaking with Turkey leader said, "We don't consider ourselves a christian nation or a muslim nation, but a nation of citizens bound by a set of values." Well, that's news to me. (I see it coming though) In his book "The Audacity of Hope" (Constitution chapter) he speaks about the constitution as something behind the times, a guide, that "must be read in context of an ever-changing world." After reading the chapter twice I am led to believe that some of his notions are correct, but without some absolute to rely on the Constitution will always be left for mulitiple translations and changing if it hinders our progress as a nation. This is clearly the teachings of William James who brought the philosopy of "Truth was relative to time, place, and purpose". If this be true then there is no truth other than what is believed today. Our nation is in for some big changes, and I don't think they will all be good ones.
God doesn't have a backup plan in his purpose. What He says stands the test of time. Psalm 119:89. Thank God.

PORN? Sure, why not!

2009-04-04T10:17:00.005-04:00

Well, I never understood the saying 'going to hell in a hand basket', or why it was even suggested. BUT, maybe it was because of stuff like this. http://wjz.com/local/movie.sex.education.2.974390.html
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/education/college/bal-te.md.porn03apr03,0,5333968.story
I am sure you have heard by now that a $10 million porn movie was supposed to be shown to college students followed by a presentation from planned parenthood. Hmmm, it doesn't surprise me that this would eventually make an attempt to our schools. The new 'sex education'. Yeah, free love, sex without love. That's what we need to teach. You may ask, 'haven't you ever seen porn or had sex without love? YES, too many times. I wish I had some of my life back. What next? Classes on how to properly inhale a bong for the ultimate buzz?
Look, if there is no absolute moral standard in our world then this is absolutely fine. But to me and probably millions of other Bible believers this kind of activity is garbage. I have most recently vowed to not have sex again until I get married. I have asked God to forgive me and help me with this.
At 46, healthy, 'good looking' :), active, and presently without a girlfriend, you may ask 'why?' Two reasons. One, because I believe it is unpleasing to my God to seek pleasure outside his blessing. Two, why should I expect anything less of myself than I do from my son whom at 14 will surely be undergoing the same temptations, urges, and consideration that I am sure I will be up against soon. I want to be able to be an encouraging voice by way of example.
I challenge YOU, if you are an unmarried, Bible believing, example wannabe, then make this pledge for a better relationship with Jesus.

Who monitors our books?

2009-04-01T11:20:00.003-04:00

Today on Fox News, Alan Brinkley, a liberal author was exposed for authoring two history books which were ‘grossly inaccurate accounts of history’. Alan is the Professor of History at the Columbia University. The two books are “American History: A survey" and “The Unfinished Nation". Being a 'Professor' must give some privilege of unmonitored context in ones publishing.
This is one sure way to pollute the minds of our younger generation. I have authored a book about factual events, and I see how it could easily be distorted until someone challenges it. My question is with something as foundationally important as our history: who monitors what is going into our schools? This is where ‘freedom of speech’ is dangerous. 'Freedom of' without boundaries is the cause of confusion between right and wrong. Even morals and ethics become distorted.
If someone knows of a society or a council that I should know about please let my readers know.

Our Monopoly Society

2009-04-01T11:19:00.000-04:00

When our economy ran out of cards from its ‘community chest’, it quickly began pulling from the ‘chance’ pile. Now, though we are running out of money and approaching the end of that chance pile as well, we still want to continue with all the players. So, in an unprecedented effort we are borrowing money and cards from another board. No additional players, just money and cards. This does two things. First, the game is continuing with the same problems. The most congested spots on the board are: Go to Jail, Collect Salary, Chance, Income Tax, and In Jail.
The second problem is the new players (future generation) who play the second board, have all its players but with less money and cards for allowing a good wholesome chance to grow. It’s only a matter of time until both these scenarios are pitched for the two diced game of ‘Trouble’. When this game is over it will unfortunately result in the most historic game of ‘Sorry’ ever recorded.
This is the simplest way I can explain our economic condition to a child. Maybe you can understand it better as well.

Bank of England under attack during G-20

2009-04-01T11:16:00.001-04:00

Well, thousands of protestors and activists seem to be expressing some strong views against the banks today as they use police barricades to break out bank windows. Some banners I saw read, ‘One world, one country, one currency’, ‘Abolish Money’, ‘Banks are evil’, and ‘No war, no rich, no poor’. These are definitely socialistic attitudes for society. There will never be peace like what is sought after until Jesus Christ sets up His kingdom. But meanwhile, I have mixed emotions about being involved with the G-20. Why? This one reason, we stand to give up too much by cooperating with the suggestions and demands of these other nations. Gordon Brown was quoted, ‘We must stand united to do whatever necessary to solve our global problems.’ Well, we already know that most foreign countries want us to give up the dollar for a one world currency. Dangerous times are coming for America. (That’s one way to get ‘In God We Trust’ off the currency) So, what can you do? Look, these are times we MUST be involved with our congress representatives. If you think they can’t help then you are defeated already. I too will be writing my representative; at least he will know one person is concerned! I know I am not the only one, so find out who your rep is and send off that letter or email or phone call. God Bless America.

America's Trojan Horse

2009-03-30T19:47:00.005-04:00

The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) is a group of foreign countries that have put together a curriculum for schools internationally. The Constitution of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which states that “since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed”.
This all sounds great and innocent until you begin reading through hundreds of pages of documents that reveal the one goal of a 'one world of one mind'. This was what I got out of it.
I found that most of the books written for the curriculum were written by some of the same teachers that teach the courses. Hmm, that's an easy way to teach your own philosophy. Also, tolerance to other students includes removal of the flag and pledge of allegiance in some of the 600 school that the IBO is taught in. The course is bent on removing all barriers from all people for the one goal of international tolerance. I won't make this entry long, so I am putting the things in here that burnt me the most. There are plenty of others. This curriculum is based out of Switzerland. Why can't we teach our own children. What will happen to the history of America? I have looked at the books they require for reading and they even have excerpts from them worth a visit for yourself. One take on the Cold War was that 'socialism' is a good way of governing if you get everyone behind you on it. Yeah, we want this stuff in our schools.
This is not a curriculum, it's an agenda.
This was taught as a class but is now being taught as a philosophy. The teaching of tolerance without boundaries is dangerous to our culture. This is one reason I believe that our 'offensive' pledge of allegiance is being removed from our schools.
Here are a few websites you can visit. Be sure to follow the links as I did, I got obsessed and spent hours reading. If you have any comments or questions please ask while the stuff is still fresh in my head.
www.ib-source.com/about_ibsource.php
www3.unesco.org/iycp/kits/53243A.pdf
www3.unesco.org/iycp/kits/uk_reso_ong.pdf
www.IBO.org
I would suggest that you be sure what you children are learning.

No pledge

2009-03-29T18:40:00.000-04:00

One thing that threatens the core value of America is the removal of the pledge of allegiance from our schools. We have already removed 'under God' because of a ridiculous seperation of church and state issue. If only the powers that be would look at the organizations that want this out: Agnositc, athiest, special interest groups (ACLU), Freedom from Religion Foundation (FFRF), just to name a few. After a closer look they would see a trend of a minority using our constitution in a way that I am certain wasn't meant to be used. Let's remove things that bring us down morally. Let's remove things that hurt people emotionally.
The reason I believe we need the pledge kept in the schools is that is creates an awareness of our origins. I am not even so upset that 'under God' was removed, it wasn't added until 1954 anyway. But to kick out the pledge. COME ON! So, it offended someone. THAT person needs to leave my country. There is a council meeting at an elementry school in Oberlin, Ohio in April discussing the removal of the pledge. Imagine, this is the community that is well known for their participation in the Underground Railroad, the helping of the freeing of slaves. I will post the outcome.
ONe more thing. There is a new school cirriculum in America that is truly anti-American, the IBO. http://www.ceopa.org/InternationalBaccalaureate.html
I will write more about this socialistic wave next time. Until then, check out the website so you can follow my take on it.
If you know of a school in your area that is considering removing the pledge please take the time to voice your concern to them. This is a Goliath that we need to knock down America!