" A Cheerful heart is good medicine" Provebs 17:22
Laughter is good for your physical health
• Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
• Laughter boosts the immune system. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
• Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.
Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
• Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.
Laughter is good for your mental health
• Laughter dissolves distressing emotions. You can’t feel anxious, angry, or sad when you’re laughing.
• Laughter helps you relax and recharge. It reduces stress and increases energy, enabling you to stay focused and accomplish more.
• Humor shifts perspective, allowing you to see situations in a more realistic, less threatening light. A humorous perspective creates psychological distance, which can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Laugher has social benefits as well:
• Strengthens relationships
• Attracts others to us
• Enhances teamwork
• Helps defuse conflict
• Promotes group bonding
Here are some ways to start:
• Smile. Smiling is the beginning of laughter. Like laughter, it’s contagious. Pioneers in “laugh therapy,” find it’s possible to laugh without even experiencing a funny event. The same holds for smiling. When you look at someone or see something even mildly pleasing, practice smiling.
• Count your blessings. Literally make a list. The simple act of considering the good things in your life will distance you from negative thoughts that are a barrier to humor and laughter. When in a state of sadness, we have further to travel to get to humor and laughter.
• When you hear laughter, move toward it. Sometimes humor and laughter are private, a shared joke among a small group, but usually not. More often, people are very happy to share something funny because it gives them an opportunity to laugh again and feed off the humor you find in it. When you hear laughter, seek it out and ask, “What’s funny?”
• Spend time with fun, playful people. These are people who laugh easily–both at themselves and at life’s absurdities–and who routinely find the humor in everyday events. Their playful point of view and laughter are contagious.
• Bring humor into conversations. Ask people, “What’s the funniest thing that happened to you today? This week? In your life?”
The following was found at www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm Go there to find more information on laughter.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Friday, July 3, 2009
A Prayer for Patriots
This is my prayer for our nation this Fourth of July:
Dear God,
Please do not send us anymore politicians. We have more than we can stand. They fill Washington DC, our statehouses and even our city and village halls. Lord, we don’t need anymore politicians in America, but we sure could use some patriots.
We do not need politicians who stand up for their party in blind loyalty; we need patriots who stand for your principles in uncompromising love for their country.
We do not need politicians who use people to seek power; we need patriots who will use power to serve people.
We do not need politicians who give their allegiance to lobbyist; we need patriots who give their all for liberty.
We do not politicians who will foist our freedoms away; we need patriots who will fight for our freedoms everyday.
God, our nation is in trouble. We need you now more than ever. And so my prayer is this, please send us some patriots… before it is too late
In Jesus name
Amen
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.” Proverbs 14:34
Dear God,
Please do not send us anymore politicians. We have more than we can stand. They fill Washington DC, our statehouses and even our city and village halls. Lord, we don’t need anymore politicians in America, but we sure could use some patriots.
We do not need politicians who stand up for their party in blind loyalty; we need patriots who stand for your principles in uncompromising love for their country.
We do not need politicians who use people to seek power; we need patriots who will use power to serve people.
We do not need politicians who give their allegiance to lobbyist; we need patriots who give their all for liberty.
We do not politicians who will foist our freedoms away; we need patriots who will fight for our freedoms everyday.
God, our nation is in trouble. We need you now more than ever. And so my prayer is this, please send us some patriots… before it is too late
In Jesus name
Amen
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.” Proverbs 14:34
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Dinosaurs and the Bible
In Sunday’s lesson on Dinosaurs and the Bible I said I would post a few websites on here that discuss dinosaurs from the Creationist’s point of view. Here are some:
http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/1999/11/05/dinosaurs-and-the-bible
http://www.clarifyingchristianity.com/dinos.shtml
http://www.genesispark.com/genpark/bible/bible.htm
http://www.geocities.com/dinospin/
http://www.drdino.com/
http://www.darwinconspiracy.com/
Here are a few from the evolution point of view:
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/dinosaurs/
http://blog.everythingdinosaur.co.uk/blog/_archives/2008/8/22/3851028.html
http://dinosaurs.about.com/
http://www.allaboutscience.org/darwins-theory-of-evolution.htm
Happy studying
http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/1999/11/05/dinosaurs-and-the-bible
http://www.clarifyingchristianity.com/dinos.shtml
http://www.genesispark.com/genpark/bible/bible.htm
http://www.geocities.com/dinospin/
http://www.drdino.com/
http://www.darwinconspiracy.com/
Here are a few from the evolution point of view:
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/dinosaurs/
http://blog.everythingdinosaur.co.uk/blog/_archives/2008/8/22/3851028.html
http://dinosaurs.about.com/
http://www.allaboutscience.org/darwins-theory-of-evolution.htm
Happy studying
Sunday, April 19, 2009
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Is there ever a time when I should not tell the truth?
Ephesians 4:29 says “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Four verses earlier Paul says “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”
Yet we do have some biblical incidents when people lied and was blessed by God. One is in Exodus 1. Here, we’re told that the Egyptians began to fear the Israelites that lived in their country. And the Pharaoh ordered the Hebrew mid-wives who always helped women deliver their babies: "When you help the Hebrew women in childbirth and observe them on the delivery stool, if it is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live."The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live.Then the king of Egypt summoned the midwives and asked them, "Why have you done this? Why have you let the boys live?"The midwives answered Pharaoh, "Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive." (Exodus 1:16-19)
Now, were the mid-wives honest? No… they lied!These women were speaking to the Hitler of their day, the Stalin of their era. He was thug intent upon murdering all the boy children in Israel. Had they told him the truth there is no telling what evil he would have devised.
BUT THEY LIED! Yep they did. And how did God respond? “So God was kind to the midwives and the people increased and became even more numerous. And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.” Exodus 1:20-21
He rewarded them! WHY? Because, what they did, they did for God. They didn’t lie because they feared for their own lives. They lied because they “feared God.”
Is there any lesson from this event? What would you say to this statement? “The only time we shouldn’t be telling the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth… is when that truth damages and destroys the people around us.” Does this wxcuse beign less than truthful in certain situations?
Jeff Strite shares the following story:
I once knew a man who was “honest” with his wife. He told her what a bad housekeeper she was. He told her what a rotten mother she was. He told her how unattractive she was. He emotionally brow beat her until she began to tell falsehoods to protect herself from his constant accusations.THEN when he caught her telling those lies… he told her that she was a liar.
Now what he told her always had a measure of truth to it.
· She probably wasn’t the best housekeeper in the world
· She probably wasn’t the perfect mother
· She may not have won any beauty contests
· AND she did lie to avoid his emotional abuse
This husband spoke “truth” to his wife: But it wasn’t a “wholesome” truthIt was NOT a truth he used to “edify” her. It was truth intended to drag her down and destroy her.
Paul tells us: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Eph. 4:29)And: We should always “Be kind and compassionate to one another... "
Ephesians 4:32
What do you think?
Ephesians 4:29 says “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Four verses earlier Paul says “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”
Yet we do have some biblical incidents when people lied and was blessed by God. One is in Exodus 1. Here, we’re told that the Egyptians began to fear the Israelites that lived in their country. And the Pharaoh ordered the Hebrew mid-wives who always helped women deliver their babies: "When you help the Hebrew women in childbirth and observe them on the delivery stool, if it is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live."The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live.Then the king of Egypt summoned the midwives and asked them, "Why have you done this? Why have you let the boys live?"The midwives answered Pharaoh, "Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive." (Exodus 1:16-19)
Now, were the mid-wives honest? No… they lied!These women were speaking to the Hitler of their day, the Stalin of their era. He was thug intent upon murdering all the boy children in Israel. Had they told him the truth there is no telling what evil he would have devised.
BUT THEY LIED! Yep they did. And how did God respond? “So God was kind to the midwives and the people increased and became even more numerous. And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.” Exodus 1:20-21
He rewarded them! WHY? Because, what they did, they did for God. They didn’t lie because they feared for their own lives. They lied because they “feared God.”
Is there any lesson from this event? What would you say to this statement? “The only time we shouldn’t be telling the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth… is when that truth damages and destroys the people around us.” Does this wxcuse beign less than truthful in certain situations?
Jeff Strite shares the following story:
I once knew a man who was “honest” with his wife. He told her what a bad housekeeper she was. He told her what a rotten mother she was. He told her how unattractive she was. He emotionally brow beat her until she began to tell falsehoods to protect herself from his constant accusations.THEN when he caught her telling those lies… he told her that she was a liar.
Now what he told her always had a measure of truth to it.
· She probably wasn’t the best housekeeper in the world
· She probably wasn’t the perfect mother
· She may not have won any beauty contests
· AND she did lie to avoid his emotional abuse
This husband spoke “truth” to his wife: But it wasn’t a “wholesome” truthIt was NOT a truth he used to “edify” her. It was truth intended to drag her down and destroy her.
Paul tells us: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Eph. 4:29)And: We should always “Be kind and compassionate to one another... "
Ephesians 4:32
What do you think?
Sunday, January 25, 2009
A Lesson From my Sister's Blog
My sister has a blog that is often funny and inpisrational. This week she tells a story about and incident between her and her son Jack. It is cute and tells a powerful message hope you enjoy it.
I'm in the midst of Beth Moore's study, Believing God (It's very difficult for me to say Believing God instead of Believin' due to the impact of Steve Perry telling me "Don't stop believin'" all through my pre-teens.). I started attending this particular group around week 5 of the study, so I have been going back and watching the other lessons at night before I go to sleep. David somehow manages to dose off while I am doing this until I startle him with a random "Glory!" because when Beth tells somebody to say "Glory!", I know I am that somebody and I let it fly. "Glory!"
Beth also has us repeat a pledge with her at every session:
I believe God is who He says He is.
I believe God can do what He says He can do.
I believe I am who God says I am.
I believe I can do all things through Christ.
I believe God's word is alive and active in me.
Then at the end you declare "I'm believing God" complete with hand motions for emphasis. My struggles with doubt and distrust seem to multiply with my age as I get further away from that faith of a child, so reciting this pledge has been a great reminder to me to hold onto my belief. Anytime a fearful, distrusting thought pops in my head, Ive been stopping immediately and saying the pledge out loud. The looks on my children's face the first time I did it was priceless.
Now D.J. even jumps in with me. Johnny will applaud and cheer when I finish. Jack, however, is not so sure about this spontaneous pledging. Yesterday while waiting in line to pick D.J. up from school, I decided to just say the pledge out loud. As soon as I said, "Im believing God!" Jack declared, "Hey....mom, no, you don't be leavin' God. You stay with God" and then he started crying. "I don't want you to leave God". So then I had to attempt to explain to an almost four-year-old that BELIEVING is not the same as LEAVING. Now that's a daunting task. Who knew my innocent pledge would spark severe separation anxiety in my son? I guess you could say he's preached his first sermon.
From: http://walnutgrove1.blogspot.com/
I'm in the midst of Beth Moore's study, Believing God (It's very difficult for me to say Believing God instead of Believin' due to the impact of Steve Perry telling me "Don't stop believin'" all through my pre-teens.). I started attending this particular group around week 5 of the study, so I have been going back and watching the other lessons at night before I go to sleep. David somehow manages to dose off while I am doing this until I startle him with a random "Glory!" because when Beth tells somebody to say "Glory!", I know I am that somebody and I let it fly. "Glory!"
Beth also has us repeat a pledge with her at every session:
I believe God is who He says He is.
I believe God can do what He says He can do.
I believe I am who God says I am.
I believe I can do all things through Christ.
I believe God's word is alive and active in me.
Then at the end you declare "I'm believing God" complete with hand motions for emphasis. My struggles with doubt and distrust seem to multiply with my age as I get further away from that faith of a child, so reciting this pledge has been a great reminder to me to hold onto my belief. Anytime a fearful, distrusting thought pops in my head, Ive been stopping immediately and saying the pledge out loud. The looks on my children's face the first time I did it was priceless.
Now D.J. even jumps in with me. Johnny will applaud and cheer when I finish. Jack, however, is not so sure about this spontaneous pledging. Yesterday while waiting in line to pick D.J. up from school, I decided to just say the pledge out loud. As soon as I said, "Im believing God!" Jack declared, "Hey....mom, no, you don't be leavin' God. You stay with God" and then he started crying. "I don't want you to leave God". So then I had to attempt to explain to an almost four-year-old that BELIEVING is not the same as LEAVING. Now that's a daunting task. Who knew my innocent pledge would spark severe separation anxiety in my son? I guess you could say he's preached his first sermon.
From: http://walnutgrove1.blogspot.com/
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Glen Miller
On Tuesday a dear friend, mentor, teacher and shepherd went home. Glen Miller was a remarkable man. He taught me how to be a better husband, he taught me more about parenting than any person I have ever known. He was an elder who “smelled like sheep” because he was amongst them feeding, caring for and protecting them.
A successful businessman Glen would rather lose money than lose a friend or hurt the church. The last week of his battle against cancer he did not want pain medicine because he wanted to be alert when people came to see him. He told those who visited that he loved them and that God loved them. He shared with them the importance of family and the church. He finished strong.
His family and friends will miss him; our church has lost a patriarch. His wisdom will not be replaced. This community has lost a good man. But the tears we shed are for us not for him. Glen’s gone home – we experienced a loss but Glen won a great victory in Christ.
This man of God will be missed but his legacy of faith, family and love will live on.
A successful businessman Glen would rather lose money than lose a friend or hurt the church. The last week of his battle against cancer he did not want pain medicine because he wanted to be alert when people came to see him. He told those who visited that he loved them and that God loved them. He shared with them the importance of family and the church. He finished strong.
His family and friends will miss him; our church has lost a patriarch. His wisdom will not be replaced. This community has lost a good man. But the tears we shed are for us not for him. Glen’s gone home – we experienced a loss but Glen won a great victory in Christ.
This man of God will be missed but his legacy of faith, family and love will live on.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
The Gift within the Gift
This past week I heard a story about a romantic husband (I know what you’re thinking but it wasn’t me) who gave his wife a special Christmas gift…. a pair of gloves. The wife was a little disappointed at the getting a cheap pair of gloves but at her husband’s insistence she tried them own only to discover that in each finger hole there was a one hundred dollar bill. She soon discovered the gift within the gift.
This is the season where the Christian world remembers the gift of Jesus given to us by the Father. Yet in all the hustle and bustle of Christmas we too can forget to see the gifts found within the gift of Jesus. Those gifts include:
GRACE: Grace is when God gives me what I need not what I deserve. There are only two ways I can be saved. Either be perfect or be a recipient of God’s grace. I have already blown the first option so I need the gift of God’s grace.
“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.” Titus 2:11
INHERITANCE: As members of the family of God we get to share in the God’s inheritance. As those in the Old testament looked forward to the Promised Land we too as God’s children look forward to the ultimate inheritance of the glories of heaven (I Peter 1:4)
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” Romans 8:16-17
FORGIVENESS: By sending us His Son, God revealed his plan for Him to remove our guilt and sin. Jesus took on our punishment for our sin and through faith and obedience to the gospel we are cleansed by His blood. Through Jesus we can live a guilt free life and celebrate the gift of forgiveness found in the gift of the Christ.
“This is what real love is: It is not our love for God; it is God's love for us. He sent his Son to die in our place to take away our sins.” I John 4:10 (NCV)
TRUE LIFE: God’s gift of Jesus not only benefits us in the next life but in this life as well. Accepting the gift of Jesus gives our life a whole new purpose and a deeper meaning. In this gift of Jesus we discover other gifts such as peace, joy and a relationship with Him.
(Jesus) “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10
As we celebrate Christmas with family and friends please take time to remember the Savior and gifts found within the gift God gave us. Have a Merry Christmas
This is the season where the Christian world remembers the gift of Jesus given to us by the Father. Yet in all the hustle and bustle of Christmas we too can forget to see the gifts found within the gift of Jesus. Those gifts include:
GRACE: Grace is when God gives me what I need not what I deserve. There are only two ways I can be saved. Either be perfect or be a recipient of God’s grace. I have already blown the first option so I need the gift of God’s grace.
“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.” Titus 2:11
INHERITANCE: As members of the family of God we get to share in the God’s inheritance. As those in the Old testament looked forward to the Promised Land we too as God’s children look forward to the ultimate inheritance of the glories of heaven (I Peter 1:4)
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” Romans 8:16-17
FORGIVENESS: By sending us His Son, God revealed his plan for Him to remove our guilt and sin. Jesus took on our punishment for our sin and through faith and obedience to the gospel we are cleansed by His blood. Through Jesus we can live a guilt free life and celebrate the gift of forgiveness found in the gift of the Christ.
“This is what real love is: It is not our love for God; it is God's love for us. He sent his Son to die in our place to take away our sins.” I John 4:10 (NCV)
TRUE LIFE: God’s gift of Jesus not only benefits us in the next life but in this life as well. Accepting the gift of Jesus gives our life a whole new purpose and a deeper meaning. In this gift of Jesus we discover other gifts such as peace, joy and a relationship with Him.
(Jesus) “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10
As we celebrate Christmas with family and friends please take time to remember the Savior and gifts found within the gift God gave us. Have a Merry Christmas
Sunday, December 7, 2008
AS WHITE AS SNOW
This past week I was in upstate New York – it is a beautiful place and I had been up there several times before but never in the winter time. Needless to say I was a little nervous when I found the snowmobile crossing signs along the highway and became even more anxious when I heard the weather report.
The next morning as I was headed back home my fears were realized. From Jamestown to Erie PA I crept along the highway as white-out conditions enveloped me and the few other brave travelers out on the road. The snow deepened quickly and much to the chagrin of those drivers behind me I slowed to a crawl. You see, although I have lived in Ohio for 23 years this Tennessee boy still gets little fearful when he has to drive in a blizzard.
Finally I stopped for a break in order to re-gather my nerves and get some caffeine. It was while sitting in a restaurant that I saw the beauty of the snow and was reminded of a great promise from God. Snow can be messy, and shoveling it does my back no good. I don’t sled anymore, haven’t been in a snowball fight for a while and hadn’t made a snowman in several years. But in the midst of that blizzard and as the sun began to peek out from behind a cloud I saw it – the purity of the glistening snow and I was reminded of what God told his people. In Isaiah God said, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…” (1:18). Soon the snow took on a different meaning. I still don’t like to drive in it and shoveling it is no fun but it is a reminder of God’s love and grace and I praise Him not only for its physical beauty but because it helps me see his mercy that is in Christ. In Christ God I am as pure as snow because of his unfailing love. Thank you God for the snow.
The next morning as I was headed back home my fears were realized. From Jamestown to Erie PA I crept along the highway as white-out conditions enveloped me and the few other brave travelers out on the road. The snow deepened quickly and much to the chagrin of those drivers behind me I slowed to a crawl. You see, although I have lived in Ohio for 23 years this Tennessee boy still gets little fearful when he has to drive in a blizzard.
Finally I stopped for a break in order to re-gather my nerves and get some caffeine. It was while sitting in a restaurant that I saw the beauty of the snow and was reminded of a great promise from God. Snow can be messy, and shoveling it does my back no good. I don’t sled anymore, haven’t been in a snowball fight for a while and hadn’t made a snowman in several years. But in the midst of that blizzard and as the sun began to peek out from behind a cloud I saw it – the purity of the glistening snow and I was reminded of what God told his people. In Isaiah God said, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…” (1:18). Soon the snow took on a different meaning. I still don’t like to drive in it and shoveling it is no fun but it is a reminder of God’s love and grace and I praise Him not only for its physical beauty but because it helps me see his mercy that is in Christ. In Christ God I am as pure as snow because of his unfailing love. Thank you God for the snow.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Lessons from Shared Cookies
I came across this little story or parable in a book and I wouldlike to share it with you today.
One afternoon a shopper at the local mall felt the need for a coffee break. She bought herself a little bag of cookies and put them in her shopping bag. She then got in line for coffee, found a place to sit at one of the crowded tables, and then taking the lid off her coffee and taking out a magazine she began to sip her coffee and read. Across the table from her a man sat reading a newspaper. After a minute or two she reached out and took a cookie. As she did, the man seated across the table reached out and took one too. This put her off, but she did not say anything. A few moments later she took another cookie. Once again the man did so too. Now she was getting a bit upset, but still she did not say anything. After having a couple of sips of coffee she once again took another cookie. So did the man. She was really upset by this - especially since now only one cookie was left. Apparently the man also realized that only one cookie was left. Before she could say anything he took it, broke it in half, offered half to her, and proceeded to eat the other half himself. Then he smiled at her and putting the paper under his arm, rose and walked off. Was she steamed. Her coffee break ruined, already thinking ahead of how she would tell this offense to her family, she folded her magazine, opened her shopping bag, and there discovered her own unopened bag of cookies.
I like that story – It makes me think about how, sometimes I forget where my blessings come from. This story reminds me that every blessing comes from God. Take time this week to give thanks.
One afternoon a shopper at the local mall felt the need for a coffee break. She bought herself a little bag of cookies and put them in her shopping bag. She then got in line for coffee, found a place to sit at one of the crowded tables, and then taking the lid off her coffee and taking out a magazine she began to sip her coffee and read. Across the table from her a man sat reading a newspaper. After a minute or two she reached out and took a cookie. As she did, the man seated across the table reached out and took one too. This put her off, but she did not say anything. A few moments later she took another cookie. Once again the man did so too. Now she was getting a bit upset, but still she did not say anything. After having a couple of sips of coffee she once again took another cookie. So did the man. She was really upset by this - especially since now only one cookie was left. Apparently the man also realized that only one cookie was left. Before she could say anything he took it, broke it in half, offered half to her, and proceeded to eat the other half himself. Then he smiled at her and putting the paper under his arm, rose and walked off. Was she steamed. Her coffee break ruined, already thinking ahead of how she would tell this offense to her family, she folded her magazine, opened her shopping bag, and there discovered her own unopened bag of cookies.
I like that story – It makes me think about how, sometimes I forget where my blessings come from. This story reminds me that every blessing comes from God. Take time this week to give thanks.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
LIFE IS NOT EASY
(We have been studying on "Exposing the Lies that Can Ruin Life" on Sunday morning. This past week we looked at lies that soceity tells us. One of those myths is that "Life should be easy". )
Roberto Flores is one of our missionaries from Cuba. I will never forget the first time he and his wife came to Ohio. It was Blanca’s first trip to the US. The expression on her face when we walked into Wal Mart looked like a kid who just walked into Disney World for the first time. “This is a wonderland”, she exclaimed. “Look at all the lights! This place has everything you could ever dream of”.
As Americans we do take things for granted. We really do have it made. We have remote controls, garage door openers, and cable TV. We enjoy power steering, air conditioning and cell phones. Over all life is easy when compared to the rest of the world. Now there is nothing wrong with making life easier, in fact that makes good sense. But the danger comes when we fall into the trap of believing that life should be easy. Because we believe this lie we become upset if the cable goes out or the internet doesn’t connect or we get caught at the traffic light.
Christians can be especially tricked into believing this lie. Many think because I am a Christian life should be easier, and if I trust God he will bless me with a problem free life. Nothing is further from the truth.
In fact, Jesus teaches just the opposite. He says, “In this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33). God never promises no problems for the Christian but he does promise that we will find purposes in our problems (Romans 8:28). In problems we can discover God’s faithfulness, in trials our faith is strengthened, in difficulties we see God’s grace more clearly and discover his power. Through problems we become more like Jesus and find new ways to glorify God. To the Christian experiencing problems in life take on eternal significance.
No one is saying that we should go out and look for and create problems. However, the person who believes the myth that life should be easy will soon find themselves burdened with bitterness toward God and others. But when that person recognizes that life is made up of problems, he/she can look to God for help and realize that in trials he/she can become a better person not a bitter one when seeking God’s purpose even in problems.
Roberto Flores is one of our missionaries from Cuba. I will never forget the first time he and his wife came to Ohio. It was Blanca’s first trip to the US. The expression on her face when we walked into Wal Mart looked like a kid who just walked into Disney World for the first time. “This is a wonderland”, she exclaimed. “Look at all the lights! This place has everything you could ever dream of”.
As Americans we do take things for granted. We really do have it made. We have remote controls, garage door openers, and cable TV. We enjoy power steering, air conditioning and cell phones. Over all life is easy when compared to the rest of the world. Now there is nothing wrong with making life easier, in fact that makes good sense. But the danger comes when we fall into the trap of believing that life should be easy. Because we believe this lie we become upset if the cable goes out or the internet doesn’t connect or we get caught at the traffic light.
Christians can be especially tricked into believing this lie. Many think because I am a Christian life should be easier, and if I trust God he will bless me with a problem free life. Nothing is further from the truth.
In fact, Jesus teaches just the opposite. He says, “In this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33). God never promises no problems for the Christian but he does promise that we will find purposes in our problems (Romans 8:28). In problems we can discover God’s faithfulness, in trials our faith is strengthened, in difficulties we see God’s grace more clearly and discover his power. Through problems we become more like Jesus and find new ways to glorify God. To the Christian experiencing problems in life take on eternal significance.
No one is saying that we should go out and look for and create problems. However, the person who believes the myth that life should be easy will soon find themselves burdened with bitterness toward God and others. But when that person recognizes that life is made up of problems, he/she can look to God for help and realize that in trials he/she can become a better person not a bitter one when seeking God’s purpose even in problems.
Monday, November 10, 2008
THE POWER OF REMEMBERING
Memorials are good. They cause us to focus on people and events, which mark our history and mold our lives. The Bible is full of memorials. They remind us of the great God we serve. This week we are going to look at six memorials that not only recall God’s character to our minds but also calls us to action as we live the life God desires.
MONDAY: THE PASSOVER REMINDS US OF GOD’S DELIVERANCE (Exodus 12: 1-29)
1. The Passover was to protect God’s people from the 10th plague that was going to strike Egypt. What was this plague? Who did God bring judgment on through this plague (12:11)? Why does God command them to commemorate this meal annually (12:17,24-28)? This passage reminds us that God will deliver his people? From what has God delivered you? What events, ceremonies remind you of the fact that God has delivered you from guilt etc.?
TUESDAY: THE MANNA REMINDS US OF GOD’S PROVISION (Exodus 16:1-36)
1. Why do you think God gave them only one day’s supply of manna? What lesson does that teach us about trusting God? Why did Moses command Aaron to keep some manna for the generations to come? How does it feel knowing that God wants to meet all your needs (Philippians 4:19)? What if that included “Quail pot pie” and “manna toast” every day? Would you still be thankful? What need do you have that you need to ask God to provide? Do so today?
WEDNESDAY: THE CENSERS REMIND US OF GOD’S HOLINESS (Numbers 16:1-40)
1. What complaints did Korah and his cohorts have against Moses (3,13-14)? How could this revolt undermine the Israelites success? Why did God destroy the rebels and not Aaron? What does this teach you about God’s holiness? If you have a concordance, look up the word holy in Scripture and write down three things about the holiness of God. What are ways people today disregard God’s holiness? Read verses 36-40. What was Eleazar told to do with the censers? What would this remind the Israelites of?
THURSDAY: THE STONES FROM THE JORDAN REMIND US OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS (Joshua 4:1-9)
1. For 40 years God’s people, because of their unfaithfulness, wandered in the desert. When
they reached the Promised Land, what did Joshua tell 12 men to do? Why? God keeps His promises. What has God done in your life that you can you share with your family and friends as a reminder to them and you that God is faithful? Write it down and read it to someone.
FRIDAY: “Ebenezer” reminds us that God is our Helper. (1 Samuel 7: 2-17)
1. How would you describe the spiritual condition of God’s people before the meeting at Mizpah? What role does confession of sin play in receiving God’s blessings? What role does “forsaking idols” or sacrifice have in receiving God’s blessing? Why does Samuel set up the stone (verse 12)? Have you set up and “Ebenezer” in your life? What can you do to keep track of God’s blessings in your life? Take some note cards, write in big letters one blessing/victory that God has given you and “set them up” around the house or workplace as a reminder of how God has helped you in your life.
SATURDAY: THE LORD’S SUPPER REMINDS US OF GOD’S LOVE (Luke 22:7-20)
1. Review the Passover (Exodus 12:1-13,21-28). How does Jesus’ use of the bread and wine change the emphasis of the Passover? The Passover reminded Israel of God’s deliverance from Egyptian slavery? The Lord’s Supper reminds us that Christians have been delivered as well? From what have you been delivered? Write a few sentences on what taking the Lord’s Supper teachers you about God’s love.
MONDAY: THE PASSOVER REMINDS US OF GOD’S DELIVERANCE (Exodus 12: 1-29)
1. The Passover was to protect God’s people from the 10th plague that was going to strike Egypt. What was this plague? Who did God bring judgment on through this plague (12:11)? Why does God command them to commemorate this meal annually (12:17,24-28)? This passage reminds us that God will deliver his people? From what has God delivered you? What events, ceremonies remind you of the fact that God has delivered you from guilt etc.?
TUESDAY: THE MANNA REMINDS US OF GOD’S PROVISION (Exodus 16:1-36)
1. Why do you think God gave them only one day’s supply of manna? What lesson does that teach us about trusting God? Why did Moses command Aaron to keep some manna for the generations to come? How does it feel knowing that God wants to meet all your needs (Philippians 4:19)? What if that included “Quail pot pie” and “manna toast” every day? Would you still be thankful? What need do you have that you need to ask God to provide? Do so today?
WEDNESDAY: THE CENSERS REMIND US OF GOD’S HOLINESS (Numbers 16:1-40)
1. What complaints did Korah and his cohorts have against Moses (3,13-14)? How could this revolt undermine the Israelites success? Why did God destroy the rebels and not Aaron? What does this teach you about God’s holiness? If you have a concordance, look up the word holy in Scripture and write down three things about the holiness of God. What are ways people today disregard God’s holiness? Read verses 36-40. What was Eleazar told to do with the censers? What would this remind the Israelites of?
THURSDAY: THE STONES FROM THE JORDAN REMIND US OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS (Joshua 4:1-9)
1. For 40 years God’s people, because of their unfaithfulness, wandered in the desert. When
they reached the Promised Land, what did Joshua tell 12 men to do? Why? God keeps His promises. What has God done in your life that you can you share with your family and friends as a reminder to them and you that God is faithful? Write it down and read it to someone.
FRIDAY: “Ebenezer” reminds us that God is our Helper. (1 Samuel 7: 2-17)
1. How would you describe the spiritual condition of God’s people before the meeting at Mizpah? What role does confession of sin play in receiving God’s blessings? What role does “forsaking idols” or sacrifice have in receiving God’s blessing? Why does Samuel set up the stone (verse 12)? Have you set up and “Ebenezer” in your life? What can you do to keep track of God’s blessings in your life? Take some note cards, write in big letters one blessing/victory that God has given you and “set them up” around the house or workplace as a reminder of how God has helped you in your life.
SATURDAY: THE LORD’S SUPPER REMINDS US OF GOD’S LOVE (Luke 22:7-20)
1. Review the Passover (Exodus 12:1-13,21-28). How does Jesus’ use of the bread and wine change the emphasis of the Passover? The Passover reminded Israel of God’s deliverance from Egyptian slavery? The Lord’s Supper reminds us that Christians have been delivered as well? From what have you been delivered? Write a few sentences on what taking the Lord’s Supper teachers you about God’s love.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Standing in the Midst of Heroes
A few Sundays back we honored one of our members, Carlos Easterday, who has recently been nominated to the Ohio Military Hall of Fame. What a special day it was! Mike Art, a brother from the Cambridge congregation, did a great job in honoring Carlos in hid presentation. Carlos, a Korean War veteran, was truly humbled and it was the firs time I ever have seen him speechless :). Carlos and Mike are both members of our local Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter. We are honored that they meet every month at our building. It allows me to surround myself with heroes on a regular basis and get some great food as well. Recently at our local courthouse a new monument remembering our local Purple Heart veterans was unveiled. Please take time out to thank God for those who have served and who are serving our country in the military. Because of them we are free.
On a side note our teens leave for our mission trip to Nashville on Saturday. Pray for our success and for a safe return.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Vocal Union coming to Stop Nine
Vocal Union, an acappella, contemporary Gospel group from Nashville, Tennessee will be performing a benefit concert, to help local veterans, at the Stop Nine church of Christ on Saturday August 2nd at 6:30 PM. Since 1998 Vocal Union has traveled through out the United States, Canada and the Caribbean presenting their unique style of Christian music. They have won many awards including Best Religious Album of the Year from The Contemporary Acappella Society of America. The group’s style ranges from high-energy traditional, to tight-harmony jazz and soulful spirituals, to contemporary street corner acappella. Everyone from the very young to the very old will find something to enjoy during their concerts. The concert is free but a love offering will taken with 100% of the proceeds going to help the local Purple Heart chapter provide Christmas gifts to veterans that are shut in or placed in nursing homes. Stop Nine church of Christ is located at 60330 Southgate Road, Byesville, Ohio. For more information you can call (740) 685-2591
Monday, June 2, 2008
TAKING A WALK IN A SMALL TOWN
For the past few weeks I have been walking about two miles a day. My schedule is such that I don’t have a regular time – sometimes it is early in the morning but today I just got back in from an evening walk. I am not an expert by any means but I am told that a good walk includes three parts: Five minutes of slow walking followed by fifteen minutes of face paced walking before ending your walk with five minutes of slower walking. I good walk is suppose increase your heart rate gradually, beat at fast rate for a certain period of time and before gradually returning to normal. While I attempt to do this I am finding that it is difficult to do in a small town
For example, I left the house this evening and began my normal route toward the cemetery where I usually walk. Before getting there I met a lady who has been visiting our church for several weeks – we stopped and chatted about how things were going and about how she enjoys the church. Finally making it to the cemetery I was immediately greeted by a couple of neighborhood teens also out for a walk. We shared pleasantries before going our separate ways. I turned the corner and went down the hill only to be met by some neighbors who were also out for an evening stroll. We both tried to keep up our pace as we laughed and talked about climbing the big hill in the back of the cemetery. After taking my laps I began back up the road to the house only to be greeted by a friend who was out working in his yard we talked a minute about family and friends. I took a few more steps before one of the kids on my basketball team came out of the house with his girlfriend. Again I found myself in conversation, this time about the end of school and summer plans. Two doors down another neighbor was rocking on the front porch. We exchanged congratulations as both our children graduated form school the night before and talked about God’s plans for our children. Finally I got up some speed and started up the hill to my house. Halfway up I saw a couple from church coming down the hill on their evening walk. I shouted don’t stop me or I want make it up the hill – they laughed and we exchanged high fives as we passed and I finally made it home.
I thanked God for my town as I went in the house for a cool drink of water. I may not have done it the way the experts say it should be done but it did my heart good – in ways you would never expect. You get a lot more benefits than physical ones when you take a walk in a small town.
For example, I left the house this evening and began my normal route toward the cemetery where I usually walk. Before getting there I met a lady who has been visiting our church for several weeks – we stopped and chatted about how things were going and about how she enjoys the church. Finally making it to the cemetery I was immediately greeted by a couple of neighborhood teens also out for a walk. We shared pleasantries before going our separate ways. I turned the corner and went down the hill only to be met by some neighbors who were also out for an evening stroll. We both tried to keep up our pace as we laughed and talked about climbing the big hill in the back of the cemetery. After taking my laps I began back up the road to the house only to be greeted by a friend who was out working in his yard we talked a minute about family and friends. I took a few more steps before one of the kids on my basketball team came out of the house with his girlfriend. Again I found myself in conversation, this time about the end of school and summer plans. Two doors down another neighbor was rocking on the front porch. We exchanged congratulations as both our children graduated form school the night before and talked about God’s plans for our children. Finally I got up some speed and started up the hill to my house. Halfway up I saw a couple from church coming down the hill on their evening walk. I shouted don’t stop me or I want make it up the hill – they laughed and we exchanged high fives as we passed and I finally made it home.
I thanked God for my town as I went in the house for a cool drink of water. I may not have done it the way the experts say it should be done but it did my heart good – in ways you would never expect. You get a lot more benefits than physical ones when you take a walk in a small town.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Excuses
I am a Southern Gospel Music fan. I love the harmonies and the message when quartets sing those fast paced convention songs. One of my favorite songs is the1981 hit “Excuses” by the Kingsmen. The song begins with these lyrics: “Excuses, excuses, you'll hear them every day. And the Devil he'll supply them, if the church you stay away.”
The chorus as some humorous lines as well:
“Well, the church benches are too hard.
And, that choir sings way too loud.
Boy, you know how nervous you get when you're sitting in a great big crowd.
The doctor told you, "Now, you better watch them crowds. They'll set you back." But, you go to that old ball game because you say "it helps you to relax.
Well, a headache Sunday morning and a backache Sunday night.
But by work time Monday morning, you're feeling quite alright.
While one of the children has a cold, Pneumonia, do you suppose?
Why the whole family had to stay home, just to blow that poor kid's nose.
Well, the preacher he's too young. And, maybe he's too old.
The sermons they're not hard enough. And, maybe they're too bold.
His voice is much too quiet-like. Sometimes he gets too loud.
He needs to have more dignity. Or, else he's way too proud.
Well, the sermons they're too long. And, maybe they're too short. He ought to preach the word with dignity instead of "stomp and snort." Well, that preacher we've got must be "the world's most stuck up man." Well, one of the lady's told me the other day, "Well, he didn't even shake my hand."
This past Sunday we talked some about excuses that Christians can make when trying to ignore God’s missionary call. Remember some of Moses’ excuses? Read Exodus 3 and 4.
What excuses did Moses make? How did God answer those excuses? Why was God angry at Moses?
What excuses do you use to keep from doing God’s Will? What do you think his answer to you would be?
The chorus as some humorous lines as well:
“Well, the church benches are too hard.
And, that choir sings way too loud.
Boy, you know how nervous you get when you're sitting in a great big crowd.
The doctor told you, "Now, you better watch them crowds. They'll set you back." But, you go to that old ball game because you say "it helps you to relax.
Well, a headache Sunday morning and a backache Sunday night.
But by work time Monday morning, you're feeling quite alright.
While one of the children has a cold, Pneumonia, do you suppose?
Why the whole family had to stay home, just to blow that poor kid's nose.
Well, the preacher he's too young. And, maybe he's too old.
The sermons they're not hard enough. And, maybe they're too bold.
His voice is much too quiet-like. Sometimes he gets too loud.
He needs to have more dignity. Or, else he's way too proud.
Well, the sermons they're too long. And, maybe they're too short. He ought to preach the word with dignity instead of "stomp and snort." Well, that preacher we've got must be "the world's most stuck up man." Well, one of the lady's told me the other day, "Well, he didn't even shake my hand."
This past Sunday we talked some about excuses that Christians can make when trying to ignore God’s missionary call. Remember some of Moses’ excuses? Read Exodus 3 and 4.
What excuses did Moses make? How did God answer those excuses? Why was God angry at Moses?
What excuses do you use to keep from doing God’s Will? What do you think his answer to you would be?
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
THE PRAYER LIFE OF JESUS
Jesus was a man of prayer. It is not coincidental that he always seemed to be in control, was never rushed and accomplished God’s will for His life in a short time. Why? I believe because of prayer. This week we will look at what we can learn from the prayer life of Jesus.
MONDAY:
1. According to Luke 5:16 when did Jesus withdraw and pray? Where did he pray?
2. According to Paul, how are we to pray (I Thessalonians 5:17)? What do you think he means by this command?
3. How would you rate your frequency of prayer? Rarely? Before meals? At bedtime? Continually?
4. Do you have a place of prayer? What “lonely place” can you find and set up as your prayer place?
TUESDAY
1. Read Luke 6:12-13. What major decision was Jesus about to make? Why was this an important decision? Have you ever spent the night in prayer?
2. What major decisions are you facing this week? Have you spent time in prayer asking God to guide you? Why not do so now?
3. Notice how the New Testament church followed Jesus’ examples before choosing her leaders? (See Acts 1:24, 6:6, 13:2-3, 14:23) Can you name three things from their example that you can do to help you when you seek God’s direction in making major decisions? Write them down and put them into practice this week.
WEDNESDAY:
1. Read Mark 1:35. When did Jesus go pray? Where did he go?
2. Read Mark 1:21-34. What had Jesus been doing? How do you think this affected his popularity? When Simon and his friends found Jesus praying what did they exclaim (Mark 1:36)? Why do you think everybody was looking for Jesus?
3. Where did Jesus want to go (Mark 1:38)? Why did he want to go? For what purpose, according to this verse, did Jesus come to earth?
4. Do you sometimes find it easy to get distracted by life and forget what your true purpose is? What type of things distracts you from doing God’s will or doing what is really important? How can prayer help you stay focused?
THURSDAY:
1. Define the word “intercession”? Read the following verses for whom did Jesus intercede?
A. Luke 22:32 – For what did Jesus pray? Do you know someone who is struggling with their faith? Take a few minutes and pray for them?
B. John 17:9-16 – Here Jesus prays for his disciples. For what does Jesus pray (Verse 15)? Who do you know that Satan is attacking right now and needs a prayer of protection? Take a few minutes and pray for that person by name.
C. Luke 23:34 – For whom is Jesus praying? What does he pray for? Who has hurt you that you need to pray for right now? Take a few minutes and do so.
FRIDAY:
1. Read Jesus’ prayer in John 17:20-26. For whom is Jesus praying?
2. What does he want is believers to be? Why does Jesus say unity is important (See verses 21, 23,)?
3. What does Jesus want Christians to see (verse 24)?
4. How have you made the Father known to the world? Unity is important for God’s people (See Ephesians 4:1-3, John 13:34-35). Take a moment to pray for unity among God’s people. What can you do to promote unity in your congregation? (Can you list three practical things?)
SATURDAY:
1. Read some other Scriptures about the prayers of Jesus. Write down what you learn? Is there an example to follow? An attitude to adopt? What else do you learn? (See Luke 22:39-42, John 11:41-43, Hebrews 7:25)
MONDAY:
1. According to Luke 5:16 when did Jesus withdraw and pray? Where did he pray?
2. According to Paul, how are we to pray (I Thessalonians 5:17)? What do you think he means by this command?
3. How would you rate your frequency of prayer? Rarely? Before meals? At bedtime? Continually?
4. Do you have a place of prayer? What “lonely place” can you find and set up as your prayer place?
TUESDAY
1. Read Luke 6:12-13. What major decision was Jesus about to make? Why was this an important decision? Have you ever spent the night in prayer?
2. What major decisions are you facing this week? Have you spent time in prayer asking God to guide you? Why not do so now?
3. Notice how the New Testament church followed Jesus’ examples before choosing her leaders? (See Acts 1:24, 6:6, 13:2-3, 14:23) Can you name three things from their example that you can do to help you when you seek God’s direction in making major decisions? Write them down and put them into practice this week.
WEDNESDAY:
1. Read Mark 1:35. When did Jesus go pray? Where did he go?
2. Read Mark 1:21-34. What had Jesus been doing? How do you think this affected his popularity? When Simon and his friends found Jesus praying what did they exclaim (Mark 1:36)? Why do you think everybody was looking for Jesus?
3. Where did Jesus want to go (Mark 1:38)? Why did he want to go? For what purpose, according to this verse, did Jesus come to earth?
4. Do you sometimes find it easy to get distracted by life and forget what your true purpose is? What type of things distracts you from doing God’s will or doing what is really important? How can prayer help you stay focused?
THURSDAY:
1. Define the word “intercession”? Read the following verses for whom did Jesus intercede?
A. Luke 22:32 – For what did Jesus pray? Do you know someone who is struggling with their faith? Take a few minutes and pray for them?
B. John 17:9-16 – Here Jesus prays for his disciples. For what does Jesus pray (Verse 15)? Who do you know that Satan is attacking right now and needs a prayer of protection? Take a few minutes and pray for that person by name.
C. Luke 23:34 – For whom is Jesus praying? What does he pray for? Who has hurt you that you need to pray for right now? Take a few minutes and do so.
FRIDAY:
1. Read Jesus’ prayer in John 17:20-26. For whom is Jesus praying?
2. What does he want is believers to be? Why does Jesus say unity is important (See verses 21, 23,)?
3. What does Jesus want Christians to see (verse 24)?
4. How have you made the Father known to the world? Unity is important for God’s people (See Ephesians 4:1-3, John 13:34-35). Take a moment to pray for unity among God’s people. What can you do to promote unity in your congregation? (Can you list three practical things?)
SATURDAY:
1. Read some other Scriptures about the prayers of Jesus. Write down what you learn? Is there an example to follow? An attitude to adopt? What else do you learn? (See Luke 22:39-42, John 11:41-43, Hebrews 7:25)
Thursday, March 27, 2008
LIVING BY FAITH - Part 4
MONDAY: Moses’ parents (Hebrews 11:23)
1. Read the story of the birth of Moses (Exodus 2:1-10). Why did Moses’ parents hide him (Exodus 1:22)? For how long did she hide the baby? What problems would she have had in trying to hide a baby for that long of a time?
Who gave him the name Moses? Why was he given that name?
2. Return to Hebrews 11:23. Why did they hide the child? What fears would you have had trying to hide a baby for such a long time?
3. What fears do you face now that you need to overcome by faith? Right them down, share them with someone and begin to face that fear by stepping out on faith.
TUESDAY: Moses’ faith (Hebrews 11:24-26)
1. What privileges would Moses have had by being known as “Pharaoh’s grandson”?
2. Have you ever made the hard choice because it was the right choice? Write down a time.
3. What do we learn about sin from this passage? Why did he regard “disgrace for the sake of Christ greater than “the treasures of Egypt”? How does looking ahead to heaven keep you walking by faith? How does it help you when tempted by the temporary pleasures of sin?
WEDNESDAY: Moses’ faith and the flight (Hebrews 11:27)
1. There are two possibilities when this passage talks about Moses’ leaving Egypt. One is after he killed an Egyptian who was mistreating and Israelite (Exodus 2:11-15) or the other option is when he led the Israelites out of bondage. Exodus 2:14 says Moses was afraid when a Hebrew slave confronted about the killing and that he left after the confrontation. It does not say he feared the Pharaoh. No matter which view you adopt both trips took great faith.
2. According to Hebrews 11:28, why did he persevere? In what ways do you see the invisible God in your life? (List three) How can you see something that is invisible? How does seeing “him who is invisible” help you to persevere in tough times?
THURSDAY: Moses’ faith and the Passover (Hebrews 11:28)
1. Read about the first Passover Exodus 11:1-12:30. Write what you would think it was like celebrating the first Passover? What sounds would you hear? Would you be afraid? What would you tell the children in your household about the blood over the door? What would you tell your firstborn?
2. Why would keeping the Passover and sprinkling the blood take faith? Why would it take faith to do this on an annual basis?
3. In our fellowship today how does partaking of the Lord’s Supper take faith? Can you take it without faith? Can you sing, pray and give without faith? What role does faith play in your participation of these things?
FRIDAY: Faith at the Red Sea (Hebrews 11:29)
1. Read the story of the crossing at the Red Sea. (Exodus 13:17-14:31)
2. Did it look like the Hebrews had much faith when Pharaoh approached (Exodus 14:10-12)? How did Moses respond to their doubts and fears (Exodus 14:13)? What did God tell Moses to tell the Israelites to do (Exodus 14:15)? Why would moving on toward the seas take faith?
3. Have you ever felt trapped by a relationship, job, fear, etc? Has God told you to “move on” and yet you haven’t? What “trap” do you need to face by faith? Find someone to help you and begin moving.
SATURDAY: On the internet or using a hymnal look up some songs of faith. Spend a few minutes reading the lyrics or singing the songs before asking God to help you live like Moses when facing impossible odds.
1. Read the story of the birth of Moses (Exodus 2:1-10). Why did Moses’ parents hide him (Exodus 1:22)? For how long did she hide the baby? What problems would she have had in trying to hide a baby for that long of a time?
Who gave him the name Moses? Why was he given that name?
2. Return to Hebrews 11:23. Why did they hide the child? What fears would you have had trying to hide a baby for such a long time?
3. What fears do you face now that you need to overcome by faith? Right them down, share them with someone and begin to face that fear by stepping out on faith.
TUESDAY: Moses’ faith (Hebrews 11:24-26)
1. What privileges would Moses have had by being known as “Pharaoh’s grandson”?
2. Have you ever made the hard choice because it was the right choice? Write down a time.
3. What do we learn about sin from this passage? Why did he regard “disgrace for the sake of Christ greater than “the treasures of Egypt”? How does looking ahead to heaven keep you walking by faith? How does it help you when tempted by the temporary pleasures of sin?
WEDNESDAY: Moses’ faith and the flight (Hebrews 11:27)
1. There are two possibilities when this passage talks about Moses’ leaving Egypt. One is after he killed an Egyptian who was mistreating and Israelite (Exodus 2:11-15) or the other option is when he led the Israelites out of bondage. Exodus 2:14 says Moses was afraid when a Hebrew slave confronted about the killing and that he left after the confrontation. It does not say he feared the Pharaoh. No matter which view you adopt both trips took great faith.
2. According to Hebrews 11:28, why did he persevere? In what ways do you see the invisible God in your life? (List three) How can you see something that is invisible? How does seeing “him who is invisible” help you to persevere in tough times?
THURSDAY: Moses’ faith and the Passover (Hebrews 11:28)
1. Read about the first Passover Exodus 11:1-12:30. Write what you would think it was like celebrating the first Passover? What sounds would you hear? Would you be afraid? What would you tell the children in your household about the blood over the door? What would you tell your firstborn?
2. Why would keeping the Passover and sprinkling the blood take faith? Why would it take faith to do this on an annual basis?
3. In our fellowship today how does partaking of the Lord’s Supper take faith? Can you take it without faith? Can you sing, pray and give without faith? What role does faith play in your participation of these things?
FRIDAY: Faith at the Red Sea (Hebrews 11:29)
1. Read the story of the crossing at the Red Sea. (Exodus 13:17-14:31)
2. Did it look like the Hebrews had much faith when Pharaoh approached (Exodus 14:10-12)? How did Moses respond to their doubts and fears (Exodus 14:13)? What did God tell Moses to tell the Israelites to do (Exodus 14:15)? Why would moving on toward the seas take faith?
3. Have you ever felt trapped by a relationship, job, fear, etc? Has God told you to “move on” and yet you haven’t? What “trap” do you need to face by faith? Find someone to help you and begin moving.
SATURDAY: On the internet or using a hymnal look up some songs of faith. Spend a few minutes reading the lyrics or singing the songs before asking God to help you live like Moses when facing impossible odds.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
LIVING BY FAITH - Part 3
I know it has been a few weeks since I have posted. We will return to our study of Hebrews 11.
MONDAY: By Faith Abraham became a father (Hebrews 11:11-12)
The Hebrew author gives more space than to anyone else mentioned on his list. Abraham accepted God’s promises and acted on them even there was nothing indicated that they could possibly be fulfilled.
1.What couldn’t happen did happen because Abraham considered God “faithful”. Write down a definition of “faithful”?
2.What promise did God make to Abraham (Genesis 22:17)? Was it fulfilled (Deuteronomy 1:10)?
In what area of your life did you need to depend on the faithfulness of God?
TUESDAY: Looking for a new country (Hebrews 11:13-16)
1. The Hebrew writer is urging his readers to do remain faithful. Read Hebrews 3:14, 6:11. For how long does he want us to remain faithful?
2. Did the people in this passage receive all God had promised while here? Did they remain faithful?
3. What were they looking for? What can you do to keep from seeing this world as a place of permanence?
4. What makes heaven a “better country”?
WEDNESDAY: Hebrews 11:17-19 - A third illustration of Abram’s faith
1. Here it says that “God tested” Abraham. Contrast this verse to James 1:13-14. Is there a difference between a testing and a tempting? Why does God test us? (James 1:3-4; Job 23:10). 2. What is the purpose of temptation (James 1:15, I Peter 5:8)?
3. What did Abraham think God would do after he sacrificed Isaac (Hebrews 11:19)? Has God ever tested you? Did you pass the test? What tests are you going through right now? Who can help you pass these tests?
THURSDAY: Isaac and Jacob’s blessings and faith (Hebrews 11:20-21)
1. Isaac bestowing his blessings upon Jacob and Esau was filled with deceit, by Jacob, and controversy (See Genesis 17). However the Hebrew writer is not concerned with these details but is focusing on Isaac’s faith. When did Isaac give his son’s their blessings (Genesis 2,4)? The point is that Isaac blessed his son’s regarding their future and trusted God to help the boys fulfill their purpose.
2. When did Joseph’s bless each of Joseph’s sons? To whom does Joseph give the “greater blessing” (Genesis 48:1-22)? The lesson for us is that God is not bound by human rules. He fulfills his purposes as He chooses. Why did these actions take faith? Part of the reason lies in the fact that they were recognizing that God would take care of their future generations. Spend time in prayer asking God to bless your family’s future – even after you have left this earth.
FRIDAY: Joseph – by faith (Hebrews 11:22)
1. What did Joseph speak about by faith? (Genesis 50:24-26). What did Joseph want done with his bones?
2. We need to remember that it wasn’t until some 400 years later that this incident Joseph spoke about came to be. Did they remember to carry Joseph’s bones (Exodus 13:19)? We need to remember that somebody kept those bones for the 400 years they were in Egypt and carried them for the 40 years they were in the wilderness. Yet his descendents kept their promise.
Joseph’s faith is seen in his dying wish because he knew that God would keep the promise made to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-21) and that in God’s time He would act. What can you learn about the Israelites faith by keeping the bones for 400 years? How does that compare to your faith as you wait on God to fulfill his promises?
SATURDAY: Waiting by faith
1. Reviewing Hebrews 11:19-22 what one thing links these three examples of faith together (Genesis 27:2, 47:29, 50:22-26)?
2. All three men died without entering into the land God had promised them. Isaac was a nomad when he died; Jacob lived in exile in Egypt and Joseph although successful was living in a foreign land. Yet they never doubted that the promise would come true, they never lost hope.
They lived and died knowing that God promises are true. They may have not seen it fulfilled but they were a link in its fulfillment and their family for generations will be blessed because they did not doubt and in death they were rewarded with a heavenly home.
Have you given up on God because of a lack of faith? Take some time to rededicate yourself to trusting God and his word no matter what. And if the answer does not come in this life – stay faithful and be ready to receive the reward in the next life.
MONDAY: By Faith Abraham became a father (Hebrews 11:11-12)
The Hebrew author gives more space than to anyone else mentioned on his list. Abraham accepted God’s promises and acted on them even there was nothing indicated that they could possibly be fulfilled.
1.What couldn’t happen did happen because Abraham considered God “faithful”. Write down a definition of “faithful”?
2.What promise did God make to Abraham (Genesis 22:17)? Was it fulfilled (Deuteronomy 1:10)?
In what area of your life did you need to depend on the faithfulness of God?
TUESDAY: Looking for a new country (Hebrews 11:13-16)
1. The Hebrew writer is urging his readers to do remain faithful. Read Hebrews 3:14, 6:11. For how long does he want us to remain faithful?
2. Did the people in this passage receive all God had promised while here? Did they remain faithful?
3. What were they looking for? What can you do to keep from seeing this world as a place of permanence?
4. What makes heaven a “better country”?
WEDNESDAY: Hebrews 11:17-19 - A third illustration of Abram’s faith
1. Here it says that “God tested” Abraham. Contrast this verse to James 1:13-14. Is there a difference between a testing and a tempting? Why does God test us? (James 1:3-4; Job 23:10). 2. What is the purpose of temptation (James 1:15, I Peter 5:8)?
3. What did Abraham think God would do after he sacrificed Isaac (Hebrews 11:19)? Has God ever tested you? Did you pass the test? What tests are you going through right now? Who can help you pass these tests?
THURSDAY: Isaac and Jacob’s blessings and faith (Hebrews 11:20-21)
1. Isaac bestowing his blessings upon Jacob and Esau was filled with deceit, by Jacob, and controversy (See Genesis 17). However the Hebrew writer is not concerned with these details but is focusing on Isaac’s faith. When did Isaac give his son’s their blessings (Genesis 2,4)? The point is that Isaac blessed his son’s regarding their future and trusted God to help the boys fulfill their purpose.
2. When did Joseph’s bless each of Joseph’s sons? To whom does Joseph give the “greater blessing” (Genesis 48:1-22)? The lesson for us is that God is not bound by human rules. He fulfills his purposes as He chooses. Why did these actions take faith? Part of the reason lies in the fact that they were recognizing that God would take care of their future generations. Spend time in prayer asking God to bless your family’s future – even after you have left this earth.
FRIDAY: Joseph – by faith (Hebrews 11:22)
1. What did Joseph speak about by faith? (Genesis 50:24-26). What did Joseph want done with his bones?
2. We need to remember that it wasn’t until some 400 years later that this incident Joseph spoke about came to be. Did they remember to carry Joseph’s bones (Exodus 13:19)? We need to remember that somebody kept those bones for the 400 years they were in Egypt and carried them for the 40 years they were in the wilderness. Yet his descendents kept their promise.
Joseph’s faith is seen in his dying wish because he knew that God would keep the promise made to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-21) and that in God’s time He would act. What can you learn about the Israelites faith by keeping the bones for 400 years? How does that compare to your faith as you wait on God to fulfill his promises?
SATURDAY: Waiting by faith
1. Reviewing Hebrews 11:19-22 what one thing links these three examples of faith together (Genesis 27:2, 47:29, 50:22-26)?
2. All three men died without entering into the land God had promised them. Isaac was a nomad when he died; Jacob lived in exile in Egypt and Joseph although successful was living in a foreign land. Yet they never doubted that the promise would come true, they never lost hope.
They lived and died knowing that God promises are true. They may have not seen it fulfilled but they were a link in its fulfillment and their family for generations will be blessed because they did not doubt and in death they were rewarded with a heavenly home.
Have you given up on God because of a lack of faith? Take some time to rededicate yourself to trusting God and his word no matter what. And if the answer does not come in this life – stay faithful and be ready to receive the reward in the next life.
Friday, February 29, 2008
LIVING BY FAITH – Part 2
This week we will continue our study of Hebrews 11 as we learn how to better live by faith in our world by looking at the loves of some of God’s best faith walkers.
MONDAY: BY FAITH NOAH BUILT AN ARK.
1. Read Hebrews 11:7. What “things not yet seen” was Noah warned about? By faith what was Noah moved to do (See Genesis 6:13-17)?
2. How would you describe “holy fear”? How can “holy fear” motivate us to obey God? Look up the words “reverence” and “awe”. What can you learn about “holy fear” from these definitions.
3. How did Noah’s faith affect his family? How does your faith affect your family? Do they see you obeying God when the rest of the world does not? What step of faith do you need to take to help save your family/
TUESDAY: BY FAITH NOAH CONDEMNED THE WORLD
1. How is Noah described in Genesis 6:8-9 (Look for four descriptions)?
2. Would your friends or co-workers, family call you “blameless”? With whom would they say you “walk with”? Why do you think Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord?
3. How did Noah’s faith condemn the world? How did the world’s belief differ from Noah’s (See Genesis 6:5 and Genesis 6:9)? What affect does your faith have on those in your world?
WEDNESDAY: BY FAITH NOAH BECAME AN HEIR OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
1. Read Hebrews 11:7. Noah was the first man in the Bible to be called “righteous (Genesis 6:9). Righteousness is being right with God. Noah was right with God because he took God at his word, he believed what God said and he acted on it.
2. Notice that being “right with God” comes by faith not by rule keeping or ritual. Read Romans 10:17, James 2:23, Romans 1:17, Romans 3:20-24. What do you learn about the relationship of faith to being righteous (right with God)?
3. As an heir of righteousness in what area of your life do you need to learn to trust God more? Pray about that area giving it to God.
THURSDAY: BY FAITH ABRAHAM OBEYED….
1. Read Hebrews 11: 8. Where was Abraham called to go? According to Genesis 12:1, what was Abram ham called to leave?
2. What would be the hardest part about living your country and moving to another country? What fears would you have? What would be the hardest part about “leaving your people” and moving to another culture? What would be the hardest part about leaving your family?
3. How old was Abraham when God told him to leave? Did Abraham know where God ascending him?
4. What if your spouse, child, or other family member came to you and said, “I am moving away tomorrow to another country and I don’t know where I am going but God told me to go there so I am going”. What would your advice be to them?
5. What in your life has God told you to leave (a habit, job, a situation, etc.)? What is keeping you from trusting God and doing what he says? What do you need to do so by faith you can obey God in that area?
FRIDAY: BY FAITH ABRAHAM LIVED IN TENTS
1. Read Hebrews 11:9. Where did Abraham make his home? Who were Isaac and Jacob? Why did all three of them live in tents?
2. What city were they really looking forward to?
3. Who else are recipients of this promised city (Galatians 3:26-29)?
4. Look up two verses about heaven. What about your new home are you looking forward to the most?
SATURDAY: Using a hymnal or the internet – look up some hymns of faith. Read or sing the words. Ask God to help you live in faith by obeying even when you don’t understand what all is going to happen as Noah and Abraham did.
MONDAY: BY FAITH NOAH BUILT AN ARK.
1. Read Hebrews 11:7. What “things not yet seen” was Noah warned about? By faith what was Noah moved to do (See Genesis 6:13-17)?
2. How would you describe “holy fear”? How can “holy fear” motivate us to obey God? Look up the words “reverence” and “awe”. What can you learn about “holy fear” from these definitions.
3. How did Noah’s faith affect his family? How does your faith affect your family? Do they see you obeying God when the rest of the world does not? What step of faith do you need to take to help save your family/
TUESDAY: BY FAITH NOAH CONDEMNED THE WORLD
1. How is Noah described in Genesis 6:8-9 (Look for four descriptions)?
2. Would your friends or co-workers, family call you “blameless”? With whom would they say you “walk with”? Why do you think Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord?
3. How did Noah’s faith condemn the world? How did the world’s belief differ from Noah’s (See Genesis 6:5 and Genesis 6:9)? What affect does your faith have on those in your world?
WEDNESDAY: BY FAITH NOAH BECAME AN HEIR OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
1. Read Hebrews 11:7. Noah was the first man in the Bible to be called “righteous (Genesis 6:9). Righteousness is being right with God. Noah was right with God because he took God at his word, he believed what God said and he acted on it.
2. Notice that being “right with God” comes by faith not by rule keeping or ritual. Read Romans 10:17, James 2:23, Romans 1:17, Romans 3:20-24. What do you learn about the relationship of faith to being righteous (right with God)?
3. As an heir of righteousness in what area of your life do you need to learn to trust God more? Pray about that area giving it to God.
THURSDAY: BY FAITH ABRAHAM OBEYED….
1. Read Hebrews 11: 8. Where was Abraham called to go? According to Genesis 12:1, what was Abram ham called to leave?
2. What would be the hardest part about living your country and moving to another country? What fears would you have? What would be the hardest part about “leaving your people” and moving to another culture? What would be the hardest part about leaving your family?
3. How old was Abraham when God told him to leave? Did Abraham know where God ascending him?
4. What if your spouse, child, or other family member came to you and said, “I am moving away tomorrow to another country and I don’t know where I am going but God told me to go there so I am going”. What would your advice be to them?
5. What in your life has God told you to leave (a habit, job, a situation, etc.)? What is keeping you from trusting God and doing what he says? What do you need to do so by faith you can obey God in that area?
FRIDAY: BY FAITH ABRAHAM LIVED IN TENTS
1. Read Hebrews 11:9. Where did Abraham make his home? Who were Isaac and Jacob? Why did all three of them live in tents?
2. What city were they really looking forward to?
3. Who else are recipients of this promised city (Galatians 3:26-29)?
4. Look up two verses about heaven. What about your new home are you looking forward to the most?
SATURDAY: Using a hymnal or the internet – look up some hymns of faith. Read or sing the words. Ask God to help you live in faith by obeying even when you don’t understand what all is going to happen as Noah and Abraham did.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
HELL
This week we are going to take an unpleasant journey as we look at what the Bible says about hell. A real place prepared for the devil and his angels. We will return to the “Living by Faith” study next week.
MONDAY: Read Luke 16:19-31
1. How many times does Jesus use the word “torment” or “agony” when telling this story? Look up the definitions of these two words? What type of things tormented the rich man who was in hell?
2. What lessons can we learn from verses 29-31? Who is that you need to warn about hell? What is keeping you from doing it?
TUESDAY: Read Matthew 25:31-46
1. According to this story what six actions will Jesus use as a basis for judgment?
For whom are they done – now and ultimately (verse 40)?
2. How does Jesus describe the reward waiting for the “sheep” (Verses 34, 46)?
3. How does he describe the punishment waiting for the “goats” (Verses 41, 46)?
4. Define “eternal”.
5. Review the six areas Jesus mentions. In which area are you the most comfortable in doing? Which area is the most difficult? Think of someone you can help this week in one of these six areas and as a LIFE group, family or individual look to serve them.
WEDNESDAY: Read Matthew 8:12, 13:42, 22:13, 25:30
1. How does Jesus describe hell in these verses? What emotions come to your mind when you see the words “weeping and gnashing of teeth”?
2. How do you think life would be if you never saw light?
3. Using the descriptions above draw a picture or wrote a poem or paragraph of what you would think hell would be like?
THURSDAY: Read Mark 9:43-48
1. Jesus is using hyperbole to make a point. What point is he making?
2. What do we learn about hell in this passage?
3. The Greek word used for “Hell” is “gehenna”. It is a Greek form of the words used to describe a ravine located on the south side of Jerusalem which was used in Old Testament times as place were idolatrous human sacrifices were performed (Jeremiah 7:31, 19:5-6, 32:35). King Josiah put a stop to this practice (2 Kings 23:10). The valley eventually became a “city dump” where trash, human excrement, animal carcasses and at times dead bodies of executed criminals were dumped. There was a fire constantly burning and worms (maggots) were always prevalent. This place became to be used symbolically to describe hell. Imagine the scene – how would you describe the smell? What sounds would you hear? How do you feel about maggots? What point is Jesus making about hell?
FRIDAY: Read Revelation 20:10, 14,15 and Revelation 21:8
1. How is ultimate defeat of Satan and his followers described in these verses? How long will they be tormented?
2. Who will be thrown into this lake?
3. How does one get his name “written in the book of life”?
SATURDAY: We have spent the week focusing on what the Bible says of the destiny of those who reject Jesus. Read John 3:16. To whom is eternal life promised? Why did God send Jesus to earth (John 3:17)? The point is God does not send anyone to hell. We have a choice. Trust Jesus or trust in our on goodness. Where are you in your relationship with Jesus? Have you been baptized into Christ for the forgiveness of your sins? Do you have a relationship with him? Do you trust in Him for salvation or in your own goodness or religious acts?
MONDAY: Read Luke 16:19-31
1. How many times does Jesus use the word “torment” or “agony” when telling this story? Look up the definitions of these two words? What type of things tormented the rich man who was in hell?
2. What lessons can we learn from verses 29-31? Who is that you need to warn about hell? What is keeping you from doing it?
TUESDAY: Read Matthew 25:31-46
1. According to this story what six actions will Jesus use as a basis for judgment?
For whom are they done – now and ultimately (verse 40)?
2. How does Jesus describe the reward waiting for the “sheep” (Verses 34, 46)?
3. How does he describe the punishment waiting for the “goats” (Verses 41, 46)?
4. Define “eternal”.
5. Review the six areas Jesus mentions. In which area are you the most comfortable in doing? Which area is the most difficult? Think of someone you can help this week in one of these six areas and as a LIFE group, family or individual look to serve them.
WEDNESDAY: Read Matthew 8:12, 13:42, 22:13, 25:30
1. How does Jesus describe hell in these verses? What emotions come to your mind when you see the words “weeping and gnashing of teeth”?
2. How do you think life would be if you never saw light?
3. Using the descriptions above draw a picture or wrote a poem or paragraph of what you would think hell would be like?
THURSDAY: Read Mark 9:43-48
1. Jesus is using hyperbole to make a point. What point is he making?
2. What do we learn about hell in this passage?
3. The Greek word used for “Hell” is “gehenna”. It is a Greek form of the words used to describe a ravine located on the south side of Jerusalem which was used in Old Testament times as place were idolatrous human sacrifices were performed (Jeremiah 7:31, 19:5-6, 32:35). King Josiah put a stop to this practice (2 Kings 23:10). The valley eventually became a “city dump” where trash, human excrement, animal carcasses and at times dead bodies of executed criminals were dumped. There was a fire constantly burning and worms (maggots) were always prevalent. This place became to be used symbolically to describe hell. Imagine the scene – how would you describe the smell? What sounds would you hear? How do you feel about maggots? What point is Jesus making about hell?
FRIDAY: Read Revelation 20:10, 14,15 and Revelation 21:8
1. How is ultimate defeat of Satan and his followers described in these verses? How long will they be tormented?
2. Who will be thrown into this lake?
3. How does one get his name “written in the book of life”?
SATURDAY: We have spent the week focusing on what the Bible says of the destiny of those who reject Jesus. Read John 3:16. To whom is eternal life promised? Why did God send Jesus to earth (John 3:17)? The point is God does not send anyone to hell. We have a choice. Trust Jesus or trust in our on goodness. Where are you in your relationship with Jesus? Have you been baptized into Christ for the forgiveness of your sins? Do you have a relationship with him? Do you trust in Him for salvation or in your own goodness or religious acts?
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