Is 80% of your Church Inactive?

     After reading this article by the Christian Post, it dawned on me that the Church is under attack from all directions. Many people whom claim to be Christians and may be a member of a Church are either Sunday morning pew warmers, or part of the C and E crowd (Christmas,Easter).
     This is perhaps Satan's most ruthless attack against believers. Satan doesn't have to tempt us in to denouncing your faith, or to commit a grievous sin. All Satan must do is make you comfortable, slowly you will  become luke warm. Before your know it, not only have you become inactive at Church, but are no longer acting as salt and light in the community. Then it begins to creep into your personal life. You think of Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross less and less. You forget to pray, and you depend on your own resources instead of the God of the universe. It's a slow creeping cancer. Just like a boiling cup of water gradually becomes room temperature, your faith cools off. While still claiming Jesus, there is no sign of the regenerative power of the Holy Spirit in your life. This is when Satan has you right where he wants you, and you don't even know it.
      Associating with other believers keeps us Spiritually fed. Few of us have the self-discipline to stay focused on God, and his purpose for our life without flesh and blood guidance and encouragement. Whether we like it or not, we are part of the greater body of believers.

So the body is not one part but many. If the foot should say, "Because I'm not a hand, I don't belong to the body," in spite of this it still belongs to the body. And if the ear should say, "Because I'm not an eye, I don't belong to the body," in spite of this it still belongs to the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But now God has placed the parts, each one of them, in the body just as He wanted. And if they were all the same part, where would the body be? Now there are many parts, yet one body.
(1Co 12:14-20 HCSB)

     In knowing this, each of us has a responsibility, to ourselves, and Christ to be actively involved in a ministry. There are circumstances that can make this difficult, and you may even be one of those individuals that have "slipped out the back door." This happens to many of us. We are going through this very thing as I type..

     Becoming inactive at Church is perhaps one of the most discouraging experiences that a Christian can suffer through. 

     Have you ever gone through a "luke" warm stage in your walk with Jesus? If you have, please tell us about it in the comment section. By sharing our heartache and experiences, we may grow and heal.

-Prayers!

    

Will Iran be next?

Regularly we hear in the news about the Iranian nuclear program and the threat that Iran poses to Israel and U.S. interests in the middle east. Currently they are holding war games, this includes firing ballistic missiles that have the capability of reaching Israel as well as U.S. assets in Iraq and Afghanistan.
As we read the news each day, we continue to learn of the growing threats to our nation, and our faith.  Don't be discouraged, we are told that this is to be expected.


                                                                                                             

And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. (Mat 24:6 ESV)

Keep in mind, this is not the first time that their  has been rhetoric involving missiles and nuclear weapons. Many people thought that the Cuban Missile Crisis was going to bring about the end, but it was resolved without nuclear war. This will not be the last that we hear about this, I'll try to keep you appraised of any further developments. 

      Pray for our Nation, our Church, and all Christians around the World. Please pray for the lost, especially the Muslims, they know not what they do.     

                       



           

Predestination? Well, what do you think?

This may prove that I am a simpleton, with a limited concept of this theological principle. Predestination/Calvinism. If predestination is true, then why fulfill the Great Commission?


The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 
(2Pe 3:9 ESV)

If God wishes that no one should perish, then why did he create some just to go to hell (in the case of predestination)?  I understand the drawing power of the Holy Spirit, but the Calvinist that believe in predestination feel that you were either created to go to hell or heaven Defeating the purpose of the plan of salvation.. I don't get it! Doesn't this concept infringe on the sacrifice that Christ made on the cross? This article from the Christian Post is what got me started. Please read it, and let me know what you think. 

Could it be possible that no one REALLY understands how our free-will and God's omnipotence works? Is it at least in the realm of possibility that we are arrogant to assume that we have it all figured out. I am not saying that we are saved by our "works," faith in Christ is what saves us. We must CHOOSE to put our faith in Christ. Perhaps God has foreknowledge of what we are going to do before we do it, knowing us better then we know ourselves. 

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 

(Isa 55:9 ESV)

If anyone has a good way to explain this, please feel free to comment!

A bit ironic..

After writing an article on New York legalizing gay marriage, something struck me as being a bit ironic. The symbol of gay pride is a rainbow. God gave us the rainbow, as a reminder of his covenant with the Earth, that never again will he destroy the Earth by sending a great flood.

Now, here is the part that strikes me as being so ironic that it's virtual insanity.. Why did God send the flood on the Earth in the first place? Man had become so evil, sinful, and was a plague on creation (sounds familiar doesn't it?) God decided that since man had gotten so far away from what he had intended, that he was going to wipe the slate clean, and start all over.

Now, that certain elements of our society are rebelling against God, what have they chosen as their "in His face" symbol? A rainbow. The reminder (rainbow) of the covenant (he will not flood the Earth again) that God made with us, after he  destroyed the Earth due to the sinfulness of mankind, is now their "calling card." Wow!

 I just felt the need to share that revelation with you, it really struck me as being quite asinine that anyone would do something that obviously spiteful, directed at the God of the universe. 

  This is a call to everyone to share the Gospel with the lost. They are not to be deplored or avoided. We are all sinners in need of a Savior, just as God has extended us grace, we are to extend them grace. How will they ever know of God and His Word if we do not share it with them?
   Also, keep in mind that as we live our lives from a Biblical Worldview, God does not give us permission to hate those who are in rebellion. We must teach them, communicating the truth in love.

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
(Joh 13:34-35 ESV)

 Photo courtesy of www.publicdomainpictures.net

Beware: Hot Topic!

As most of you have probably heard by now, New York has just announced that it will be passing legislature legalizing same-sex marriages. Read about it here Christian Post Article. I am not going to pass judgement or say anything cruel, it's not up to me to do that, neither is it in my character. However, I will post this link to a couple passages of scripture concerning homosexuality. It is not my responsibility to be the judge, and for that I am truly grateful. You should prayerfully allow your "conscious" to be your guide on how you stand on this issue.

Everyone of us should keep one thing in mind, we should make it a point to always be prepared to truthfully and honestly share the full counsel of God. We should not necessarily sugar coat certain subjects (unfortunately I did this time, due to censorship concerns), and always share the truth in love. If you are not loving in what you say and do, you will undoubtedly become a "clanging symbol."

You can't catch any fish if you don't have a net!

 The Great Commission.
Recently I feel that I have lost focus on evangelizing the lost. Seeking and saving the lost is what the great commission is all about, but more often then not, I feel as if I am not keeping up my end of it. Does this ever happen to you? Opportunities are constantly presenting themselves where you can share the gospel, but don't. Often times I don't even realize that I am leaving the Lord and the good news out of my interactions. So, how can I be expected to be a "fisher of men"?
This is a call to everyone whom has become complacent, and has failed to share Jesus lately. Someone shared Jesus with you, so don't you owe it to them (not to mention Christ)to tell them about Christ and his gift of salvation? If you haven't heard the Gospel, please click this link. Got Jesus?

Quantity, or Quality?

Psalm 34:12 ESV: What man is there who desires life and loves many days, that he may see good?

Should we pray to God to give us a long fruitful life for our benefit, or for his glory? Think about that for a second.. If we make everyday count, living for the Lord and his purpose each and every day as if he is going to call us "home" tomorrow, wouldn't we see some good each day?
I've often caught myself plodding along. Trying to get through "every day" life, just waiting for the next big thing, or to get something else over with. If I'm fortunate enough to take a deep breath, and a good look around, I realize that I can see some good everyday. Now this doesn't go to say that life is always going to be volleyball and ice cream, but there is always something to be thankful of.

• Your vision, you can read this right now can't you?
• Apparently you live somewhere with a computer that has internet access..
• Being alive.

Not a long list, but enough to bring us to a thought; can we get the most out of every day? Do we have to wait for a future date, or the accumulation of time for our life to be "good" and of service to the Lord? Our identities are not defined by the sum of our successes and failures, but rather we are defined by our love for Christ, and the attitudes we convey. Be positive, and allow every day to be a good day. Pray for health and long life, not for your benefit, but so that you can continue to serve the Lord, and care for those that he has placed in your life.

Serving God?

Do you ever worry that you are becoming luke warm? I worry about this all the time.. The Lord has done so much for me, how can I possibly prove myself to be a "good and faithful servant"? I believe that this is a struggle that we all face. I am an advocate of prayerful focus. If we stay focused on our unworthiness, and God's Holiness, EVERYDAY, and we pray for him to give us a servant's heart, He will  give us opportunities to serve.
There are a number of ways that the Lord may ask us to serve. It may be something spectacular such as evangelism, or speaking in public on his behalf. Perhaps it will be something small, but still important, for example:

• Helping your neighbor, with anything..                  
• Being friendly to a sales clerk...
• Visiting someone in a nursing home or a hospital...
• Calling someone you haven't talked to in a while..
• Sharing your faith..
• Encouraging a young person, a family member, friend, or even your minister..
 

                                                                                   

God gives us opportunities everyday. All we have to do is take a deep breath, look around and then jump on them!                                                                                                                                          


http://www.publicdomainpictures.net

Struggling?

I struggle all the time.. I think that if we are honest with ourselves, search deep inside, that the struggle is not the issue. It's when we stop struggling! It's when we either give up the fight, or choose to ignore our sin is when the real trouble starts..

 It doesn't have to be this way though, we have a cure for sin, Jesus Christ on the Cross! The author of Hebrews states in Chapter 12 verses 1&2 ESV: 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ²looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
 Still struggling? Of course, your alive, so you will continue to fight temptation. But don't give up! Look to Jesus, and he will give you the strength to endure your trials and temptations. Try these simple steps to help insulate yourself from temptation:

1. Find an accountability partner. (And I mean a real accountability partner, pets don't count)
2. Read Scripture daily. (Really engross yourself in the Word)
3. Pray. Pray anytime and anyplace. (It doesn't necessarily have to be aloud with your head bowed and eyes closed.)
4. Call on Jesus, and he will make Satan and his temptations flee from you.
5. Look for positive people, gravitate toward them.
6. Use devotionals,blogs and other reading materials to keep you focused and uplifted.

We all struggle with temptation at various times, to varying degrees.. God is faithful, do not be discouraged!

Is this another sign of the times?

I have always had a deep respect for the Amish; their beliefs, and their lifestyle. That's why I was shocked when I read this.. A few questions though:

1.  The way the article reads, the police didn't seem surprised that it was an Amish man involved. They said "We thought, 'Well, this is obviously going to be it.'" Did he disclose in the text messages that he was Amish?
2. Even the Amish are compromising their core beliefs. First Cell Phones, then what?
3. Will the offender be allowed back in the community?

 1 John 2:15-16 ESV: Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  (16)  For all that is in the world--the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions--is not from the Father but is from the world.



Please, share your take on this.. Just another sign of the times, or a strangely isolated incident?

Do you ever just stop, and be still?

Psalm 46:10 ESV  "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"

 We work, we worry, we stress.. We constantly scurry around like the sky is falling. Why? Why are we constantly on the defensive? Why are we constantly sweating bullets, like the next thing is the finale?
It's hard to just stop, be still, and allow God to be God isn't it?
Try it. Just stop for a minute, pray for peace, thank him for being the all powerful and loving God that he is. Just be quite.. God is in control, relish the fact that the universe is his responsibility and not yours!
Now, continue on with your life, but remember to give credit where credit is due, and "exalt" the Lord your God!

5 things I realized while taking a walk..

Have you ever been walking along and have an epiphany (light bulb moment) ? I took a walk a while ago, and then realized how quiet it was. Suddenly it struck me, another reason I know there is a God.. Do you realize all the factors involved just to survive a walk down the street?

1. No stray dogs bounding out of no where (usually) to attack me.
2. I did not have a stroke, heart attack, nor did I throw a massive blood clot and die.
3. I was not struck dead by a texting while driving teenager (a miracle unto itself).
4. I did not fall and break anything (this time).
5. Enjoyed perfect weather, clean air, and the sunshine.

Now, how can anyone say "it's just good luck?" Is anyone REALLY that lucky? Or do we just take God and his grace for granted?

Psalm 8:3-4 ESV
(3)  When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
(4)  what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?

Do it without complaining or arguing!!!

Philippians 2:14 NIV "Do everything without complaining or arguing"

   I could not get the verse Phillipians 2:14 out of my head, so I looked it up and found that it had a lot to say.

• Everything that we do should be done without complaining or arguing. 
• We should find joy in everything that we do; whether it’s a job that we go to, studying for school, cleaning the house, visiting with friends and family, etc. 
• We should do everything for the Lord! 
• There are many things in life that I don’t want to do, but do it anyway. I don’t complain or argue about doing it.

I believe that there are opportunities to learn when we don’t complain or argue about doing something. When we do things without complaining or arguing we will begin to "shine like stars in the universe (Philippians 2:15 NIV)." And as we shine, people will see Christ in us more and more..

               -Mrs. BWAB

Happy Fathers Day!

Everyone has an Earthly Father, and a Heavenly Father. Some of us may be fortunate enough to have additional "Father figures" in our lives..  Have you told your "Father" today:

• How much he means to you.
• How thankful you are for his influence.
• The sacrifices that he has made for you

Fathers, have you..

•  Encouraged your Child recently?
• Set a good example?
• Challenged those around you to live Godly lives?

1 Thessalonians 2:11-12  (Idea for post and scripture reference courtesy of Aaron Levering)

Southern Baptist Reject 2011 NIV!

Read the article from the Christian Post about the Southern Baptist Convention and the 2011 NIV. What do you think? Did Zondervan and Biblica fix it when it wasn't broke? Share with us what you think, and which Bible translation you prefer!

Are you a genius?

Philippians 2:3 ESV: " Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves."

When sharing the gospel with others, do you find yourself at times using big words and "intimidation" tactics? Is your message lost? Do you purposefully use big words, or "aggressively" attempt to prove others wrong? Always share God's truth in love, and always remember Philippians 2:3.

Please don't be like the guy in this video... The idea is to explain the truth, not prove how smart you are!

Please share your faith today!

Nothing Biblical, but this is a Gee Whiz story..

Deer with "wings" found on a Montana power line.. You don't see that everyday!

Harold Camping's Stroke, Old Age, or Divine Retribution?

     Everyone has probably heard something about Harold Camping and his May 21, 2011 Rapture, Doomsday, Etc. prediction. If not, you can read about him here (wikipedia article) . On June 9, 2011 he suffered a stroke that appeared to ONLY affect his speech. Here is an interesting article about his stroke from the Christian Post.

     As aggravating and dangerous as false teachers may be, we must continue to pray for them, and the people whom fall victim to their false message. Please keep in mind....

Romans 12:17-19 ESV "Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord."

So the question I pose is, was it old age, or Divine Retribution?

Prayer request!!!

Dr. Bill Bravard has fallen and is currently recovering in rehab. Please pray for a speedy and complete recovery.

Harold Hiser has had heart surgery and is currently in the Cardiac ICU. Please pray for him and his wife.
 
If you ever have a prayer request, please feel free to post it in the comments. If you do not wish it to be published, just state it in the request, and I will pray privately, but not publish it.

James 5:16

A thought for today..

2Corinthians 4:2 ESV: " But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God."

     As Christians we are called to "take the high road." This may be difficult , "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). We must though, we have no choice. Often times we fight temptation, struggle with it, grappling with what sometimes seems like a constant onslaught of spiritual attack. We must constantly keep in mind that the Lord is faithful, he is there for us, and he will not allow us to be overwhelmed, but we must be willing to humble ourselves before the Lord. Humble ourselves? "How" you may be asking yourself.. Call on the name of Jesus, and he WILL drive Satan away, and remember..

1Corinthians 10:13 ESV "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."

Movie Review: Second Hand Lions

Movie Type: Secular

Grade: A

Comments: Second Hand Lions is great! Although it does not contain a Christian theme, it is pretty good natured. Their is some violence, but it is in a context of humor, that does not promote hurting people (exactly). No nudity, had good moral lessons (although not tied in Biblically), and was funny, cute, with just the right amount of "sad".

 "There was this one traveling salesman..." - Quote from movie.

Just getting started...

Please be patient as we begin setting up this blog. If you have any recommendations, please let us know.

- "But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (Romans 8:25 ESV)"
A little out of context, but you get the idea..

Spread the News!

"But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, (1 Peter 3:15 ESV)

This verse is one of the reasons that I chose to start this blog. Do you realize, as a Christian, we should be bubbling over (at least most of the time) with joy and enthusiasm? As people whom have placed our faith in Christ, we have the promise of eternal life! How often though do we share this great news with anyone else? Often times we keep it to ourselves, almost as if we are afraid that when our time comes, if we evangelize to many people, that there will be a "NO VACANCY" sign when we arrive at the gates of Heaven.
Share your faith TODAY! You do not have to be pushy or obnoxious, you may be surprised how many people are genuinely interested in the Gospel.

John 6:47 "Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life." (ESV)

Don't know Jesus? Click here to learn about His promise of Salvation.