Service Engine Soon

Monday morning while driving to work I received that annoying warning that all car owners hate to get. The dreaded "Service Engine Soon" light came on. Although I drive a company truck and any repairs needed will be taken care of, there is still that feeling of the unknown; when and where will I break down. Now if this was my own personal vehicle, I would really be worried because of the the other unknown - the cost.

Now lets go back ten hours to Sunday night. I like to think of myself and I'm sure others also think of me as the "gap-filler". If there is someone who is absent for any reason, or you just need someone to do something, ask me, I always say yes. Until Sunday night.

The co-leader of our Youth Ministry asked me if I was ready to speak again in their upcoming service, and I told her I would rather not, and that I thought she should ask the younger men, giving them more experience. I thought my reasoning was right on. After all, I am comfortable "stepping out of the boat", and speaking in front of this smaller group could be a stepping stone to bigger audiences for one or all of these younger men. WRONG!

Needless to say, I tossed and turned all night, not going to sleep at all until 1:30am or so. I had planted a seed of doubt in this young ladies mind. The next time she needs a speaker for her service, will she automatically think of me next time?

Back to Monday and the dreaded light. I knew what I had to do. This is my own personal vessel, no one else is going to pay for this. I had to fix it my self. So I called her and apologized, again stating my reasoning, but also assuring her that anytime she needs me, just ask.

Praise God that when we have something going wrong in our vessels and we aren't hitting on all cylinders he warns us with his "Service Engine Soon" light!

Total Surrender

I spent the most part of last week reading and searching God's word in order to debate a doctrinal issue with a fellow Christian. I really felt like I was doing the right thing, after all, I knew I was right. Then I stopped and listened to the still small voice in my head. "Why are you wasting your time discussing My words with your brother? If you are so determined to tell someone what you believe, tell your unsaved friends and family!"

That brings me to Sunday School. We had a very good lesson on King Josiah. Josiah was doing right, trying to change the wrong doings of the past sixty years. I'm sure he thought he was doing all he could. Then someone handed him the Word of God. The scripture says that after he read the TRUTH, he rent his clothes. I began to think, how many Christians today "feel" like they are doing all they can or need to do. It's when we get into the Word, that we realize our shortcomings.

Our teacher made the comment that Josiah wanted to serve God one hundred percent, and asked the question how could this be done. The first thought that came to my mind was total surrender, and I suggested it. This of course raised more questions of what is "total surrender".

So, the past few days I have not wasted my time worrying about proving to a friend that I believe that I am right, instead I have been searching and praying for divine revelation of a word that I can't seem to get out of my head. Surrender.

I read some of Oswald Chambers writings on this subject, and I think he nailed it on the head. (He always does!) When we can get to the point where we no longer want God's blessings, but God Himself, we have surrendered. Let me put it in my words. If our spouse, or child, or parent went away and said that they would come back soon, would we not watch every day with great excitement and anticipation? Would we not wake up each day and pray and hope that this is the day that they return? And each day that they didn't would we not be sad, and when we lay our heads on our pillows at night would we not cry a little?

That's the thought I had. Total Surrender. Being emotionally wrapped up in God that every word, thought, and deed is centered on my love for Him.

Is this attainable? I can't answer for anyone but myself. I do know that once I'm there, a debate over doctrine will not even enter my mind.

By What Authority?

I had a very interesting week. It all started last Sunday morning when a broken mother requested prayer for her daughter. This request continued into Sunday school class as the sister also requested prayer for her sister. As class was ending, one lady felt that we as a class, should meet early that day and have a special prayer for this family that Satan is trying to destroy. So we did.

Those who were able gathered together, and in one mind and one accord, arms interlocked, we prayed. It was an amazing experience for me as I felt the Holy Spirit right there in our midst, just as he promised.

Monday morning while driving to work, I was still praising God for the obedience of the one who said to pray, for the prayer itself, and for the answer to the prayer which is to come.

And that's when it happened. Out of nowhere I was blindsided by the adversary with the question, "By what authority doest thou these things?" Yeah, crazy huh? That's when I remembered what one of the elders who was present with us said. "We have to claim it now".

So my mind began racing and I began quoting scripture and claimed the promises of God. It was almost too easy as the Holy Spirit directed me and assured me that the same voice who said "stretch forth thine hand", also said "let there be light". The same voice who said "Arise, take up thy bed and walk" also "...called his twelve disciples together, and gave them Power and Authority over all devils, and to cure diseases".

A few days later I stopped by a bible book store that I had seen and when I walked in, there was a table of hundreds of books marked fifty percent off. I reached for the middle of the pile and moved the top book to see in bold letters, "AUTHORITY IN PRAYER- Praying with Power and Purpose"!!! Coincidence? I don't think so. Of course I bought the book.

By what authority? We do these things by the authority of the Author himself! The one who started everything, and will finish it.

I pray that each of his disciples will claim this power and authority, and when we here his voice say "who will go?", we can boldly say "here am I, send me!"

FOLLOW THE LEADER

Hello my friends. I know, I know, its been a long time. I apoligize to those of you who kept looking for something new, but I have been using what time I have to search and study about a ministry I feel very strong about. I believe that God is leading me this way.

My only explanation for all the poems etc... God was showing me that if I stop and listen to his voice, he will tell me what to write, when and what to speak, and where to go. You could call it an apprenticeship class! Well, now I know. And thats what I'm doing.

I am very excited about getting things started, but I still have a little studying to do, and a lot of praying!

Please continue to read The Candid Chrsitian blog. Its getting better and better everyday. (it was outstanding already)


Will I ever post any more poems, parables, or songs? I dont know. Im just following the leader!

CARL'S SONG

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord , the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. II Timothy 4:7-8

The fight is over. The race is run. Our friend has received his crown, and I know he has laid it at the feet of Jesus, where he is kissing them now. He has waited so long to do that!

Although we will miss him, we can rejoice in knowing where he is.

This song is so appropriate. I don't have the technology to post the music, so here are the words. When I first heard it months ago, my wife and I called it "Papa's Song", because it reminded us of her Grandfather. Today however, its "Carl's Song"

His trembling hands, held the church pew that day,
struggling to stand, when they asked him to pray,
with wisdom and strength his words were spoken,
but his body grew weary, for his wings were broken

But he will fly once again
he will soar, with his wings unfolded
hear the angels applaud
as he rides on the wind
to the arms of God
and he will fly, he will fly again

And on that day, when he left for the sky,
I saw him smile, as he told me goodbye,
no more would he weep for missed tomorrows,
no more would he suffer in this land of sorrow

But he will fly once again
he will soar, with his wings unfolded
hear the angels applaud
as he rides on the wind
to the arms of God
and he will fly, he will fly,

I know that he's in a better place,
I still dream of a day, when I'll see his face
then we'll embrace,

And WE will fly once again
we will soar, with our wings unfolded
hear the angels applaud
as we ride on the wind
to the arms of God
and we will fly, we will fly,
WE will fly again.

WAKE UP

It seems that the poems have stopped, for now anyway. I find myself searching now, not for stories and rhymes, but for the truth. Not the truth of tobacco, disease, or the homeless, which are all very important, but the truth of God's word and his will.

I watched this video and was shocked at the truth of the words. Peter said that "the devil walks about as a roaring lion", which most of us should be able to recognize, but its when he takes the form of a snail, a slimy slug, that he very slowly, almost unnoticeable, creeps in and accomplishes his goal.

Watch for yourself and see if you recognize the truth.

IT'S OUR TURN

And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. 2 Kings 2:9

As a very old (92) and very wise saint unfortunately spends his time at home and hospitals instead of his place on the front pew at church, his nephew has filled the void with the most graceful of transitions that only God could have prepared. There is no replacement, for we can never take the place of those who have done mighty works for God, but a continuation.

Jesus taught and prepared the disciples. The disciples taught and prepared the early church. The early church taught and prepared, and this cycle has continued through each generation. Now it is our turn, not just to teach and prepare, but to be ready to accept the responsibility of carrying the gospel torch that our elders pass down.

I wrote this poem back in May, but was never drawn to post it until now. If we could live our lives as this old saint, perhaps forty years from now someone will write about us!

The first time that I saw him,

I didn't know his name,

to hear him talk of Jesus,

he didn't show any shame.

Standing in the front of me,

jumping up and down,

lifting his hands to heaven,

the world would see a clown.

But if you listen to his words,

the love he holds inside,

was put there by the Holy Ghost,

and ever will abide.

I saw him first so long ago,

today he's still the same,

praising God forever more,

Carl is his name.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

In a few days, millions of people around the world will be making their New Year resolutions. The most popular will probably be to stop smoking and to lose weight. I don't ever remember making any resolutions myself, but its been on my mind today. Not the word resolution necessarily, but the word NEW.


Let us this NEW year, ask God daily for a reNEWing of the mind, a reNEWing of the heart, and a reNEWing of his spirit in us. Let us be faithful, watching and waiting for his return, that we may see, as John did, a NEW heaven and a NEW earth, for God will make all things NEW that day.


As many look forward to the midnight kiss from the one they love, we can listen for the midnight cry from the One who first loved us.


Sit back and relax, close your eyes, and listen closely to the words of this song, and have a Happy New Year in Christ.

JUST SING

If you remember, about a month ago I told you that sometimes I have "crazy thoughts". Well, here is another.
The church I attend will be having their Christmas play this Sunday, and my wife is one of many carolers. After practice last night she told me about a young lady who is worried about singing because she doesn't think she can. (by the way, my wife says she can) Anyway, I thought of my own experiences when asked to sing. "It wont sound right", or "its too low", or "its too high for me, etc... I'm sure there are many people who feel the same way. But here's my thought.


Have you ever heard a professional singer on live T.V., and the song they are singing is one you have heard many times before on the radio, and something just don't sound right? You may have wondered "What key is that"! That's because some of those so called "pros" aren't quite as good as they sound. Its all done in the studio. Now I'm no expert, but I know that there is some dubbing and re-mixing and other things that go on that could even make Barney Fife sound like Gomer Pyle!


I see it the same way with our voices. They pass through the sanctuary ceiling, and there's a little filtering. On up through the atmosphere, and there's a little editing. Right up to heaven where there is a host of angels at a mixing board, blending millions of voices together. And when they reach the throne of God, what a sound!


So even if you think you cant sing, or you think your voice is nothing more than noise, go on and do what the psalmist said,

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord!

Christmas Partyless

My friend Andrew Beckner, The Candid Christian, had a very interesting post a few weeks ago about the holidays. If you haven't read it, please do. The topic is the reason for the season and the "Happy Holidays" vs "Merry Christmas" debate. I for one agree that its not my place to make a fuss about the Chili's waitress saying Happy Holidays to me instead of Merry Christmas, because I don't want to get her in trouble with her boss, or even worse, lose her job.
The one thing I cant seem to get out of my mind however, is the fact that some companies have had to cancel their December Christmas parties, and replace them with a "Winter Gathering" sometime in January. I know of one instance where there is only one person, maybe two, who does not believe in the celebration of Christs birth. Wow! How powerful those people must feel. To know that they made a stand about what they don't believe in and corporate America fell to their knees. The presidents of these companies have way more understanding about "keeping everybody happy" than I ever would. My policy would be, if you don't like it, don't come! I guess that's why I will never be president of a company.
I heard a song the other day that had a very good point in it. It said something to the effect that its amazing that a man who lived over two thousand years ago is still so intimidating that his name is not allowed to be used even in part of a word.
I will be having several Christmas parties this year. At home, church, my mothers, my in-laws, etc... I always have and always will enjoy celebrating the birth of Jesus.
And it wont offend me at all if in passing you wish me a "Happy Holiday" or a "Seasons Greetings". Just don't be offended when I reply with Merry CHRISTmas.

Four-Wheel Drive

Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him , anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. James 5:14-15


Very familiar scripture. As a matter of fact, I heard it last week as a women was anointed at church. What stuck in my mind, and got me thinking, was her comment. She said that she had tried everything else, but should have tried God first. Sounds like me, and you, and millions of others doesn't it? We have so many "cures" in the world today that we sometimes forget to call on God for our infirmities and weaknesses. Worst of all, we can also let them effect our service to God. If we see this beginning to happen, we need to get back to the "hubs" of our relationship with our Lord. Prayer and the Word.


There are several things that can knock us off track, and put us down in the valley. Here are a few.



ANXIETY- What are you anxious about? Hows your nerves? 1 Peter 5:7 says to "cast all your cares upon him, for he careth for you". Philippians 4:7 says "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus". That peace, His peace, that passeth ALL understanding, will keep our hearts and minds. Maybe we don't ask for help because we just cant understand in our human nature, that he is there for us in all things.



DISCOURAGEMENT- What discourages us? Having trouble at work? Arguments at home? No matter how much or how long we pray, we still have unsaved loved ones. Galatians 6:9 says "And let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not". Isaiah 41:10 says "Fear thou not for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness".


EMPTINESS- Do you ever feel empty? Maybe you've been on this way for a long time and you just get stuck, with no excitement in your christian walk. Psalm 107:9 says "for he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness".


LONELINESS- Ever feel like your fighting your battles by yourself and you're all alone? Psalm 16:11 says "thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore".


WORRY- Whats on your mind? What are you worried about? Are the bills all paid? What are the kids doing? Don't worry. God will provide all our needs. Have faith in Jesus and claim his promises. 1 John 5:14-15 says "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him".


SUFFERING- This is the big one! This is something that each of us will face in one way or another, especially as we grow older. But there is hope! Suffering has profit! Hebrews 12:6 says "For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth". And in that same chapter in verse 11 it says "Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised therby". Suffering also deepens our faith. 1 Peter 1:6-7 says " Wherin ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ". And just in case we forgot, suffering is also to be expected. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 says "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong".

So here we are, with all these problems. Anxiety, worry, discouragement, etc... How are we supposed to move on? I read a story today about a man who suffered from one or maybe all of the above mentioned problems. It said that the man was found outside cuddled up under a tree, screaming and begging for his life to end. He was so empty both physically and mentally, that he finally just collapsed! The story went on to say that when he woke up, someone had left some food for him, so he ate, and went back to sleep. When he woke up again, there was more food. The man eventually recovered and went his way. Seems like all he needed was a little rest, a little food, and some time with God. If this was you or me, our families would have probably had us committed! He was definitely in a suicidal state of mind. By the way, just in case you don't recognize the story, it wasn't today's newspaper I read it in. The man is Elijah. And not only did Elijah recover, he was also in the presence of God! Not in the wind, not in the earthquake, not in the fire, but in a still small voice.

When we get down in the valley, can we take the time to wait and listen for the still small voice? It seems that in today's world we don't wait. We look for shortcuts for everything. I don't think that there is any food left in the world that cant be cooked in a microwave! But is it as good as the old fashioned way? The way that takes time and effort? The hand mixing of ingredients that we watched our mothers and grandmothers do? I don't think so. That way was the "hub" of cooking. Like I said at the beginning, there are millions of us that don't take the the time to trust and wait on God, but turn to the pill bottle instead. Don't get me wrong now, I believe that God has given us modern medicine and doctors, and I am thankful for them, but perhaps we have become more dependant on modern technology and modern medicine, and lost our dependency on God. There are even some who would rather take their problems to Dr. Phil, then take them to the Great Physician! We want the "quick-fix". We want what the doctors say will work rather than waiting and looking and listening for that still small voice.

Lets become more dependant on God for all our troubles, and let him bring us out of the valley. Today's world has a lot of gadgets to make life easier and quicker for us, especially automobiles. There is a button for everything! But when your down in that valley and stuck in a rut, gadgets are not what you need. We need to step out of our comfort zones, get right out in the mess and realize that we are truly stuck, bend down, get on our knees, and lock in those HUBS! The hub of prayer! The hub of Gods word. Before we know it, we will start digging in and climbing out of that rut, and begin climbing back up the mountain. And if along the way we find ourselves in another rut, don't panic. Call up your friends. I know they will bring a chain (prayer) and pull us out!

4-wheelin anyone?!

Simple Things

The congregation was asked, "What are you thankful for"? I thought this would be easy. So I sat and thought, while others stood, one by one, and thanked God. Some thanked Him for "Big" things, while others thanked him for the "Simple" things. Simple things.

Looking back, I remember trying to think of something spectacular God had done for me, so I too could stand and give thanks. I never stood. Simple things.

Don't get me wrong, there have been many, many spectacular things God has done for me that I'm thankful for. Writing this is spectacular to me! But its His love, His mercy, His forgiveness, that I'm most thankful for.

I'm thankful that He never gave up on me. He called, I came, I left. He called, I came, I left. Repeat again. Notice I left. He never left me!

I'm thankful for Him allowing me to leave. WHAT! Yes, I'm thankful. I believe it was during these times of trials that I grew. It was all part of Gods plan, and for his plan, I'm thankful.

But all this I never thought of when asked what I was thankful for. I really didn't need to. Simple things.

These past few days, while Ive been enjoying the holiday, I remembered the simple things.

First of all, I'm thankful for my family. My wife of almost 22 years, and my 3 children. As my boys were hunting, I thought back to Thanksgivings when I was young, when I would spend the week hunting with my dad and other relatives. Heritage. I'm thankful for my heritage.

I'm thankful that God thinks enough of our family that he placed my niece with us to raise as our own for the past four months.

My health. I am 43 years old and have never had a broken bone and only a couple minor surgeries. A little arthritis, but that's my fault, not Gods.

And one more. My friends. I'm thankful for a group of friends, who although I walked out on them time and time again, they, like Jesus, welcomed me home. They allow me to teach their children. They allow me to lead our church service. They allow me to speak and sing. Simple things.

Simple, and yet spectacular. Spectacular, not because I'm unqualified, but because I'm undeserving.

For this, I'm thankful.

Not being a big "web surfer", I know that there is a lot out there that I'm missing out on. So I'm thankful for friends who direct me to wonderful sites like Godtube. I never knew it existed until yesterday, and the first video I watched was a blessing! For my readers, I will regularly view the videos, and the ones that are amazing, which I'm sure will be many, I will give you a quick link on the side bar under the Godtube links tab. Watch the Life house Everything Skit. If it doesn't move you, you better check your pulse!

Some of you may be wondering why I haven't posted lately. Well, the truth is that I have ran out of writings. You see, most of my previous posts came from a collection over the past several months. Now I could make up some stuff, but that would take away from the uniqueness of this site. Don't you agree? Everything you read here is inspired by a study of Gods word, or by events that happen during my day.(which is the main source)
With that said, today's post was given to me today, after a proud(and rightly so) father called me and allowed me to listen to his daughter pray at church.

A special thanks to Kelsey Legg, for her inspiration, her sincerity, and her faith.

May God help me, to humble myself as a child, and lay aside every weight, as I approach the throne of grace!

I listened to a prayer today,

unlike I usually hear,

full of love and tenderness,

it made me shed a tear.

It wasn't from a tired saint,

who's waiting for the day,

when Jesus comes to take him home,

where forever he will stay.

It wasn't from a broken heart,

alone now in this place,

asking God to ease their pain,

and fill the empty space.

Some things in life can touch your soul,

and give your heart a whirl,

just like the prayer I heard today,

from a seven year old girl.

Sometimes I think of the strangest things. Driving home from work today was one of those times. I know we have all heard the football analogy's, when talking about church services, but this one is a little different.

All over our nation tonight, about this time, the crowds are gathering for playoffs. The announcer is getting ready to say, "Welcome to ------------". You can place your school here! And at that announcement, everyone will cheer and clap and get ready for the big game. For each score, a cheer. For each big hit, a cheer. I know. I have been there and done that. Here is my thought.

At your next church service, the leader opens with.....

" Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to-----------(your church), home of the REIGNING, UNDEFEATED, CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS, LORD OF LORDS, and KING OF KINGS! With an outstanding record of (lets say) One Billion Victories and no Defeats! The crowd stands and cheers. For each song, a cheer. For each testimony, a cheer.

Overactive imagination? Maybe. But what a reason to stand, clap, and cheer. After all...

WE KNOW WHO WINS!!!

What are you looking for?

Do you remember the time when you were looking for something, shoes, car keys, or a book, and you couldn't find it? You probably shouted from the other room, "I cant find it" or "its not here"! Then your mother or spouse or someone else came into the room and said, "its right here. You didn't look very hard".

We often times are so hurried that we don't take the time to look good enough. Then there are those times when we are alone and we need to find that fishing lure, pocket knife, or magazine. We spend hours pulling out every drawer in the house, searching through every box in the attic, and opening every cabinet in the garage until we find that one special item and we say "I knew it was here"!

How do we look for Gods love and mercy? Do we spend a few minutes and then give up, hoping someone else knows where it is and will tell us? Or do we diligently search for hours and hours, digging deeper and deeper, until the prized possession is ours? Are we just looking, or are we searching?

Seek and ye shall find!

In This Place

This place where I have found myself,
content with who I am,
not searching for a better life with you.
I know that you want more for me,
and you'll give at my request,
so I'm asking Lord please tell me what to do.

(chorus)
Help me to see you,
Help me to seek your face.
Help me to know you,
Help me to feel you, in this place.

I walk this road of bitterness,
of things I cant control,
blaming every one I can for where I've been.
But I know you walk beside of me,
to lift me when I fall,
so I'm asking Lord please pick me up again.

(chorus)

If I can only find my way back,
to your loving arms,
I know they're holding open wide for me.

(chorus)

A few months ago, I participated in a protest, (peaceful), against abortion. As I stood there, along with many others, the thought came to mind, I must admit, is this really going to solve anything? I mean, here I am, standing beside a road, holding a sign, hoping that maybe one person, just one, will drive by and see our signs and make a life changing decision based on what they read. Sure it's a great cause, and I will do it again, but is it worth it? Come on, it's almost 100 degrees, my legs hurt, isn't it time to stop now?

Is it worth it I asked.

As I said, that was a few months ago and I had forgotten all about it. Until today.

Yesterday morning during church, we had a dedication. It was a baby boy, brought by his grandparents. I had never seen them before, so I don't know if their church doesn't dedicate, or they were asked to come, or something else. Doesn't matter. They were there.

It was the normal routine. The pastor anoints the baby with oil, and he and the elders pray over the baby. Something different this time. Looks like a normal baby. Smells like a normal baby. Must be a normal baby. With all this commotion going on, the baby's expression never changes. This baby boy is blind. This baby boy is deaf. I heard the pastor in conversation use the term "crack baby".

As usual, the pastor carries the baby down the aisle, and those of us who are the lucky ones on the end of each pew, get to touch the baby as it passes by. With each touch, there is a difference. The smiles get bigger and bigger. Not ours, the baby's! Can't see. Can't hear. But feels. Feels love and responds to it with the most beautiful smile you can imagine.

So today I remembered my question. Is it worth it? What about rape? What about drugs? What if...what if... what if...

All I know is that that baby was born for God's purpose, and although I don't know what it is, he has already answered a question for me.

Was it worth it? Absolutely.

Got Water?

On this particular day, and the day after, all I had on my mind was water.

The water was parted, and came from a rock,

like a tree planted by the water,

he leads me beside the still waters.

Cast your bread upon the waters,

give your enemy water to drink,

like streams of water in the desert,

many waters cannot quench love.

When you pass through the waters,

he will be with you,

you will draw water from the wells of salvation,

so come to the waters.

He will sprinkle clean water on you,

like a well watered garden,

like a spring whose waters never fail,

put out into deep water, and let down your net.

Streams of living water flows from within him,

having our bodies washed with pure water,

the one who came by water and blood,

he will give you living water.

Each line taken from the Bible.

The love the Father has for us,
he gave so we can share,
not only those who fit our "type",
but people everywhere.

You know the one who's clothes are torn,
and skin is stained with dirt,
can you love, or will you laugh,
and cause them needless hurt.

Or the one who stands beside,
the road and holds a sign,
"Homeless, Hungry, Will You Help",
at your house can he dine?

Do you check their worthiness,
before you lend a hand,
how and why they got this way,
is that what Jesus planned?

Or did he say "Feed them all",
regardless why they came,
he broke and blessed the bread and fish,
and fed each one the same.

Repulsed by how they look and smell,
remember this today,
picture Christ at Calvary,
exactly the same way.

His clothes were torn, his hair a mess,
filth from head to toe,
dirt, spit, sweat, and blood,
the Greatest Love you'll know.

The Gift

There once was a great man, a Father to many, for he had adopted a multitude of children. One day the youngest came to the Father and said, "My brothers have told me that you have a gift for all your children, and when the time is come, you freely give to each one, that which he deserves". And the Father said to him, "It is true that I freely give to all my children, to each one that is ready and has received my teachings with all their hearts". Then the youngest, thinking in his mind said, "Father, I am ready".

The next day the Father went unto him and said, "If you wish to receive your gift, follow me". So the man followed his Father for many days, through many valley's, and over many mountains, and upon seeing a gift in the distance, began to walk ahead of his Father, and not looking back, without realizing, had lost sight of his Father. Nevertheless, he took the gift and began to use and enjoy it.
Now only after a few days, the man became unhappy with his gift and went to his Father and said, "My brothers who have received their gifts, and have received them many years ago, still today use them with much gladness, but I, although thankful, do not find much joy in my gift".

The Father said to him, "Because you had no patience, and chose to run ahead instead of following me, you have surely erred. For what you thought was yours, was not yours, but your brothers. Now I will take that which you thought was yours, and give it unto him when he is ready. And as for you, when you are truly ready to receive and believe my teachings, Follow Me".

for the children

Do you fit in with the world,
the way you dress and talk,
enjoying time with sinful crowds,
not caring where you walk.

Is that show you'll watch tonight,
worth all your time and more,
does music that you listen to,
tell who you're living for?

Will you practice hours long,
and hope your team will win,
while missing out on Bible class,
that's where you should have been.

The choices come each day my child,
they're hard to make it's true,
give all you've got to Jesus Christ,
He gave it all for You!

Broken Chains

(sang with country "twang")

Sleeping in on Sunday morning,

all my family heading out to church,

hanging out with my friends all night,

telling jokes and laughing till it hurts

somehow I thought my life was perfect,

nobody to answer to but me,

I never listened to Grandma's stories,

of a man called Jesus - of Galilee.

(chorus)

See the walls start falling down,

the chains of bondage breaking loose from me,

with every breath I have inside,

I'll praise your holy name now that I'm free.

...

I didn't need to hear that preacher,

telling me my soul was bound for hell,

or to close my eyes and bow my head,

and meet a God whose love wont fail,

what a wasted life I spent,

all the years of wandering on my own,

then you came into my life,

Jesus your the best friend - I've ever known.

(chorus)

...

Waking up on Sunday morning,

with my family heading out to church.

As a child I often dreamed,
of treasures I would find,
while digging in my mothers yard,
rewards of every kind.

That child has grown, and now the man,
no longer dreams of gold,
I found a greater gift one day,
the best has yet been told.

The treasure I was looking for,
while digging in the sod,
was always there in front of me,
the only Son of God.

The jewels of earth do not compare,
to what I have in store,
so now I dream of what I'll see,
when I reach that golden shore.

I feel led today to divert from the normal postings, and share my immediate thoughts, rather than writing them down and posting them later.
God has just blessed me beyond explanation and I'm finding it hard to come up with the right words to let you know, that you too, can experience his amazing blessings.
First let me say, that I am nobody. There is nothing special about me. I have no "special" talents. I do however, have the ability to make choices. We are not robots. You and I have choices to make everyday. The reason I am being overwhelmed by God's blessings is I choose to ask for them! Yes, it's that easy.
Some of you know, most probably don't, but I have for the past several weeks been praying the prayer of Jabez. Simple prayer, but powerful. That is what I meant above when I said I asked for God's blessings. Is asking enough? I don't think so. I believe the key, the secret, is believing! If we just merely say the words, will God think we are serious?
The first part of my prayer, of course is for God to bless me. The next is for God to enlarge my territory, which means to me, give me more to do.
My day began with my entire family in church,(can't remember the last time that happened). Then I taught Sunday school class, and then was asked to lead the congregational singing. Neither of these I do!
Ask and ye shall receive! It's that simple. If you ask for it, and BELIEVE you will get it, you will end up like me, completely amazed at what God can do.

"Oh, that you would bless me indeed,

and enlarge my territory,

that your hand would be with me,

and that you would keep me from evil".

The Builder

Here is the first "parable" I received, back in April, sitting in my truck at 6:45 am. My interpretation- I am the builder. The "house" is my relationship with God. The "covering" is the Holy Spirit.

There was a man who decided to build a house for God. He began his work with great joy, and labored much. He had a strong foundation and straight walls, but he became weary from the work and said to himself, "I will not work today, but do this and that, (for there were many distractions around him), and do twice as much tomorrow". But the next day he continued not his work and said again, "I will work tomorrow", and he said this for many days until the desire to build the house left him.
One day, after many seasons had past, the man said, "I will rise up and go again to build a house for the Lord". The old liar, knowing that the man desired to build again, said to him,"What are you thinking? Don't you know that what you started many years ago has long since been destroyed because you had no covering to protect it from the winds and rains? And because you said daily, I will work tomorrow, and did not, the people will laugh and will not believe that you will finish your work".
Nevertheless the man went to the house, and was exceedingly glad to find that it stood strong (for he had built it on a solid foundation), and he said, "I will first repair that which I have let decay, for I had no roof. I will remove the dirt and rocks and mop up the water, and daily I will place a covering round about, so I do not lose that which I gain".
Now for several days the man labored to clean up the house which he started to build, and some that passed by said,"why do you work on that house again? You will only tire of it, and leave it to rot as in past days", but others said, "see how he places the covering over and around it, surely he will finish his work".
And the man worked many years, night and day, to finish the house that he built for God, always having it covered, that it would never decay again.

Go ye out into the world,
and tell each one you see,
of one who's coming back to earth,
please share the news of me.

Tell them how I cause the blind,
to open up their eyes,
and notice Fathers handiwork,
in mountains and the skies.

And tell them all to open up,
their hearts and let me in,
I'll give them peace and happiness,
forgive them of their sin.

It's really not to much to ask,
for one to plant a seed,
don't worry about the aquarium,
its fishers of men I need.

Revival

On the eve of my own revival, God gave me this today.

When revival comes to our home church,
we often hear and say,
"I hope someone gets saved this week",
thats usually what we pray.

But think for just one moment,
imagine if you will,
the person standing next to you,
not knowing how they feel.

So instead of asking God to save,
our loved ones and our friends,
let's pray, "Dear Lord Revive Us All",
thats where it all begins.

THEN if we humbly bow our heads,
and pray, and seek his face,
those souls that we've been longing for,
I know, will fill this place.

The Great I Am

He spoke, and the world was created
He smiled, and said this work is good
the moon and the stars
He placed into orbit, let every creature say,
(chorus)
Blessing and honor, glory and power,
and worthy is the Lamb,
with thousands of thousands, voices of angels,
singing praise to Him, the Great I Am

By his hand, every mountain raised
his voice, and the waters they came
the lamb and the lion
he made them together, let every creature say,
(chorus)
(bridge)
With one more day of work to go
he created you and me
to one day worship at his feet
and proclaim his majesty
(chorus)

Help me Lord, so I can be
with all I am like you,
while walking through this sinful world,
my light be shining true.

You came to earth as mortal man,
and lived a sinless life,
so help me Lord, each day I pray,
when I'm compassed with strife.

While others all around me,
are "reaching for the stars",
help me Lord to not forget,
your wounds, the stripes and scars.

And if by chance your love shines through,
and someone see's in me,
your mercy, truth, and righteousness,
is where they need to be,

I'll praise you Lord, with all my heart,
and lift my voice to sing,
proclaiming you my Saviour, Lord,
my Master, Friend, and King.

When I am poor and needy,
and my heart is wounded within me,
I look to you God to save me,
with your love and mercy.

For your love and your mercy,
is higher than the heavens,
reaching to the skies,
glorious and majestic are your deeds.

You are gracious and full of compassion,
your righteousness endures forever,
let your glory be over all the earth,
and your wonders to be remembered.

I will praise you Lord, now and forever,
from the rising of the sun,
to the place where it sets,
I will praise you in the multitude.

That they may know,
that it is your hand,
that you God,
have done it.

From the ends of the earth I call unto you,
I call with a heart that is breaking,
lead me to the Rock that is higher than I,
my fortress which never is shaking.

For you are my shelter and God of my mercy,
I will sing of your love and your power,
find rest O my soul in God alone,
and trust in him every hour.

He listens to my cries for help,
for to him I will pray,
in the morning as I look up,
untill the end of day.

Let all who put their trust in him,
forever joyfully sing,
how majestic is your name O Lord,
my Saviour and my King.

The Viel of the Temple

When morning had come, the chief priests and elders,
took council against Jesus, to put him to death,
and when they had bound him, they led him away,
to stand before Pilate, for justice that day.

Then the soldiers of Pilate, took Jesus and led,
him into a hall, thorns placed on his head,
and after they mocked him, his raiment put on,
took him to Golgotha, a place of the skull.

Now from the sixth hour, there was darkness all over,
the ninth hour Christ cried God, why forsakest thou me,
then those who had stood there, said he calls Elias,
would Elias come save him, they wanted to see.

Then Jesus cried out once again, and yielded up the ghost

And behold the veil of the temple, was rent in twain that day,
from top to the bottom, and all the earth did quake,
the veil of the temple, was rent in twain that day,
then Jesus Christ our Saviour, in three days rose again!

(this was written a few years ago when I only listened to "southern" gospel)

The Word

One day there was a certain man who came upon a group of christians discussing the word of God. There was among them one who was scolding another, for he read the Holy Scriptures from a different interpretation.
The man who passed by said,"why do you scold this one", and they said to him,"he reads the Holy Scriptures from an interpretation that is not known to us or acceptable."
The man said unto them,"you have spoken with your own mouths that what he reads is the Holy Scriptures. I ask each of you, he that is wisest among you, let him read to me from the Hebrew, and from the Latin, and from the Greek." And they answered him and said "we cannot, for we do not understand these writings, but our fathers before us have translated so we may read and understand."
And the man said,"it is good that you read and understand, but why do you place this as a stumbling stone before your brother? For which is easier, to have him read and not understand, and seek for one to explain it, or read that which is already explained, and be filled with joy because of his understanding?"
"Those who hunger for Gods word, may they find it in any and all interpretation, with understanding, joy, and peace."

In visions he doth speak to me,
each word I write with care,
the message to the world is clear,
and with them I must share.

The voice of truth is in the air,
for he who hath an ear,
sweet peace it whispers to my soul,
and calms my every fear.

Just like a mighty rushing wind,
or in a still small voice,
he's calling out to you today,
to listen, is your choice.