Dec. 23, 2009
Only 1 more day before Christmas. What a privilege we have to celebrate the birth of our SAVIOR and KING!
It isn't important what the REAL day of His birth might be. The FACT is He WAS born, lived and ministered, then died for each of us! To have a day set aside once a year when the whole world is confronted with that reality, is wonderful! We need to keep the focus where it needs to be, regardless of all the diversions that have been created.
We will enjoy the day with our daughter and her husband, a very close friend of theirs and ours, a couple we've enjoyed knowing from our area, and Becky's cousin. For the ability to be together, we give Glory to God!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Dec. 15, 2009
Last week Becky and I went to Branson with two other couples for several days. We attended several shows as well as going to Silver Dollar City. Although it was quite cold, we thoroughly enjoyed our trip.
A highlight of the trip was the DINO Christmas Special. Besides good music and dancing, Dino gave a clear presentation of the Gospel. In the finali, an angelic chorus was featured and the presence of God was powerful!
One of the things we appreciate about Branson is that the shows are family-oriented as well as patriotic. But, most shows also feature the Gospel in some way.
Jesus was clearly presented as the "Reason for the Season".
Nov. 17, 2009
The Lord blessed on the trip back from Mexico. The flight was over-booked, so they asked for volunteers to fly later. Since I had all night anyway, I volunteered. In the process, I said I was actually wanting to go to Orlando, not Nashville. I was originally scheduled to go back to Nashville, then fly out in the morning from there to Orlando, staying in the airport all night, since a motel was too expensive for just a few hours.
The guy said he could get me to Orlando, but I'd have to stay in Nashville for the night. For being bumped from my flight, he gave me a hotel room, a voucher for dinner and breakfast, plus $300 toward another flight AND got me to Orlando at the same time AS I WOULD'VE GOTTEN THERE IN THE FIRST PLACE. Is God good, or what?
Nov. 14, 2009
This morning I taught at a men's breakfast - the first one this ministry has had. The teaching was well received.
I taught on Attitudes: when problems come, our first reaction, naturally, is negative. We are overwhelmed and quit before we even try to overcome. Many times we get downright nasty with those around us - especially those close to us, like our spouses or family.
The scriptural example I used was Numbers 13,14 when Moses sent spies into the Promised Land God had already told them He gave them. Ten of the twelve feared the giants and didn't believe they could possess the land. The threat wasn't even real, since the giants feared THEM.
God wants us to trust Him, that He knew the problem was coming and already has the solution, so we can be at peace. KNOWING that no matter how tough and ugly the situation, God will work it out for our good (Rom. 8:28), will enable us to overcome in ANY situation, without our allowing fear and ugliness to enter. Having such peace will bless our families as well as God.
The examples I used for a positive response were Acts 16:16 ff when Paul and Silas praised God, instead of complaining, when they were thrown into jail. Suddenly an earthquake occured, and as a result, the jailer and his family were saved and baptised.
Then, when Stephen was stoned, he forgave those doing the stoning and saw heaven open to receive his soul. Clearly he demonstrated victory even in the midst of seeming defeat.
We can too!
Nov. 11, 2009
I'm in Tecate, Mexico ministering for several days. As soon as one crosses the border, the whole culture and language changes.
But one thing remains constant: the people desparately need Jesus!
The first meeting is with a church that's just beginning. Between 50-60 are expected to attend - a great turn-out for a new work.
Sharing the Word of God is always a tremendous responsibility that for 35 years I've always done with fear and trembling. But, it's especially important when as a foreigner, one is looked to with a special respect and expectancy.
When the Word is being interpreted, it's very possible to be mis-understood and potentially mis-lead, so the message must be especially clear - no colloquialisms or jokes, unless the interpreter is especially knowledgeable.
I remember years ago, when in Haiti, my interpreter talked about the desert, when what I said was that heaven was the dessert. The pastor we were with let us know, otherwise we'd have never known of the error.
Another time I said that the problem with sin is the "I" in the middle. In spanish, the word for sin is pecados, no "I" anywhere. So it made no sense to them.
Please pray for me that the message of God's love will come through both clear and understandable, in Jesus' Name.
October 23, 2009
One feels so helpless when a friend gets seriously ill. It seems as though we can do nothing for them.
Yet, we need to realize that being a friend is an important part to play. Just being with someone, not even doing much talking, can play a positive role in their recovery. The fact we show that someone cares what happens to them can help tremendously.
And, of course, we can PRAY. God is still in the healing business today. He cares for them even more than we ever could. Plus, He has the power to solve their problem.
When I was down with 2 strokes over 3 years ago, now,
it was the prayers of friends and the care and love they showed me that, I know, made the difference. Today, with almost total healing from the serious problem many die from or are left with partial paralysis, how I thank God for those friends. Dave Gens was from way north in Minnesota, but stayed with me daily a couple weeks to be sure I was going to make it. I could name several others, like Paul Jaglowski, who visited me in the hospital then took me home to his house for more than a week, before I could go home.
Don't think that you have to know what to say. Most of the time, just being there is enough. And don't forget that praying is the most effective way to "do something" about the problem.
October 16, 2009
With all that's going on politically these days, isn't it comforting to know we're in God's hands, no matter what happens.
Although we shouldn't simply be like sheep following the government's leadership regardless of where it's taking us - more and more socialistic and godless, yet we shouldn't be shuddering in fear, either. God has made us the head, not the tail (Deut. 28:13).
The Word tells us to lift up our heads and rejoice, for our redemption draws near (Luke 21:28). When we see all the abominable things that are going on in our world today, instead of hiding or running, we should be taking our stand and praying.
Many righteous, godly leaders today are beginning to tell us that America has been spared persecution all of these years, but that may be coming to an end. Why should we be favored above others who have even given their lives for the FAITH.
We have no idea what it has cost to be a Christian in many places throughout the world. Death isn't the worst the enemy can do. How about raping our wives and children in front of us; or torturing them in other ways. Or treating us and them like animals and doing unthinkable things to us.
Their promises to stop torturing us (especially our families) if we deny the Lord Jesus will most likely cause many to fall away and be lost. Unless we're close enough to the Lord to trust Him even when it seems He's not with us or caring, which is what we'll be told, and what we see will seem to verify it; the temptation to turn away from Him may overwhelm us.
I didn't mean this to become so grim, but, it IS what has happened before in history and is predicted for the last days. We NEED to be ready!
Sept. 29, 2009
We have Jim Cavana & Anne McLean, from Scotland, coming to spend about 10 days with us this month. They've been coming over every 2 years for the past several years.
I've spent quite a lot of time in each of their homes in the past and count it a privilege to host them a few days. They've helped us organize our office and home in the past and been a real blessing.
Anne lived with our daughter, Pam, for awhile in Iowa, several years ago, while attending a Living Word church there. She has put itineraries together for my trips to Scotland for many years as well.
Theirs is primarily a prison ministry, but they are willing to minister anywhere, anytime. Jim plays the guitar and leads worship as well as speaking. Anne is an excellent singer and teaches the Word as well. They've been ministering in several prisons here in America for several years when they come over.
Please join us in prayer that they have a blessed time while in America so they go home refreshed and encouraged. They are very busy when at home and need time to unwind a bit now.
August 13, 2009
God is soooooo good! He knew from the beginning what was going to take place in our lives. Even though we go through tough times, He sees to it that we have times of blessing too.
We are so thrilled that God saw fit to put Becky and me back together after all those years (38) apart, in time to enjoy our great grandkids together. As a friend used to say, "if I knew grandkids would be so much fun, I'd have had them first". Well, multiply that when it comes to great grands. (You think a grandmother is proud, you've seen nothing close to a GREAT grandmother :)).
Next week we're going to N.C. to celebrate our first great grandaughter's first birthday, who was born the 26th of August last year, just the day before Becky's Dad died (he was 94 and for a day the family had five generations) and two days before Betty had the anuerysm that took her mind and shortly took her life.
Since then, things have really changed for us and we're really enjoying being back together. Even though we've had many obstacles, God has shown Himself favorable to us by taking care of problems as they occur, in ways only He could've done.
If we've learned anything of value over our lives, it's that trials come to PASS, not to stay. God's ultimate purpose is to bless those who love Him and walk with Him. Although we may not have wealth in abundance, He'll see to it our needs are met and He'll help us live in peace and have joys that money can't buy - like great grandchildren.
July 7, 2009
Lots is going on. How difficult it is to keep up! One source of comfort comes from the Bible passage in which we're assured God won't put on us any more than we can take.
The world is in crisis as never before. Our government is acting like our daughter, Pam, used to say when we had no money: "Daddy, just write a check". It used to be that it was illegal to write a check without money in the bank to back it up. Apparently nobody has informed Obama, who continues to spend money as though there's no limit.
If one were solely dependent upon the nation's economy, what a scarey time we live in. Thank God for God! He assures us He'll take care of His own, no matter what goes on in the world. He told us there'd come times of great difficulty, but to be of good cheer and look up for our redemption draws near. In reality, the times we're living in reveal that we're near to Jesus' return.
In the meantime, which will be a mean time, He has promised to be with us and to meet our every need. For 35 years I've never known Him to renege on that promise. So, when you start feeling overwhelmed, remember Who's in control. Remember He's promised to take care of you always. Be at peace!
February 26, 2009
Last March or April, Dave Gens, of Baudette, Mn., prophesied that soon my life would radically change. Neither of us had any idea what that would mean, but we believed it was from God.
What has transpired in these past months, is almost unbelievable. Betty was taken out by an anuerysm in August; her mind gone. She died in a few months. All the trips to the nursing home during the interim and being forced to take care of everything alone, was not pleasant. Watching Betty die before my very eyes was not easy, either. We were married 37+ years.
Since Betty's death, another amazing situation has developed. The Lord has brought my first wife back into my life as the person to spend the rest of my life with, after 38 years apart. I was 14 when we met, and 17 when we first married. A year later we had Pam, whom many of you know. But, because we got away from the Lord, we ended up divorced after nearly 10 years and both re-married, a short time afterward.
When Becky got saved, several years ago now, the Lord began to work on her forgiving me and we gradually were able to become friends. She and her Dad, who went to be with the Lord at 94, in August, used to stay with us when she came to visit Pam, so she was friends with Betty also.
Now, since Betty's passing, we became aware of God's plan to re-unite us. On Valentine's Day, we were married, with family and a few friends attending our wedding at Gatlinburg Chapel. Our daughter, Pam, stood up with her Mom, and our grandson was to give her away, and his daughter was to be our flower girl, but the Army canceled his leave at the last moment. So, Becky's cousin did instead. Many of you know Gil Wynne, whose name is now Peter Israel, He was my best man, since he lives close to us now, just south of Nashville.
We are now very busy getting me moved to Becky's condo in Crossville, Tennessee, and getting ourselves organized. It will take a couple of months, we expect.
November 2, 2008
Tuesday will be voting day. We'll know by Wednesday morning who will lead America for the next 4 years, for better, or worse. Please be sure to pray before you vote, that God will lead you to make His choice. Never has it been more critical, nor more divergent as to the choice.
One thing is sure, God is in control, regardless of how it may seem. He has a time-table for the end times that may not be to our liking, but nevertheless, will happen. Times are troubulous, as we all know. As I read the scriptures, I don't see that God is going to spare us of problems, rather, that trouble is a sign of the times. In the last days, the Bible says we'll have tribulation, not ease. We'd better get used to it.
As I see it, the only way we're going to survive the last days is by putting our whole trust in God. He's going to shake all that can be shaken, but those who endure to the end, will be saved.
October 2, 2008
The presidential election is only a month away. As the poles bounce back and forth, we, as Christians, are faced with a real challenge to choose the candidate that will best represent our values, and be able to lead our great country these next four years.
In spite of all of the media's badmouthing of our current president, I believe he's done a good job in a difficult period of our nation's history.
As we well know, no matter who gets voted in, he'll have a most crucial and difficult job ahead of him. Unless he draws on wisdom from God, it won't be long before we're in the worst condition our nation has ever known.
Prophets are saying we're in for a very rough ride no matter who is elected. America is on the brink of bankruptcy both financially and morally. Unless we turn to God, we're in danger of losing our nation, as we've known it.
The book of Obadiah talks about Edom, but it sounds a lot like America. The first few verses of chapter one, comments about a nation with pride and wealth that is brought down.
Now, more than ever before, we need to heed the scripture found in II Chronicles 7:14. We need to turn from our wickedness and cry out to God, and humble ourselves, so He can heal our land. Nobody doubts that we need healing, but too few believe God is the Source.
June 11, 2008
Attitude
Recently I shared this message with mixed reactions. Some groaned and some were pleased. Either way it is received, it is a needed message for us all.
Trouble of all kinds is inevitable in this life. John 16:33 tells us in this world we'll have tribulation. In the same breath, though, it tells us to be of good cheer, because Jesus has overcome all of it.
For years I took teams to Jamaica. When asked, "how are you?", a Jamaican will almost always answer, "not too bad".
I often asked, "how bad is too bad?"
Most people will respond to the question negatively. It's our nature, generally, to focus on the negative instead of the positive.
Chuck Swindoll one time said that life is 10% what happens to us and 90% what we do about it. Someone else said if we growl all day, we'll be dog-tired at night. The reality is, usually things are not as bad as they first appear.
The best idea, I think, is "instead of crying over spilt milk, milk another cow", stated by Erma Asp. What a novel idea!
Although being negative and even falling apart may be normal reactions to the difficulties of life, the Bible encourages us to respond positively, regardless of the situation.
The negative response by ten of the twelve spies in Numbers 13, 14 ultimately led to their death and separation eternally from God. That's serious! The Israelites all suffered as a result of their fear and distrust and disobedience to God.
On the other hand, we see Paul and Silas being beaten and imprisoned, yet praising God with all the prisoners as witnesses. The result of their response was deliverance and salvation of the jailer and his family. ( Acts 16:16 ff) What a contrast!
I've listed seven proper responses to tragedy:
1) Be thankful (you've got to be kidding)
I Thessalonians 5:18 - in EVERYTHING give thanks
Ephesians 5:20 - giving thanks for ALL things
2) Be joyful (get serious)
James 1:2 - count it ALL joy
3) Be Godly (now you've gone too far)
Ephesians 6:12 -18 - take whole armor of God
4) Be kind ( say what)
I Corinthians 13:4 - longsuffering with kindness
5) Be positive (that's tough)
Romans 8:28 - ALL things work together for GOOD
6) Trust God (He's totally trustworthy)
Proverbs 3:5,6 - trust in the Lord with ALL your heart
Isaiah 59:19 - when the enemy comes in like a flood
Psalms 61:2 - when my heart is overwhelmed
7) Utilize the gifts of the Spirit
I Corinthians 12:7-11 - all these WORK
We're told to desire the best gift. I wanted to know which one that was. Many years ago the Lord answered me: it's the one you need when you need it!
By responding the way God would have us to, we are able to save us and others untold grief and misery even in tough circumstances, no matter what they may be. God is able to enable us to do it. Honest!
May 27, 2008
Actions are far more important than words
I Pet. 3:1-12, 15; James 1:22-25; Titus 1:16; Matt. 21:28-31
As a song written by a L.W. minister, Dana Ritchie says, "IT's not what you say, but what you do", we will be known by what we do, not what we say. People say lots of things, but often don't follow through. We've been promised many things many times that have not proven true.
We need to be careful about giving people a "piece of our mind". Most of us can't afford it. I've learned that one of the best ways to end an arguement is to be quiet. An action most people find hard to do. Especially in the heat of battle, as it were.
Haven't you discovered also that beauty sometimes is only skin-deep? When a person doesn't watch their inside, their actions and concerns for others, they can appear good, but actuallly not be nice to be around.
The Bible says, in Isaiah 32:17,18, "the work of righteousness shall be peace...and quiet resting places". Someone whose actions are godly will engender peace and quietness, not strife and tension.
They will be people of their word and the Word.
I Peter calls that meek and quiet spirit of great price, because it is difficult to achieve. It means yielding when all in us wants to fight. It means being submissive when we totally disagree with the one we're submitting to.
God's purpose in that is He will be revealed by such an attitude (I Peter 3:15). It should be our goal as well.
May 20, 2008
We have just finished our Milwaukee conference. Although we had fewer in attendance this year, the presence of God was consistently manifest.
As the speakers shared, a consistent message came forth: the tie that binds is the love of God that's shed abroad in our hearts. See the report on the Current News page.
One of the elements that was discussed was that true fellowship had to include friendship. Taking the time to know each other and become friends is essential to our wanting to be together. Having the confidence to trust one another and know we can depend upon each other enables us to be honest and free with one another, building that bond of love we all so need in our lives.
The ability to forgive and forget is also essential if we're to maintain viable relationships. Sooner or later, or maybe sooner AND later, we're going to offend our brother or be offended by him. Because of the nature of the beast, it's unavoidable! Luke 17:1 says it's impossible that offenses won't happen. But, knowing that can help us to be somewhat prepared to handle them when they happen.
Mark 11:25,26 tell us that we must forgive in order to be forgiven. And Philippians 3:13 says we're to forget what lays behind, so in order to stay in right relationship with one another, we're told to forgive AND forget whatever disagreements or disgruntlements we may have and choose to simply love one another, as brothers and sisters in the Lord.
Besides having a close relationship with God, being close with our friends and co-laborers in the Lord, is the next best thing. It's well worth the time and effort it takes to nurture and develop, and whatever resulting cost might be involved.
John 13:35 sums it up this way: "By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have LOVE one to another".
April 30, 2008
Today is Betty's and my 37th wedding anniversary. And they said it wouldn't last! :)
April 13, 2008
The Tie That Binds
Psalm 133 speaks of the blessing of men/women walking in unity, which fits with our conference theme this year. It is one of the elements the Enemy does his best to destroy.
When we first got into the ministry some 34 years ago, finding pastors who would take the time to fellowship, was indeed a rarity. Today, it is often even more of a rarity, due to the demands the job makes on one’s time.
It really is difficult for pastors to balance their time between God, the church and the family. To keep up with everything going on, often something has to be overlooked. Usually, the easiest thing to go without, is fellowship with others in the ministry.
Another problem is the tendency to get so involved with one’s own ministry and church schedule, that there’s neither time nor interest in what anyone else has going.
One of the other problems in getting together with fellow ministers is our suspicion of those who don’t belong to our group or have some differing theology from our own. There are certainly some whose differences are critical enough to avoid, but if they love the Lord Jesus and are washed in the blood, we can live with some differences in doctrinal tradition. None of us has all the answers or perfect doctrine, but we can, as is our policy in Living Word, agree to disagree agreeably.
However, regular involvement with others, can bring big benefits. It’s well worth the time it takes.
For example, a major protection against falling into sin, we can all take advantage of, is accountability: being in close relationship with those who will be willing and able to keep an eye on our lives to help us with any temptation or tendency to do other than what is right, which everyone is susceptible to, from time-to-time.
Fellowship also provides a means of exchanging ideas by those who’ve found solutions to problems, helping those with similar problems or needs. Sharing about concerns often will lead to a resolution.
Through sharing among pastors, people who have been problems in one church, or more, and have moved on to the next victim, may be stopped from creating further problems. By receiving a warning, the current church is able to deal with the problem people before they start trouble. That alone makes fellowship worth the time.
Being with peers without a hidden agenda can be a refreshing and pleasurable experience. They understand where one is coming from and can provide a base of support and encouragement as well as ideas.
The best part of joining together in unity with our brethren is that “there (in unity) the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” (Psalm 133:3)
March 23, 2008
Another successful Trip to end:
What started out the weekend of February 23,24 is now about to be history, on March 24. Monday will be one last meeting as L.W. ministers gather for lunch at Old Country Buffet in Kenosha before Arnie is taken to Milwaukee airport for his flight to Atlanta.
First, I want to give special thanks to my host and hostess, Paul and Pat Jaglowski for taking such good care of me, as usual. Even in the midst of one of the most trying times of their life, with Pat having cancer surgery while I was with them, they were both gracious and generous.
Looking back, it has been an eventful time. Starting with the seminar at Beloit, at which several received a new awareness of God's love for them, to this morning's message as to what God did for us when Jesus died and rose again.
Arnie got to visit with several people while visiting wisconsin, as well as ministering in quite a few meetings. When he ministered on giving, at Holy Spirit Church in Kenosha, he didn't know the pastor, Charlie Hanson, had told his people they would be hearing that topic in a couple of weeks - exactly when they did.
For one of the weeks he ministered twice a day in Baudette, Mn., at the Church of Living Water. Every morning the church prayed at 9am and teaching began a little after 10.
Except Wednesday, which was regular church service, Dave and Ducky Gens and he had dinner at a member's home and had a time of teaching as well.
Friday night they were in Canada, and ministered to a fisherman who'd been saved years earlier, but hadn't done anything with his salvation. He immediately admitted he was back slidden badly. We encouraged him to decide to follow Jesus for real, but he remained undecided - which means, "NO".
Today, though, I got an e-mail saying he came to church today and literally embraced the cross at the front of the church. PTL!
March 18, 2008
Last week was a busy one, as I was ministering twice
daily from Tuesday through Sunday, with the exception of Saturday night. Instead of my teaching, they had an evening of praise and worship, led by a couple who plan to be married the first of August.
I flew in to Int'l. Falls, Mn. a bit after 11pm Monday and got into bed about 2:30am. in Baudette. Tuesday morning we met at the church for prayer at 9, then I taught from about 10 to 11 or so. Each morning we kept the same schedule all week.
In the evenings, we were invited to peoples' homes for supper and a time of teaching, except Wednesday, which was a normal church service night. Friday night we drove about 50 miles into Canada for a fresh walleye fish dinner that was special, as well as for a time of teaching.
On Sunday night we shared at Red Lake reservation, where, a couple of years ago, a school shooting took place that got national press coverage. We had a beautiful service, well-attended and anointed, with a meal served afterward. The musicians had a ball, with Dave Gens, my host, playing along with them. The presence of God was precious at times, as we worshiped. One song we sang over and over was: "I Can't Stop Praising The Lord".
I'm looking forward to going back after the Milwaukee Conference, which will be May 15-17 (See Current Conference page on this web sight for details).
Thank you to Dave and Ducky Gens for a great time of ministry and fellowship. Thanks to Richard, Dave & Glenda, Margaret and Mike, and Bobbie and Jennifer for the great meals also.
March 8, 2008
Giving
The subject of giving is as old as Abraham, but as misunderstood as ever. I just told a pastor whose church I ministered at I was going to teach on the subject. To which he replied, better you than me. Why is it if a pastor brings up the subject so many think it's just because he's after their money? Either because they don't understand what giving is all about, or because he really is after their money, Ha!
Truthfully, the reality is: we cannot out-give God! That's the true message of giving. Luke 6:38, probably says it the best: give and it shall be given unto you...running over....
Although some folks teach that tithing is only old testament law, therefore it doesn’t apply to our day, I beg to differ. Tithing goes back to the book of Genesis, when Abraham, still known as Abram, tithed to Melchizedek, spoken of in Genesis 14: 18-20 and is repeated in Heb. 7:9,10.
The major, well-known, often-quoted passage regarding giving in the Old Testament is Mal. 3:7-12. To sum up, it says if we don’t give, we rob God, which will put a curse upon us. But it also mentions the rewards of giving: we’ll be blessed in many ways.
If those were the only passages regarding giving, it should be enough, but there’s so much more. Matt. 23:23 tells us that tithing should be done. Hebrews 7:5 tells the priests, leaders of the church, to take tithes from the people.
Matt. 5: 17,18 says Jesus came to fulfill the law, not to destroy it. And I Cor. 10: 1-6, 11 talks about the Old Testament being an example for our time. Therefore, it seems to me, we should recognize tithing as one way to please God and be blessed. The 10% should be the minimum amount we give to the Lord.
To illustrate the point, the scripture tells us of a man who was a thief, taking more money from people for taxes than they owed, for himself. After meeting Jesus, he vowed to repay those he’d cheated, showing that he became a believer by his changed attitude regarding money.
Being willing to give, was one proof to Jesus of Zacchaeus’ conversion (Luke 19: 1-10).
II Cor. 9: 6-12 tells us of God’s pleasure when we become givers. It mentions that those who give a lot will receive a lot. Also, givers are demonstrating thankfulness to God.
Jesus pointed out the importance of giving when He was watching people give one day. He saw the wealthy put in their offerings, but what really impressed Him was the widow who put in only two mites. He stated she had put in more than all of the others, because she gave all she had (Luke 21: 1-4).
One thing you may be sure of: scripture does not go on to say that the widow went away and starved. Rather, God promises to take care of those looking to Him, by trusting in His faithfulness (Phil. 4:19). Notice the previous verses, if you will, starting with verse 14. They refer to those who have given, leading to verse 19.
Therefore, it’s accurate to say that those who give will have their needs met by a faithful God. Make it a way of life and watch what God will do in your life.
Betty and I have lived lives of faith and trust in God for more than 33 years now, and God has always been faithful to meet our needs and then some, at times. He is totally trustworthy! Praise God!
Feb. 29, 2008
It seems to me that although we already have plenty of holidays, today would be a good day to consider as a national holiday, since it in a sense is an extra day once every few years. What would be wrong with taking Feb. 29 as a special day to celebrate by taking off from normal activities and enjoying family and friends.
It could be known as National Leap Day, or something such as that. Much more consideration needs to go into the emphasis we might take for the day, like Jesus' birthday for Christmas and giving thanks to God on Thanksgiving. We might celebrate something to do with recognizing God's care over the winter, or something of that nature. Surely, someone can think of some appropriate reason for which we can rejoice and celebrate that day.
Jesus said we wouldn't fast or mourn while the Bridegroom was with us (Matt. 9:14). If we've accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, He IS with us, which all by itself is reason to celebrate.
Feb. 26, 2008
The Beloit seminar went well. Terri Witte and her music group ministered each night and Paul Jaglowski sang Sunday night.
The teaching was on "Receiving God's love" which not only shared about how much He loves us, but explained what love is, based upon 1 Cor. 13, and what hinders one from receiving it.
Hindrances to receiving God's love:
Feelings of unworthiness
Mistrust of God
Lack of knowledge as to who God is
Wrong concept of God
Carmen and George Zaleski came for the weekend all the way from Black Duck, Mn. Carmen, along with Bonnie and Bruce Klowas, from Spring Grove, Il., did personal ministry to several at the end of the teaching. One man, in particular, came into the meeting extremely depressed, very zombie-like, and after receiving the ministry, went out smiling and joking, very thankful to the Lord.
One man confessed he'd avoided being at the previous two seminars because he really didn't like Arnie. This year he decided to come and check him out again, and this time, was pleased and very glad he'd come. He was there both nights.
Living Word February 13, 2008
I Sam. 29, 30
King David's life is an interesting study in how a person deals with problem after problem. From his teenage years we learn of his killing a bear and a lion, as well as going against Goliath with only a sling shot. He was later persued by king Saul who desired to kill him.
Later, we see him going to fight with Israel's enemy and serving several years, until there's a conflict when they're to fight Israel. The army becomes afraid that David will side wth Israel, so they send him and his men away.
After a three day journey, they are tired, hungry, discouraged and dejected. They have no country to call their own as Saul is still in persuit and the Philistines wouldn't receive them anymore.
So, the one thing they were looking forward to was being reunited with their families and enjoying a time at home. But, when they arrived, what they found was only rubble. The Amalekites had burned their homes and taken their families prisoner.
Having been rejected, persued as enemies, and losing everything they held dear, David's men turned against him and were threatening to kill him, because he's their leader and supposed to be looking out for their best interests.
So, as David has to deal with his own loss, he also has to deal with the danger he himself is in. Talk about a bad time!
I Sam. 30:6 gives us David's secret, which will work for us as well, whenever we feel the world has ganged up against us. David encouraged himself in the Lord. Although this situation is undoubgtedly the worst of his life, he has learned from past encounters that God is for Him, so it doesn't matter who's against him.
Instead of acting in fear, revenge or anger, he asks the Lord for directions, in verse 8. As a result of His seeking God, he obtains God's help and achieves victory. He goes after the enemy and recovers all, and goes on to become king for 40 years.
So, no matter what you may be going through, remember that God will encourage you if you look to Him, in spite of the problems. Space doesn't permit me to tell of the times I've proven Him to be faithful.
Living Word January 27, 2008
Recently I received an interesting e-mail. It talked about Jesus' resurrection when the disciples went to the tomb and found Jesus gone. They saw his grave clothes lying to the side and the napkin, neatly folded by where his head had laid. According to what the article said was Jewish tradition, the folded napkin, as opposed to it's being crumpled, represented His promise to return, rather than just having left, being done.
Jesus has promised to return! He also told us to watch, for we know not the day or hour when He'll come back.
One of the signs is what happens in Israel. As said last time, the whole world is focused on Israel in these last days pointing toward Jesus' return.
Probably the most important statement Jesus made about His return was that it couldn't happen until the Word of the Kingdom was preached throughout the world (Matt. 24:14).
With satellite television and internet, as well as the diligent work of missionaries world-wide, we're achieving that goal.
With the world as it is today, people are more open to the gospel than ever. Opportunities abound to share the gospel. Let's take advantage of them, before He returns.
Living Word January 5, 2008
2008 is just beginning. It seems as though next Christmas and New Years are a long way away, but, just as with 2007, they will be here before we know it. What we do in 2008 must be done quickly.
There have been many predictions of doomsday-type stuff to take place this year and maybe that will be. But, the Bible says that "those who know their God will be strong and do exploits" (Daniel 11:32).
The context for this verse is the rise of the anti-Christ and the persecution that follows in his wake. That means when things in this world are the toughest, God will be the strength of those who serve Him. It's referring to the time of great tribulation - far greater than we've experienced, yet God promises to take care of us.
We have a win-win situation in Him! If we live, we win. If we die, we win!
The Apostle Paul said he'd rather die, because it meant being with Jesus in glory. But, he also recognized that the world needed him to continue pointing the way to Jesus (Philippians 1:23.24).
I've said all of that to say this: FEAR NOT! It doesn't matter what's coming, the goal is to stay the same: win all we can to the Lord Jesus and stay true to Him! Even though we may experience tough times, God will keep meeting the needs of the faithful. Remain faithful!
Living Word Dec. 26, 2007 The Lord illuminated Jer.17:14 the other day. It was a word for me you might apply as well. The Lord said I’m healed! He also said I’m saved! When He says it, It’s done! So, instead of asking, or doubting, start praising!
To be honest, praising has been an area a bit lost since the strokes. My singing isn’t up to par as it was before. But, it too has been coming back slowly, recently.
I’ve had other words from the Lord, such as Song 2:11-14 that have encouraged me.
Sometimes it seems as though the Lord has abandoned us and left us on our own, and even let us be unfruitful, even though we attempt to do all we can for Him. But the truth is, He delights in our praises, if only we’ll continue praising Him no matter what. Then, suddenly, without warning He’ll break through with His glorious presence and suddenly we’ll experience His peace and joy and acceptance once again. Believe it!
Being in the presence of He who loves us so unconditionally, makes all our heartache and disappointment melt into oblivion. One touch makes all our pain disappear. He inhabits our praises (Ps. 22:3). Praise Him!
A WORD Dec. 15, 2007
Wednesday evening this week, we lost a devoted warrior of the cross for many, many years: Jim Boyer. Known in his youth as Captain Red Beard due to the Captain Hook-like character He portrayed for Christian young people, and later as The Big Fisherman for his anointed depiction of the life of Simon Peter, he was also known to many as the Gentle Giant.
When we first met, in 1976, Jim was managing a Christian radio station in Sebring, Florida. God used him and his wife, Carolyn, to help Betty and me start a new church there, in November of that same year. For a couple of years, we were together nearly every day, either at the church or someone's home.
When Jim took a job at Christian Retreat doing television production for Gerald Derstine, Betty and I visited them there and later went to the school Christian Retreat had for ministry training and later became the leader of it for four years.
From Christian Retreat, Jim was used to help start several Christian stations, including one in Manilla, Philippines. He also worked at several Christian stations in the U.S.
Several years ago, while he was working with several known evangelists, one of whom was R. W. Shambach, doing international television programming, it was discovered he had only 2% of the blood flow he was supposed to have going to his brain. After an extended hospital stay, his life was spared, but forever changed. No longer was he able to travel as he had, and he was left legally blind as well as having to learn to walk all over again. He never regained his former strength or stamina, but learned to function quite well enough to speak publicly and play his beloved bass again.
On occasion, Jim was used to minister with me and to tape some of our conferences. The Lord anointed his portrayal of The Big Fisherman, of which he had several programs yet scheduled to perform at the time of his death.
Please remember to pray for Carolyn, his wife, and their family. It is especially hard on them for the loss to come at this time of the year. When Jim had his first physical problem, mentioned before, it was also at Christmas.
There will be a memorial service
Sunday December 30,
at Bayshore Nazarene Church in Bradenton
at 6 pm.
The church is located at:
2311 57th Ave. W, Bradenton, Florida.
Jim will be severely missed!