"Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." (Hebrews 13:4)
As Christians we are called to a higher standard, sadly most times we fail, but there is good new for you of River City :) any way bottom line, your God grants us new grace and mercy each day. So while we battle with these issue of our flesh since the divine union of Adam and Eve, the institution of marriage has been between a man and woman. However, the "bed" has often been defiled. We are to give honor to God by keeping our body clean. Young ladies and young men do not realize that sex was meant for marriage. For once a women gives herself to that man in olden days that meant they were married. So each time a man lays with a women how many wives would some young men have today, if we were still to live under that rule?
Yes, but times have changed, we are told. The so-called "gay" lifestyle is now a normal option, they say, and even "same-sex" marriages are acceptable. Premarital sex, as well as adultery, are very common today, all over the world, often even impacting Christian homes and churches. Indeed, the world has changed!
The Greek word for "whoremongers," incidentally, includes anyone who practices or promotes illicit sex and the Bible says that "whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." However, God will forgive and purge away any of these sins when they are repudiated and Christ is accepted as Savior. So let no man be deceived you do not have to remain a prisoner to your flesh, give the issue of your flesh to God.
God bless you, it is my prayer that since our Heavenly Father woke us up this morning that we are walking in his glory, that we are aware that we are the Children of the living God and he loves each of you. For he redeemed you by the blood of his only begotten son. Lord fill my brothers and sisters with your spirit, whisper in their ear through this day that they might know that even though the enemy comes like a roaring lions seeking to destroy them. That you are there with them and they can overcome all things in you.
Disappointment: How many of you know what disappointment is?
Webster’s describes disappointment as a feeling of frustration or being let down, is there anyone here who can relate to that?
Ever asked a stranger can they spare some change and they say get a job, but your homeless with no clean close and no address and you have tried with no success.
Right now it doesn't feel like God is working all things to your good now does it? If He really heard your prayer, why haven’t you received results? Ever ask yourself those questions?
The good news is this its not in God's nature to abandon or decive us.
God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? (Numbers 23:19)
In the book of Revelation God says he will wipe away ever tear. Are you tired of crying tired of feeling like no one cares? Well God cares about you more than you can ever realize. I’m told the greatest sign of love is a man giving his life for another. Many of us would scarcely give our life for a good man, but would you give your life for your enemy who has hated you and does everything to hurt you?
Well God did that for you and I, died for those who hated him, Christ asked the question when he was being judged by the religious leaders of his time after being struck by a guard a simple question why did you hit me, what did I say that would warrant that. I ask you why do you hate Christ ? Why do you hate yourself? You can not love yourself and remain in this frustrated state and disappointed state. God hurts for you because he never plain for you to be here. Each of you if you think back remember what turn you took to get here. Its time we start asking God to show you way out of here, a way to leave behind the drugs the alcohol the failed attempts from your past. You can not go back and you can not remain here, so you must get back up and move forward.
You decide for yourself many Baptist and Prodestians believe in and Catholic also
the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.
The devil is our accuser. The only successful plea is the Blood of Jesus. Pleading our ignorance, our innocence, or our merits will fail. Only relying on the Blood of our substitute sacrifice, the Lamb of God, will win our case before God the Judge.
When some of you pray, you have based your prayer on the Blood of Jesus the price paid for our needs to be met -- instead of on our need or our worthiness.
When we resist the devil, we cannot resist him based on who we are or what we have done, but only on the price paid for our complete redemption through the blood of Christ.
Faith in Jesus', released in testimony against the devil, will always cause him to flee. We must resist him, steadfast in faith, for as long as it takes.
Our enemy can always be overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and the Word of God through our living breathing testimony our. We can only have victory over every evil , when we stand upon the Word of God and are living and believing in Christ Jesus as our deliever.
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy. As a young boy I would such prayer in Baptist church as the following:
In the Name of Jesus, I plead the Blood of the Lord Jesus Christ against this problem.
I cover my home with the Blood of Jesus to protect all occupants and possessions from all evil.
Especially in times of violence we need to cry out for the protection of the Blood for all our household. Parents can put the Blood on their "door" -- taking in all that pertains to them -- and claim salvation and protection for their entire family. The Blood is the one thing that will keep your family safe in these perilous days.
When we awaken in the morning we should call for the Blood to be upon us and all that belongs to us. Before we sleep we should, in the same way, call for the protection of the Blood.
Pleading the Blood of Christ is not begging Simply claiming authority in Christ Jesus by that precious blood that set us free from sin and now we admit that it power and authority into our lives.
These are words that many pastors and preachers Reverands and ministers believe have authority and encourage their sheep to speak them in time of need. They say their is power in those words.
What do you think? Is the blood of Christ powerful, can you actually make the devil flee by doing this?
Or is this more religious nonsense? Question that each of you should ask yourself, search the word of God for answers then come before him in prayer concerning this issue and all issues.
Martin Luther was angry because the Church, had forgotten that the price for sin had already been paid. They could not do what only Christ did. It was made very clear that no man can enter into the kingdom of heaven unless he enter in through Christ. Much like today, religions tell you that works are your way into heaven, or your priest can speak on your behalf. Christ is the only one that can and has spoken on behalf of each of us. You do not need to plant a seed or chant or meditate, simply confess your sins and commit yourself to Christ Jesus as your Lord and Savior
When these people came to confession, they presented their plenary indulgences which they had paid good silver money for, claiming they no longer had to repent of their sins, since the document promised to forgive all their sins. Luther was outraged that they had paid money for what was theirs by right as a free gift from God. He felt compelled to expose the fraud that was being sold to the pious people. This exposure was to take place in the form of a public scholarly debate at the University of Wittenberg. The Ninety-five Theses outlined the items to be discussed and issued the challenge to any and all comers.
Bottom line people there is no other way into heaven accept by Christ. " Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6) Man has always hoped and believed that if there is a god that he is a loving god whom they can earn their way into heaven. Or perhaps this god they trust will grade on a curve. Good luck on that , cause my God tells me that there is no way that can be earned into heaven we can not work our way into heaven, our is simple we just have to believe.
For you whom want to have a religious argument try one of those religious site where they want you to plant a seed. Here is the deal, I would rather go through life believing in a God and find out I'm wrong.
Than to go through believing there is no God and be face to face with him, what shall you answer when ask what have you done for me???
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.(Hebrews 13:5-6) Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.( Hebrews 13:8)
The times you feel like He is doing nothing are probably the times He is doing His greatest work in your life and on your behalf.
So, what shall we do Father? Continue walking in faith my child.
We must learn to Depend on God – Often times God just wants to see where your heart is. Who will you chase after for answers? Who will you seek after for affection? And so sometimes God just waits. Is He your first choice? Just talking to a young lady yesterday the subject of depending on others came up. When you are there for others, make sure you are not their crutch. Your obligation is to point them towards God who is able to do all things!
Finally we must learn to wait upon the Lord – His time is always the perfect time. I’m going to tell you like the old folks would say because there’s a lot of truth in this statement. “He may not come when you want him but He’s always on time.” For his time is not our time and he is a on time God
God has not forgotten you, he created you and he said that he foreknew you even before you were in your mother's womb. That's a long time :)
I heard people say, "Well, I haven’t done everything God’s been telling me to do." "I didn’t read the Word last night; I don’t pray like I should;" "I gave a couple dollars in the offering Sunday when I could have given more." Dear one, don’t you think this list could go on and on and on? And if the truth were told – we would all fit in one of these categories.
But are these things what God’s Love is based upon? Let me answer that for you – NO! God’s Love is unconditional and is not based upon your performance. You can, however; disappoint Him.
What about sin? Admit it; Quit it; and Forget it. Simple answer right, but most of us have not applied that to sin issue why is that?
" What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?" " God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?" (Romans 6:1-2)
For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. ( Romans 6: 10-17)
Now, back to Faith. Sometimes your faith is just on trial. But take comfort in knowing that God has not forgotten about you. Remember he show you love by sending his only begotten son to die for a sinner like you and I. He did not bring you this far to leave you. You are not accident and you being here is not an accident. His word tells me he has plans to prosper you. If he had forgotten you how did and why did he make plans for you then?
Do you have a personal Relationship with Christ??? You heard me correctly, no not what your preacher or pastor or minister, but do you know him personally and have you discussed your present plight with him? For me the question would be more like Reverend Henry, what is your relationship like with Christ. I would have to say, I spend a great deal of time actually walking in the woods and around my place at night or down by the water just sitting sometimes on my front porch and looking up at his star admitting to him how I need him and praise him for all that he done for me. My lovely wife says for her Christ has been a constant companion, one that she count on to be there for her and always listen to her, whether it be driving to pick up the kids or making dinner or a walk in the woods, She wait for that still voice to guide her through whatever storm she is going through. What about you?
The dictionary defines "personal" is defined as "how something relates to or affects a person." With this broad definition, a person can have a "personal relationship" with anything that affects or relates to them a dog, a tree, a flower, a bottle of beer, etcetera ad infinitum.
What does it mean to have a "personal relationship with Jesus Christ"?
Evangelical Christians have often proclaimed and explained that to be a Christian is "to receive Jesus and have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ." Many who have heard that proclamation have not been able to understand what evangelical Christians mean by that phrase. Is it possible for the non-Christian, the natural man, to understand or comprehend the meaning of that phrase?
The natural man can comprehend "religion" how religious organizations function, how they solicit finances, how they utilize propaganda to get their message out. The natural man can understand rational assent to religious tenets, propositions, principles, statements of history, theology, and doctrine. The natural man can deliberate adherence to a belief-system, or devotion to an ideology or an organization. The natural man can understand "spirituality" if it is defined as the serenity of "well-being", or devotion to a meaningful cause, or the recollection of an ecstatic experience, or conformity to a moral ideal.
Is it possible for the natural man, the non-Christian, to understand what it means to "have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ"? The Apostle Paul explained that "the natural man is perplexed by spiritual things" (I Corinthians. 2:14). Is "having a personal relationship with Christ" a spiritual reality that requires the presence and appraisal of the Spirit of Christ to understand what it means? If so, is it possible to adequately explain the meaning of this reality to a non-Christian?
Do you need a better relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, I certainly think so. Many of us might wonder how we can have it. Let me suggest three things: prayer, study and fellowship.
Pray. Ask God to give you the joy of salvation. Ask him to help you know his love for you in the sacrifice and resurrection of his Son. Ask him to help you adore him, to know and feel his love for you. Ask him for faith in Jesus, and for his power to walk in his love.
Study. In this case, I suggest studying the four Gospels. Sometimes we study for doctrine and for commands regarding what we should do. This time, I suggest that we study simply to see what Jesus is like as a person. Get a feel for his love and compassion, his desire for friendship, his zeal for his Father's glory. Walk with him in the mountains, across the lake, into the city of his death. Meditate on it. Feel with him. Our lives are hidden in Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:3) — discover what his life is l
Fellowship. Our love for the Lord is expressed in part by our love one for another. Share with others the joy that you have in the Lord. Let it shine. In Christ, we will live forever with one another, with ever-growing love for one another. Let's express his love in us now! Encourage others, as often as we meet them (Hebrews 10:24-25). Treat others with the same grace and mercy that Christ has given us. Forgive them as he does daily for each of us and grants us new grace and mercy daily, though we are undeserving of it, yet he gives it to us because of our relationship with him.
First off thank each of you that keep me and my family in prayer. I have been endeavoring to go out & share the Love and the Word of God with the homeless. If you ask me I would have said that I'm not being effective at all, personally I would rather be at home watching WWE on Monday night. But tonight after we got back and i was kind of tired from having spoken to those homeless that were present and having been dinner for ever blood sucking mosquito in the county. I was ready to just go in the house . I got a call on my cell from one of the Women whom is know as Mom D she been homeless for over 14 years living in the woods and a guy name Willie who got out of prison and went to a Christian halfway home that ran out of funding so he was forced out onto the streets. Mom D is about 45 to 50 and is 4 months pregnant from a rape that occured in the woods that she was living in. My lovely wife and I and my brother Don and his wife Kathy and Joshua had gone out there last Saturday to speak with them. After my wife brought her information about how to get help to get out of the woods and assistance for her and the baby, Mom D didn't seem to take to it. She cried as I shared the gospel with her and I told her that this was not God's plan for her life, that God was able to forgive her but she must forgive herself for her mistakes. For we all have made mistakes, that a Saint is simple a sinner who fell but got back up. So then I preached to them that Monday about getting back up, This Monday I got a call informing me that she had indeed got back up, she and Willie were no longer living on the streets that as we spoke she was moving into a place, that Willie now had a one bedroom of his own.
I cried cause I knew that God had prove to them the word I spoke to them a week before, now Willie and Mom D can say that they now know the Word of God is true because as it was spoke it happened.
So praise God, Brothers and sister, its time we step outside of our comfort zone and get it done. For the fields are ready for harvest but the workers are few. The great commission was not just for Ministers ,Pastors, Reverends, Preachers or Evangelist but each of us are to share the gospel with all that we meet. We are to go out to them . Maybe your minister field is your work place, it could be your school, your home, family, friends, your neighborhood, or even brothers or sisters at your church.
Keep me in prayer that I will continue to step out on faith and do what the Lord God is calling me to do
Wow from the mouth of a bab comes truth, let each of us take this words to heart and realize that these words are each of us at some point. As saved we are just sinners that got back up when Christ told to stand up and walk.Grace was simply God's warranted favor upon his enemy. You heard me right you were once God's enemy. For though he showed you love and desired to bring you back into his house. Now you are redeemed and washed by the blood of Lamb. Thank God almighty Thank God for you are free free at last of the burden of sin, from from your previous master sin. Yes you had a master his name was sin and he owned you, and for a season you were happy to be his. Now you realize that you were not a slave but a son or daughter of the king, so you have come out of the cotton field out of the pig pen and your headed to the castle where they will dress you fine linens and crown.
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” (James 1:27) When men take more pains to seem religious than really to be so, it is a sign their religion is in vain. The not bridling the tongue, readiness to speak of the faults of others, or to lessen their wisdom and piety, are signs of a vain religion. The man who has a slandering tongue, cannot have a truly humble, gracious heart. False religious may be known by their impurity and uncharitable nature. True religion teaches us to do every thing as in the presence of God. An unspotted life must
Let us remember, that nothing avails in Christ Jesus, but faith that worketh by love, purifies the heart, subdues carnal lusts, and obeys God's commands.
Some religion are like a spare time used only in the case of an emergency. Others are like a bus you ride only when its going your way. Bottom line whatever religion you cleave to if it is not promoting God and pleasing before God and God centered and orientated around God and the message of redemption, grace and mercy and the love of God. Then what good is your religion?
Should not focus me on doing the work that Christ left for us to do which was to share the gospel, not hang out in pews, but go feed the homeless, to visit the elder or prison ministry. For as much as you have done unto the least of them also have you done unto the Lord your God. Let the work of the Lord be your religion if you must claim one. Myself I clam a relationship with my Father, for if I'm his son and he my father then I need to be able to communicate with him about anything at anytime.
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Tell me who among you that goes to work in the morning, without first ensuring that your dressed properly? Or at least dressed? I trust none of have walked into work in your birthday suite, cause if you did that might explain why none of your co-workers are taking your invite to come to church on Sunday.
Okay seriously folks, we all know if its raining outside we should dress accordingly right? If its snowing then you should not dress like your going to beach right? Yet why is that so many of us are not dressed for spiritual battle? Why do you at the end of day crawl back home licking your wounds, when you left your battle gear at home? Let me guess its to heavy to wear ? Or is that you afraid people might see you in it? Or is that you lost it? Forgot ? Just never thought you needed to wear it? Okay saints lets be real if I can be real with you for a second. Christ told us that the world hated him and it would also hate us, so if you think you be all buddy with the those in the world and still serve God you might want to check yourself before you wreck yourself. You can not serve to Master's, so your either with God or your against God. Which then would make you a enemy of God's not a role I would want to take on. If you consider yourself a true child of God then you better accept that your a soldier and you need to wear the proper gear each and everyday to battle against the enemy who like a roaring lion going to and fro seeking whom he might destroy. Did you put on your battle gear today???
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, (Ephesians 6:11-19)
Its Time to suit up, for battle for your soul is on the line, the enemy does not back down and he want quit, you can't befriend him and think half way in and half way out. All in or all out. Which is it for you?
Got to work and hell broke loose? Ever walk in the door and be hit right in the face with every issue know to man without you even getting to say Hi honey I'm home? Pray every night read your bible twice a week and attend church twice a week, yet your child is addicted to drugs, what that all about? Join the local church gave your life to Christ next thing you know your spouse is leaving you and has taken all the money and left you with nothing and says it all your fault? What is going on here? You tide regular and now your car broke down and its going to cost your 2,500.00 you don't have, should God be helping you out?
This is not the Christian walk I signed up for, the Christian walk you sign up does not exist. You all the issue to go away stop reading your bible, go a step further throw your bible away you heard me right. Don't go back to that church ever again and stop praying look what it has got you so far. But if you signed to be a true follower of Christ then hear and understand his his words “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." (Mark 8:34) Strange I find that same saying again here “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily,and follow Me." (Luke 9:23)
Wait a minute, so your telling that I might have to suffer much as Christian? I didn't see that in the fine print, what about all those blessings and what about that line where he said whatever you ask in my name shall be done, doesn't mean that I should be getting good things?
Okay reality check Christ said this word that are still true to this day, “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. So is he saying that we must endure pain and suffer because we claim to be Christians which is to be Christ like, but we wanted to be Christ like without the pain and the suffering and the trails and tribulation. We just want to show up Sunday have the pastor preach the word and then go home. No we are to busy to help out in Sunday School, no we don't have time to help with youth group and no we don't want to go to no early morning men's meeting.
We just want God to bless us and give us the easy road :)
Even Christ didn't want to die and suffer but he knew he must do the will of the Father, whose will are you seeking to do?
We want you to know a little about the new staff at Bremerton Rescue Mission. We are excited about what God is doing through the Mission and we are delighted to know that we already have a large group of prayer partners and friends. Our mission remains the same, to take 'Help and Hope' to the poor and homeless of Kitsap County. Please know that we value your prayers, encouragement, support and time. Feel free to make your comments at any time.
Walt Le Couteur - Executive Director
I am honored and humbled by the invitation to serve as the Director of this important outreach. I have a heart for the homeless and a desire to see real changes made in their lives. I have over 6 years of rescue mission experience and was the director of my own outreach ministry to bikers from 2001 to 2006 called Wide Turn Ministries. My focus in life is to share the love of God with those who do not share my hope.
I earned my Masters in Business Administration from the University of North Dakota in 1984 and am nearing completion of a degree in Urban Ministries from the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions (AGRM). I was ordained in January of 2001 and have served in several ministerial capacities.
My greatest desire is to see us develop a program where men and women can recover from addictions, clear up financial and legal encumbrances and work toward a position of dignity in the community with permanent housing, jobs and hope for the future.
I have a passion for the lost, hope for the down trodden and respect for all people as children of God. God has called me to this ministry and I look forward to serving you and the poor and homeless of Kitsap County.
Mike O'Shaughnessy - Operations Manager
Mike brings a unique aspect to the Mission. He was homeless for a time and has a very real understanding of the needs of the homeless. Mike will be responsible for the Mission Guy Truck and all of our meal sites. His background in inventory management provides him with the skills he needs to handle this multifaceted position. Mike brings energy, a servants heart and a desire to help others find his hope in Christ. Mike shares my vision for establishing discipleship homes where we can help men and women put their lives in order and have new hope for the future.
Amy O'Shaugnessy - Volunteer Coordinator
Mikes wife Amy will be taking over the role of Volunteer Coordinator. She married Mike in 2005 and went through the homeless ordeal with Mike. Her skills in computers make her an excellent addition to our development team. Mike and Amy make a great team and we look forward to the new prospective they bring to the Mission.
Discipleship Homes
Discipleship is one more solution to homelessness. This involves a decision by an individual to make a change in their life. When this decision is made, then it is up to us, the community, to give that person the help he/she needs to make the change. Not a hand-out but a hand-up.
We are currently looking at three possible homes to provide that helping hand for men and women who want to make that change. These homes will provide food, shelter, clothing and other necessities of life while helping the individuals clear up encumberments to success like, addictions, financial problems and legal issues. We also assist the individual in rebuilding the skills needed to be successful in work, life and relationships. This is all focused on a Christ centered life because we believe that with God at the center, everything else works correctly.
Here is the catch, this all takes a great deal of financial, personal and material resources. You can help. Here is your chance to be part of the solution and follow the Lord's desire to help the poor. When you get an opportunity, read Matthew 25:31-46, and let God lead you in how best to serve him. There are many ways you can help, come and be part of our team through prayer, volunteering and donating. Help us to bring 'Help and Hope' to these individuals.
The Bremerton Rescue Mission is a 501(c)3 Non Profit Corporation and all contributions are tax deductable.
The number of unsheltered homeless in Kitsap County, according to the latest homeless count, is over 1800 indivduals and rising. These men, women and children are living in cars, abandoned buildings or in the woods in very unsanitary conditions. Many of those living in the woods don't even have tents. What is the solution? How do we get these folks out of these unsafe conditions and into suitable housing?
There is no one solution to the problem but a tent village is one of many ways to help solve the problems of homelessness. It is not the end to the porblem but one more step toward meeting the needs of the poor in our community.
In a recent visit to Camp Quixote in Olympia we discovered that for a small part of the homeless population, a safe tent village is a step in the right direction. This camp is occupied, directed and maintained by 'Houseless' individuals working together to solve their problems. Many of the residents of this camp have gone on to more permanent housing.
It is not the solution for all but can provide some of the homeless a chance to change their position. We support this and are working with the Kitsap Continuum of Care to bring one or two safe camps to Kitsap County. Join us in bringing 'Help an Hope' to the poor and homeless in our county.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
Christ makes this statement in John 15:5 "for without me ye can do nothing".
Meaning if Christ is with you who can be against you? As Christians too often we forget it is Christ that does the work through us. How many of have brought some one to Christ? Answer none of us have, For we have no authority to save anyone, Through Christ Jesus we can be used as the vessel, in which Christ does the work. We can only do amazing things and overcome unsurpassable circumstances through Christ Jesus who strengthens us . We must learn to look beyond self because self can only leads to self destruction.
If there any among who things highly of himself or herself let them be weary for a fall is certain to come. Let us each accept that all that we have or hope to have is because of Christ not because of your education or your wonderful smile. Daily people are loosing their homes, their jobs, their lives. Let us be focus on what we are all called to which is to share the gospel. Peter said to the cripple silver and gold I do not have but what i do have stand up and walk. What Peter has was Christ and faith in Christ, what do you have??? Who is your faith in?
If you had to stand before your Creator our heavenly Father. If he asked you what did you do today for my name sake what would be your reply? Would you come with excuses that you had so much going on at work today? Or that the kids were driving you crazy, so much so that you could barely think straight. Your boss was riding you so hard you that never had a moment of peace. Or perhaps it was your spouse nagging you? Or the traffic or you just got busy.
Image if you would if you called upon God for help and he said I'm busy right now. You will have to wait, or he said is it really important? Come back later when I have more time. Not exactly the words you want to hear from the Father right ????
And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? (Luke 2:49) Christ knew from a young age that he must be about his Father's business, but whose business are you about? If God ask that question of you, what shall you say, that I was busy with my own affairs.
I believe that if we are about God's business he will take care of our business(bills, family,etc...)
During His ministry Jesus would be heard saying, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working." (John 5:17) "The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him." (John 8:29)
Whose business are we about? Perhaps we've become too caught up in doing our own business, doing what we want to do. If we're not constantly on guard, other masters slowly begin to take over. Perhaps fasting has pointed this out to you, there may be some things that you had difficulty letting go of, even for a week. One member found out how much they were hooked to TV. Some of us may be under the domination of bosses who keep demanding more of our time, and we passively fall into schedules which nearly forbid us to do what we really want to do. "Those who have no goals of their own will always end up working for someone else's goals." Let's take a business check. Whose business are we in? Of course some will reply, "But I have to work for a living, you know!" Yes, but it's the perspective that counts - your work in the world must also be seen as the Lord's work. One brother said it this way, "The Lord placed me in this job, and I believe He has a reason for me being here."
So let us be about our Father's business daily, let us raise up ready to glorify our heavenly Father in all that we do each and everyday. For we all must give account one day as we stand before the Father. My eight year saw me working on this and I explain to him what my thought pattern was and what direction I felt I wanted to with the thought. He said this was an adult issue because we get to busy with our lives. Wow! He get its why can't we!!!
How many of you have ever invited another person to come to your church so that they can get saved??? Tell me if someone told you to come to their house bring all you have and we will take care of you. Would you honestly go to a stranger and bring all you have to their house and trust that they will care for you??? I hope your answer is no.We must show people the love of Christ before we start to invite them to Church. We need them to see what we have and that they would want that kind of peace and joy in their life. Have you done that??? Or are you all about getting them in and letting God do the work? God does it through people. So its time you be that person, stop leaving the work up to the Pastor because here is the deal, regardless if he has a degree or is called by God to preach, we all have been called to be ministers so look to God not your deacons or the prayer warrior look to God to use you as that instrument. Don't invite anyone to your church if your not willing to show them first why they need Christ. You might say well I'm not sure how to show them that they need Christ. Its very simple let the life you live speak of Christ... Some people you invite may not have come because they don't see a light in you, they can't actually tell you from the other sinners in the room. So if your only religious minded, you are not doing God's will or his work. But if you are in a relationship with Christ let the world see that. Otherwise stop trying to be a kingdom builder Christ already did that, he simply wants you to be a living breathing example of him for the world to see. If my word sting good, if they upset you good, if you agree fine also. My job is not to give you a feel good message or word but to be honest with you about what Christ desires of you and I. Yes we are to do what (Luke 14:1, 12-24)
says to do, but realize that when we invite them let us make sure they know its because we care we are not adding numbers for our church but more concerned about them and we want them to see and feel the love of Christ .....
We all have made mistake,but where you are is not where you have to be. For your heavenly Father wanted me to tell you, he's waiting for you to get up. He has not forgotten you, though it may seem the world has forgotten you. Your heavenly Father wants you to know that no matter what you have done, he is willing and able to forgive you, but you have to be willing to forgive yourself. You have to be willing to believe in his promises. His word tells me that He will not forsake nor leave us. He standing here with arms wide open for you, want you run to him, for its not to late your heavenly Fathers wants you to come back home.
Saint is simply a sinner who felt down and got back up. God said if you will confess your sins that he is quick to forgive them. I'm not going to tell you that if you give your life to God tonight that he will get you off the streets tomorrow. I don't know what God's plain is for your life. What I do know is that, God's plain for your life was not this. Nor was it your plain when you were a child. I don't think any of you as child thought I will grow up one day and be a drug addict or an alcoholic or be raped beaten or robed. Yes the world may see you as outcast and walk right past you the street like you are nothing. But I'm here to tell you that you are something special, for you are the apple of God's eye. He loved you so much that he gave his only begotten son so that you might have a better life than the one you have right now!!!
I don't know about you but there is no way I want to live in hell and die and go to hell. God did not create hell for man,so when then are so many of us trying so hard to get into hell after living in hell for so long???
Sometimes in our walk with God it seems that He has shut up the heavens. We then start to feel as if God has forgotten all about us or we have done something to tie His hands. But is this true? In the book of Isaiah, God says, Can a woman forget the suckling of her youth? Yea, but I will not forget you. For I have engraved you in the palms of my hand. Just because it appears that heaven is not open to you, it doesn’t mean God has forgotten you.
Scriptures used
1 Cornithians 13:1-7
John 3:16
Please keep this in prayer for it was the first time in while I've actually taught or preached whatever adjective you want to use. I've preached a few months ago but it was in a building but never on the street . So keep me in prayer and my brother Don that God will use us, that it will be about God's will and not ours.
Ever find yourself all alone and help seems no where in sight? Ever been in a room full of people but felt all alone? Christ can understand and relate. He at his most troubling hour, asked his best friends to sit with him and pray with him. Yet they fell asleep, we are told that he prayed so hard that he had blood and sweat pouring from his forehead.
And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.(Genesis 28:15)
Image if you will always being with your Father and then one day being separate from the only person you know and has always been there for you. Think you would feel alone? While Christ went through exactly that on the cross, He cried out my God my God why has thou forsaken me. All alone with only the sins of the world to comfort him that was all that was there.
Though you may be persecuted, but your not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed For God is with you always. Because Christ paid the price for you and I.
Trust me I know when the storm comes, heck it feels like your all alone, because you want God to stop the storm or take you out of the storm, who doesn't want that. He never said he would do that, he simply said I will be with you always. Sometimes the storm is part of our growth process. We would not appreciate the sun shine if there was not rainy days. If everyday was a hot sunny day, would not we begin to pray for rain. Sadly pain helps us to really appreciate joy. One day Christ said he would wipe away every tear and there will be no more dieing but till they day we must endeavor and trust in the Lord our God to get us through the storms of life.
Never alone. "Let your conduct be without covetousness, and be content with such things that you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you, nor forsake you,' so that we may boldly say, 'The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do to me." (Hebrews 13:5-6) (emphasis mine) The original Greek is almost impossible to translate because it is so emphatic that it contains a triple negative in its insistence that God will never leave us. (Many, if not most, of us have probably been in physical need at some time. All of us are in spiritual need, and will remain that way as long as we live in this body of flesh with its carnal nature, its lusts, phobias, hatreds, jealousies and myriad other sinful proclivities. But God does not abandon us. Never.
We can always trust in him to be there for us, no matter how hard and how far we fall. The word "never" in this passage is from "ou me", in Greek what is known as an emphatic negative. In other words, "never" means just that! Never!) What part of never did you not understand, He had to forsake Christ for our sins and because of the blood of Christ paying for our sins. He has promised to be there always. Scripture often refers to our relationship with God as being like a marriage. The way our society has perverted marriage into a disposable item robs us of the security that concept was divinely intended to portray. The Almighty was no fallible human bridegroom when he entered this “marriage covenant,” promising you undying love and commitment. He was not wavering in love nor oblivious to all the troubles ahead nor too weak to follow through on an eternal commitment.
But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
Most people look at prayer only as asking God for things. If that defines your prayer life, you are really missing out.
Prayer is communication with God -- the greatest privilege on earth that we as children of the living God can have.
Prayer is visiting with God. It can include asking for things, but is primarily spending time in God's presence, soaking up His life, His wisdom, and His strength.
Isaiah reveals an important truth to us: those who spend time with God get new strength. Literally, they exchange strength with Him. When we spend time with God He somehow takes away ourweakness and replaces it with His strength. What a deal!
As we spend time focused on God, in His presence, we are also changed into His likeness. So, if you need more strength to face life, if you want to be more like God, or if you want to develop a closer relationship with the most amazing Being in the universe -- prayer is your answer. Do not be concerned with knowing the right words or the proper format to speak in. Just talk to God as you would to a well-respected friend. Know that like any father who has not heard from his child whom he loves. God is always ready and willing to hear from you. He loves you so much that he gave his only begotten son for you. Hopeful you have not forgotten that??? Yes you are the apple of your Father's eye, did you know that.
" Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!
No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon” (Matthew 6:19-24). .
We must guard our hearts and watch over them so that our heart follows fully and truly after the things of God and is not distracted by the things of this world.I ask three questions.
1.) “Where is our treasure?” In asking this, we will answer the question “Where is our heart?” because where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
2.) “Where is our focus?” What are our eyes focused on? Are they focused on the seen or the unseen?
3.)“Who, or what, are we serving?” Here Christ is surrounded by religious and legalist , Sadducees and Pharisees, men who look very religious on the outside, but who in their hearts are serving money and themselves rather than God. Christ is also surrounded by people who have never heard this kind of radical teaching. Christ is asking us to repent, to change our minds about these things, to live a life of faith, and to serve the one true God.
. In this story in the book of Matthew 19:, it speaks of a rich young ruler, who comes to ask Christ a question. The question he asks is how he might have eternal life. He is told by Christ to keep the commandments this young man takes Christ for a fool for he lies and say I have kept all the commandments from my youth up. His first lie of the day, lastly he is told to give all that he has to the poor and follow Christ. Now here is the test that most of us also fail daily. This young man loved the things he had dearly, so much so that he was blinded and did not see that he had made these things his god and his treasure for he loved them more than God. So he lost the true treasure, which can only be found in Christ Jesus.
Another example of building up treasure in the wrong places, the Word God speaks of another rich man who saw how his crop was going to bring forth a great harvest and decided to build a great barn to stow this harvest in. He felt that after this he would not have to worry or work for a season. But that night his life was demanded of him from God. What do you think he had to answer when God said what did you do with your life that glorified me? If you stood before God how would you answer that question???
If you were Job in one day how would you feel? Would you rejoice and say everything I have is God's anyway? Or would you mourn the lost of your earthly possessions
There was an old lady that loved her car, so much that she requested that she be laid to rest in her car. The sad part is you can't take anything with you from this world except sin, if you have not repented of your sins. Unrepentant Sin is after all how you get to hell in the first place. Short of that it all stays behind and becomes property of the state or possessions of another. So do not build up treasures here for we are here only for a short season and then we must stand before God and give account of the life we have lived here.
What answer shall you give? When ask what did you do with the life I gave you??? Which of my children did you show my love too?
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. (1 John 3:1-2)
You are royalty, yet there are many among us are often times found feeding among the swine. Many of us have return back to our sin nature as if we were not set free from that by the Blood of Christ. Let us brothers be no more the tail for we are called to be royal son of the living breathing God. Your father own a thousand cattle on a thousand hills. Even the mountains bow before him. He himself declared that he searched the heavens and found no one greater than him. Let not the enemy like to you anymore and tell you that your an accident or that you are not worthy. Next time he tell you that, ask him this one question. Did not Christ did for my sins? If so then by his blood I'm made a new creature in Christ which makes a somebody. Which in turns means your not a mistake. If he tries his other lie on you, which is God does not love you. Ask him this, then why did God send his only begotten son down from heaven to suffer greatly and die for sinners like me??? God did not send his son down hear to die for nothing but instead for you and I, the apple of his eye.
Mikes wife Amy will be taking over the role of Volunteer Coordinator. She married Mike in 2005 and went through the homeless ordeal with Mike. Her skills in computers make her an excellent addition to our development team. Mike and Amy make a great team and we look forward to the new prospective they bring to the Mission. 
