THE JUNIOR MISSIONARY INFORMER!

________________________________

"ANNIVERSARY ISSUE"

The Answer

Dear Jesus,

I have a problem,

It's me.

Dear My precious child,

I have your answer,

IT'S ME!

(Submitted by Sis. Janet Wood)

SPECIAL EVENTS

The Junior Missionary Department of the Fire Baptized Holiness Church of God

of the Americas sends special get well wishes to Bishop and Sis. N. J.

Roach, (Columbia, SC), Mrs. Shirley Dunbar, Mrs. Annette Warren, Mr. Charles

Berry, Ms. Minnie Bynum, Sis. Pearl McBride, Mother Brazilla Barnes, Mother

Alberta Jones, Evangelist Esther L. Ford, Deacon Jesse Ford, Mrs. Renee

Jackson, Mr. Eugene Fenner (Father of Evangelist Susie Cabbagestalk), and

Mr. Eugene Wilson, (Father of YPI Ambassador Sis. Elease Davis), Bro. George

Bridgers, Mrs. Iomia Bland, Mrs. Carla Burton, Mother Johnnie M. Burton and

Bro. Ted Burton (Washington/Virginia District), and to the Mother of

Evangelist Rosalind Weathers (North Carolina District). The Junior

Missionary Department of the Fire Baptized Holiness Church of God of the

Americas sends special get well wishes to all sick, incapacitated and

shut-in of all Districts. You are in our prayers.

The Junior Missionary Department of the Fire Baptized Holiness Church of God

of the Americas wishes to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the

Burton Family in loss of their loved one and to Deaconess Dorothy Hunter in

loss of her husband, Mr. Milton Hunter (Washington/Virginia District) and to

all the Bereaved Families of all Districts. You are in our prayers.

The Junior Missionaries on the Washington/Virginia District sponsored a

workshop entitled: SPIRITUAL WARFARE, IT’S TIME TO FIGHT BACK! The workshop

was very informative and Spirit-filled. Souls were truly blessed. Each

workshop leader presented their subject with authority. Weapons used were

Prayer, Faith, Fasting, The Name of Jesus, The Blood of Jesus and the Word

of God. We are looking forward to many more workshops that will help

empower the people of God.

The Month of May is:

National Bike Month

National Egg Month

Better Sleep Month

National Barbecue Month

National Hamburger Month

National Moving Month

School Principals' Month

National High Blood Pressure Month

Correct Posture Month

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

Senior Citizens Month

Special Weeks in May:

May 7-13 Be Kind to Animals Week

Teacher Appreciation Week

National Wildflower Week

National Family Week

May 14-20 Police Week

Special Days in May:

May 1 - May Day

Mother Goose Day

National Peace of Mind Day

May 4 - National Weather Observer's Day

National Prayer Day

May 5 - Cinco de Mayo

Cartoonist Day

May 6 - Nurse's Day

No Diet Day

May 8 - No Socks Day

May 9 - National Receptionist Day

May 11 -Eat What You Want Day

May 15 -Hug Your Cat Day

May 20 -Armed Forces Day

May 22 -National Maritime Day

May 28 -Ancestor Honor Day

May 31 -World No-Tobacco Day

SISTERS OF CHARITY

Saturday, May 6th

Annual Missionary Day

Tried Stone

256 13th Street, N. E.

Washington, D. C. 20002

12:00 Noon

HOLIDAY

Sunday, May 14th

Mother’s Day

SISTERS OF CHARITY

Thursday, May 16th to Sunday, May 21st

Joint Sisters of Charity Convention

F.B.H. Headquarters

901 Bishop W. E. Fuller, Sr. Highway

Greenville, South Carolina

HOLIDAY

Monday, May 29th

Memorial Day

JUNIOR MISSIONARY DIRECTRESSES: PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR SECRET PAL!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

TO

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

TO

SPECIAL PRAYER REQUESTS

"The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:16

The Entire Wood Family

Guy and Maurell Oliver and Family

Mrs. Shirley Dunbar and Family

Otis, Janice and Jayson Dunbar

Sis. Pearl Williams and Family

Sis. Katie Taylor and Family

Mrs. Teauna Crawley and Family

Deacon & Mother Jesse Ford

Sis. Vernetta Graham and Family

Sis. Mary Brown & Family

Sis. Carolyn Callaham and Family

Pastor Wanda Bridgers and Family

All National and District Junior Missionary Directresses, Junior Missionary

Presidents and their Families

Sis. Lisa Harrington

Mr. Eugene Fenner

Sis. Christine Scott

Youth of All Districts

Board of Bishops and their families

All Elders and their families

All Pastors

Mother Hattie Hunter and Family

All National, International and District Officials and their Families

Sis. Janice Hunter

Pastor Queen E. Gaymon

Master Michael Brown

Bro. Damon Myers

Ms. Althea Neal and Family

Pastor Doreen Donnell

Sis. Rhoda Adkins and Family

Pastor Patricia Freshley and Family

Sis. Alicia Brown and Family

All Conventions

The Entire Burton Family

Mrs. Annette Warren and Family

Each Church and Church Family

Sis. Paulette Rogers and Family

Ms. Christina McKinney

Rev. Lucille Donnell and Family

Mr. John Williams, Jr.

Deacon Errol Lottery

Pastor Willie Scruggs

Mr. Ceasar Moore

Sis. Elmira Robinson

Mr. Gregory Wood, Jr.

Elder and Sis. L. David Cornish and Family and Grandchildren

Elder and Sis. Walter L. McKoy

Sis. Myrtle Williams

Mr. Johnny Burton and Family

Sis. Tacole L. Wood

Bishop William Brock

Mother L. J. McCracken

Sis. Bettye Tinort

Deacon John Harper

Rev. Charles Bowman

Mother Madelle T. Brown

Elder and Sis. W. J. Sellers

Mr. & Mrs. Bennie & Cathryn Gibbons

Mrs. Edith Hodges

Rev. Haskell Washington

Mr. Joseph Hall

Sis. Joann Singletary and Family

Sis. Elease Mars and Family

The Family of Sis. Eva Scott (NY)

Mother Theresa McDaniel

Sis. Dorothy Hunter and Family

Bro. & Sis. Richard and Sarah Newton

Rev. Sarah J. Adkinson

The Entire Trowell Family

Pastor Dorothy Caldwell

Master John X. Wood

Sis. Diane Marshall

Bro. Christopher Walker

Sis. Gerri Martin

Rev. Dorothy Palmer

Rev. Susie Cabbagestalk

Lee Williams, Sr. & Lee Williams, Jr.

Sis. Victoria Chase

Mr. Eugene Wilson

Elder & Sis. Andrew Spellman

Mr. Charles Berry

Mrs. Carla Burton

SCRIPTURE

"The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to

preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the

brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the

prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD,

and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint

unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of

joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that

they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that

he might be glorified."

Isaiah 61:1-3

WORDS OF WISDOM

HAVE A PRAYER FULL DAY!

HEALTH ADVICE

BOILS

(Skin Abscesses)

A boil, or skin abscess, is a collection of pus that forms inside the body.

Antibiotics are often not very helpful in treating abscesses.

The main treatments include hot packs and draining ("lancing") the abscess,

but only when it is soft and ready to drain.

If you have a fever or long-term illness, such as cancer or diabetes, or are

taking medications that suppress the immune system, you should contact your

healthcare practitioner if you develop an abscess.

What is a boil?

A boil, or skin abscess, is a localized infection deep in the skin. A

boil generally starts as a reddened, tender area. Over time, the area

becomes firm and hard. Eventually, the center of the abscess softens and

becomes filled with white cells that the body sends to fight the infection.

This collection of white cells is known as pus. Finally, the pus "forms a

head" and drains out through the skin. There are several different types of

boils. Among these are:

Furuncle or carbuncle: This is an abscess in the skin caused by the bacteria

Staphylococcus aureus. It can have one or more openings onto the skin and

may be associated with a fever or chills.

Cystic acne: This is a type of abscess formed when oil ducts become

clogged and infected. Cystic acne is most common in the teenage

years.

Hidradenitis suppurativa: This is an illness in which there are

multiple abscesses that form under the arm pits and in the groin area.

These areas are a result of local inflammation of the sweat

glands.

Pilonidal cyst: This is a special kind of abscess that occurs in the

crease of the buttocks. These frequently form after long trips

that involve sitting.

Why do boils occur?

There are many causes of boils. Some boils can be caused by an

ingrown hair. Others can form as the result of a splinter or other

foreign material lodged in the skin. Others, such as those of acne, are

caused by plugged sweat glands that become infected.

Any break in the skin such as a cut or scrape can develop into an

abscess should it become infected with bacteria.

Who is most likely to get a boil?

Anyone can get a boil. However, people with certain illnesses are more

likely to develop boils. Among these illnesses are diabetes and kidney

failure. Diseases that are associated with deficiencies in the normal

immune system can increase the tendency to develop boils.

What is the treatment for a boil?

Most simple boils can be treated at home. The treatment should start as

soon as a boil is noticed since early treatment may prevent later

problems.

The main treatment for most boils is heat application, usually with hot

soaks or hot packs. Heat application increases the circulation to the

area and allows the body to better fight off the infection.

As long as the boil is small and firm, opening the area and draining the

boil is not helpful, even if the area is painful. However, once the boil

becomes soft or "forms a head" (that is, a small pustule is noted in the

boil), it is ready to drain. Once drained, pain relief can be dramatic.

Most small abscesses, such as those that form around hairs, drain on

their own with soaking. On occasion, and especially with larger

boils, these will need to be drained or "lanced" by a healthcare

practitioner. Frequently, these larger boils contain several pockets

of pus that must be opened and drained.

If there is an infection of the surrounding skin, the practitioner may elect

to prescribe antibiotics. However, antibiotics are not needed in every case

and in fact, do not enter an abscess well and will not cure an abscess.

When should I seek medical attention?

Any boil or abscess in a patient with diabetes or a patient with an

underlying illness (such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.)

should be seen by a healthcare practitioner. Additionally, many

medicines, especially prednisone, that suppress the immune system (the

natural infection-fighting system of the body) can complicate what would

be an otherwise simple boil. Patients who are on such medications

should consult their healthcare practitioner if they develop boils.

(If you are not sure about your medications' effects on the immune

system, your pharmacist may be able to explain to you which medicines to

be concerned about.)

Any boil that is associated with a fever should receive medical

attention. A "pilonidal cyst," a boil that occurs between the

buttocks, is a special case. These almost always require medical

treatment including drainage and packing (putting gauze in the open

abscess to assure it continues to drain). Finally, any painful boil that

is not rapidly improving should be seen. What can be done to prevent

abscesses?

There are some measures that you can take to prevent abscesses from

forming. Antibacterial soaps may help prevent bacteria build up on the

skin and therefore reduce the chance for an abscess to form. In some

cases, your healthcare practitioner may recommend special cleansers

such as pHisoderm to even further reduce the bacteria on the skin.

For acne and hidradenitis suppurativa (see above), antibiotics may be

required on a long-term basis to prevent abscess formation. Other

medications, such as isotretinoin (Accutane) can be used for cystic acne

and has been helpful in some patients with hidradenitis

suppurativa. Recurrences are common in patients with hidradenitis

suppurativa. Finally, surgery may occasionally be needed, especially in

pilonidal cysts that recur, but also for hidradenitis

suppurativa. For pilonidal cysts, surgically removing the cyst

lining is important. The procedure is typically performed in the

operating room. For hidradenitis suppurativa, extensive involvement can

require plastics repair.

Sunday School for the Month of May

May 7th

Seeking to Bring Unity

2nd Corinthians 2:4-17

May 14th

Expectations of Ministry

2nd Corinthians 4:5-18

May 21st

Ministering through Giving

2nd Corinthians 9:1-15

May 28th

The Challenge of a Minister

2nd Corinthians 13:1-13

(Thank you Sis. Janet Wood)

Candle Light

There was a blackout one night. When the lights went out, I fumbled to the

closet where we keep the candles for nights like this...I lit four of them.

I was turning to leave with the large candle in my hand when I heard a

voice, "Now, hold it right there."

"Who said that?" "I did." The voice was near my hand.

"Who are you? What are you?" "I'm a candle."

I lifted up the candle to take a closer look. There was a tiny face in the

wax. "Don't take me out of here!"

"What?"

"I said, Don't take me out of this room." "What do you mean? I have to

take you out. You're a candle. Your job is to give light. It's dark out

there."

"But you can't take me out. I'm not ready," the candle explained with

pleading eyes. "I need more preparation." I couldn't believe my ears. "More

preparation?"

"Yeah, I've decided I need to research this job of light-giving so I won't

go out and make a bunch of mistakes. You'd be surprised how distorted the

glow of an untrained candle can be...."

"All right then," I said. "You're not the only candle on the shelf. I'll

blow you out and take the others!"

But right then I heard other voices, "We aren't going either!"

I turned to the other candles, "You are candles and your job is to light

dark places!"

"Well, that may be what you think," said the first one, "You may think we

have to go, but I'm busy...I'm meditating on the importance of light. It's

really enlightening."...

"And you other two," I asked, "are you going to stay too?" A short, fat,

purple candle with plump cheeks spoke up. "I'm waiting to get my life

together, I'm not stable enough."

The last candle had a female voice, very pleasant to the ear. "I'd like to

help," she explained, "but lighting the darkness is not my gift...I'm a

singer. I sing to other candles to encourage them to burn more brightly."

She began a rendition of "This Little Light of Mine" The other three joined

in, filling the closet with singing....I took a step back and considered the

absurdity of it all. Four perfectly healthy candles singing to each other

about light but refusing to come out of the closet.

Here is a question for you, when was the last time you shared the gospel to

someone? This world is full of darkness, with many people stumbling around

trying to find their way. You can be a light for them, and believe me,

there's a light waiting for you. It can all happen with something as sharing

the faith, to just a smile across the room, to a quick hello to a forgotten

friend.

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do

men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it

giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before

men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in

heaven." ~Matthew 5:14-16

The Twenty Dollar Bill

A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In

the room of 200, he asked, "Who would like this $20 bill?"

Hands started going up. He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one of you

but first, let me do this." He proceeded to crumple the dollar bill up. He

then asked, "Who still wants it?"

Still the hands were up in the air.

"Well," he replied, "What if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and

started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now all

crumpled and dirty. "Now who still wants it?"

Still the hands went into the air.

"My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I

did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value.

It was still worth $20.

Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt

by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as

though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will

happen, you will never lose your value in God's eyes. To Him, dirty or

clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to Him.

In His Name

In His Name,

a Name I can rely on,

In His Name,

a comfort to bestow,

In His Name,

the victory is assured of,

In His Name,

His hands my life He holds.

In His Name,

I trust His hand to guide me,

In His Name,

His promise is His bond,

In His Name,

my life is what He came for,

In His Name,

a new life now unfolds.

Do Unto Others

He was driving home one evening, on a two-lane country road. Work in this

small mid-western community was almost as slow as his beat-up Pontiac. But

he never quit looking. Ever since the factory closed, he'd been unemployed,

and with winter raging on, the chill had finally hit home. It was a lonely

road. Not very many people had a reason to be on it, unless they were

leaving. Most of his friends had already left. They had families to feed and

dreams to fulfill. But he stayed on. After all, this was where he buried his

mother and father. He was born here and he knew the country. He could go

down this road blind, and tell you what was on either side, and with his

headlights not working, which came in handy. It was starting to get dark and

light snow flurries were coming.

You know, he almost didn't see the old lady, stranded on the side of the

road. But even in the dim light of day, he could see she needed help. So he

pulled up in front of her Mercedes and got out. His Pontiac was still

sputtering as he approached her. Even with the smile on his face, she was

worried. No one had stopped for help in the last hour or so. Was he going to

hurt her? He didn't look safe, he looked poor and hungry. He could see that

she was frightened, standing out there in the cold. He knew how she felt. It

was that chill which only fear can put in you. He said, "I'm here to help

you ma'am. Why don't you wait in the car where it's warm? By the way, my

name is Bryan".

Well, all she had was a flat tire, but for an old lady, that was bad

enough. Bryan crawled under the car looking for a place to put the jack,

skinning his knuckles a time or two. Soon he was able to change the

tire. But he had to get dirty and his hands hurt. As he was tightening

up the lug nuts, she rolled down the window and began to talk to him. She

told him that she was from St. Louis and was only just passing

through. She couldn't thank him enough for coming to her aid. Bryan just

smiled as he closed her trunk. She asked him how much she owed him. Any

amount would have been all right with her. She had already imagined

all the awful things that could have happened had he not stopped.

Bryan never thought twice about the money. This was not a job to him.

This was helping someone in need, and God knows there were plenty who

had given him a hand in the past... He had lived his whole life that

way, and it never occurred to him to act any other way. He told her that

if she really wanted to pay him back, the next time she saw someone who

needed help, she could give that person the assistance that they needed,

and Bryan added "...and think of me".

He waited until she started her car and drove off. It had been a cold

and depressing day, but he felt good as he headed for home,

disappearing into the twilight.

A few miles down the road the lady saw a small cafe. She went in to grab

a bite to eat, and take the chill off before she made the last leg of her

trip home. It was a dingy looking restaurant. Outside were two old gas

pumps. The whole scene was unfamiliar to her. The cash register was like

the telephone of an out of work actor - it didn't ring much. Her

waitress came over and brought a clean towel to wipe her wet hair. She

had a sweet smile, one that even being on her feet for the whole day

couldn't erase. The lady noticed that the waitress was nearly eight

months pregnant, but she never let the strain and aches change her

attitude. The old lady wondered how someone who had so little could

be so giving to a stranger. Then she remembered Bryan. After the lady

finished her meal, and the waitress went to get change for her hundred

dollar bill, the lady slipped right out the door. She was gone by the time

the waitress came back. She wondered where the lady could be, then she

noticed something written on the napkin under which were 4 more $100

bills. There were tears in her eyes when she read what the lady wrote.

It said: "You don't owe me anything, I have been there too. Somebody once

helped me out, the way I'm helping you. If you really want to pay me back,

here is what you do: Do not let this chain of love end with you".

Well, there were tables to clear, sugar bowls to fill, and people to

serve, but the waitress made it through another day. That night when she

got home from work and climbed into bed, she was thinking about the money

and what the lady had written. How could the lady have known how much

she and her husband needed it? With the baby due next month, it was going

to be hard. She knew how worried her husband was, and as he lay

sleeping next to her, she gave him a soft kiss and whispered soft and

low, "Everything's gonna be all right; I love you, Bryan."

God's Compass

North, South, East, West,

God's compass points

to perfect rest.

My compass in hand,

as I follow the plan,

Through thick, and through thin

and taking His stand.

Not always accepted

or understood by all

yet ready and able

to answer His call.

North, South, East, West,

God's compass points

to perfect rest.

The Legend of God's Trees

The story is told that far away on a hillside grew a forest of trees. The

trees loved the warm sunlight of summer, spring's cool, silvery rains, the

gorgeous reds and golds of autumn, and winter's blanket of glistening snow.

But sometimes, too, they spoke of the future, of the things they would like

to do and be.

One tree said, "I should like to be a baby's cradle. I have seen people come

into this forest carrying babies in their arms. I would like to be made into

a baby's bed."

A second tree spoke. "That would not please me at all. I want to be

something important. I should like to be a great ship, strong and stately. I

should like to cross many waters and carry cargoes of gold."

One little tree stood off by himself, apparently in deep thought.

"What would you like to be, little tree?" "I just want to stand on the

hillside and point to God."

One day men came into the forest and cut down the first tree. "I wonder

whether I shall be made into a baby's cradle now. I hope so."

But the first tree was not made into a baby's cradle. Instead, it was hewn

into rough pieces and carelessly put together to form a manger in a stable

in Bethlehem. The tree was heartbroken. "I do not like this at all. This is

not what I planned--to be shoved into this dark stable with no one to see me

but cattle." But God whispered:

"Wait, I will show you something." In the stillness of the night God laid

His own little baby -- His Son in the manger -- and while Mary and Joseph

watched, shepherds came, bowed before Him and worshipped.

The manger quivered with delight. "Oh, this is wonderful. In all my dreams I

never thought to hold a babe like this. This is better than all my planning.

Why, I am part of a miracle." And out on the hillside, the trees of the

forest clapped their hands because the little manger had seen her wish come

true.

Months passed and men came to the forest to cut down the second tree. "I

wonder if I shall be made into a great vessel now." But instead he became a

tiny fishing boat, owned by a simple Galilean named Peter. "To think that

life has come to this. Just a fishing boat; and Peter is not even a very

good fisherman." But one day came a person from out of the crowd; It was

Jesus -- and He entered the little boat and taught the people. "This is

wonderful. In all my dreams I never thought to carry a cargo like this."

Then men came to the forest to cut down the third tree -- the one that

wanted to just stand on a hill and point to God. He was most unhappy. "I do

not want to go into the valley. Why can't they leave me alone?" The men tore

away its branches; they cut into its bark.

They tore it apart and put it together again, in the form of a rude cross.

"This is terrible. They are going to hang someone. I never wanted this to

happen to me. I only wanted to point to God." One day outside Jerusalem, a

great multitude gathered. In their midst was Jesus -- who was taken to a

place called Calvary and crucified upon a cross. The cross shuddered beneath

its weight of agony and shame.

Then suddenly a miracle happened.

Jesus cried out with a loud voice -- and behold the earth did quake and the

rocks were rent. When the centurion and they that were with him, watching

Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that happened, they feared

greatly, saying, "Truly, this was the Son of God." And the cross began to

understand. "In all my dreams I never thought to point to God in this way."

And out on the hillside all the trees of the forest bowed their heads and

thanked God.

The Handwriting on the Wall

A weary mother returned from the store,

Lugging groceries through the kitchen door.

Awaiting her arrival was her 8 year old son,

Anxious to relate what his younger brother had done.

"While I was out playing and Dad was on a call,

T.J. took his crayons and wrote on the wall!

It's on the new paper you just hung in the den.

I told him you'd be mad at having to do it again."

She let out a moan and furrowed her brow,

"Where is your little brother right now?"

She emptied her arms and with a purposeful stride,

She marched to his closet where he had gone to hide.

She called his full name as she entered his room.

He trembled with fear--he knew that meant doom!

For the next ten minutes, she ranted and raved

About the expensive wallpaper and how she had saved.

Lamenting all the work it would take to repair,

She condemned his actions and total lack of care.

The more she scolded, the madder she got,

Then stomped from his room, totally distraught!

She headed for the den to confirm her fears.

When she saw the wall, her eyes flooded with tears.

The message she read pierced her soul with a dart.

It said, "I love Mommy," surrounded by a heart.

Well, the wallpaper remained, just as she found it,

With an empty picture frame hung to surround it.

A reminder to her, and indeed to all,

Take time to read the handwriting on the wall.

Jesus Is In the House

Once there was this very wealthy young man. He lived in a great, elaborate

house with dozens of rooms. Each room was more comfortable and more

beautiful than the one before it. There were paintings and sculptures.

Crystal chandeliers, golden, ornate railings on the stairs. More beauty than

most have ever seen.

One day he decided to invite the Lord to come home and stay with him. When

the Lord arrived, this young man offered him the very best room in the

house. The room was upstairs and at the end of the hall.

"This room is yours, Jesus! Stay as long as you like and you can do whatever

you want to in this room, remember Jesus, its all yours."

That evening after he had retired for the night there came a loud knocking

at the front door. The young man pulled on his robe and made his way

downstairs. When he opened the door he found that the devil had sent three

of his demons to attack the man. He quickly tried to close the door but one

of the demons kept sticking his foot in. Sometime later, after a great

struggle, he managed to slam the door shut and returned to his room totally

exhausted. Can you believe that," the man thought. Jesus is upstairs in my

very best room sleeping while I am down here battling demons. Oh, well,

maybe he just didn't hear. He slept fitfully that night.

The next day thing went along as normal and, being tired as he was, the

young man retired early that evening. Along about midnight, there came such

a terrible ruckus at the front door that the young man was sure that

whatever it was would tear the door down. He stumbled down the stairs once

again and opened the door to find that were dozens of demons now trying to

get into his beautiful home. For more than three hours he fought and

struggled against the demons from hell, and finally overtook them enough to

shut the door against their attack. All energy seemed to fail him. He really

didn't understand this at all. Why won't the Lord come to my rescue? Why

does he allow me to fight all by myself? I feel so alone. Troubled, he found

his way to the sofa and fell into a restless sleep.

The next morning he decided to inquire of the Lord about the happenings of

the last two evenings. Quietly he made his way to the elegant bedroom where

he had left Jesus. "Jesus," he called as he tapped at the door. "Lord, I

don't understand what is happening. For the last two nights I have had to

fight the demons away from my door while you laid up here sleeping. Don't

you care about me? Did I not give you the very best room in the house?" He

could see the tears building in Jesus' eyes but continued on, "I just don't

understand, I really thought that once I invited you in to live with me that

you would take care of me and I gave you the best room in my house and

everything. What more can I do?"

"My precious child," Jesus spoke so softly: "I do love and care for you, I

protect all that you have released into my care, but, when you invited me to

come here and stay, you brought me to this lovely room and you shut the door

to the rest of your house. I am Lord of this room but I am not Master of

this house. I have protected this room and no demon may enter here."

"Oh, Lord, please forgive me. Take all of my house -- it is yours, I am so

sorry that I never offered you all to begin with, I want you to have control

of everything." With this he flung open the bedroom door and knelt at Jesus'

feet. "Please forgive me Lord for being so selfish." Jesus smiled and told

him that he had already forgiven him and that He would take care of things

from now on. That night as the young man prepared for bed he thought, I

wonder if those demons will return, I am so tired of fighting them each and

every night, but he knew that Jesus said that he would take care of things

from now on.

Along about midnight the banging on the door was frightening. The young man

slipped out of his room in time to see Jesus going down the stairs.

He watched in awe as Jesus swung open the door, no need to be afraid. Satan

stood at the door, this time demanding to be let in. "What do you want,

satan?" the Lord asked. The devil bowed low in the presence of the Lord, "so

sorry, I seem to have gotten the wrong address." And with that, he and the

demons all ran away.

There is a moral to this tale. Jesus wants all of you, not just a part. He

will take all that you give Him, but nothing more. How much of your heart

have you given to the Lord? Are you keeping a portion of it away from Him?

Perhaps the attacks are coming more and more each day. Why not let the Lord

fight the battles for you?

He is always victorious. I have found that God made man simple, all of man's

complexities are of his own devising.

God, Is That YOU?

A young man had been to Wednesday night Bible Study. The Pastor had shared

about listening to God and obeying the Lord's voice. The young man couldn't

help but wonder, "Does God still speak to people?"

After service he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they

discussed the message. Several different ones talked about how God had led

them in different ways. It was about ten o'clock when the young man started

driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, "God, If you still

speak to people speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey."

As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest thought,

stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out loud, "God is

that you?" He didn't get a reply and started on toward home. But again, the

thought, buy a gallon of milk. The young man thought about Samuel and how he

didn't recognize the voice of God, and how little Samuel ran to Eli.

"Okay, God, in case that is you, I will buy the milk." It didn't seem like

too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. He stopped and

purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward home. As he passed

Seventh street, he again felt the urge, "Turn down that street."

This is crazy he thought and drove on pass the intersection. Again, he felt

that he should turn down seventh street. At the next intersection, he turned

back and headed down Seventh. Half jokingly, he said out loud, "Okay, God, I

will."

He drove several blocks, when suddenly, he felt like he should stop. He

pulled over to the curb and looked around. He was in a semi-commercial area

of town. It wasn't the best but it wasn't the worst of neighborhoods either.

The businesses were closed and most of the houses looked dark like the

people were already in bed.

Again, he sensed something, "Go and give the milk to the people in the house

across the street." The young man looked at the house. It was dark and it

looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He

started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat. "Lord, this is

insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going to be

mad and I will look stupid."

Again, he felt like he should go and give the milk. Finally, he opened the

door, "Okay God, if this is you, I will go to the door and I will give them

the milk. If you want me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be

obedient. I guess that will count for something but if they don't answer

right away, I am out of here."

He walked across the street and rang the bell. He could hear some noise

inside. A man's voice yelled out, "Who is it? What do you want?" Then the

door opened before the young man could get away. The man was standing there

in his jeans and t-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a

strange look on his face and he didn't seem to happy to have some stranger

standing on his doorstep.

"What is it?"

The young man thrust out the gallon of milk, "Here, I brought this to you."

The man took the milk and rushed down a hall way speaking loudly in Spanish.

Then from down the hall came a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen.

The man was following her holding a baby.

The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face. The man

began speaking and half crying, "We were just praying. We had some big bills

this month and we ran out of money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I

was just praying and asking God to show me how to get some milk."

His wife in the kitchen yelled out, "I ask him to send an Angel with

some...Are you an Angel?" The young man reached into his wallet and pulled

out all the money he had on him and put in the man's hand. He turned and

walked back toward his car and the tears were streaming down his face.

Then he knew that God still answers prayers and that God still speaks to His

people.

Make Me a Lamp

Make me a lamp

that lights up a room,

Make me a light

that no darkness consumes,

give me a reason

to turn on that light,

show me your way

as I walk through the night.

Open my heart

and kindle that flame,

as I step in your steps

and call out your name,

a lamp that's not hidden

or can be ignored,

doing what you expected,

as I answer the door.

Shine out your light, Lord

to those who need sight,

teach me your ways in

pursuit of what's right,

brighten the day,

with a beam from your light,

Give strength for today,

and a touch of your might.

The World's Meanest Mom

Written and Copyrighted by: Bobbie Pingaro in 1967 as a tribute to her

mother.

I had the meanest mother in the whole world. While other kids ate candy for

breakfast, I had to have cereal, eggs or toast.

When others had cokes and candy for lunch, I had to eat a sandwich. As you

can guess, my supper was different than the other kids' also.

But at least, I wasn't alone in my sufferings. My sister and two brothers

had the same mean mother as I did.

My mother insisted upon knowing where we were at all times. You'd think we

were on a chain gang. She had to know who our friends were and where we were

going. She insisted if we said we'd be gone an hour, that we be gone one

hour or less--not one hour and one minute.

I am nearly ashamed to admit it, but she actually struck us. Not once, but

each time we had a mind of our own and did as we pleased.

That poor belt was used more on our seats than it was to hold up Daddy's

pants. Can you imagine someone actually hitting a child just because he

disobeyed? Now you can begin to see how mean she really was.

We had to wear clean clothes and take a bath. The other kids always wore

their clothes for days. We reached the height of insults because she made

our clothes herself, just to save money. Why, oh why, did we have to have a

mother who made us feel different from our friends? The worst is yet to

come. We had to be in bed by nine each night and up at eight the next

morning. We couldn't sleep till noon like our friends. So while they

slept-my mother actually had the nerve to break the child-labor law. She

made us work. We had to wash dishes, make beds, learn to cook and all sorts

of cruel things. I believe she laid awake at night thinking up mean things

to do to us.

She always insisted upon us telling the truth, the whole truth and nothing

but the truth, even if it killed us- and it nearly did. By the time we were

teen-agers, she was much wiser, and our life became even more unbearable.

None of this tooting the horn of a car for us to come running. She

embarrassed us to no end by making our dates and friends come to the door to

get us. If I spent the night with a girlfriend, can you imagine she checked

on me to see if I were really there. I never had the chance to elope to

Mexico. That is if I'd had a boyfriend to elope with. I forgot to mention,

while my friends were dating at the mature age of 12 and 13, my old

fashioned mother refused to let me date until the age of 15 and 16. Fifteen,

that is, if you dated only to go to a school function. And that was maybe

twice a year.

Through the years, things didn't improve a bit. We could not lie in bed,

"sick" like our friends did, and miss school. If our friends had a toe ache,

a hang nail or serious ailment, they could stay home from school. Our marks

in school had to be up to par. Our friends' report cards had beautiful

colors on them, black for passing, red for failing. My mother being as

different as she was, would settle for nothing less than ugly black marks.

As the years rolled by, first one and then the other of us was put to shame.

We were graduated from high school. With our mother behind us, talking,

hitting and demanding respect, none of us was allowed the pleasure of being

a drop-out. My mother was a complete failure as a mother. Out of four

children, a couple of us attained some higher education. None of us have

ever been arrested, divorced or beaten his mate. Each of my brothers served

his time in the service of this country. And whom do we have to blame for

the terrible way we turned out? You're right, our mean mother.

Look at the things we missed. We never got to march in a protest parade, nor

to take part in a riot, burn draft cards, and a million and one other things

that our friends did. She forced us to grow up into God-fearing, educated,

honest adults.

Using this as a background, I am trying to raise my three children. I

stand a little taller and I am filled with pride when my children call me

mean. Because, you see, I thank God, He gave me the meanest mother in the

whole world.

Poor Is?

It all depends on the way you look at things.

One day a father and his rich family took his son to a trip to the country

with the firm purpose to show him how poor people can be.

They spent a day and a night in the farm of a very poor family. When

they got back from their trip the father asked his son, "How was the trip?"

"Very good Dad!"

"Did you see how poor people can be?" the father asked.

"Yeah!"

"And what did you learn?"

The son answered, "I saw that we have a dog at home, and they have four. We

have a pool that reaches to the middle of the garden, they have a creek that

has no end. We have imported lamps in the garden, they have the stars. Our

patio reaches to the front yard, they have a whole horizon."

When the little boy was finishing, his father was speechless. His son added,

"Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are!"

Isn't it true that it all depends on the way you look at things? If you have

love, friends, family, health, good humor and a positive attitude towards

life -- you've got everything! You can't buy any of these things, but still

you can have all the material possessions you can imagine, provisions for

the future, etc., but if you are poor of spirit, you have nothing!

REJOICE!

To Him our hands we raise,

For He is worthy of our praise

We shall rejoice in His name,

For He has taken all our shame

Because He took our sick and ill,

We should want to do His will

Shout and Sing

With all your being...

JESUS CHRIST IS KING!

Stand UP for JESUS

There was a professor of philosophy who was a deeply committed atheist. His

primary goal for one required class was to spend the entire semester

attempting to prove that God couldn't exist. His students were always afraid

to argue with him because of his impeccable logic. For twenty years he had

taught this class and no one had every really gone against him. Sure, some

had argued in class at times, but no one had every really gone against him

because of his reputation.

At the end of every semester on the last day, he would say to his class of

300 students, "If there is anyone here who still believes in Jesus, stand

up!" In twenty years, no one had ever stood up. They knew what he was going

to do next. He would say, "Because anyone who believes in God is a fool. If

God existed, he could stop this piece of chalk from hitting the ground and

breaking. Such a simple task to prove that He is God, and yet He can't do

it." And every year he would drop the chalk onto the tile floor of the

classroom and it would shatter into a hundred pieces.

All of the students would do nothing but stop and stare. Most of the

students thought that God couldn't exist. Certainly a number of Christians

had slipped through, but for twenty years they had been too afraid to stand

up.

Well, a few years ago there was a freshman who happened to enroll. He was a

Christian and had heard the stories about this professor. He was required to

take the class for his major, and he was afraid. But for three months that

semester, he prayed every morning that he would have the courage to stand

up, no matter what the professor said, or what the class thought. Nothing

they said could ever shatter his faith... He hoped.

Finally, the day came. The Professor said, "If there is anyone here who

still believes in God, stand up!" The Professor and the class of 300

students looked at him, shocked as he stood up at the back of the classroom.

The Professor shouted, "You fool! If God existed, He could keep this piece

of chalk from breaking when it hit the ground." He proceeded to drop the

chalk, but as he did, it slipped out of his fingers, off his shirt cuff,

onto the pleat of his pants, down his leg, and off his shoe. As it hit the

ground, it simply rolled away unbroken.

The Professor's jaw dropped as he stared at the chalk. He looked up at the

young man, then ran out of the lecture hall. The young man who had stood,

proceeded to walk to the front of the room and share his faith in Jesus for

the next half hour. Three hundred students stayed and listened as he told of

God's love for them and of his power through Jesus.

Sometimes all we have to do is STANDUP.

Important Recall Notice

The maker of all human beings is recalling all units manufactured,

regardless of make or year, due to the serious defect in the primary and

central component, or heart.

This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units, resulting in

the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units.

This defect has been technically termed, 'Subsequential Internal

Non-morality,' or more commonly known as S-I-N, as it is primarily

symptomized by loss of moral judgment.

Some other symptoms are:

(a) Loss of direction

(b) Foul vocal emissions

(c) Amnesia of origin

(d) Lack of peace and joy

(e) Selfish or violent behavior

(f) Depression or confusion in the mental component

The manufacturer, who is neither liable or at fault for this defect, is

providing factory authorized repair and service, free of charge, to correct

this S-I-N defect, at numerous locations throughout the world.

The number to call for the recall station in your area is: P-R-A-Y-E-R.

WARNING:

Continuing to operate the human unit without correction voids manufacturer's

warranty, exposing owner to dangers and problems too numerous to list, and

will result in the human unit being permanently destroyed.

For free emergency service: Kneel and call on the name of J-E-S-U-S for

prompt assistance at any location worldwide.

- Author Unknown

SPRING CLEANING

There comes a time when we must clean out the closets of our life and heart

so that we may have room for items that will enhance our life.

Let's search the closets of our lives and make a trip to the wastebasket.

Throw away any hatred that may be lurking there and be sure to toss

jealousy, bad attitudes, dishonesty, complaints, sin, and hypocrisy.

And don't forget to grab that pride that has been sitting in the corner and

rotting. You've been holding on to it for too long, and it has been blocking

blessings.

Before you finish, throw away that grudge you have been holding against

someone.

There's room now to add love, honesty, forgiveness and kindness - not to

mention thankfulness for all of God's blessings.

Go on and make room for reverence and respect to God from whom all good and

perfect gifts come.

Stand back and look: Your life's closet is looking better, isn't it?

Take a moment today to do a little spring cleaning in your heart. Ask God to

come in and if He finds anything else that shouldn't be there, take it out

so that you can live holy and right!

HOW TO GET RID OF YOUR PREACHER

Look him straight in the eye and say "Amen" once in awhile. He'll preach

himself to death within a few weeks.

Pat him on the back and brag on his good points. He'll work himself to

death.

Start paying him a living wage. He's probably been on starvation wages for

so long he'll eat himself to death.

Rededicate your own life and ask the preacher to give you a job to do.

He'll probably die of heart failure.

Get the congregation to unite in prayer for the pastor. He'll become so

effective some larger church will soon take him off your hands.

Time Tested

Once upon a time, there was an island where all forces of personality and

feeling lived: Happiness, Sadness, Knowledge, and all of the others,

including Love.

One day it was announced to the forces that the island would sink, so all

repaired their boats and left. Love was the only one who stayed. Love wanted

to persevere until the last possible moment. When the island was almost

sinking, Love decided he needed help.

Richness was passing by Love in a grand boat. Love said, "Richness, can you

take me with you?" Richness answered, "No, I can't. There is a lot of gold

and silver in my boat. There is no place here for you."

Love decided to ask Vanity who was also passing by in a beautiful vessel.

"Vanity, please help me!" "I can't help you Love. You are all wet and might

damage my boat," answered Vanity.

Sadness was close by so again Love asked for help, "Sadness, let me go with

you." "Oh....Love, I am so sad that I need to be alone!"

Happiness passed by Love too, but she was so happy that she did not even

hear when Love called her.

Suddenly, there was a voice, "Come Love, I will take you." It was an elder.

Love felt to blessed and overjoyed that he even forgot to ask the elder her

name.

When they arrived at dry land, the elder went her own way. Love realizing

how much he owed the elder asked Knowledge, another elder, "Who helped me?"

"It was Time, " Knowledge answered. "Time?" asked Love. "But why did Time

help me?"

Knowledge smiled with deep wisdom and answered, "Because only Time is

capable of understanding how much Love is worth saving."

- Author Unknown

THE CHALLENGE!!

You are a Minister-- SERVE!

You are Called-- ANSWER!

You are Empowered-- BE STRONG!

You are Loved -- BE SECURE!!

You are Led -- BE CONFIDENT!

You are Protected -- BE COURAGEOUS!

You are a Steward -- BE FAITHFUL!!

You are Gifted - USE YOUR GIFT!

THE END!

(Or...will it be "the beginning?)

(Submitted by Sis. Janet Wood)

A ROSE WITHIN

A certain man planted a rose and watered it faithfully, and before it

blossomed, he examined it. He saw the bud that would soon blossom and also

the thorns. And he thought, "How can any beautiful flower come from a plant

burdened with so many sharp thorns?" Saddened by this thought, he neglected

to water the rose, and before it was ready to bloom, it died. So it is with

many people. Within every soul there is a rose. The God-like qualities

planted in us at birth grow amid the thorns of our faults. Many of us look

at ourselves and see only the thorns, the defects. We despair, thinking that

nothing good can possibly come from us. We neglect to water the good within

us, and eventually it dies. We never realize our potential. Some people do

not see the rose within themselves; someone else must show it to them. One

of the greatest gifts a person can possess is to be able to reach past the

thorns and find the rose within others. This is the characteristic of love,

to look at a person, and knowing his faults, recognize the nobility in his

soul, and help him realize that he can overcome his faults. If we show him

the rose, he will conquer the thorns. Then will he blossom, blooming forth

thirty, sixty, a hundred-fold as it is given to him. Our duty in this world

is to help others by showing them their roses and not their thorns. Only

then can we achieve the love we should feel for each other; only then can we

bloom in our own garden.

~Author Unknown~

A Traffic Light

Red reminds me of the cross,

And the precious blood that Jesus shed.

Green is the lush hills and deep valleys

Through which God has so faithfully lead.

Yellow is like the streets of gold,

Which soon you and I will be blessed to behold.

When in life, the traffic light signals "STOP"

Instead of just passing the time away,

Look up and remember what those bright colors have to say,

Then go light the path in somebody else's life today.

By the time the Lord made mothers, He was into His sixth day of working

overtime. An Angel appeared and said "Why are you spending so much time on

this one?" And the Lord answered and said, "Have you seen the spec sheet on

her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic, have 200 movable

parts, all replaceable, run on black coffee and leftovers, have a lap that

can hold three children at one time and that disappears when she stands up,

have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart,

and have six pairs of hands. "The Angel was astounded at the requirements

for this one. "Six pairs of hands! No way," said the Angel. The Lord

replied, "Oh, it's not the hands that are the problem. It's the three pairs

of eyes that mother must have!" "And that's just on the standard model?" the

Angel asked. The Lord nodded in agreement, "Yep, one pair of eyes are to see

through the closed door as she asks her children what they are doing even

though she already knows. Another pair in the back of her head are to see

what she needs to know even though no one thinks she can. And the third

pair are here in the front of her head. They are for looking at an errant

child and saying that she understands and loves him or her without even

saying a single word." The Angel tried to stop the Lord. "This is too much

work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish." "But I can't," the Lord

protested. "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my

own heart. She already heals herself when she is sick and can feed a family

of six on a pound of hamburger and can get a nine year old to stand in the

shower." The angel moved closer and touched the woman. "But you have made

her so soft, Lord." "She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made

her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish." "Will she

be able to think", asked the Angel. The Lord replied, "Not only will she be

able to think, she will be able to reason, and negotiate." The Angel then

noticed something and reached out and touched the woman's cheek. "Oops, it

looks like you have a leak with this model. I told you that you were trying

to put too much into this one." "That's not a leak," the Lord objected.

"That's a tear!" "What's the tear for?" the Angel asked. The Lord said, "The

tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her disappointment, her

pain, her loneliness, her grief, and her pride." The Angel was impressed.

"You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything. WOMEN are truly

amazing!!"

Life Is A...

Life is a challenge - meet it.

Life is a gift - accept it.

Life is an adventure - Dare it.

Life is a sorrow - overcome it.

Life is a tragedy - face it.

Life is a duty - perform it.

Life is a game - play it.

Life is a mystery - unfold it.

Life is a song - sing it.

Life is an opportunity - take it.

Life is a journey - complete it.

Life is a promise - fulfil it.

Life is a beauty - praise it.

Life is a struggle - fight it.

Life is a goal - achieve it.

Life is a puzzle - solve it.

Life is eternal - believe it.

- Author Unknown

THE BLOOD

One night in a church service a young woman felt the tug of God at her

heart. She responded to God's call and accepted Jesus as her Lord and

Savior. The young woman had a very rough past, involving alcohol, drugs, and

prostitution. But, the change in her was evident. As time went on she became

a faithful member of the church. She eventually became involved in the

ministry, teaching young children. It was not very long until this faithful

young woman had caught the eye and heart of the pastor's son. The

relationship grew and they began to make wedding plans. This is when the

problems began. You see, about one half of the church did not think that a

woman with a past such as hers was suitable for a pastor's son. The church

began to argue and fight about the matter. So they decided to have a

meeting. As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the

meeting was getting completely out of hand. The young woman became very

upset about all the things being brought up about her past. As she began to

cry the pastor's son stood to speak. He could not bear the pain it was

causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this: " My

fiancée’s past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning is the

ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin. Today you have put the blood

of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?" The whole church began

to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord

Jesus Christ. Too often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it

as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very

foundational part of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Bible says in

II OCR. 5:17-18 that "when anyone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new

person inside. He is not the same any more. A new life has begun! All these

new things are from God who brought us back to Himself through what Christ

Jesus has done"(Living Bible). Ephesians 1:7 says, "So overflowing is His

kindness towards us that He took away all our sins through the blood of His

Son, by whom we are saved"(Living Bible). Paul continues with this thought

in Ephesians 4:31,32 where he says, "Stop being mean, bad-tempered and

angry. Quarreling, harsh words, and dislike of others should have no place

in your lives. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one

another, just as God has forgiven you because you belong to Christ" (Living

Bible). One of the scariest things Jesus ever said was, "Your heavenly

Father will forgive you if you forgive those who sin against you; but if you

refuse to forgive them, He will not forgive you" (Matthew 6:14,15 Living

Bible). If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely

then it cannot cleanse us completely. If that is the case, then we are all

in a lot of trouble. Colossians 1:12-14 records these words of Paul: "Always

thankful to the Father who has made us the wonderful things that belong to

those who live in the kingdom of light. For He has rescued us out of the

darkness and gloom of Satan's kingdom and brought us into the kingdom of His

dear Son, who bought our freedom with His blood and forgave us all our sins"

(Living Bible). May the love of Jesus fill your lives day by day!

MORE LIKE THE MASTER

More like the Master I would ever be,

More of His meekness, more humility;

More zeal to labor, more courage to be true,

More like the Master I long to ever be.

More like the Master is my daily prayer,

More strength to carry crosses I must bear;

More earnest effort to bring His kingdom in,

More of His Spirit, the wanderer to win.

More like the Master I would live and grow,

More of His love to others I would show;

More self-denial, like His in Galilee,

More like the Master I long to ever be.

Take Thou my heart, I would be Thine alone;

Take Thou my heart and mike it all Thine own.

Purge me from sin, O Lord,

I now implore, wash me and keep me.

Thine for ever more.

Crossroads

Sometimes, when I look back and think of all the "could-have-beens" in my

life.....I often wonder did I make the right choice? Did I miss a road sign?

Am I on the right track?

CROSSROADS....they happen all the time; saying goodbye to some, choosing

only one.

Letting go, holding on...settling for now, but facing what must come.. Yes,

in life we all reach a crossroad sometime. We make painful decisions and

take some risks as we pursue our dreams But one should not stay at the

crossroads too long.

For even the birds have to leave their nests sometimes and learn how to fly.

Life's road is long and rough, and there are stretches when one has to do it

all alone. And should you meet the CROSS at the ROAD, be consoled.

Yes, more often than not, the road less traveled will surely bring you home.

Face the light and shadow falls behind you. Turn your back and the shadow

stays in front of you. Indeed, the truth hurts, but it will surely set you

free. The bitter pains of parting will give birth to another moment called

growing.

So, go on.......until it's time for you to move on... and face the

Crossroads again knowing that GOD LOVES YOU. Be strong at the CROSSROADS.

Embrace the CROSS at the ROAD. The Lord is the CROSS, at the ROAD at all

your CROSSROADS.

-Author Unknown

I am a soldier in the army of my God.

The Lord Jesus Christ is my Commanding Officer.

The Holy Bible is my code of conduct.

Faith, prayer, and the Word are my weapons of warfare.

I have been taught by the Holy Spirit, trained by experience, tried by

adversity and tested by fire.

I am a volunteer in this army, and I am enlisted for eternity.

I will either retire in this army at the rapture or die in this army; but I

will not get out, sell out, be talked out, or pushed out.

I am faithful, reliable, capable and dependable. If my God needs me, I am

there.

If He needs me in the Sunday School, to teach the children, work with the

youth, help adults or just sit and learn. He can use me because I am there!

I am a soldier. I am not a baby. I do not need to be pampered, petted,

primed up, pumped up, picked up or pepped up.

I am a soldier. I am not a wimp. I am in place, saluting my King, obeying

His orders, praising His name, and building His kingdom!

I am committed. I cannot have my feelings hurt bad enough to turn me

around. I cannot be discouraged enough to turn me aside. I cannot lose

enough to cause me to quit. When Jesus called me into this army, I had

nothing. If I end up with nothing, I will still come out ahead. I will

win.

My God has and will continue to supply all of my needs. I am more than a

conqueror. I will always triumph. I can do all things through Christ.

Devils cannot defeat me.

People cannot disillusion me.

Weather cannot weary me.

Sickness cannot stop me.

Battles cannot beat me.

Money cannot buy me.

Governments cannot silence me and hell cannot handle me.

I am a soldier. Even death cannot destroy me.

For when my Commander calls me from this battlefield, He will promote me and

then allow me to reign with Him.

I am a soldier in the army, and I'm marching claiming victory.

I will not give up. I will not turn around. I am a soldier, marching

heaven bound. Here I stand! Will you stand with me?

Guess what? If you've accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, you're already

enlisted!

Question is, which part of the service are you in:

1. Active Duty: Serving the Lord faithfully, daily, and on duty 24-7?

2. Reserve status: Serving only when called upon or twice a year:

Christmas and Easter?

3. Guard status: Backing up the Active Duty group? Or

4. AWOL! Absent with out the Lord?

Keep looking up to God and Know He is truly and always looking down at

you!!! Take A Blessing! Soldier be strong in the Lord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Grains of Sand: Friendship

I can't give solutions to all of life's problems, doubts, or fears,

But I can listen to you, and together we will search for answers.

I can't change your past with all it's heartache and pain, nor the future

with it's untold stories, But I can be there now when you need me to care.

I can't keep your feet from stumbling. I can only offer my hand that you may

grasp it and not fall.

Your joys, triumphs, successes, and happiness are not mine; Yet I can share

in your laughter.

Your decisions in life are not mine to make, not to judge; I can only

support you, encourage you, and help you when you ask.

I can't prevent you from falling away from friendship, from your values,

from me. I can only pray for you, talk to you and wait for you.

I can't give you boundaries which I have determined for you, But I can give

you the room to change, room to grow, room to be yourself.

I can't keep your heart from breaking and hurting, But I can cry with you

and help you pick up the pieces and put them back in place.

You are my friend...

Author Unknown

This is the beginning of a new day.

God has given me this day to use as I will. I can waste it, or use it

for good, but what I do today is important because I am exchanging a day

of my life for it.

When tomorrow comes this day will be gone forever, leaving behind in its

place something that I have traded for it. I want it to be a net gain

and not loss, good and not evil, success and not failure, in order that I

shall not regret the price that I have paid for it.

RESTAURANT OF WISHES

Welcome to the world of wishes

I AM your waiter and your guide

so much exists here on the menu

it's sometimes tricky just to decide

Just dream at night to place your order

and ask yourself how would it feel

what thoughts and actions would I be living

if what I wished for was now real?

I'll take the peace of mind for starters

with self-acceptance on the side

I've heard the love here is like heaven

and so I'd like to say I've tried

Then bring success in 3 large helpings

for body, spirit and my mind

prepared in love (my favorite dressing)

with lots of cash if you'd be so kind

a cup of love that runneth over

enough for those who aren't here

success for all here at my table

and don't forget to hold the fear

and for dessert a bowl of memories

with wisdom sprinkled on the top

and experience to share with others

with refills of patience that never stop

(and if it's not too late to ask it

a bit of difference to go

so others know that I've been through here

and as my souvenir to show)

For in this restaurant of wishes

just know that all who ask are served

your order's taken as you thinketh

and claimed by you when it's deserved!

*~* My Oath To You *~*

When you are sad,

I will dry your tears.

When you are scared,

I will comfort your fears.

When you are worried,

I will give you hope.

When you are confused,

will help you cope.

And when you are lost,

And can't see the light.

I shall be your beacon

Shining ever so bright

This is my oath.

I pledge till the end.

Why you may ask?

Because you're my friend.

The Onion

I was an onion before Christ set me free.

Layers upon layers of iniquity.

An ugly old onion whose fragrance was strong;

That my Jesus bought and loved all along.

Unknown to me what He was going to do.

Of what He was planning, I had not a clue.

Pulling each layer off one by one.

In order to make me more like Jesus the Son.

The first layer wasn't so bad.

I saw all the sins that I knew I had.

They were easy to fix, just change the way I talk.

And learn more of how He wanted me to walk.

Reading His Word, and learning again;

How to put aside my life of sin.

But the next layer was pulled which hurt more.

He was getting closer to the core.

Unknown what He would find there.

I simply gave it to Him in prayer.

As another layer was removed, He started to cry;

Pulling this layer brought pain to my Father on High.

And I was crying over the sadness I felt;

The brokeness and all of the guilt.

Past memories that I thought were gone;

But they were buried under layers disguised in a fragrance so strong.

As onions peel more and more;

And they put tears in our eyes as we get close to the core;

So my Father wept over my pain;

Giving me a balm of comfort and strength to sustain.

"NO MORE LAYERS!" I would scream.

As He continued to peel them off of me.

"I'll have nothing left my Lord, what will I do?

I'll be nothing but a worthless core to You. "

But He just said "Trust Me," and continued to peel

I was sure He was blinded to my pain that was so real.

Year after year I shrunk more and more;

Until all that was left of this onion was a core.

It was then that I began to understand;

As the Lord embraced me in His loving hand.

He said, now and only now can you be;

The creation that will minister before Me.

Clothed with the righteousness only from above;

Gone are your layers of self so you can be filled with My love.

He took my layers of sin, hurt and pain;

And clothed me with love, truth and mercy in His name.

Yes, we are all onions, learning with each day;

How to overcome as each layer is taken away.

Some layers tear and pull at our heart;

While others grieve us to our innermost part.

But we are nothing but an ugly onion without Christ.

Layers upon layers of pride, sin and strife.

Only God can take those layers away.

And clothe us with His righteousness in that final day.

Thank God He washes us whiter than snow.

He is the One that makes us WHOLE AGAIN!!!!!!

Aren't you glad you know Jesus. If you don't, we pray you get to know Him

right now in Jesus name!!!

Choosing Your Friends

Read Psalm 119:57-64

All of us enjoy having friends. We need them. The psalmist says that the

Word of God pertains to our friendships. "I am a companion of all who fear

You, and of those who keep Your precepts" (v. 63). He let the Word of God

guide him in his choice of friends and associates. We have many

acquaintances but few real friends. A friend is someone you don't have to

talk to all the time. You can be together for long periods

without saying a word, yet your hearts are united. At the other extreme, a

friend is someone you aren't afraid to talk to. You can unburden your

heart, and you are a better person for having been with him.

God is our best friend. Abraham was called the friend of God, and we can be

His friends also.

Jesus said to His disciples, "I'm not going to call you slaves. I'm going to

call you friends"

(John 15:15). Friends talk to each other. And if we talk to God and let Him

speak to us through His Word, we will be a companion of those who fear Him

and keep His commandments.

One of the most important tests of friendship is what my friend's attitude

is toward the Bible.

Does he accept it? Does he receive the Word of God as truth? Does he fear

God with a reverential awe and love for Him?

If I am in a right relationship to God through His Word, I will be in a

right relationship with people.

My friends will be God's friends. The Bible calls this separation--not

isolation, but separation. It's the blessed by-product of a life lived in

Scriptures.

Choose your friends carefully. Do they fear God? Do they receive the Word of

God in their hearts?

Use your friends' attitudes toward the Bible as an important test of

friendship.

Relationships are investments of our time and other resources. Make them

count for eternity.

SPECIAL SAUCE

I was sitting at the drive thru window at McDonald's this weekend (ok I eat

out a lot). I did the usual thing I drove up to the menu and ordered. I

drove to the 1st window and paid, then drove to the second window and waited

for my order. After waiting a few minutes the clerk opened the window and

asked could I pull to the side because my order wasn't ready.

I got a little upset and even impatient but I went over and waited. I was

thinking how come other folks ordered and drove straight through and I have

to wait? I waited for about another two or three minutes, but it seemed like

hours, and the clerk ran out, tapped on my window and gave me my order. Of

course I asked, hey what took so long? She replied, you wanted the SPECIAL

SAUCE which meant it had to be especially made for that sandwich, it doesn't

usually come with that one.

This is our prayer life. We make our request to the Lord. Our menu is His

word and He has listed promise after promise. We lay before Him and request

and plead and sometimes even beg. We go to the first window and we pay,

sometimes with fervent prayer, sometimes with prolonged suffering, sometimes

with obedience, and sometimes not at all. We then move to the second window

and we wait for our order. We even get upset if God doesn't answer within a

few minutes. You know the phrase, Jesus it's 5:00 Friday and I prayed to you

yesterday and You still haven't answered, now you need to hurry up.

What is it taking Him so long, I've seen people drive up before me and they

get their orders right away? We even go so far as to tap on the window and

ask if He has forgotten our order. We get impatient. We get upset. We get

downright mad.

Lord I asked for a mate ten days ago and I don't see him anywhere. Lord, I

been asking for a new job for two years, others have passed me by. I've been

waiting on a financial blessing for ten years and I still have more month

than money. Where are You and why haven't you blessed me?

And just when you think He is giving you the answer, He pulls back the

purple curtain of eternity, and says, can you pull over to the side and wait

some more. This used to frustrate me, make me mad, make me want to give up,

make me wanna holler, until the clerk brought out my sandwich and the

revelation was clear.

Do you know why the Lord has put you on the side? Do you know why you have

had to wait for this blessing longer than before? Do you know why He has put

you through more this time than ever? Do you know why it seems as though He

has not heard you and He does not care? DO you know why it seems like you

have had to go through more this time? More tears, more pains, more

struggling, more time?

Because this blessing is a SPECIAL SAUCE BLESSING. This is an OVERFLOWING,

PRESSED DOWN, SHAKEN TOGETHER, BLESSING!!! You made a SPECIAL ORDER and GOD

has been putting together a SPECIAL SAUCE BLESSING for you and He has to

prepare it for you.

That job you wanted, HE'S putting together a SPECIAL SAUCE.

That financial blessing, A SPECIAL SAUCE.

That peace in the middle of your work, A SPECIAL SAUCE.

That house...A SPECIAL SAUCE.

That deeper anointing...A SPECIAL SAUCE.

That promotion...A SPECIAL SAUCE.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of

peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end....and a SPECIAL SAUCE

(Jeremiah 29:11).

How many people have driven away before the clerk has brought them their

food, and how many people have missed their blessings because they did not

wait...

Hang in there, keep on waiting, you made a SPECIAL ORDER, now wait on a

SPECIAL SAUCE...But they that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary,

and they shall walk, and not faint (Isaiah 40:31). They shall get a SPECIAL

SAUCE!!!!

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,

according to his power that is at work within us, to him," Ephesians

3:20-21

God is Great, God is Good...

"Fear thou not, for I am with thee. Be not dismayed, for I am thy God, I

will strengthen thee: Yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with

the right hand of my righteousness" Is. 41:10

To Believe

To believe is to know that every

day is a new beginning.

It is to trust that miracles happen,

and dreams really do come true.

To believe is to see angels

dancing among the clouds

To know the wonder of a stardust sky

and the wisdom of the man in the moon.

To believe is to know the value

of a nurturing heart,

The innocence of a child's eyes and the

beauty of an aging hand,

for it is through their teachings we learn to love.

To believe is to find the strength and

courage that lies within us.

When it is time to pick up

the pieces and begin again.

To believe is to know we are not alone,

That life is a gift and this is our

time to cherish it.

To believe is to know that wonderful

surprises are just waiting to happen,

And all our hopes and dreams

are within reach.

If only we believe.

- Author Unknown

Dear Lord

A little girl, dressed in her Sunday best, was running as fast as she could,

trying not to be late for Bible class. As she ran she prayed, "Dear Lord,

please don't let me be late! Dear Lord, please don't let me be late!"

As she was running and praying, she tripped on a curb and fell, getting her

clothes dirty and tearing her dress. She got up, brushed herself off, and

started running again. As she ran she once again began to pray, "Dear Lord,

please don't let me be late!... But don't shove me either."

Goodnight Kiss

I count it as a privilege,

I count it cause for praise

to kiss my children goodnight

at the close of everyday.

For I know too soon they're up and gone,

and walking out the door

And I'll never have a child

to kiss goodnight any more.

It's very strange how times have changed

from the present to the past.

When did they grow so quickly

the time has flown so fast.

For it seems like only yesterday

I helped him with his shirt,

Or pat my baby on the back,

Or kissed away a hurt.

Tell a story, read a book,

wipe a nose, or tie a shoe.

They never ask me to rub their backs

the way they used to do.

Once it was a bother,

just a troublesome kind of chore.

but now I would give anything

to do it just once more.

Mommy, bounce me on your knee,

Daddy, flip me in the air.

Throw a rubber ball to me

and help me comb my hair.

Mommy, tickle my tummy...

Daddy hold me high.

Lets go outside, for a while,

or make a kite to fly...

I count it as a privilege

I count it cause for praise

To kiss my children goodnight

at the close of everyday.

For I know too soon they're up and gone

And walking out the door

And I'll never have a child

to kiss Goodnight anymore!

- Author Unknown

You Still Have Hope

If you can look at the sunset and smile, then you still have hope.

If you can find beauty in the colors of a small flower, then you still have

hope.

If you can find pleasure in the movement of a butterfly, then you still have

hope.

If the smile of a child can still warm your heart, then you still have hope.

If you can see the good in other people, then you still have hope.

If the rain breaking on a roof top can still lull you to sleep, then you

still have hope.

If the sight of a rainbow still makes you stop and stare in wonder, then you

still have hope.

If the soft fur of a favored pet still feels pleasant under your fingertips,

then you still have hope.

If you meet new people with a trace of excitement and optimism, then you

still have hope.

If you give people the benefit of a doubt, then you still have hope.

If you still offer your hand in friendship to others that have touched your

life, then you still have hope.

If receiving an unexpected card or letter still brings a pleasant surprise,

then you still have hope.

If the suffering of others still fills you with pain and frustration, then

you still have hope.

If you refuse to let a friendship die, or accept that it must end, then you

still have hope.

If you look forward to a time or place of quiet and reflection, then you

still have hope.

If you still buy the ornaments, put up the Christmas tree or cook the

turkey, then you still have hope.

If you still watch love stories or want the endings to be happy, then you

still have hope.

If you can look to the past and smile, then you still have hope.

If, when faced with the bad, when told everything is futile, you can still

look up and end the conversation with the phrase...

"yeah....BUT.." then you still have hope.

Hope is such a marvelous thing. It bends, it twists, it sometimes hides, but

rarely does it break. It sustains us when nothing else can. It gives us

reason to continue and courage to move ahead, when we tell ourselves we'd

rather give in.

Hope puts a smile on our face when the heart cannot manage.

Hope puts our feet on the path when our eyes cannot see it.

Hope moves us to act when our souls are confused of the direction.

Hope is a wonderful thing, something to be cherished and nurtured, and

something that will refresh us in return. And it can be found in each of us,

and it can bring light into the darkest of places.

Never lose hope.

- Author Unknown

I AM THANKFUL : (Just a bit far fetched but get the concept)

FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS NOT DOING DISHES BUT IS WATCHING TV, BECAUSE THAT

MEANS HE IS AT HOME AND NOT ON THE STREETS.

FOR THE TAXES THAT I PAY, BECAUSE IT MEANS THAT > I AM EMPLOYED.

FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY, BECAUSE IT MEANS THAT I HAVE BEEN

SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.

FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG, BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH

TO EAT.

FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK, BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE

SUNSHINE.

FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING, WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING, AND GUTTERS THAT

NEED FIXING, BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME.

FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT, BECAUSE IT MEANS THAT

WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOT, BECAUSE IT

MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING AND THAT I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH

TRANSPORTATION.

FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL, BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.

FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH THAT SINGS OFF KEY, BECAUSE IT MEANS THAT I

CAN HEAR..

FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING, BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO

WEAR.

FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY, BECAUSE IT MEANS I

HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD.

FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS, BECAUSE IT MEANS

THAT I AM ALIVE.

God Is Not Finished With You

And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good

work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ right up to the

time of His return, developing that good work and perfecting and bringing it

to full completion in you. Philippians 1:6

There are times you feel like God has left you, but you have got to know

that He will come through, you must press on past your limit; keep the

faith to the last minute. Knowing God is not finished blessing you.

There are times you feel like throwing up your hands walking away, Never

more to return but you must press on past your disillusion. Keep the faith

for your conclusion. Knowing God is not finished blessing you.

The storms may rage and the earth may quake, Trust in Jesus and don't lose

your faith. If God said he would do it, he will bring it to past. You just

trust in Jesus, for these problems won't last. God is not finished blessing

you!

HAVE A BLESSED DAY

Seize the Moment

I have a friend who lives by a three-word philosophy: Seize the moment.

Just possibly, she may be the wisest woman on this planet. Too many

people put off something that brings them joy just because they haven't

though about it, don't have it on their schedule, didn't know it was

coming or are too rigid to depart from their routine.

I got to thinking one day about all those women on the Titanic who passed up

dessert at dinner that fateful night in an effort to cut back. From then on,

I've tried to be a little more flexible.

How many women out there will eat at home because their husband didn't

suggest going out to dinner until after something had been thawed? Does the

word "refrigeration" mean nothing to you?

How often have your kids dropped in to talk and sat in silence while you

watched Jeopardy on television?

I cannot count the times I called my sister and said, "How about going to

lunch in a half hour?" She would gasp and stammer, "I can't." Check one: "My

hair is dirty." "I wish I had known yesterday." "I had a late breakfast."

"It looks like rain." And my personal favorite: "It's Monday". She died a

few years ago. We never did have lunch together.

Because Americans cram so much into their lives, we tend to schedule our

headaches. We live on a sparse diet of promises we make to ourselves when

all the conditions are perfect. We'll go back and visit the grandparents

when we get Stevie toilet-trained. We'll entertain when we replace the

carpet. We'll go on a second honeymoon when we get two more kids out of

college.

Life has a way of accelerating as we get older. The days get shorter, and

the list of promises to ourselves gets longer. One morning, we awaken, and

all we have to show for our lives is a litany of "I'm going to," "I plan on"

and "Someday, when things are settled down a bit."

When anyone calls my 'seize the moment' friend, she is open to adventure and

available for trips. She keeps an open mind on new ideas. Her enthusiasm for

life is contagious. You talk with her for five minutes and you're ready to

trade your bad feet for a pair of roller blades and skip an elevator for a

bungee cord.

My lips had not touched ice cream in 10 years. I love ice cream. It's just

that I might as well apply it directly to my hips with a spatula and

eliminate the digestive process. The other day, I stopped the car and I

would have died a triple-decker. If my car had hit an iceberg on the way

home, I would have died happy.

Now...go on and have a nice day. Do something you WANT to .... Not something

on your SHOULD DO list.

Walk With Jesus Daily

Meditation: "The Lord said to Job: 'Will the one who contends with the

Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer him!'" Job 40.1

Wisdom: "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates

correction is stupid." Proverbs 12.1 (I did not write this, but only copied

it from the Bible!)

Worship: "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you,

O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet

with God?" Psalm 42.1,2

Jesus said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.

Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied.

Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh." Luke 6.20-21

"My stubborn will at last has yielded;

I would be Thine, and Thine alone;

And this the prayer my lips are bringing,

'Lord, let in me Thy will be done.'

Sweet will of God, still fold me closer

Till I am wholly lost in Thee;

Sweet will of God, still fold me closer

Till I am wholly lost in Thee."

--Lelia N. Morris, 1862-1929

"'Then neither do I condemn you,' Jesus declared. 'Go now and leave your

life of sin.'" John 8.11

Any preaching of the Gospel which leaves people approved in their sin IS NOT

POSITIVE! There is nothing positive about sin. Paul by the Holy Spirit

wrote: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life

in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6.23). Sinful lifestyles are deadly. Even

being a good person who ignores the Lordship of God is sin.

The positive preaching of the Gospel preaches victory over sin, through life

in the Holy Spirit. The positive preaching of the Gospel lifts up Jesus, and

His character and His works and His teachings.

And Jesus told the woman caught in adultery to leave her life of sin. He

did not condemn her, but He did deliver her.

Jesus very clearly and unequivocally stated: "But seek first his kingdom and

his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Jesus

would not tell us to make something of first priority if it were

unattainable. If Jesus taught us to seek first God's righteousness, it must

be possible to participate in God's righteousness, and it must be that this

is the solution for deliverance from the power of sin.

When people preach the Gospel in a manner which affirms carnal attitudes and

behavior, materialism and pleasure, then the Gospel has been cheapened to

the level of snake oil miracle cures. Selling the Gospel in themes of good

feelings and financial benefits is the same as making Jesus' teaching on par

with Nike shoes or automobile advertising. Jesus did not come to improve our

social status, financial balance sheet, nor our pleasure factor. He came to

bring us into communion (relationship, fellowship) with God, that we might

fulfill our created purpose: to glorify God and do His will.

So, why is it so boring and uninteresting to so many Christians to consider

surrendering their priorities and goals for God's priorities of purity and

holiness and justice and truth and love? "But the fruit of the Spirit is

love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and

self-control. =Against such things there is no law.=" Galatians 5.22,23. So,

why the pre-occupation with trying to improve our condition rather than

surrendering to a radical change of living and thinking and pursuits by life

in the Spirit? If there is no law against this fruit, why isn't there more

interest in this fruit? Why do Christians keep haggling about prohibitions

against deathly pursuits instead of revelling in the positive fruit of the

Spirit?

Why do "grace only" proponents spend so much time defending sinning

Christians rather than promoting and manifesting the fruit of the Spirit? Am

I really so dense that I cannot see the real purpose of Jesus' life, death

and resurrection? Did He really come to leave us in a state of spiritual

limbo wherein we are forgiven church-goers with the same lifestyle and

slavery to sin as unbelievers around us? I don't think so. But, then, it

does not matter what I think, but what God wants. Let us seek Him and love

Him with ALL our heart, mind and strength. Let us enter into the spiritual

Canaanland He has provided for us through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Value of Life

A store owner was tacking a sign above his door that read 'Puppies for

Sale.' These signs had a weird way of attracting children. And sure enough,

a little boy appeared at the sign. "How much are you gonna sell those

puppiesfor?" he asked.

The store owner replied "Anywhere from $30-$50." The little boy reached into

his pocket and pulled out some change. "I have $2.37, can I have a look at

them? "The store owner smiled and whistled and out of the kennel came

Lady,who ran down the aisle of his store followed by five teeny, tiny balls

of fur. One puppy was lagging considerably behind. Immediately the little

boy singled out the lagging, limping puppy and said "What's wrong with that

little dog?"

The store owner explained that when the puppy was born, the vet had said

that the puppy had no hip socket and would limp for the rest of its life.

The little boy got really excited and said "That's the puppy I wanna buy!"

The store owner replied "No, you don't wanna buy that little dog. If you

really want him, I'll give him to you." The little boy got quite upset. He

looked straight into the store owner's eyes, pointing his finger and said,

"I don't want you to give him to me. That little dog is worth every bit as

much as the other dogs and I'll pay the full price. I'll give you $2.37 now

and 50 cents every month until I have him paid for."

The store owner countered, "You really don't want to buy this puppy. He is

never gonna be able to run, jump and play like other puppies!"

To this the little boy reached down and rolled up his pant leg to reveal a

badly twisted, crippled left leg supported by a big metal brace. He looked

up at the store owner and said softly, "Well, I don't run so well myself,

and the little puppy will need someone who understands."

IN LIFE, IT DOESN'T MATTER WHO YOU ARE, BUT WHETHER SOMEONE APPRECIATES YOU

FOR WHAT YOU ARE.

A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.

JESUS PAID IT ALL

I hear the Savior say, "Thy strength indeed is small!

Child of weakness, watch and pray,

Find in me thine all in all."

Lord, now indeed I find Thy power and Thine alone,

Can change the leper’s spots

And melt the heart of stone.

For nothing good have I whereby Thy grace to claim

I’ll wash my garments white

In the blood of Calvary’s Lamb.

And when before the throne I stand in Him complete,

"Jesus died my soul to save,"

My lips shall still repeat.

Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe;

Sin had left a crimson stain

He washed it white as snow.

YOU ARE COMPLETE!

Just because no one has been fortunate enough to realize what a gold mine

you are, doesn't mean you shine any less.

Just because no one has been smart enough to figure out that you can't be

topped, doesn't stop you from being the best.

Just because no one has come along to share your life, doesn't mean that day

isn't coming.

Just because no one has made this race worth while, doesn't give you

permission to stop running.

Just because no one has realized how much of a woman you are, doesn't mean

they can affect your femininity.

Just because no one has come to take the loneliness away, doesn't mean you

have to settle for a lower quality.

Just because no one has shown up who can love you on your level, doesn't

mean you have to sink to theirs.

Just because you deserve the very best there is, doesn't mean that life is

always fair.

Just because God is still preparing your king, doesn't mean that you're not

already a queen.

Just because your situation doesn't seem to be progressing right now,

doesn't mean you need to change a thing.

Keep shining, Keep running, Keep hoping, Keep praying, Keep being exactly

what you are already.

"Don't let anyone lead you astray with empty philosophy and high-sounding

nonsense that come from human thinking and from the evil powers of this

world, and not from Christ. For in Christ the fullness of God lives in a

human body, and you are complete through your union with Christ. He is the

Lord over every ruler and authority in the universe." Colossians 2:8-10

When To Keep Your Mouth Shut

Don't open your mouth when:

1. In the heat of anger- Proverbs 14:17

2. When you don't have all the facts- Proverbs 18:13

3. When you haven't verified the story- Deuteronomy 17:6

4. If your words will offend a weaker person- 1 Corinthians 8:11

5. When it is time to listen- Proverbs 13:1

6. When you are tempted to make light of holy things- Ecclesiastes 5:2

7. When you are tempted to joke about sin- Proverbs 14:9

8. If you would be ashamed of your words later- Proverbs 8:8

9. If your words would convey the wrong impression- Proverbs 17:27

10. If the issue is none of your business- Proverbs 14:10

11. When you are tempted to tell an outright lie- Proverbs 4:24

12. If your words will damage someone else's reputation- Proverbs 16:27

13. If your words will damage a friendship- Proverbs 16:28

14. When you are feeling critical- James 3:9

15. If you can't say it without screaming it- Proverbs 25:28

16. If your words will be a poor reflection of the Lord or your friends and

family - Peter 2:21-23

17. If you may have to eat your words later- Proverbs 18:21

18. If you have already said it more than one time- Proverbs 19:13

19. When you are tempted to flatter a wicked person- Proverbs 24:24

20. When you are suppose to be working instead- Proverbs 14:23

"Whoever guards his mouth & tongue keeps his soul from troubles" - Proverbs

21:23

- Author Unknown

Beatitudes For The Home

BLESSED are the husband and wife who continue to be affectionate and

considerate, loving after the wedding bells have ceased ringing.

BLESSED are the husband and wife who are as polite and courteous to one

another as they are to their friends.

BLESSED are they who have a sense of humor, for this attribute will be a

handy shock absorber.

BLESSED are they who love their mates more than any other person in the

world and who joyfully fulfil their marriage vows of lifetime of fidelity

and mutual helpfulness to one another.

BLESSED are they who attain parenthood, for children are a heritage of the

Lord.

BLESSED are they who remember to thank God for their food before they

partake of it, and who set apart some time each day for the reading of the

Bible and for prayer.

BLESSED are those mates who never speak loudly to one another and who make

their home a place where seldom is heard a discouraging word.

BLESSED are the husband and wife who faithfully attend the worship service

of the church and who work together in the church for the advancement of

Christ's Kingdom.

BLESSED are the husband and wife who can work out problems of adjustments

without interference from relatives.

BLESSED is the couple who has a complete understanding about financial

matters and who has worked out a perfect partnership with all money under

the control of both.

BLESSED are the husband and wife who humbly dedicate their lives and their

home to Christ and who practice the teachings of Christ in the home by being

unselfish, loyal, and loving.

- Author Unknown

Picture this scenario: a homeless man, sitting hopelessly on the corner, is

seen by two men from a distance. Neither man knows the other but within the

minds of each one is this idea-"I should give this man some money". Listen

to the mindset of Man A: "You know that bum really needs some money. I guess

I’ll do him a favor and give him some. You know people like that are really

something. It’s a good thing people like me are around to help them out.

Thank you, Jesus!" Now let’s listen to Man B: "Man, he’s probably had a hard

life. I believe I’ll help him out. Lord, thank you for giving me the

opportunity to bless someone besides myself. Please help him to do better in

life." Man A and Man B finally get to the homeless man, give him some money

along with a "God bless you" salutation.

Questions: which one do you think was in the will of God? Which one was

truly spiritual? Which one had the love of God in his heart? Which one had

PURE MOTIVES?

True spirituality is not just based on the actions one performs but on the

motives of the heart. When you gave that praise report was it for your glory

or for God’s? You worked long and hard cleaning up the church but were you

there just to help out or to be seen by the Pastor? I Corinthians 13:1-3

gives a clear depiction of one who does all the "spiritual" things but

without the love of God. It is of no advantage to the Kingdom to do things

selfishly. God-centered, God-directed motives are key to growing

spiritually. When you grow up, God is blessed and others are blessed as

well.

Another point: if you were watching these men from a distance and later had

had a conversation with each of them concerning their gracious acts of

giving, would you have been able to tell which one had pure motives? The

gift of discernment is key to knowing the motives of people. In John 7:24,

Jesus says to make righteous judgements. This can only be done by checking

the desires in your own heart, by the Holy Spirit, and by asking Him to show

you the truth of the situation. Running on a wing and a prayer and you don’t

know what you’re talking about can kill your relationships. Slow down, find

out what’s happening and let God do the talking.

I Will

You can say "I might" or "I'll think about it" or "I'm working on it" or

"I'll try." Or you can say "I will."

If you don't really want it, then don't waste your time saying "I might."

Just say "no" and quickly move on. If you do really want it, don't undermine

your efforts by saying "I might." Commit yourself by saying "I will."

Say it right now. Think of something you have decided to do and say "I

will." Notice how powerful and unequivocal it feels. Those who say "I will"

are the people who follow through. They're the people who get things

accomplished.

"I will" affirms your commitment with your words. By itself, it won't get

you there. It's a powerful way to start, though. Be clear about your

intentions, with yourself and others. Make a habit of saying "I will" and

you cannot help but convince yourself that yes, indeed you will.

The Story Of Life

Sometimes people come into your life and you know right away that they were

meant to be there...to serve some sort of purpose, teach you a lesson or

help figure out who you are or who you want to become.

You never know who these people may be but when you lock eyes with them, you

know that every moment they will affect your life in some profound way. And

sometimes things happen to you at the time that may seem horrible, painful

and unfair, but in reflection you realize that without overcoming those

obstacles you would have never realized your potential, strength, will power

or heart.

Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance or by means of

good luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer

stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul. Without these small

tests, life would be like a smoothy paved, straight, flat road to nowhere.

Safe and comfortable but dull and utterly pointless -- the people you meet

affect your life.

The successes and downfalls that you experience can create who you are, and

the bad experiences can be learned from. In fact, they are probably the most

poignant and important ones. If someone hurts you, betrays you or breaks

your heart, forgive them because they have helped you learn about trust and

the importance of being cautious to whomever you open your heart.

Make every day count. Appreciate every moment and take from it everything

that you possibly can, for you may never be able to experience it again.

Talk to people you have never talked to before, and actually listen.

Set your sights high. Hold your head up because you have every right to.

Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself, for if you

don't believe in yourself, no one else will believe in you. Create your own

life and then go out and live it.

- Author Unknown

ARE WE INSECURE?

WHAT ARE YOU DOING ABOUT YOUR INSECURETIRS?

DESCRIPTIVE OF: A STATE OF ANXIETY ABOUT EARTHY NEEDS

WICKED: PS-37:1, 2, 10

RICHIES: 1st TIM 6:17

THOSE TRUSTING IN THEMSELVES: LUKE-12:16, 21

SECURITY OF THE SAINTS PROTECTED BY THE POWER OF GOD

1st PETER:1:15, 16

THE CURE OF INSECURITY

STEADFAST MIND: ISAIAH 26:3

RELY UPON GOD'S PROMISE: PS-37:1, 26

REMEMBER GOD PROVISION: PHIL-4:9, 19

PUT GOD FIRST: MATT-6:25, 34

PLEASE LET THE WORD OF GOD PENATRATE OUR HEARTS

Climb 'Til Your Dream Comes True

Often your tasks will be many,

And more than you think you can do -

Often the road will be rugged

And the hills insurmountable, too-

But always remember, the hills ahead

Are never as steep as they seem,

And with Faith in your heart start upward

An climb 'Til you reach your dream,

For nothing in life that is worthy

Is never too hard to achieve

If you have the courage to try it

And you have the Faith to believe-

For Faith is a force that is greater

Than knowledge or power or skill

And many defeats turn to triumph

If you trust in God's wisdom and will-

For Faith is a mover of mountains.

There's nothing that God cannot do,

So start out today with Faith in your heart

And "Climb 'Til Your Dream Comes True" !

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

The Balloon Man

Everywhere he went, the man carried brightly colored balloons. He enjoyed

watching them float above his head. And it was easy to hold the string in

his hand or wrap it around his wrist and take his colorful balloons wherever

he went. The other people where he worked were accustomed to seeing them.

They didn't mind; it brightened the office a little. Even at night the

balloons would float above the man as he slept.

One day he went to the fair and had a great time. At the fair he could blend

into the atmosphere of the rides and lights and noise. Oh, sometimes people

tried to buy his balloons, thinking he was a vendor, but of course he

wouldn't sell even one.

At one of the booths he filled in a ticket to see if he could win a free

ocean cruise. He certainly didn't plan on winning, but it wouldn't hurt to

try. Yet two weeks later a telegram came – he had won! He would enjoy great

entertainment and the world's finest chef providing his meals. Talk about

excited! The man started packing immediately. He was ready to go days before

it was time to leave.

On the morning of the big day, he called a taxi and had the driver take him

to the dock very slowly. He had to go slowly because the balloons wouldn't

all fit in the taxi and he had to hold some of them out the window. At the

dock he unloaded his luggage, went aboard ship, and was welcomed by the

officials who had planned his trip. They even had someone take his suitcases

down to his cabin while he stayed on deck and enjoyed the activity. The ship

was crowded. Many people were aboard just to say good-bye to friends.

Confetti, horns, streamers - and lots of balloons. He felt right at home.

Eventually the visitors left and the voyage was begun. It was great! Sailing

on a big ocean liner was really refreshing. It also made him very hungry.

Someone told the balloon man that the evening meal was in just one hour - a

welcome relief!

The balloon man, still clutching his balloons and refusing to part with even

one, eagerly awaited the dinner bell of this luxury cruise.

When they rang the bell, he started to walk toward the dining room on the

second deck. The aroma of the food was so enticing.

There was one problem, though. Whoever had designed the ship hadn't left

enough room for a man with a handful of balloons to get down the passageway.

You could do it if you released some of the balloons, but the balloon man

just couldn't do that.

He had seen some crackers and cheese on the upper deck earlier, so he went

back and ate that instead. It was good. Maybe not as good as the chef's

dinner but it was good enough. Besides, he had his balloons. That night the

sunset was beautiful and it was exciting to walk along the deck. But it sure

got cold quickly after that. Sea air not only makes you hungry, it makes you

tired as well. He asked one of the ship's crew where his room was, and the

crewman took him down a wide hall and opened the door of his cabin.

It was beautiful. They had given him one of the classiest rooms on the ship.

He could see that the interior decorating was the best. And the bed looked

inviting.

Unfortunately, the door to the cabin was so designed that he couldn't get

all the balloons in without breaking some. He tried, but it just wouldn't

work.

Back on deck he found some blankets and a deck chair. He tied the balloons

around his wrist and the arm of the chair and tried to sleep. The next

morning he was still tired. All that day he ate crackers and cheese and that

night he slept on deck again.

The next morning the balloon man received an engraved invitation from the

captain of the ship. He had been invited to sit at the captain's table and

enjoy the specialty of the world famous chef.

He would prepare it especially for the balloon man. All that day the man

watched as the crew made preparations for the evening banquet, and at 8:00

p.m., the ship’s bell rang and the passengers began to go to the dining

room. The man watched them go.

Soon he could hear the murmur of voices, the sound of silverware and the

clink of glasses. The aroma of the food became even more enticing.

He stood at the end of the passage way for some time. Finally he walked to

the back of the ship. He could still hear the dinner in progress. He reached

in his pocket and felt the engraved invitation. He knew there was a special

place reserved for him at the captain's table. Then he looked up at his

balloons. It was hard to do, but slowly - very, very slowly (he hadn't

unclenched his hand for years) - one at a time he uncurled his fingers. One

by one the balloons began to drift away. As he watched, the wind caught

them and blew them out of sight.

The man turned and walked down the passageway. That night, as a guest at the

captain's table, he enjoyed the finest meal and the best companionship he'd

ever known.

Are you hanging on to a handful of balloons that keep you from being close

to Jesus? What are the names of your balloons? Are they friends? Bad habits?

Sex? Possessions? Your pride? Your popularity? Maybe it's time to just let

those balloons go so that you can enjoy the relationship with Christ that is

yours for the taking.

"Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily

entangles us" (Hebrews 12:1)

What Words Could Never Say

In the garden of my heart,

Lord, you placed a tiny seed;

And the faith that grew from it

Was a gift from You to me.

The wonder of Your love

Is such a mystery to me;

For I will never understand

What You ever saw in me.

Lord, I fail so many times,

Yet You always stay by me;

And when I stumble in my walk,

You come and set me on my feet.

So where do I begin?

Are there any words to say

How You've changed my life so much

And made me new in every way?

No, I'll never find the words,

I must choose another way;

So I'll show You with my life

What my words could never say.

- Author Unknown

A.S.A.P.

(Always Say A Prayer)

There's work to do, deadlines to meet,

You've got no time to spare,

but as you hurry and scurry,

Always say a prayer

In the midst of family chaos,

"quality time" is rare.

Do your best, let God do the rest.

Always say a prayer

It may seen like your worries

are more than you can bear,

slow down and take a breather

Always say a prayer

God knows how stressful life is

He wants to ease our cares,

and He'll respond A.S.A.P.

Always Say A Prayer

- Author Unknown

Thank you Sis. Rosalind Weathers for your insight. Sis. Weathers sent

SOMETHING TO PUT IN THE INFORMER. Looking for a job, check out this site:

WWW.USAJOBS.OPM.GOV

You Know You're A Mother When...By Liane Kupferberg Carter;

- You hide in the bathroom to be alone.

- You've mastered the art of placing large quantities of pancakes and

eggs on a plate without anything touching.

- You hope ketchup is a vegetable, since it's the only one your

child eats.

- You can't bear the thought of your son's first girlfriend.

- You can't bear to give away baby clothes - it's so final.

- You hear your mother's voice coming out of your mouth when you say,

"NOT in your good clothes!"

- You stop criticizing the way your mother raised you.

- You hire a sitter because you haven't been out with your husband in

ages, then spend half the night checking on the kids.

- You use your own saliva to clean your child's face.

- You say at least once a day, "I'm not cut out for this job", but

you know you wouldn't trade it for anything.

E-mail address: jltdunbar@hotmail.com

If you have an e-mail address and would like to get a copy of the Junior

Missionary Informer, please e-mail me at the above address.

Please do not forget to send birthday, anniversary, get well, condolences,

thinking of you and other cards to those who need our prayers,

encouragement, thoughts, cares and concerns.

If you have any events you would like to mention, put them in the INFORMER!

MAY 2000

Janice L. T. Dunbar