Football (and Life) Requires Discipline

My favorite football story is told by James Dobson. In the 1930’s, Dr. Dobson’s mother attended a high school in Oklahoma that fielded a terrible Football Team. The small town witnessed their team lose almost every game, including the contests with their arch rivals. Understandably, school spirit was low.

A FREE CAR!

Following another demoralizing loss, a wealthy oil-man asked to speak to the team. In the locker room, he reminded the boys that their next game was against their hated rivals. Dramatically, the oil producer gave an incredible challenge. If they won, he promised each member of the team and their coaches a brand new car.

FOOTBALL FEVER

The team went crazy. Players reported to practice earlier and stayed later. The intensity was seen in the exercise drills. The days before the game, the entire school and town was electrified by the anticipation of a victory.

Finally, on game night the stands were packed and the football players gathered in the locker room. The coach barked a pep-talk that had the players almost jumping out of their skins. Next, the team left the locker room and gathered on the sideline. Before taking the field, the team put their hands together and shouted “Rah!” Then, they ran onto the field and were defeated, 38 to 0.

EMOTION VS. DISCIPLINE

Dobson wrote, “The team's exuberance did not translate into a single point on the scoreboard. Seven days of hoorah and whoop-de-do simply couldn't compensate for the players' lack of discipline and conditioning and practice and study and coaching and drill and experience and character.”

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE

In II Peter 1:5-7, the Bible says, “…giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.” Emotional experiences cannot replace spiritual growth that results from a daily walk with God. Daily discipline is required to nurture a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

What Do You See?

When you drive through your community, what do you see?

During college, I traveled with the William Carey College Chorale to New York City. On the first Sunday Morning of 1987, our choir performed at a Presbyterian Church in Brooklyn. This was a unique experience, because every few minutes a subway would pass under the church and rattle the entire facility. While I don’t remember a lot about the architecture of the church sanctuary, I do remember what was painted on the walls.

OUTSIDE THE WALLS

A mural covered all of the church walls. The paintings consisted of people you would see in the community. So, as you sat in the pews, when you looked to the sides, it was as if you were looking through the walls and into the city. You would see many buildings, cars and trucks. What impressed me most were the people represented in the mural. Painted on the wall were children playing in the street, expectant mothers, policeman, and fireman. However, the artist also painted pictures of homeless persons, prostitutes, drug dealers, and gang members. As worshippers sat in the pews, the mural reminded them of the needs outside the walls of the church.

MOVED WITH COMPASSION

In Matthew 9:35-38, we read that Jesus went to towns and villages teaching in their meeting places and preaching the good news about God's kingdom. As Jesus healed many people, he saw the crowds, and the scripture says he was “moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” Jesus felt sorry for the hurting people, because they were confused and helpless. A.T. Roberson states this is a picture of sheep “torn and mangled by wild beasts.”

LIFE HURTS

Whenever we gather to worship, we must remember there are hurting people in each seat. There are hurting people within the shadow of our steeples and buildings. What do you see? May we all be moved with compassion as we travel through our communities, because there is hope in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

A Thirst for the Real Thing

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.—Matthew 5:6

New Coke was the unofficial name of the sweeter drink introduced in 1985 by The Coca-Cola Company to replace its flagship soda, Coca-Cola or Coke. Public reaction to the change was devastating, and the new cola quickly entered the pantheon of major marketing flops.

In the Summer of 1985, I traveled with my youth group to the Smokey Mountains. We made the trip on a bus with no air conditioner. On our trip home, we stopped at a Country Store for refreshments. At this store, I had the opportunity to purchase the Classic Coca-Cola that was reintroduced after the NEW COKE had been rejected. The taste of this familiar Coke formula was so satisfying. I will never forget how much I enjoyed that cold Classic Coca-Cola—The Real Thing. I rejected the taste of the new formula because I had tasted the original formula for so long and could recognize a difference.

"There is a twist to this story which will please every humanist and will probably keep Harvard professors puzzled for years," said Donald Keough, president and chief operating officer of Coca-Cola, at a press conference. "The simple fact is that all the time and money and skill poured into consumer research on the new Coca-Cola could not measure or reveal the deep and abiding emotional attachment to original Coca-Cola felt by so many people."

In our spiritual lives, the more we partake of the things of God the more we will desire. The more we pray, the more we will desire to pray. That’s why we don’t need to wait until we “feel like” praying. We will not have a desire to pray until we have faithfully pressed on in prayer. The more I pray, the hungrier I will be for time with God. If I’m not yearning to pray, I haven’t been praying enough.

TEN COMMANDMENTS for Music in Worship

Jim Shaddix gave the following "commandments" for the use of music in worship at a recent conference. A Baptist Press article gives his elaboration of each point.

1. Thou shalt worship God, not worship worship.

2. Thou shalt worship as a lifestyle and not as a music style.

3. Thou shalt make the Divine Seeker comfortable first and foremost.

4. Thou shalt use music as a sacrifice of praise, not as synonym for worship.

5. Thou shalt be theologically equipped.

6. Thou shalt reflect a holistic theology in worship content.

7. Thou shalt worship in a rhythm of revelation and response.

8. Thou shalt employ lyrics that reflect communal identity.

9. Thou shalt use technology with theological and pastoral sensitivity.

10. Thou shalt foster worship that reflects the diversity and unity of heaven.

Jim Shaddix, former professor at New Orleans Baptist Seminary, is currently pastor at Riverside Baptist Church in Denver Colorado.

Rick Warren Confirms Visit to North Korea

According to Rick Warren's blog and a story written by Lillian Kwon and published July 9, 2006 by the Christian Post:

Dr. Rick Warren confirmed plans to visit North Korea on July 17, according to a news release Saturday, amid threats of new missile tests from the communist country

The evangelical pastor plans to meet with church and business leaders in what is officially called the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to prepare for his return to preach to some 15,000 people in March 2007. Warren's speaking engagement next year is in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the Pyongyang Revival, what many say established the base of Korean Christianity.

Despite the current standoff over recent missile firings by North Korea, Warren stated, "Regardless of politics, I will go anywhere I am invited to preach the Gospel."

A delegation of South Korean businessmen working with representatives from North Korea was reported to have visited Warren at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., to invite him as the preacher for the anniversary event next spring. They had quietly received permission to hold the first public outdoor Christian service in North Korea in 50 years, according to the release.

Many have expressed concern that the North Korean government could take the opportunity to identify the expected 15,000 Christians attending the service with Rick Warren and persecute them.

Warren has responded:

"I know they're going to use me," Warren said,
"So I'm going to use them."

Many volatile situations exist--Iraq, Iran, Israel, Palestine, North Korea, China... However, the world needs the gospel. I admire Warren's commitment to "go anywhere I am invited to preach the Gospel."

100 Years From Today

Empty your basket

A basket can only hold so many things. If a basket is full we must remove something to place another item into the basket. Our daily schedules are just like a basket. Most times our days are filled with so many activities that we can’t fit a prayer time into our day. We must remove those things that distract us. We may need to remove certain T.V. programs, hobbies, or even some sleep, to fit Bible Study and prayer time into our day. Unfortunately, when new opportunities come our way, we are tempted to remove the things that have eternal value. Don’t sacrifice the best for the good.

What Will Really Matter?

In 100 years from now, what will really matter? The cars we drove and the houses we decorated will be inconsequential. Jesus said, “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” Have we allowed God to “create a clean heart within us?” Are we sharing the Good News Jesus taught? Give God the best.

Stay On The Wall

Nehemiah was given a huge task. He was called by God to rebuild the walls and restore the gates of Jerusalem. He faced threats from enemies, discouragement of the workers, disloyalty among his people, and selfishness of the officials. Also, he had to deal with distractions.

Distractions

At one time, Nehemiah’s enemies asked him to meet with them 17 miles away from Jerusalem. Due to the distance, he would have been away from the wall for least 3 days. How did Nehemiah respond? He said, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?”

Great vs. Good

Just like Nehemiah, we have to deal with distractions. Most of our choices are between activities that are great or just satisfactory. Are we allowing “good” things to keep us from doing the “best” things?hat will really matter?

Nehemiah was given a huge task. He was called by God to rebuild the walls and restore the gates of Jerusalem. He faced threats from enemies, discouragement of the workers, disloyalty among his people, and selfishness of the officials. Also, he had to deal with distractions.

Distractions

At one time, Nehemiah’s enemies asked him to meet with them 17 miles away from Jerusalem. Due to the distance, he would have been away from the wall for least 3 days. How did Nehemiah respond? He said, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?”

Great vs. Good

Just like Nehemiah, we have to deal with distractions. Most of our choices are between activities that are great or just satisfactory. Are we allowing “good” things to keep us from doing the “best” things?

Pass the Salt, Darling

A man was invited for dinner at the home of his new boss. Every time he needed something, he made his request to his wife by calling her "My Love", "Darling", or “Sweetheart." His boss was impressed and said, "It's really nice to hear someone married for several years still saying those sweet pet names." The man said, "Well, honestly, I've forgotten her name.”

You Are the Salt of the Earth

In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth.” Why did he not say, “You are the gold of the earth” or “You are the uranium of the world?” Well, in the ancient world, salt was a precious commodity due to two primary uses.

Salt Preserves and Flavors

First, the preserving attributes of salt was of great value during the time of Christ. The Mediterranean region was mostly tropical, and, in this hot climate, meat would spoil if not preserved. Since ice was not readily available, and no refrigerators or freezers existed, salt was used to cure meat to prevent it from decaying. Second, salt was used to flavor meals. Just open a jar of baby food and taste a pureed mixture of green beans and carrots. Immediately, you will notice how bland food is without flavoring.

He’s Not Worth His Salt?

Since it was such a valuable commodity, Roman soldiers were paid in salt. Eventually, an expression developed for soldiers who were not performing their required duties. Officers would say, “He’s not worth his salt.”

Christians are to be a preserving factor in our families and on the job. We should flavor our communities with compassionate service. Just as salty foods make us thirsty. Our lives as Christians should lead people to desire God’s will for their lives. Are you salty?

The Difficult Path

Choices

In America, we prefer a variety of choices. At grocery stores, we can buy hundreds of flavors of tea, coffee, soup, and soda. If you want to purchase a box of cereal, you must choose from a varied assortment of grains, fruits, shapes, and colors. All companies are trying to improve traditional products. Ketchup & mayonnaise come in “upside down” squeeze bottles. Bread comes in a convenient “no crust” loaf.

Convenience

Convenience is desired in all our transactions. So, we have drive-through restaurants and drive-up bank tellers. I have even heard of a drive-through window at a funeral home.

Crosses

Yet, Jesus was constantly challenging his followers to leave a comfortable existence and to live by faith in a realm where we are forced to trust God. Christ said, “And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” Crosses are not comfortable. Just ask Jesus.

Expect Opposition

Following Jesus will lead to harassment. Around the world Christians are persecuted for their faith. When Jesus stated in the Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,” he stressed the blessed person who stands for what is right will face opposition.

However, persecution is a compliment. If we are effective in our stand for truth, those who oppose righteousness will seek to eliminate our influence. Therefore, we must view difficult times as opportunities to grow. Paul wrote, “We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed” (Romans 5:3-4). The easy path is comfortable, but it is not beneficial. Take the difficult path.

The Dimensions of God’s Love

When he wrote his letter to the Ephesians, Paul was in prison. He was more concerned about the way the Christians in Ephesus were handling the news of his persecution than his own personal challenges. Recorded in Ephesians 3, Paul prayed that the Ephesians would comprehend “the breadth (width), and length, and depth, and height” of Jesus’ love. My prayer is that you can grasp how much Jesus loves you.

The Width

In 1977, a Boeing 747 left San Francisco on October 28th and returned on Oct. 31. During this flight around the world, the plane traveled 26,382 miles. How wide is the Love of Christ? It is wide enough to cover the entire world and its 6.5 billion inhabitants.

The Length

The longest river in the world is the Nile River, which is 4,145 miles long. The Mississippi River is 3710 miles long. How long is the love of Christ? Since Jesus is eternal, His love lasts forever. You may run from God for a lifetime, but, as Paul wrote to the Romans, “nothing can separate” you from His love.

The Depth

In August 2000, Rescuers raced to save the crew of a Russian nuclear submarine, which sank during military exercises in the Barents Sea off the northwest coast of Russia. The submarine was approximately 300 ft under water. Due to fierce weather and incredibly cold water, rescue efforts failed. All in the submarine perished. How deep is the love of Christ? No matter how deep you have been submerged into sin and rebellion against God, God’s compassionate arms are able to reach you. Jesus will never give up on you. You are never too low for Jesus.

The Height

Mt. Everest, the world’s highest mountain, is 29,022 ft tall. How high is the love of Jesus? The care of Christ is high enough to take you all the way to heaven, if you trust in Him.

So, whatever you face in the coming days, remember the width, depth, height, and length of the love of Christ.

A Super Man

Look, it’s a Bird! It’s a Plane! No, it’s…my 4 Year-Old.

My 4 year-old son has Superman Fever. Furthermore, he claims to have Superman power. Just feel his muscles and he will prove it to you. He has a Superman cape, lawn chair, flip flops, sandals, pajamas, and, hopefully, I can write this in mixed company…UNDERWEAR (boxers and briefs).

Frequently, he “flies” into my home office hoisting a burning airliner, a derailed locomotive, or an evil mechanical monster. He claims to gain his power from the famed Superman “S,” affixed to all the superhero’s trademarked merchandise. I love watching him fantasize about saving the world from disaster. I wish he could.

50 Marathons in 50 States in 50 Days

A real life "Superman" is attempting the unbelievable to help folks recover from disaster. Sam Thompson from Vicksburg, MS has sacrificed many hours helping the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. However, he feels many people have forgotten the victims of America’s worst natural disaster. So, he wants to jog the nation’s memory (pun intended).

The 25 year-old plans to run 50 marathons (26.2 miles)in 50 states in 50 days. If successful, he will log a total of 1310 miles. He began by completing a marathon course in Colorado on July 1 and he is scheduled to achieve his mind-boggling goal on August 19 in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. He is attempting this Herculean feat to remind the world that the Mississippi Gulf Coast continues to recover. You can check out his website at 50in50in50.com.

As of today, Sam Thompson did not have a sponsor. All of his travel expenses are coming out of his pocket. He is making physical and financial sacrifices to express his concern. He is running for his fellow Mississippians.

For Whom Do You Run?

While Sam Thompson is running a race for the people on the Mississippi Coast, all of us are running in a spiritual race. In the race of life, Christians run for Jesus. The Bible says …let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus,…Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV).

The Apostle Paul wrote:

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.--I Corinthians 9:24-27 (NKJV)

Lordship, Followship, and Disciplineship

To run for Jesus we must practice lordship. Jesus must be the Lord of my life if I am to claim to be one of his followers. Adrian Rogers said, “If I put things between me and Christ, it is idolatry. If I put Christ between me and things, it is victory!” Often, people ask, “Where is the Holy Spirit working?” The truth is the Holy Spirit is working where Jesus is Lord.

Followship is the act of going where Jesus leads. So, following Jesus means being obedient no matter what is required. Jesus is enough to when we surrender all to Him.

True discipleship is disciplineship. We are not led by emotions in our obedience to God. Sometimes we don’t “feel” like praying or studying God’s word. Our emotions are not to be our Lord. As Paul wrote, “I discipline my body and bring it into subjection.” In the stewardship of the blessings of God, we must practice discipline.

Let the Dead Bury the Dead

Then another of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, let me first go and bury my father." But Jesus said to him, "Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.” –Matthew 8:21-22 (NKJV)

Of course, Jesus advocated honoring parents, but the problem with the disciple in this passage is his “Me first” attitude. He said, "Lord,...me first." Some scholars have stated the man’s father may not have been dead and he was planning to wait until he died to follow Jesus. However, even if he had died, the spiritually dead can bury the physically dead. Following Jesus involves sharing the message of eternal life with the spiritually dead. Nothing is to take priority over answering the call of Christ.

You Ran Well, But...

May we escape the type of evaluation given by Paul to some of the folks in Galatia, You ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? (Galatians 5:7). Super men and women always run in the footsteps of Jesus, consistently casting aside "the sin which so easily ensnares us."

The Burning of Washington and the Grace of God

In August 1814, our nation’s capital was invaded and burned by British soldiers. America had been at war with the British Empire since 1812, but the action so far had consisted of a series of skirmishes along the Great Lakes region. With the defeat of Napoleon, the British Empire turned its full attention to the former colonies. Britain sent battle-tested troops to pound the up-start Americans. Washington had little strategic value - the prosperous port of Baltimore was much more important. However, as capital of the nation, the British hoped that its burning would have a psychological impact on the determination of the Americans to fight.

As the British army of approximately 4,000 approached, the majority of Washington residents fled the city. On August 24th, American defenders were quickly overwhelmed by the invaders in a battle at Bladensburg a few miles from the city. A messenger was dispatched to the White House to warn First Lady Dolly Madison of the impeding arrival of the British. She and her staff fled by carriage across the Potomac - taking with her the full-length portrait of George Washington that had been torn from a White House wall.

Since the British forces defeated the American militia, who withdrew in disarray, the road to Washington was clear. That evening, the vanguard of the British army reached Capitol Hill and began its systematic destruction of all public buildings in the city. The British burned the White House and the Capitol, but the rest of Washington was saved by an amazing chain of events.

While the city was burning and the British celebrated, a major storm moved into Washington. Hurricane force winds blew into the city. Soldiers were literally blown off their horses. Many horses were killed. Flying debris injured and killed many soldiers. Torrential rains extinguished all the fires. When the weather improved, the British, under orders not to hold any territory, limped out of the city and returned to their ships never to return.

Some may say this strange twist of events was just a coincidence. However, I believe this was just one of the many times God has blessed America. If you read the “uncensored” history of America, you will find many miraculous acts of God that have blessed our nation. You will find many numerous Godly and prayerful men who led our country. Many of our Godly leaders had a deep faith in God and regularly prayed for God’s guidance.

God has blessed America. May America now bless God.

A Patriotic Wish by Edgar Guest

I'd like to be the sort of man
the flag could boast about;
I'd like to be the sort of man
it cannot live without;
I'd like to be the type of man
That really is American:
The head-erect and shoulders-square,
Clean-minded fellow, just and fair,
That all men picture when they see
The glorious banner of the free.

I'd like to be the sort of man
the flag now typifies,
The kind of man we really want
the flag to symbolize;
The loyal brother to a trust,
The big, unselfish soul and just,
The friend of every man oppressed,
The strong support of all that's best,
The sturdy chap the banner's meant,
Where'er it flies, to represent.

I'd like to be the sort of man
the flag's supposed to mean,
The man that all in fancy see
wherever it is seen,
The chap that's ready for a fight
Whenever there's a wrong to right,
The friend in every time of need,
The doer of the daring deed,
The clean and generous handed man
That is a real American.

What is Patriotism?

Patriotism is easy to understand in America; it means looking out for yourself by looking out for your country.--Calvin Coolidge

Patriotism is your conviction that this country is superior to all other countries because you were born in it.--George Bernard Shaw

I think patriotism is like charity--it begins at home.--Henry James

Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.--Adlai Stevenson

Drinking From Wells I Did Not Dig

“So it shall be, when the LORD your God brings you into the land of which He swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give you large and beautiful cities which you did not build, houses full of all good things, which you did not fill, hewn-out wells which you did not dig, vineyards and olive trees which you did not plant—when you have eaten and are full—then beware, lest you forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.--Deuteronomy 6:10-12 (NKJV)

Grateful Sons of WWII Veterans

In a documentary released last year entitled League of Grateful Sons, Doug Phillips journeyed with World War II Veterans who fought the Japanese in the battle of Iwo Jima. In commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of this historic invasion, veterans and family members of men who died on the island reflected on lessons learned from the horrors the victorious soldiers experienced. Although confined to a wheelchair, one of the veterans who returned to the island discussed his faith and Americanism with shocking humility. He cited Deuteronomy 6:11, noting his motivation for serving his country sprang from the recognition that he enjoyed freedom because of the sacrifices of others. As the scripture states, the Israelites would drink from wells they had not dug and gather from vineyards they had not planted. Americans enjoy freedom for which most of us have sacrificed nothing.

Would I Give My Life?

In 1983, as I High School Senior, I entered a local American Legion Essay Contest. The assigned topic was “What Americanism Means to Me.” I won the first place prize, which was a $100 Savings Bond and a free meal at the Legion Hall. While I don’t remember all I wrote, I do remember proclaiming “If it is required, I am willing to die for my country.” I was 18, sporting an afro and slow-growing facial hair (I shaved once a week). Frequently and hauntingly, I recall my bold statement. Was I serious?

An Unearned Freedom

As a 41 year-old father of three energetic and entertaining children, I recognize my generation has benefited more than any other from the sacrifices of the past 230 years. We’ve enjoyed the highest standard of living than any other nation in history without having to wonder where our next meal would be found unlike our depression-era predecessors. We made plans for college without the fear of being drafted and transported to the jungles of Vietnam before we grew our first dozen chest hairs. We have never known a world without television, telephones, refrigeration, and air-conditioning. We have drank from wells we have not dug.

Consequently, I have to give something back to America. I must demonstrate my gratitude. If I don't, I am a pitiful man.

Tough Questions from "Little Johnny"

Once a well known governor went to a elementary City to speak. After his talk, he had a "question and answer" period.

Little Johnny raised his hand and the governor asked him for his name. "Johnny." "And what is your question, Johnny?"

"I have 3 questions:
1st - Whatever happened to your promise to cut taxes?
2nd - Whatever happened to your promise to give public school teachers a raise?
3rd – Why did the newspapers never report your recent drunk driving arrest?"

Just then the bell rang for recess. The governor informed the children they would continue after recess. When they resumed, the governor said, "Okay where were we? Oh, that's right, question time. Who has a question?" A different little boy put up his hand. The governor pointed to him and asked him for his name. "Larry." "And what is your question, Larry?"

I have 5 questions:
1st - Whatever happened to your promise to cut taxes?
2nd - Whatever happened to your promise to give public school teachers a raise?
3rd – Why did the newspapers never report your recent drunk driving arrest?"
4th - Why did the recess bell sound 20 minutes early?
5th - What happened to Johnny?"

Eleven Reasons You Can know God Loves You

1. He Sent His Only Son to Die on the Cross for you. (John 3:16)

2. He gives you the freedom of choice. (Romans 8:21)

3. He created you in His image. (Genesis 1:26)

4. The Holy Spirit talks to God for you when you don’t know what to pray. (Romans 8:26)

5. He knows everything about you. (Psalms 44:21)

6. He has a purpose for your life. (Jeremiah 29:11)

7. He gives you a second chance. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

8. Once you’re saved, you are saved. (John 10:27-28)

9. He gives you the Holy Spirit. (John 14:16-17)

10. He promised to prepare a place for you in heaven. (John 14:2)

11. He promised to return someday. (John 14:3)

Materialism

A successful business man parked his brand-new sports car in front of his office. As he exited the car, a truck passed too close and destroyed the driver's side door. The man dialed 911 and, within minutes, a policeman pulled up.

When the man calmed down from his ranting, the officer said, in disgust. "I can't believe how materialistic you are."

"How can you say that?" asked the man.

The cop replied, "Don't you know that your left arm is missing? It must have been torn off when the truck hit you."

"O, No!" screamed the man. "Where's my Rolex?"

Elements of Personal Prayer: C.A.S.T.

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.—I Peter 5:7 (KJV)

I developed the acrostic C.A.S.T. to help guide my personal prayer time. I believe these 4 elements of prayer are essential.

1. CONFESSION

1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

2. ADORATION

Psalm 35:28: And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness [and] of thy praise all the day long.

3. SUPPLICATION

Philippians 4:6: Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

4. THANKSGIVING

I Thessalonians 5:16-18: Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.

Cage of Unforgivenss

Many times we may have an imaginary “Cage of Unforgiveness.” We place folks who has hurt us in this secret cage. Occasionally, we may allow them to get out of the cage, but not for long. Forgiveness means to open the door and release them, promising to never cage them again. Jesus said, “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.” When we confess our sins, God forgives us. We should do the same.

The Ruts of Our Fathers

The standard width of railroad tracks is 4 feet, 8 ½ inches. Historically, this odd width has impacted wars and even space exploration. While some experts believe a gauge of 5 feet would be more efficient, the shorter width (4 ‘ 8 ½ “) has been used for hundreds of years and has been adopted extensively. Why?

Ruts

George Hilton, a professor at UCLA, has studied the history of railroads at length. He states you can track the current rail width all the way back to the Roman Empire. Archaeologists have found that ruts in the roads at Pompeii are almost the same width as the current railways. The grooves in the ancient roads were cut by Roman chariots. On these roads, a chariot of a different width would suffer a broken wheel. The girth of horses used to pull the chariots helped establish the distance between the wheels.

Early Railroads

When early railways were developed in England, railway designers tried several different gauges, but ended in choosing a width similar to the Roman Chariots (4’, 8 ½ ”). Then, when trains came to the United States, many used this standard. However, in the South a wider track was more common (5 feet). Unfortunately, this proved to be a liability during the Civil War, because some equipment from the South could not be transported to other regions. Some scholars feel this was a determining factor in the war. As a result, southern railroads were standardized.

Roman Chariots and the Space Shuttle

Originally, the engineers of the Solid Rocket Boosters for the Space Shuttle designed them to be larger. However, since the rockets had to be moved from Utah to Florida, the size of the railroad restricted their dimensions. So, a simple decision thousands of years ago concerning the width of a chariot impacted space travel.

Find Us Faithful

Jon Mohr wrote these words:

O may all who come behind us find us faithful;
May the fire of our devotion light their way.
May the footprints that we leave Lead them to believe,
And the lives we live inspire them to obey.
O may all who come behind us find us faithful.

If I Were SBC President

TOP TEN Things I Would Do If I Were President of the Southern Baptist Convention

10. Pinch myself.

9. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: As President of the SBC, I must go on record as stating “Even though my hair doesn’t have the luster of Wade Burleson’s, I’m just not mad about it.”

8. Create a Daily Blog entitled- Preachers Gone Wild

7. Prepare for distribution at San Antonio- “My Favorite Salsa and Hot Relish Recipes.”

6. Urge the abbreviation ADM (Associational Directors of Missions) be changed to GWSJBDGEC (Guys who serve Jesus but Don’t Get Enough Credit)

5. Resolve to never use the phrase “My Dear Sweet Brother...”

4. Appoint Wade Burleson to the “Whispering” Bill Anderson Chair of Country Music at Midwestern Seminary

3. Recommend Renaming Discipleship Program to: The Small Cell Bible Study Discussion Group in Homes or at Church or in a Coffee Shop Training Union

2. CP Bucks- Reward Churches who give to Cooperative Program with Gift Certificates redeemable at Kentucky Fried Chicken on a $50 to $1 ratio.

1. I’m going to Disney World!!