Unsustainable Good

Moses' father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing is not good. You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to do it alone. 

--Exodus 18:17-18

Moses was surrounded by people who needed him. Sound familiar? These emancipated Jews had problems with each other and they required a mediator. Moses had personally received wisdom from God. So, this leader, hand-picked by the Almighty, settled the disputes of angry, hurt, and confused individuals. “From morning till evening,” Moses was knee-deep in the troubles of others. He was “all in.” He alone was bearing the weight of being the community’s peacemaker.

After a short time, Jethro, Moses’ paw-in-law, saw where all of this inter-mediation was headed. Moses could not keep this up. While Moses had the proper motivation, his method was unsustainable. One person cannot do it all. Moses was human and so are you.

At times, you and I are “all in” doing our best to help others. We care about people. So, we seek to be there for them. We are open 24/7 expressing the love of God, soothing hurts, and extinguishing fires for distressed souls. However, working alone will wear us out and ministering solo robs others of the blessing of serving. God can use others to meet the needs of people. Do not be afraid to ask others for help.  

(This above was included in a collection of devotions written for Servants Alive Ministries.) 

Will He Find Faith?

I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”  Luke 18:8

During World War II, John and Carl Gray faithfully served their country. Their devoted military service carried the two brothers from rural North Mississippi to Luzon, an island in the Philippines. In 1945, under the leadership of General Douglas MacArthur, John and Carl participated in the campaign to reclaim the island from the Japanese. The campaign was successful. Unfortunately, John was killed in action and Carl died of wounds he received in the battle.

As I ponder the ultimate sacrifices of my great uncles, I wonder if they would be proud of the manner in which I have used the freedom they helped secure. Sometimes it is as if I hear them saying, “Philip, I didn’t die in order for you to act like an idiot.”

My uncles cannot return from eternity, but Jesus has promised he will return. He once asked “When the Son of Man returns, will He really find faith on the earth?” What would Jesus find if he returned today? Would he find you faithfully serving him or would He find you acting like an idiot, neglecting the freedom He purchased with his blood? Do not forget the sacrifice Christ made for you. He deserves your faithfulness.

(The above devotion was included in a collection published by Servants Alive Ministries.)

Contradicting Confessions

And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.”  But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.”   Acts 10:13-14

Peter was never shy in expressing his opinion. When Jesus asked His disciples who people were saying He was, Peter boldly declared “You are the Christ, Son of the Living God.” Jesus affirmed his answer and that Peter had received this insight from God. On the other hand, when Jesus declared He was going to Jerusalem to die, Peter adamantly declared he would never let anyone kill Him. This time Jesus reprimanded Peter by saying “Get behind me Satan.”

As Jesus predicted, during the arrest and trial of Jesus, Peter denied Christ three times. Yet, after the resurrection of Jesus, Peter boldly preached the Gospel and say the Holy Spirit descended upon the Jews, resulting in the salvation of 3000 souls.

In another episode of Peter’s up and down spiritual journey, he received a vision from God. When he was told to “Rise, Peter, kill and eat,” the crusty fisherman said, “By no means, Lord.” The term “Lord” is used to declare God’s dominion over the world. So, Peter contradicted himself by saying “no” to God and at the same time expressing God’s sovereignty over all. He would later change his mind and follow the directions of God. Then, he was used to declare the Gospel to gentiles and the Holy Spirit descended upon them just like he had been given to the Jews.

What about you? Are you saying “no” to God and at the same time calling him LORD? If so, how do you need to change in order to erase this contradiction.  

(The above was included in a collection of devotions published for Servants Alive Ministries.)

Focused on Prayer

In the recently released movie War Room, Tony and Elizabeth Jordan face severe marriage struggles. But their lives take an unexpected turn when Elizabeth meets the resilient Miss Clara who challenges Elizabeth to establish a prayer “war room” and a battle plan of prayer for her family. As Miss Clara wisely says, “Victories don’t come by accident!”
 
The Bible challenges us to “Pray without ceasing.” A prayerful spirit should characterize followers of Jesus. In 2016, I am resolving to continue to pray even more intentionally this year. I pray you will as well. With this in mind, for whom shall we pray? I believe David’s words in Psalm 122:6-9 reveal to us a focus for our prayers in six areas.
1. Country- Military Leaders (v.6a) “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:” We should pray for Israel as the Bible states. However, just as “Jerusalem” faces threats of terror, the USA faces these threats as well. May God protect and guide the men and women who voluntarily serve our nation’s military.
2. Commerce- Business Persons (v. 6b) “May they prosper who love you.” May our economy be characterized by Biblical Ethics and fair labor practices. We should pray that Christian business persons be successful.
3. Crime- Law Enforcement Officers (v.7a) “Peace be within your walls,” Daily, local law enforcement officers take risks to protect property and persons in our towns and county. Individuals who serve on our police forces and through the Sheriffs Department need and deserve our intercessions.
4. Capital- Governmental Leaders (7b) “Prosperity within your palaces.” Pray for those national, state, county, and city governments. Only God’s wisdom can help our leaders solve the complex problems of our society.
5. Companions- Our Neighbors (v.8) “For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, ‘Peace be within you.’” We must pray our neighbors will develop a personal relationship with Jesus, the real peacemaker. A helpful website that can assist you in intentionally praying for your neighbors is Pray4everyhome.com. The site reveals the names of your neighbors and gives you a plan for praying for them.
6. Churches- Communities of Faith (v.9) “Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek your good.” Pray for all churches in our community. As a way to facilitate prayers for the churches of JCBA, the Calendar of Events listed in the newsletter will list 3 or 4 “Churches of the Month” who can be the focus of intercessions.
 
While many decry our nation’s dependence on foreign oil, the paramount hindrance to our peace is dependence upon ourselves. We need God to help us deal with our problems. He has provided the remedy for our sinfulness in the person of Jesus Christ. May our nation be a nation of praying people seeking and serving God.

National Day of Prayer Service

Below is my prayer from last night's service at Escatawpa Baptist Church. I don't always use a manuscript and I certainly did not follow this "word for word."

 

National Day of Prayer Service

Escatawpa Baptist

Wednesday Evening, May 1, 2013

In the Bible, we find in one of his letters to the Corinthians, Paul’s record of many of the problems he faced as a minister of the Gospel. Paul suffered many hardships as he sought to establish churches. 

In II Corinthians 11:27, we read the last segment of the list of challenges. He stated that he served  “in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness— ²⁸ besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.

As the director of the Jackson County Baptist Association, I can relate. My purpose as director is not to direct, but really to assist churches make a difference in their communities. There are 47 sites in Jackson County where Southern Baptist Churches meet. There are several other fine churches that meet in this county. The churches serve as an incredible resource to the community. I have been asked to pray for these churches.

As I thought about how I should pray for the churches, I was reminded of what we call the “High Priestly prayer of Jesus Christ”. This is the prayer Jesus prayed for believers. What a great model, I feel compelled to read a portion of that prayer before I pray.

John 17:20–23

²⁰ “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; ²¹ that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. ²² And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: ²³ I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.

 Let us pray...

Almighty God,

I pray for the churches in this community, in this county, in our state, and nation, and throughout the world.

Father, as Jesus prayed, I ask that there will be unity among the followers of Christ. I pray we will be unified in the churches and that churches would be unified with one another in making a difference for you.

In your word you told us that true religion is "to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."  May we unite in our churches and with fellow believers to help hurting men, women, and children.

May we be unified so that people will know that the Savior we serve is real and has made an eternal difference in our lives. May the ministries of the churches in this area be focused on making a difference in the communities. May the churches not be interested in the comfort of their members but in the discomfort of troubled and struggling people. Father we recognize that only through Jesus can the discomfort of sin be alleviated.

May all that we do model the love of Christ.

I pray for the pastors of the churches and all the church leaders in our area. May we not be distracted by activities that are good, but not in your perfect will.  May we always be pressing toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God.

In the name of Jesus I pray. AMEN.

Pray and Don’t Give Up

Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, saying: “There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, ‘Get justice for me from myadversary.’ And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I do not fear God nor regard man, yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’” Then the Lord said, “Hear what the unjust judge said. 7 And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”
—Luke 18:1-8 (NKJV)

In almost every town in Mississippi, there’s an informal gathering place where the latest political issues are discussed in detail. Men gather at restaurants, convenience stores, farm supply centers, or coffee shops. Women congregate at salons or talk at grocery stores. If you want to hear the latest gossip or opinions on current events, just show up and listen up when these informal gatherings are convened. If you do, you will probably hear someone say, “This country is in a mess!” Well, in many ways that is true. Foreign threats to our peace, financial uncertainty, and rampant
immorality indicate that our world is in chaos, confusion, disarray…a mess.

Many people see no hope for their communities and nation to be pleasing to God. But, does talking about problems seem to solve them? What should we be doing aswe live in this cluttered world?

During his ministry, Jesus traveled in a similarly messy world. His people, the Jews, were oppressed by a foreign government. Rome had hand-picked the ruler of the land, King Herod, who was mentally unstable and violent. He had killed his wife out of jealousy. Most religious leaders were more concerned about what they could get from people than what they could do to help the hurting folks around them. Widows were mistreated. Children were
ignored. Due to their self-interest, Jewish tax collectors were robbing their own people. What a mess!

To instruct his followers on how to live in an unstable world, Jesus told a simple story. This type of story is referred to as a parable. You will find an introduction to the story, the details of the parable, and the truths Jesus stressed in explaining the parable in the Gospel of Luke (18:1-8).

I. Conclusion of the Parable (v.1)

Please note that Luke was compelled by the Holy Spirit to tell us why Jesus told the
parable. He said that the Son of God told the story to remind us that “men
always ought to pray and not lose heart.” Sounds like a story we need to hear
today.

WEMUST PRAY AND NOT GIVE UP.

II. Characters of the Parable (v.2-5)
As you just read, the story features an unjust judge, who was not concerned about
God or what other men thought of him. The judge was asked by a desperate widow
to rule in her favor against someone who had become an adversary. The judge
delayed making a decision. But, finally he decided to rule in her favor in
order to keep her from, as a modern translation reads, “wearing me out.”
·
AN UNGODLY JUDGE MADE THE RIGHT JUDGEMENT.
·
A PERSISTENT WIDOW RECEIVED JUSTICE.

III. Comfort from the Parable (6-8a)

Jesus stressed that a hefty lesson could be learned from the actions of this unjust
judge. If an ungodly man can do what is right, certainly God will answer
believers who cry out to him day and night? Jesus asked, “Will he keep putting
them off?” Of course, he will not. God has done mind-blowing things to prove he
loves us (See John 3:16). He does not like the mess sin has caused in this
world, but He will not abandon His people who are willing to be used by Him to
be transforming instruments by sharing the love of God with unbelievers.

IF UNGODLY PEOPLE CAN MAKE RIGHT JUDGEMENTS, WE CAN BE ASSURED THAT THE PERFECT GOD OF THE UNIVERSE WILL HEAR AND ANSWER OUR PRAYERS ACCORDING TO WHAT IS BEST FOR US.

IV. Challenge of the Parable (8b)

Notably, Jesus demanded a decision from his listeners. He referenced the promise that He, the Son of Man, would return to the world someday and He questioned “Will He really find faith on the earth?” In other words, if Jesus returned today, how many faithful and prayerful men would He find busy trying to make a difference for God? Or will He find church people who are all talk and no action?

WE MUST BE FAITHFUL TO THE END

Summary

In a world where economic challenges are leaving many jobless and individuals living on fixed incomes are worried about their financial futures, we must pray and not give up.

In a world where many activities the Bible clearly calls sin are celebrated and flaunted, we must pray and not give up.

In a world where political unrest and violent terrorist attacks face, we must pray and not give up.

In a world where most people are facing an eternity without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, we must pray and not give up.

Pray, Rain or Shine

On Feb. 1, several folks gathered to pray at East Lawn Baptist in spite of a storm moving into the area.While I believe it was prudent for many people to stay home during such horrible weather, I do appreciate those that ventured out into the severe weather. God protected us and the rally was a blessing. However, if we are to really “cover” Mississippi in prayer and, especially, Jackson County, we must understand that we have to do more than just attend meetings. We are commanded in the scriptures to “Pray without ceasing (I Thess. 5:17).” For me, this means to continually be in a state of prayer. So, with eyes and hearts open, we must prayerfully see our communities and obediently respond as God leads to the needs around us.

One prayer I am praying is that during our spring and Summer Ministries we will see many accept Christ. You can help us. Why not organize a “Prayer Walking Team” in your church and commit to praying over the ministry sites where visiting mission teams will serve? If interested, contact us and we, will connect you with a site.

Remember, we must pray, come rain or shine.

If...

In evaluating history, many “what if” scenarios have intrigued students and researchers. What if Hitler’s Germany had won World War II? What if John F. Kennedy had not been assassinated? What if Booth's bullet had missed Abraham Lincoln? What if Harry Truman's opponent, Thomas Dewey, had received one vote more per precinct in Ohio and California in the 1948 U. S. Presidential Election?

Sportswriters like to entertain the thoughts of what could have been. Repeatedly broadcasters have mused that if in the last football season kicker Kyle Brotzman had not missed a 26-yard field goal with 2 seconds left in regulation, and another from 29 yards in overtime, Boise State would have defeated Nevada, won their 25th straight football game, and possibly played for the national championship this year.

However, history is history. We cannot change the past, but the Bible contains a big “if” that, if we are obedient to the challenge, will change our future. The Lord appeared to Solomon and promised him that “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land (2 Chr 7:14, KJV).” God keeps his promises. I believe his promise remains true. Will you commit to pray daily for yourself, your leaders, and your unsaved neighbors? Can you imagine what would happen if...

Happy 50th Anniversary Mom and Dad!

Dear Mom and Dad,

Thank you for being incredible examples of faith, love, and dedication. You faithfully provided for your children, making sacrifices to see that we had all we needed to thrive in life. Mother I never remember you getting a new dress when I was younger. However, we always had all that we needed.

Memories of laughter are many. We had fun in our family. You patiently put up with a lot of silliness from me, but I have always enjoyed making you both laugh. Dad, thanks for giving me the love of a good joke.

Our trip to Arkansas will forever be etched in my mind. Even though I am constantly reminded of my strange choice to order a ham sandwich at every restaurant we entered, going to the amusement park, Dog Patch USA, in the Ozarks was quite a treat. Riding in the back of that not-so-spacious and “un-air conditioned” Datsun B210 with John and Gail was an experience I cannot believe our family survived. However, seeing the Passion Play, depicting the life of Christ in real life, gave me a visual setting of the scriptures that has stayed with me for these many years.

Dad, I never will forget the gathering of the family every night for our devotional time. Many times I resented having to stop watching television, but you faithfully saw that we spent time as a family hearing the scriptures read and praying together. You practiced what you preached.

Mother, when I was about 8 or 9 years old, I never felt more loved than the time you cared for me after I fell from a tree and was knocked unconscious. I have no memory of Dad carrying me from the yard and placing me on the bottom bunk in my bedroom. You took a cool cloth and lovingly wiped my forehead until I awakened. As I opened my eyes you were looking at me with so much love, a mother’s love. I didn’t want the moment to stop. So, I just closed my eyes and reveled in the warmth and comfort of the moment.

Dad you have faithfully preached and taught the Word of God. The call upon your life is so evident. You have always loved to preach. Hearing you singing on Sunday mornings while we were getting ready for church is a precious memory. You loved going to church.

Mother, I was born while you and dad were still enrolled in Mississippi College. I often thought my birth when John was just 18 months old, led you to stop pursuing your education. Your commitment to complete your college degree almost 30 degrees later was a great inspiration to me. Your example inspired me to complete my PhD.

Mom and Dad, thank you for being who you are. Two people who love Jesus, love your family, and love each other.

Be assured of my love for you,

Philip

A True Friend

Last Spring, I watched the grass begin to grow in my yard, but there was a problem. I did not have a mower. During this same time, my wife and I were participating in a Christian money management course at our church and we had made the commitment not to go further into debt. So, while my heart rate would increase whenever I walked by a zero-turn mower in a store, I was determined not to make a major purchase that would stress my budget. I shared my predicament with a friend and, within a few days, he freely gave me a used riding mower. While the mower was not zero-turn, the zero cost was right in my budget. But, most importantly, this he act of generosity revealed I had a true friend.

Jesus was a true friend to many different types of people. While his critics did not appreciate his buddies that much, he intentionally invested his time other men (Read Matthew 11:18-19).

Jesus was identified as a “friend of…sinners (Matt. 11:19).” Why? Well, he was hanging out with guys who most religious people avoided. He ate with them, laughed with them, and literally showed them the love of God. Jesus gave his friends something better than a mower. He gave them time and care. This truth was voiced by Jesus when he said, “Wisdom is vindicated by her actions (Matthew 11:19, HCSB).” In other words, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

More than just hanging out with other men, Jesus spoke Godly truths to them (Read John 15:15). He called them “friends.” He once said, “Everything that I learned from my Father I have made know to you.” Today, we label this type of disclosure as transparent. He was not acting like someone he was not. He was honest. He was a true friend. Are you?

Partnering With Haiti

Today, the Executive Team of the Jackson County Baptist Association (JCBA) unanimously approved establishing a partnership with the devastated country of Haiti. Specifically, the Missions Development Team, under the direction of Ben Carlisle, will explore ways we can help an orphanage in Port-au-Prince. This orphanage has been supported by Wade Baptist Church for quite some time. Last week, L. C. Drawdy, Associate Pastor at Wade Baptist, visited the orphanage and spent time with the pastor who is directing the ministry to these unfortunate children. Later, connections may be made with other Baptist congregations in the area.

While exact details of future trips have not been finalized, we would ask you to help us fulfill this commitment. As directed by the Mississippi Baptist Convention's website, we ask you to consider the following:

1. Pray: Continue to pray for the relief efforts being undertaken by the Mississippi Baptist Convention (MBC). Medical teams are in Haiti now. Also, pray that the Lord would guide your church and the JCBA to respond to these needs according to His will.

2. Provide:

Finances- The Mississippi Baptist Convention Board is accepting donations to fund both the immediate needs and the long-term disaster relief efforts in Haiti. Fully 100% of the donations (every penny) will be used directly to aid Haiti earthquake victims. Checks should be made payable to MBCB, with “Haiti Earthquake Relief” noted on the memo line, and mailed to Mississippi Baptist Convention Board, Haiti Disaster Relief, P.O. Box 530, Jackson, MS 39205.

Food- A “Bucket of Hope” consists of a plastic five-gallon bucket packed with selected foodstuffs. The MBC is collecting these significant donations. Locally, Ingalls Ave. Baptist in Pascagoula, MS will serve as a drop-off site. The buckets should be delivered to the church by March 10, 2010.

3. Prepare: As needs and opportunities are identified, we will need to respond as quickly as possible. So, have anyone interested in going on a Mission Trip acquire an up-to-date passport, inoculations (Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid Fever) and funding to be self-sustained while on the trip. Individuals planning to go on a trip to Haiti should anticipate primitive conditions.

4. Partner: Make a commitment to partner with us in making a difference in Haiti on some level. If you or your church wants to be part of a Haiti Mission Team, contact our office by phone (228 769-7101) or email me at AMD1726@att.net. You may access the www.mbcb.org for the latest updates on the MBC disaster response. Also, if your church has a pre-existing connection to a church or ministry (orphanage, hospital, etc.) in Haiti, please share that information with us.

Jackson County was the recipient of extraordinary relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina. Helping Haiti is a tangible way to express our gratitude to God for the acts of grace we received. Contact me or Ben Carlisle, Missions Development Team Leader if you have any questions.

Do You Need to Pray?

Last night my son and I visited one of the churches in the JCBA. We were blessed by a meaningful time of worship. At one point, the music minister asked those present to read or quote Bible verses that were meaningful to them. Several verses were shared. Then, the pastor preached an uplifting and insightful sermon based on I Thessalonians 5:18 which challenges us with the words "in everything give thanks."

Following the sermon, the pastor extended an invitation to anyone who felt the need to come forward and pray at the altar. Following his words, my son looked at me and said, "Dad, do you need to pray?"

To be honest, I was slow to answer. Of course, I needed to pray. However, at that time, I did not feel I needed to go down front. On the other hand, I felt compelled to explain to my son that prayer is something we should do at all times. I appreciate the uncomfortable moment the question created, because I was led to reflect on the importance of a prayerful attitude.

Prayer, Praise, and Perspective

Paul wrote "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (II Thess. 5:16-18.)"

In these verses were are told to "rejoice," "pray," and "give thanks." All Christians would agree these are important. Yet, these acts of worship are prescribed to be exercised continuously . We are to rejoice all the time. Pray all the time. Give thanks in all situations. Is there anyone in the house that feels a little overwhelmed with this command for fulfilling, what is termed in this passage, as "the will of God in Christ for you?"

Thankful for the Pain?

Well, at first glance, we may be led to believe the aforementioned verses command that we are to thank God "for" everything. However, please note the scripture says "in" everything give thanks. As I heard the preacher say last night, certainly we can't be thankful "for" everything, but we can be thankful in the midst of the circumstances.

No matter how much pain we are experiencing, we can still rejoice that God will not "leave us or forsake us." No matter how bleak the days seem, we can still have a prayerful attitude as we venture into the darkness. Also, no matter how unfortunate the consequences of our situation is, we can still thank God for His eternal presence and love.

So, it all goes back to a simple truth. We should be thankful to God for not just being good to us. We must simply thank Him for who He is.

The Transforming Power of God

During my 7th Grade year at Carroll Academy, I was distracted in class one day and found myself talking to a classmate. My science teacher did not appreciate my disobedience. Therefore, she paddled me. Next, since I was playing football, the coach heard about my waywardness and he, too, paddled me. Furthermore, my elder brother opened his big mouth and told my parents about the spankings. So, my dad took a belt and expressed his displeasure over my behavior.

Let me just say that I was never paddled in school again. At Wal-Mart 3 for 1 is a good deal, but 3 for 1 when it comes to the "board of education" being applied to the "seat of understanding" is not good business.The reason my teachers and my parents took my disloyalty seriously was that they expected me to respect those in authority and do what I was told.

A Changed Man Is Used to Change Lives

When Jesus came to Peter and commanded him to "Follow me," he left all and followed the Messiah. While he was obedient, he still brought a lot of baggage with him. The rugged fisherman lugged around a ton of religious tradition that clouded his view of people who were not Jews. He had a disdain for non-Jews. Eventually, Peter's attitude toward Gentiles was transformed following a dramatic vision (see Acts 10:9-16). Then, Peter was directed by God to answer the request of some strangers who arrived where the disciple was staying. He agreed to go with the men and he went to where Cornelius, a military man, was waiting for him. Cornelius was a devout, God-fearing man, who was generous, and prayerful (Acts 10: 2).

Recorded in Acts 10:24-44, we find Peter, a man transformed by God and used by God to share the transforming Gospel to a people eager to hear from God. For me, I see five things important to remember in response to the transforming power of God.

I. Be Conscious of Your Humanity (24-26)

Cornelius was so pleased to see the answer to his prayers arrive, he fell on his face and "worshipped" Peter. However, Peter would have nothing to do with that type of welcome. He stated, “Stand up; I myself am also a man.”

We must resist the desire to take ourselves too seriously. In the age of Twitter and Facebook, many folks appear incredibly absorbed with themselves. None of us are really that interesting. Take away God's grace and we're just plain lost. All Christians must be humble. While I enjoy social networks, my goal must be to stay in touch with what God is doing, instead monitoring the domestic activities of mostly sedentary adults.

II. Be Committed to Follow God (27-29)

Peter was in a good place. He was where God wanted him. He told Cornelius, "I came without objection as soon as I was sent for.” Opportunities to minister are to be valued. Of course, we can't do everything, but when God places a ministry before you, proceed in faith. Let's be led by God, not opinion polls or projected attendance figures. There's a song we sing in church often, "Wherever he leads I'll go." Really?

III. Be Convinced that God Prepares the Way before You (30-33)

Cornelius said, “We are all present before God, to hear all the things commanded you by God.” What a blessing to preach to a group eager to hear from God. When we are faithful to do what God calls us to do, we must remember God is working to prepare the way for our ministry. He goes before us.

IV. Be Certain that Jesus is Lord of All (34-38)

Peter shared with those gathered, "In every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him." Jesus is Lord of all. We must cast away the cultural glasses through which we see the world. I'm proud to be an American, but we don't have a corner on God's grace. "For God so loved the world..."

V. Be Converted through Repentance (39-43)

Peter's sermon reached a high point when he declared, "He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.” God forgives. We must repent.

Do What You Are Told

God expects us to do what we are told. Peter moved passed his past and focused on reaching others for Christ. My prayer is that I will be sensitive to the leadership of the Lord and that I will follow him in obedience. What about you?

A Unique Sunday

Well, my first Sunday as Director of Missions for the Jackson County Baptist Association certainly had a different feel for it. Since I have been a pastor and staff member for so long, visiting churches is a unique experience for me. Not having a sermon to prepare in the last few days was strange as well.

Yet, I enjoyed visiting three different churches. The pastors all delivered great sermons. The musical styles varied from all of the churches, but I felt free to worship in all of the congregations. The congregations I visited all welcomed me warmly.

Honestly, I did miss preaching. However, many folks tell me I will have many opportunities in the future. I anticipate that.

We are still in the parsonage of FBC Leakesville. Our house that is being built in Jackson County is not going to be ready for another 2-3 weeks. Hopefully, it will be sooner than we expect. FBC is gracious to let us stay in Leakesville.

The Last and the First

The Last Day as Pastor

Well, the last few days have been very emotional. My last Sunday at FBC Leakesville will be forever treasured. In the morning service, I felt so much more comfortable preaching than I thought I would. However, at times, I had to fight back tears. The people of FBC have been so loving and supportive of my family and me that I doubt I will ever feel as loved by a congregation as I have by them.

In the evening, I baptized 4 girls. One of the girls was the daughter of Vander Highsmith, who we ordained in the same service. I baptized Vander a few years ago. What a blessing to have baptized a man who is now serving as a deacon.

The church provided a beautiful and delicious reception for our family following the evening service. We are humbled by the love we have been shown. We will continue to live in the parsonage of FBC Leakesville until the house being built for us is completed.

We will deeply miss serving with Mike and Selina Smith, and Boo and Missy White.

The First Day as Director of Missions

Today was a rewarding day. The ladies who work in the office here at the Jackson County Baptist Association (JCBA) are good at what they do. They have helped me keep my head above water.

I met Reuben Ramirez who is a Hispanic Church Planter here on the coast. I'll spend some more time with him tomorrow discussing his ministry. Ernie Sadler, longtime Director of JCBA, will be here tomorrow as well.

Had the honor of meeting a pastor from Ghana. He has helped start many churches in that African Country. What a joy to meet men who has made great sacrifices to serve the Lord. He said his congregation numbers around 400. Some of his members walk barefooted for more than three miles to come to church. In the parking lot of his church in which 400 folks are worshipping is, at the most, 8 cars. He has been amazed to see 75 cars in a parking lot of a church in which about 100 are worshipping. We are so blessed in this country. He asked me to pray for a young pastor who is seeking to reach his people for Christ.

Later in the afternoon, I met with Don Gann to discuss the Disaster Relief Ministry that Mississippi Baptist offer. Don is a consultant in the Men's Ministry Department of the Mississippi Baptist Convention. I have known Don for almost 30 years. We worked together at Central Hills Baptist Retreat in Kosciusko, MS. He was a great help in giving me a crash course on the process of responding in the aftermath of a hurricane.

There is a lot more to learn, but I am excited about the challenges ahead.

Top 25 Bible Verses

Since many College Football Polls are being released in advance of the upcoming season, I thought it would be interesting to post the Top 25 Bible Verses listed by Biblegateway.com. The list was compiled by examining 25 million scripture searches during a two month period.

The results were:

1. John 3:16 2. Jer 29:11 3. Rom 8:28 4. Phil 4:13
5. Gen 1:1 6. Prov 3:5 7. Prov 3:6 8. Rom 12:2
9. Phil 4:6 10. Matt 28:19 11. Eph 2:8 12. Gal 5:22
13. Rom 12:1 14. John 10:10 15. Acts 18:10
16. Acts 18:9 17. Acts 18:11 18. Gal 2:20 19. 1 John 1:9
20. Rom 3:23 21. John 14:6 22. Matt 28:20
23. Rom 5:8 24. Phil 4:8 25. Phil 4:7

For the entire Top 100 list click here.

Is your favorite verse included?

Following Jesus

Yesterday, messengers to a special called meeting of the Jackson County Baptist Association voted to call me as their Director of Missions. I am honored and excited about this new ministry. However, leaving a genuninely loving congregation like FBC Leakesville is not easy.

Last night, I shared my decision with the church. My last Sunday as pastor of FBC Leakesville will be August 30. The outpouring of love shown last night and today is humbling. However, I must say I continue to have a deep peace about the decision to accept the call extended by JCBA.

My wife, Terri, and I can see how God has orchestrated so many events to bring us to this time in our lives. Understanding that apart from Jesus "we can do nothing," we will continue to follow Him and praise Him for everyone who has richly invested in our lives.

The Bread of Life

And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst."

--John 6:35 (NKJV)

I. Jesus is Supreme

"I am..."

II. Jesus is Satisfying

"I am the bread of life..."

III. Jesus is Sufficient

"He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst."

Before the Joy

In preaching my sermon this morning, I faced three unique challenges. First, "sugar ants" invaded the sanctuary. The ants were all over the pulpit and in my chair. Throughout the song service, I killed 30 or more. Earlier in the week, we called our exterminators and they did come. I believe they must have sprayed sugar water, instead of insecticide. So, I'm not accustomed to preaching with ants in my pants, but I gave it a try.

Second, apparently, the amps for our sound system in the sanctuary were knocked out by lightning. Consequently, I preached without a microphone. I felt like I was at a old time camp meeting. Everyone said they could hear me fine. However, I did need a tall glass of water when I was finished.

Third, the sanctuary was decorated for Christmas. Since we are observing "Christmas in August," poinsettias and red candles adorned the church. We are collecting an offering for 5 missionary families in order to give them gift cards. Most missionaries are inundated with cards and gifts during Christmas. So, we thought we would give them a Christmas gift early. However, Christmas decorations and oppressive heat are strange companions.

Before the Joy

In Acts 8:1, the scriptures records that there was "great joy" in the city of Samaria. To understand what was going on in the early church, I think it is important to ascertain what happened before this "great joy" was experienced. Five things occurred before the joy.

The Joy was...

I. Preceded by Persecution Against the Church (v.1)

1 Now Saul was consenting to his death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.

The Greek word translated "scattered" is connected to the sowing of seed. The trials of the early church forced them to spread throughout areas where people had not heard the Gospel. Before there could be "joy in the city," believers had to go to the city. They were forced by persecution to move away from the comforts of Jerusalem.

II. Preceded by Pain From Losses (v.2-3):

2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. ³ As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.

The early believers grieved over the death of Stephen and the incarceration of fellow Christians.

Paul is said to have made havoc of the church. Some translate this as “ravaging.” The word used here is used in the Greek translation of the Old Testament to refer to wild boars destroying a vineyard.

Paul was acting like a “wild hog.” Yet, he was only a few days away from a total transformation and conversion. Remember, the most despicable people can be transformed into warriors for God. Don't write anyone off.

III. Preceded by Proclamation of the Gospel(v.4)

4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.

Discomfort forces us to change.

IV. Preceded by Passion for Non-Believers (v.5-6)

⁵ Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them.

Everyone Deserves a Relationship with Jesus.

Jews considered Samaritans were half-breeds. They had intermarried with foreigners and were considered unclean. Jesus had made radical ventures into Samaria, demonstrating he came for all people. Do you have a passion to see people who are different from you receive Christ as Savior?

V. Preceded by Power from God (v.7-8)

⁶ And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. ⁷ For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. ⁸ And there was great joy in that city.

God heals and has absolute power over Satan. God blessed the obedience of the faithful who persevered for the sake of the Gospel.

Final Thoughts

God used the horrible persecution focused upon the early church to move them into areas that needed to hear about Jesus. He blessed the obedience of Philip and others. So, if you're going through challenges to your ministry, persevere and remain obedient. God will and can use the unique opportunities that trials present to help you to meet a specific purpose for the Kingdom of God.

Crying Out to God

I will cry out to God Most High, To God who performs all things for me.--Psalm 57:2

Yesterday, our family traveled to the University Medical Center in Jackson to have our younger children undergo various tests. After seeing a specialist, Charlee, our youngest child, had to have blood drawn. This is always a traumatic experience and was no less uncomfortable yesterday.

Charlee is a beautiful child. Even though she is much older than many folks assume, she is as pretty as a porcelain doll.

When she was forced to enter the lab yesterday, Charlee was terrified. Along with two folks from the clinic, Terri and I had to help hold her down as they inserted needles into her arm. Charlee was crying at the top of her lungs. She called out for Terri. The first attempt at getting the amount of blood needed was unsuccessful. So, we had to move to the other arm and go through the same torture.

Of course, the heart wrenching cries for help broke our hearts. Even though we knew the tests were important, watching our child suffer pain and anguish was not easy.

Many times in our lives we are forced to give up something or journey through a trial that we detest with every fiber of our being. However, the only thing we can do is cry out to God. We must be reminded that God is in control. The problems or pain we feel may not end immediately, but we must remember that through the "tough stuff" God is doing a work within us.

Jesus taught us to pray "Your Kingdom come, you will be done." Do we really want his kingdom, his perfect will to be done in our lives?

Personally, God is working a work in me that is leading me to be more dependent upon Him. Crying out to anyone other than God, really is useless. May I always remember "he performs all things for me."