Sunday, November 30, 2008

Morning Prayer Time

This morning we had one of the largest group of men we've seen for the early prayer time. These men will never know how much I appreciate their support, evidenced by their prayers. Also, the ladies gather for prayer.

Morning Service

The choir shared a great Call to Worship this morning. The anthem the choir sang was energetic and really ushered in the Christmas Season. God has blessed FBC with a super choir.

Advent Observance

In the churches I attended as a child and teen, Advent was never celebrated. However, I believe the symbolism helps guide us to focus on the Christmas Story and the many Old Testament Prophecies the birth of Jesus fulfilled.

Prophecy is rooted in preaching, the spoken word of God. From the beginning of the Bible, God used Men to write of the coming of a Savior, a redeemer, the Messiah. While the message of the prophets was foretelling, the consistent truth that runs throughout all prophecy is “God keeps His promises.” As we light the candle of prophecy, we are reminded God has made many promises to His children and he will keep each one of them. This morning, the Bible prophecy read concerning Jesus is found in Isaiah 11:1-5.

Proud of my Alma Mater

I graduated from Calhoun City High School in 1983. So, I am a Wildcat!

Last night, the 'Cats won the North State 1A Football Championship. They will be playing Puckett High for the State Championship at the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson. The game will be Friday at 2:30 PM. Go City!!

There is a sign posted at the entrance of Puckett, MS that has always amused me. The placard says, "Home of 300 friendly people and a few ole sore heads." Now, that's a community that has a realistic view of itself. Also, I'm afriad some of those "sore heads" have children and grandchildren on the football team. Puckett destroyed their opponent to win the South State Championship.

My 400th Post: Christmas Tree Tradition

We have always decorated our Christmas Tree the day after Thanksgiving. We have a small Nativity scene that we have had since we were married. It's always the main feature of our Christmas decorations.This year our neighbor Ashton helped us with the tree.

I love driving into the driveway and seeing the lights on the tree through the window. My prayer is that this will be an especially worshipful Christmas for my family.

A Black Friday for Sure

Well, sadly, Black Friday appears to be appropriately named. I am appalled by what happened at a Wal-Mart in New York. A man was killed by a frenzied mob rushing in to buy discounted televisions and other entertainment devices. As he lay dying on the floor, people just stepped over him.

My father-in-law witnessed the same type of chaos at his local Wal-Mart. He was the first in line for a X-Box 360. When they were allowed to go in, a rush of people pinned a young lady to a pallet. My father-in-law was busy trying to help her and keep her from being crushed. Someone literally leaped a shopping cart to grab the last one. He didn't get the video game unit, but he came away so distressed he could barely breathe.

Why can people be so mean and selfish? In the Bible, James write the answer to this question.

Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.--James 4:1-3, NKJV

I made it to a GameStop about 30 miles from my house by 9:15. That was early enough. I bought a used PlayStation 2 for my son. I'm not going to risk my life for an entertainment device.

Evaluating This Year's Turkey

The turkey I smoked was good, but, to me, not as good as last years. I did two things different than last year.

First, in 2007, I brined the turkey, which is soaking the bird in salt for several hours. This created the most moist turkey I've ever tasted. This year I injected the creole butter, instead of brining. The bottle instructs that the injected creole butter takes the place of the brining process. The meat was a lot less moist this year. Brining must make the difference.

Second, in 2007, I smoked the turkey for 5 hours and finished him in the oven on low heat. This year, I put the bird on for 10 hours, as directed by the package 45 minutes per pound. When I went to take Mr. Tom off the smoker at 5:15 AM, he came completely apart. The bones were incredibly soft. When I carved the turkey, I didn't have to cut the wings or the drumsticks away. They just fell off. I think I cooked the bird too much.

Conclusion, this year's turkey had great hickory smoked flavor, but was a little dry. I'll take note for next year.

Happy Thanksgiving

I am grateful to God for all the many obvious and sometimes overlooked blessings in my life. I am a blessed man.

Terri's parents came over today. We had a great lunch. I took my turkey off the smoker at 5:15 AM after 10 hours. The kids had fun playing outside in the perfect temperatures.

The menu: Turkey, Ham, Cornbread Dressing, Chickn 'n Dumplins, Sweet "Taters", Green Beans, Copper Pennies (Carrots), Yeast Rolls, Carrot Cake, Pumpkin, and, "washed down" with Ice Tea.

Thankful for My Smoker

The turkey is smoking. I placed the 12.5 pound bird in my Brinkman Electric Smoker at 7:15 PM. One of the deacons at FBC gave me some green hickory sticks I am using. The hickory smoke smells so good.

Based on the weight of the turkey, the total cooking time should be around 10 to 12 hours. There is a water pan in the smoker that, when filled, helps keep the meat moist. I injected Creole Butter Injectable Marinade into the turkey. The outside of the bird is seasoned with lemon pepper. Also, I placed apple and orange quarters inside the turkey's cavity.

I can't wait to taste it. Hopefully, it will equal last year's bird.

Thankful for FBC Leakesville

As we come to the end of November, I am thankful to God for a wonderful month of ministry. I've included some pictures of two significant events in our church.

The Patriotic Musical the choir presented during Veterans Day Weekend was marvelous. We honored 30 veterans during one of the songs. Seeing this large number of men and women standing down front was magnificent.

The Community Block Party on Saturday, November 15 was a great success in terms of receiving great cooperation from local churches and organizations. Read more about it here.

Thankful for Beautiful Voices

Last night, we observed our Mid-Week service. This gives folks an opportunity to spend more time with their families the night before Thanksgiving. Also, the children practiced for their Christmas Musical, which they will present this Sunday Night at 6:00 PM. It would be difficult to get many children to come tonight, since many families are traveling to relatives.

The children rehearsed in the sanctuary and the adults met in the choir room. While we were praying, the children were singing "Gloria, In Excelsis Deo." Their voices were so beautiful and free and innocent. My heart smiled as I heard them.

Selina Smith directs the children. She has a great ministry to our children. I can't wait to hear the musical!

Cold Eggs and Warm Hearts

Thomas Hart Benton (1889-1975), The Lord Is My Shepherd, 1926

“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:20, KJV).”

Many years ago, a farmer’s wife, Nell, prepared breakfast for her husband. Upon completing the eggs, she yelled, “Eb! Breakfast is ready!” Eventually, Eb shuffled into the room and sat at the table. Silently, he admired the breakfast feast his wife had prepared. “Well, don’t just sit there. Let’s eat, I’ve got to be at the beauty parlor in 25 minutes,” Nell barked. She frantically served her plate and began eating. “Aren’t we forgetting something?” Eb asked. “What?” Nell mumbled through a mouthful of food. “The prayer," he exclaimed. Nell rolled her eyes and said, “O.K. Well, make it quick.”

Eb began, “Dear God, I thank you for this wonderful breakfast…” “Amen!!” Nell interrupted and resumed eating. “Nell, I’m not finished,” Eb admonished his wife. “Hang on for just a little while.” Unhappily, Nell stopped.

Eb continued his prayer, “Dear God, I want to thank you for all of this breakfast. “First, I want to thank you for our cow, Elsie, who provided us with the milk in the biscuits and in the butter.”
Nell became increasingly agitated as he continued. “I don’t want to forget to thank you for the chickens that laid these eggs. Also, I want to thank you for the hog we killed that provided us with the fine smelling ham.”

Nell’s blood pressure continued to soar as Eb pressed on, “Lord, I want to thank you for the folks that built our new refrigerator. Thanks for allowing me to have a good crop this year so I could pay for it.” Nell gripped the table, as if she was about to explode.

Finally, Eb closed his prayer by saying, “And, God, thanks for giving me such a wonderful wife. Nell has been so faithful to me.” As Nell heard Eb’s kind words, she became less agitated. “I appreciate all the fine things she does for me. She gave me some of the most wonderful children. She even cooked this breakfast in spite of her bad back. Again, God we are grateful for all of your blessings. In the name of Jesus, AMEN.”

Following the prayer, Nell was speechless. She looked at Eb lovingly as he took a bite of his eggs. Then, Eb said, “I’m sorry Nell. I guess I prayed too long. The eggs are cold.” In a tender voice, Nell said, “Honey, that’s O.K. It’s better to have cold eggs than to have a cold heart.”

Turkey Moved to Fridge

Well, we meant to take the turkey out of the freeze earlier, but we didn't. So, a few minutes ago, I placed it in the refrigerator. I've done some surfing and discovered the turkey should be placed in the fridge 3 to 5 days before cooking. Well, we're behind. However, if it's not completely thawed late Wednesday, I'll put it in the sink and run cold water over it.

I plan to smoke the bird in my Brinkman Electric Smoker. Last year's turkey turned out great. Hopefully, it will be the same this year.

Terri's parents are coming to our house on Thanksgiving Day. I'm looking forward to being home with the family.

Thankful for the Rain

Currently, it is raining cats and dogs and catfish. We have really needed the rain. We are under a Severe Thunderstorm Warning.

I signed up for weather alerts on Weather.com several weeks ago. I receive emails and text messages whenever severe weather is approaching. That's a nice service.

Thankful for My Children

Jared spent the night with his friend Garrett last night. I really missed him.

I am thankful for my kids. They are a blessing. They make me smile. They are a reminder that God is gracious.

Thankful for the Lord's Day

The morning started with an increased attendance to our Men's Prayer Time at 9:00 AM. It is so encouraging to have a group of faithful men gathering to pray for the services.

Bible Study and Worship attendance was down slightly. However, there was still a larger number of folks than a year ago. We had several guests in the morning service. We had someone join the fellowship of our church.

The choir sang a meaningful medley of songs related to thankfulness. Selina's Children's Sermon was classic. She did a great job interacting with the children and getting their responses to her "I Am Thankful for..." List. However, some of the kids were "answer" happy today. I love children!

Tonight, Dennis Cochran preached an incredible message on the "The Greatest Thanksgiving Ever" based on Revelation 5. The "Greatest Thanksgiving Ever" has not yet occurred, but, when we all gather in heaven and worship the Lamb of God, that will be the real Thanksgiving Day.

Several students from First United Methodist Church in Lucedale came and worshipped with us tonight. One of their youth workers, Lee Jones, has been a friend of mine for a long time. It was good to see him.

Having the students with us added to the atmosphere for a great time of worship.

Several Children were present for Children's Choir and Bible Drill. The children will practice Tuesday night at 7:00 PM. They will present their musical next Sunday Night. I can't wait.

Mid-Week Service

Tonight, the children were in the sanctuary practicing for their Christmas Musical on Nov. 30 at 6:00 PM. The adults met for prayer meeting in the choir room. As we were praying, the children were singing "Gloria In Excelsis Deo." It was beautiful. I can't believe Thanksgiving and Christmas are almost here.

The youth had chili for their Wednesday Night Supper. I was given some of the leftovers. One of the fringe benefits/detriments of being a pastor. It was delicious.

Family Dedication

This morning 5 families dedicated children to the Lord. Several guests were in the worship service to support the families. Praise God for children. They are a blessing.

Community Block Party

While it was a cool and windy day, we had a great day demonstrating to the community that we care for them.

The wind did not inhibit the children from having a great time on the inflatable. Bro. Jimmy Holcomb had a brisk business serving FREE Hot Dogs. Covenant's Hot Chocolate was a welcomed warm gift.

Many folks registered at our booth and many of them are prospects for our church. We painted faces and styled "crazy hair" for many of the kids.

The churches and organizations that helped with the event were:

Antioch Baptist
Cedar Grove Baptist
Covenant Baptist
First Baptist Leakesville
First United Methodist Leakesville
Heritage Baptist
Baptist Student Union, Jone County Junior College
New Covenant Ministires
Kids Zone
Greene County Sheriff Department
Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks
United Blood Services

The City of Leakesville provided generators. The Alternative School allowed us to use electricity. Bruce Duiett allowed us to park the Stage/Trailer on his property. Jack Brewer allowed the Blood Mobile to park on his property.

Boo White, FBC Student Minister, was a great help. Susanne Rustin, Ministry Assistant, helped prepare the materials we distributed.

Cedar Grove Baptist and Heritage Baptist were represented by a Student Praise Band. They did an awesome job. This was their first outdoor "gig." Jamie and Kandie Hamm sang several songs. Also, New Covenant Ministries provided music for us.

Also, thanks to those who donated blood. United Blood Services was pleased with the number of donors who participated.

The Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife set up an interactive hunting video game in the Activities Building. This was a popular activity.

We distributed several CD's that includes a gospel presentation by Rick Warren.

The George-Greene Baptist Association provided excellent support for the event. Bro. Jimmy Holcomb first planned Community Block Parties in this area many years ago. We draw from his success.

As pastor, I am so thankful for the FBC members who volunteered to help with this event. I pray that we will become known as a Church for the Community.

Journey from the Threshing Floor

Last month, during the Mississippi Baptist Convention, Mickey Dalrymple, current MBC President, preached during the opening session. He shared a touching story about his family background. Bro. Mickey is from Northern Alabama. A distant cousin of his committed a violent crime that rocked the community. As a consequence of the horrific event, the family name was defiled. As a child, many times he could hear people whisper as he passed, “He’s one of those Dalrymples."

Even though he came from a humble and challenging background, Mickey Dalrymple has been used by God to pastor Fairview Baptist Church in Columbus, MS. The church is thriving under his leadership.

Last Sunday, I preached a message based on Judges 6:11-24. When I read Gideon's excuse for not serving as delivery for Israel, I think of how God has used many men from non-ideal backgrounds. Gideon said to the Angel of the Lord, “O my Lord, how can I save Israel? Indeed my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house.” God has a habit of using the "least" to accomplish great things.

As you read Judges 6:11-24, observe the change in Gideon's commitment.

I. The Appearance of the Angel of the LORD (11-14)

1. A Surprising Commendation (11-12)

And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him, and said to him, “The LORD is with you, you mighty man of valor!”

2. A Stinging Complaint (13)

Gideon said to Him, “O my lord, if the LORD is with us, why then has all this happened to us?

3. Shocking Command (14)

Then the LORD turned to him and said, “Go in this might of yours, and you shall save Israel from the hand of the Midianites. Have I not sent you?”

II. The Apprehension of Gideon (15-16)

1. A Shriveling Confidence (15)

I am the least in my father's house.

2. A Stabilizing Comfort (16)

And the LORD said to him, “Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat the Midianites as one man.”

III. Affirmation of God (17-24)

1. A Startling Confirmation (17-21)

Then the Angel of the LORD put out the end of the staff that was in His hand, and touched the meat and the unleavened bread; and fire rose out of the rock and consumed the meat and the unleavened bread. And the Angel of the LORD departed out of his sight.

2. A Stirring Comprehension (22-24)

Now Gideon perceived that He was the Angel of the LORD. So Gideon said, “Alas, O Lord GOD! For I have seen the Angel of the LORD face to face.”

Conclusion

In the Bible, God used elderly Abraham, stuttering Moses, enslaved Joseph, adulterous David, lying Peter, and former Anti-Christian Terrorist Paul. If he can use these folks, what's you're excuse for not allowing God to use you.

Thank You Veterans

While serving as a chaplain in Daphne, AL at Mercy Medical, I met a man who had served in World War II. As I try to do as often as possible, I said, "Thank you for your service to our country." He began to cry. Then, he said, "That's the first time anyone has ever said that to me."

After that experience, I have become even more intentional in saying thank you to those who have served our nation. Americans owe a great debt to all men and women who have served in the branches of the United States Military.

Many Veterans do not discuss their combat experiences because they believe the true heroes are those who were killed in the line of duty. However, I say they are all heroes.

If the Lord Wills,…

13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; 14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” --James 4:13-15, NKJV

The language we use indicates what we love.

The Hit

Only two football numbers have been retired at Ole Miss. This means that, as a tribute to these players’ accomplishments, no player is allowed to wear their numbers. The two men that have received this reward are Archie Manning (#18) and Chucky Mullins (#38).

On October 28, 1989, Vanderbilt and Ole Miss were playing on the Rebels’ Homecoming. Brad Gaines, fullback for Vanderbilt, caught a short pass. Chucky Mullins lowered his head for the tackle and hit the Vandy player in the back. Chucky Mullins fell to the ground and never moved. Unfortunately, Chucky Mullins would never move most of his lower body again. The hit caused severe damage to his spine and he was paralyzed instantly.

Mullins was in the hospital in Memphis for several weeks. President. George H. Bush visited him once. A fund was set up and over a Million Dollars was raised in his honor. A house was built for him in Oxford. Confined to a wheelchair, he returned as a student to Ole Miss in June 1990. He was able to attend football games in the Fall of 1990. He died in May 1991.

As a player, Chucky was known as guy who was smaller than most, but he played with a lot of heart. He dreamed of playing in the SEC and he worked hard to accomplish that goal.
In 2006, Chucky Mullins’ number was retired. A special bust of him was placed at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium with just two words in large letters on the base of the pedestal: “Never Quit.”

“If the Lord wills,…”

The verse stated earlier instructs us to remember nothing is done unless it is God’s will. James mentioned men who bragged about what they were going to do, without recognizing life is fragile. There’s no guarantee anyone will live tomorrow. These business men James addressed said arrogantly, “I’m going to set up business in a local town and I’m going to get rich.” Well, James says, you need to add, “If it’s the Lord’s will” to any proposed plans. Life is illusive and unpredictable.

So, today, remember whatever you plan to accomplish will only be done "if the Lord wills."

Sunday, November 9, 2008: Veterans Day Weekend

Another great day at First Baptist Leakesville.

Breakfast

The Men's Breakfast was awesome. Plenty of men showed up to help cook. The food was especially good. Buddy Horn, Vietnam Veteran, shared his testimony and shared a combat experience that cannot be explained outside of the providence of God.

Bible Study

Our "on campus" total was only 4 short of our high for the last seven months. We had several prospects attend this morning.

AM Service

The Children's Choir sang "I'm In The Lord's Army." They were really into it. Selina Smith and Kandie Ham do a great job leading our children. Their energy is contagious. Selina, Kandie, and Jamie sang a worshipful hymn before the message.

Our sanctuary was 85% full this morning. Many of our longtime members were "displaced" from their regular pews. However, they were happy to sit in a new spot. There is a real excitement among the members.

With Freedom's Holy Light

Tonight, the Sanctuary Choir presented an inspiring Patriotic Musical. An especially moving segment in the service was when all the veterans present formed a line down front. Each man and woman introduced themselves. What a privilege to say "thank you" to these men and women. Some of the veterans have completed tours in Iraq.

We had a large group of folks who attended the service. Unity Baptist Church canceled their evening service in order to join us for the musical.

Many veterans and families brought memorabilia from different wars. These were displayed in the Activities Building. The refreshments included a great cake and some delicious punch. This was a great community and church event.

Mike Smith, FBC Leakesville Music Minister, did an incredible job planning this memorable time of worship. We are blessed by his ministry.

Tomorrow at FBC

Men's Breakfast

We'll have a special Veterans Day Weekend Breakfast tomorrow. We'll begin at 8:00 AM and will offer a free breakfast. We will have former Marine Buddy Horn speak. All Veterans will be recognized. We owe a great debts to all men and women who have served the United States in the military.

Another Journey

We will continue our "Journeys" Sermon Series in the Morning Service. We will examine Gideon's Journey of Peace: Journey from the Threshing Floor. The message is base on Judges 6:11-24.

With Freedom's Holy Light

Tomorrow night at 6:00 PM, the Sanctuary Choir is present a special Patriotic Musical entitled "With Freedom's Holy Light." We will recognize all Veterans present in the service.

Pickled Eggs and Ministry

Since I have lived in Mississippi most of my life, I remember seeing "pickled" items in glass gallon jars sitting on the counters of numerous country stores. Among these snacks are Pickled Pigs Feet, Pickled Pigs Knuckles, Pickled Eggs and Pickled Franks. (To order for Christmas click here.)

Now, I've never tried any of these delicacies. Also, I have never, never, no not ever, seen any one purchase a pickled anything. I guess this is done when no one else is around.

When in Rome, Eat as the Romans

On Tuesday, I had lunch with a fellow pastor who has recently moved to a rural area. My friend is not what you would call "country." He's cool--real cool. So, for me, the story he shared is hilarious.

A short time ago, when paying for fuel he had pumped into his car, my friend took the plunge. He had seen the pickled goodies on the counter many times. Wanting to partake in a cultural experience that he figures many of his members indulge, he decided to buy a pickled egg. He paid for the sodium rich protein and took a bite. He discovered he did not care for eggs that had been soaking in vinegar and brine for several days. Following his taste treat, he experienced a lingering case of indigestion that plagued him for hours.

As he expressed how horrible he thought the egg tasted, I laughed so hard that tears came to my eyes. However, I have an even deeper respect for my pastor-friend than I did previously.

Stressed Taste Buds for Jesus

Paul wrote in one of his letters to the Corinthians that he was willing "to become a slave to all" in order to impact their life with the Gospel. In his day, Gentiles (Non-Jews) and Jews disagreed on what was an acceptable diet. For Paul, he refused to be stubborn in any way that would alienate him from the folks he wished to reach. When with Jews, Paul ate kosher foods that complied with their dietary laws. When he was dining with Gentiles, he ate non-kosher dishes.

I Cor. 9: 22 I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.

Of course, Paul never wavered on his belief in the power of the Gospel. He never diluted the message. However, he was willing to use methods that did not violate Biblical ethics. He demonstrated that he would do whatever he needed to do to make a difference for Christ.

Walking in Their Shoes

We must be willing to get out of our comfort zones in order to develop relationships with folks who are from dissimilar backgrounds. So, that may mean eating something strange. We may have to sacrifice our likes and dislikes.

In reference to President Lyndon B. Johnson, Clayton Stribling said, "The more someone disliked him, the harder he'd try to be his friend." This is good advice for believers.

I wonder if LBJ ate Pickled Eggs?

Seeing Obligations As Blessings

Last week during the Mississippi Baptist Convention, I heard Sammy Gilbreath share his testimony. He is living with a terminal illness and has miraculously lived much longer than expected.

He shared some truths he has learned as he has dealt with his health problems. One of the truths has proved insightful to me.

Rev. Gilbreath said that he now uses the word "get" instead of "got." In other words, instead of saying "I've got to preach tomorrow," he now says "I get to preach tomorrow." This perspective helps him focus on his blessings. Also, this helps me understand the importance of seeing life as a blessing, instead of a drudgery.

I have really enjoyed preaching in the last few months. Fulfilling what God has called me to do is such a thrill. I have the blessing of doing so many things that many folks are unable to do. Seeing responsibilities as blessings will help us not "grow weary in well doing (Gal. 6:10)."

Occasionally, I hear fathers say, "I can't go fishing this weekend because I've got to babysit." No, you get to be a father. Many men don't have that opportunity. Fatherhood is a blessing.

Today, what obligation have you seen as a burden lately? How is that obligation really a blessing?

Community Block Party Meeting

Tomorrow night, at 7:00 PM, we will have a planning meeting for the Community Block Party scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2008 from 11 AM to 2 PM in front of First Baptist Leakesville. The meeting will be in the First Baptist Activities Building.

Currently, we have commitments from several churches and community organizations. United Blood services will conduct a Blood Drive. Their Blood Mobile will be operating from 10 AM to 2 PM.

For Whom Should We Vote?

Last night, I preached at Rocky Creek Baptist Church. Greg Barker called me around 1:30PM yesterday an asked me to speak. The preacher scheduled to speak was admitted to the hospital late yesterday morning. The church held a special prayer rally for the election. I was honored to participate.

The Selection Process

I believe Jeremiah 9:23-24 can give us guidance in evaluating our personal lives and in selecting political candidates.

What should we value?

1. We should not value persuasive speech?

Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom.

2. We should not value phenomenal strength?

Let not the mighty man glory in his might.

3. We should not value productive skills?

Nor let the rich man glory in his riches.

4. We should value a pleasing spirituality?

But let him who glories glory in this,
That he understands and knows Me,
That I am the LORD, exercising lovingkindness,
judgment, and righteousness in the earth.
For in these I delight,” says the LORD.

In our spiritual lives, we should seek to "delight" or please God. We do this by recognising that he is the LORD. He is loving, which is evidenced by the grace he demonstrates on a daily basis. He is a God of judgement. He hates sin. However, he is a God of righteousness. The rightness of God should never be questioned.

Ultimately, we demonstrate we "understand and know" God by placing our faith in Him.

Romans 10:8-9 But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”(that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

Conclusion

As we choose candidates at the polls, let us not judge them by their colorful speech, their powerful persona, or their financial promise. Let us seek God's help in selecting individual who delight Him.

A Journey of Faith

Yesterday morning my sermon was based on Joshua 6.

Who broke down the walls of Jericho?

A substitute Sunday School Teacher asked little Johnny during Bible class, "Who broke down the walls of Jericho?" Little Johnny replies, "I dunno, but it wasn't me!"

The teacher, taken aback by Johnny's lack of basic Bible knowledge goes to the pastor and related the whole incident.

The pastor replies, "I know Little Johnny as well as his whole family very well and can vouch for them; if Little Johnny said that he did not do it, then I, as principal is satisfied that it is the truth."

Even more appalled, the teacher went to a denominational leader and relates the whole story...

After listening he replies: "I can't see why you are making such a big issue out of this; just take up a special offering and fix the wall!"

Journey of Persistence: Journey Around Jericho
Joshua 6:1-27

I. The Confirmation (1-5)
II. The Compliance (6-9)
III. The Commitment (10-14)
IV. The Constraints (15-19)
V. The Conquest (20-27)

Truths for the Journey

1. Faith Applies God’s Plans

II Corinthians 10:3-6 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.

2. Faith Acquires God’s Promises

Hebrews 11:30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days.

3. Faith Accomplishes God’s Purposes

I John 5:4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.

4. Faith Attains God’s Peace

Romans 5:1-2 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Faith is the hand that reaches out and grasps God’s hand of grace.

Sunday, Novemeber 2, 2008

Of course, each week I state we had a great Sunday at FBC Leakesville. However, I really am telling the truth. Today was no exception. Attendance in our Bible Study groups was the 2nd highest since the first of September. God is blessing our congregation with many guests in our worship services. The choir continues to sing with excitement, volume, and quality. (We are going to have to expand the choir loft.) Our children's sermons are always insightful and entertaining.

Also, I enjoy preaching to FBC. They laugh at my stabs at humor and they express appreciation for my expository style of preaching.

PM Sermon

Boo White, Minister of Youth, preached in our evening service. He did a great job preaching a message based on Ephesians 5:1-7. He challenged us to be imitators of Christ. Boo has great delivery. I can tell he is enjoying seminary. He shared a lot of insight into the passage by using some colorful illustrations. Boo is a great story teller. Boo and Missy are a blessing to our church.

Circus

As a family, we went to the Lewis and Clark Circus, which was across from the Greene County High School. The show started at 1:00 PM. My hopes were low, but I was pleasantly surprised. They encouraged the audience to take pictures of the show. So, we did.

The acrobats and clown were really good. I thought the juggling was some of the best I've seen. The pics are of the "fire eater" and Jared's facial expression as he watched him. Charlee was just happy to be there.