I was kicking back with my kids one day watching cartoons when this commercial aired for the kids meal at Burger King.
Click the link to see the video.
Every Day our children are being bombarded with attacks on their minds and body. To think this commercial was aired on our childrens cartoon channel and deemed harmless by Burger King.
As for our family, we will not be eating there. They have been toting the line for awhile.. and this is way over the line. What is next??? If this is harmless to them.. I shudder to think what they will film next to advertise their meals.. perhaps viagra for the senior coffee??
Nothing would surprise me more at this point.
As Christians it is time we take a stand against this kind of filth.. It is not alright to put this in front of our kids!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
STANDING ALONE
The question that I want to start out asking is this... Have you ever had to "Stand Alone"?
Have you ever come to a point in your life when through situations that are outside of your personal control, you suddenly find yourself standing, as it feels in your heart, ALONE????
I must first state the following: I know that as a Christian, a child of God, WE, (Those of us who are saved and on our way to heaven.), are Truly NEVER alone because we have Jesus who promised us in His Word that He would NOT leave us alone:
Deuteronomy 4:31
(For the LORD thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.
Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
Joshua 1:5
There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
1 Chronicles 28:20
And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.
Hebrews 13:5
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
I am not talking about being alone, without God. This wouls be impossible according to the Bible, and again, I Praise God for this truth.
I am referring to those times when we, as weak human vessels, look around us and see attacks from every side! We are looking around for "Fellow Warriors", who are supposed to be fighting right along side of us, and we realize that we are "Fighting the Enemy all by ourselves! This is the situation and the prospect that I am talking about.
The stark realization that "Yes" WE ARE STANDING... BUT WE ARE DOING SO ALL ALONE!
REALIZATION OF THE FACT
Looking back over my short 40 year life span, I can recall many times when I have had that same feeling, that lonely, depressing feeling that seems to grow worse with the acknowlegment that the feeling actually exists in the heart, mind and life of a Christian.
No one doubts the reality of this feeling because at some time or other in all of our lives, we ALL have felt alone. This is usually a tough topic for people to agree with because of most folks DENY THE TRUTH, even when it is right there in front of their faces.
WHAT SHOULD WE DO ABOUT IT?
The answer to this is simple... Understand that in these times we are facing "TESTING OF OUR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST"!
James 1:3
Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
Ephesians 6:13
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
This is the simple answer: "... and having done all, to stand." If you will carefully notice this verse, the Lord says through the writings of Paul, by the Holy Spirit of God, that WE ARE TO JUST STAND... NO MATTER WHAT! Friend, are you feeling alone as you stand for the Father in heaven? If so... STAND! Preacher, Pastor, Missionary, Evangelist, Sunday School Teacher, Bus Worker... Whatever and whomever you may be, if this describes you... THEN JUST STAND IN HIM!
You will find many times that it IS a lonely road when serving the Lord, BUT if we will just look towards HIM, look to Jesus and remember that He too stood completely alone.
Matthew 27:11
And Jesus stood (*Alone) before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.
Matthew 27:27-31
(27) Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus (*Alone) into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.(28) And they stripped him (*Alone), and put on him a scarlet robe.(29) And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head (*Alone), and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him (*Alone), saying, Hail, King of the Jews!(30) And they spit upon him (*Alone), and took the reed, and smote him (*Alone) on the head.(31) And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him. (*ALL ALONE!)
I know in my heart there are many who struggle with this same thing, Most folks have to deal with this on a "Daily Basis". May I encourage each one of us to "Take a Stand For The Lord and Keep On Standing... NO MATTER WHAT THE COST MAY BE"!
Keep On Standing!
Brother Dunn
The question that I want to start out asking is this... Have you ever had to "Stand Alone"?
Have you ever come to a point in your life when through situations that are outside of your personal control, you suddenly find yourself standing, as it feels in your heart, ALONE????
I must first state the following: I know that as a Christian, a child of God, WE, (Those of us who are saved and on our way to heaven.), are Truly NEVER alone because we have Jesus who promised us in His Word that He would NOT leave us alone:
Deuteronomy 4:31
(For the LORD thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.
Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
Joshua 1:5
There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
1 Chronicles 28:20
And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.
Hebrews 13:5
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
I am not talking about being alone, without God. This wouls be impossible according to the Bible, and again, I Praise God for this truth.
I am referring to those times when we, as weak human vessels, look around us and see attacks from every side! We are looking around for "Fellow Warriors", who are supposed to be fighting right along side of us, and we realize that we are "Fighting the Enemy all by ourselves! This is the situation and the prospect that I am talking about.
The stark realization that "Yes" WE ARE STANDING... BUT WE ARE DOING SO ALL ALONE!
REALIZATION OF THE FACT
Looking back over my short 40 year life span, I can recall many times when I have had that same feeling, that lonely, depressing feeling that seems to grow worse with the acknowlegment that the feeling actually exists in the heart, mind and life of a Christian.
No one doubts the reality of this feeling because at some time or other in all of our lives, we ALL have felt alone. This is usually a tough topic for people to agree with because of most folks DENY THE TRUTH, even when it is right there in front of their faces.
WHAT SHOULD WE DO ABOUT IT?
The answer to this is simple... Understand that in these times we are facing "TESTING OF OUR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST"!
James 1:3
Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
Ephesians 6:13
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
This is the simple answer: "... and having done all, to stand." If you will carefully notice this verse, the Lord says through the writings of Paul, by the Holy Spirit of God, that WE ARE TO JUST STAND... NO MATTER WHAT! Friend, are you feeling alone as you stand for the Father in heaven? If so... STAND! Preacher, Pastor, Missionary, Evangelist, Sunday School Teacher, Bus Worker... Whatever and whomever you may be, if this describes you... THEN JUST STAND IN HIM!
You will find many times that it IS a lonely road when serving the Lord, BUT if we will just look towards HIM, look to Jesus and remember that He too stood completely alone.
Matthew 27:11
And Jesus stood (*Alone) before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.
Matthew 27:27-31
(27) Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus (*Alone) into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.(28) And they stripped him (*Alone), and put on him a scarlet robe.(29) And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head (*Alone), and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him (*Alone), saying, Hail, King of the Jews!(30) And they spit upon him (*Alone), and took the reed, and smote him (*Alone) on the head.(31) And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him. (*ALL ALONE!)
I know in my heart there are many who struggle with this same thing, Most folks have to deal with this on a "Daily Basis". May I encourage each one of us to "Take a Stand For The Lord and Keep On Standing... NO MATTER WHAT THE COST MAY BE"!
Keep On Standing!
Brother Dunn
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Think About It
Col. 2:3
We can not hide from God. He sees everything that we do, hears everything that we say and knows everything that we think. We are an open book to him. It amazes me that people seem to think that they can hide stuff from God and that he won't know about it. You can hide things from people but never God. The Bible says that everything that is done, said or thought in secret will be brought out into the light.
John 17: 11-16
He put us in this world to do one job. That was to spread his word throughout the land. How can we do our greatest commission if we are not here? Why would we want to miss and opportunity to share God's word with someone? I find, for myself at least, I may not be able to witness or share God with those who I run across, ie strangers, but I can do it over the computer. I am not a face to them, but what better place to share God's word that on the internet? Most homes have one and everybody is on them. What a great place to share the Word of God.
Heb. 4:13
Oh that we would have wisdom and knowledge. I have noticed that lots of people just don't use a lot of wisdom in their everyday life. I credit my parents for this, and I really don't remember them actually teaching this, plus I am positive that God had a hand in this. I try very hard to stop, look at a situation, think about it, look DOWN the road to see what the ramifications would possibly be if I did a certain thing. Check the pros and cons of it in it completeness and then if I still think that it is a good idea, well do it. If not, don't go there. The end result may not be what we would like it to be. Apply the knowledge the good Lord instilled in us to think about the things that we are doing. Apply his wisdom and knowledge to what we are fixing to do, say or think. There is a great saying around this world that I am sure God really did have a hand in. WWJD. What Would Jesus Do? Think about it. Would Jesus say or do that? Would he think that? Would he feel that way?Apply the wisdom and knowledge that he gave us in his good word and apply it to our daily lives.
We can not hide from God. He sees everything that we do, hears everything that we say and knows everything that we think. We are an open book to him. It amazes me that people seem to think that they can hide stuff from God and that he won't know about it. You can hide things from people but never God. The Bible says that everything that is done, said or thought in secret will be brought out into the light.
John 17: 11-16
He put us in this world to do one job. That was to spread his word throughout the land. How can we do our greatest commission if we are not here? Why would we want to miss and opportunity to share God's word with someone? I find, for myself at least, I may not be able to witness or share God with those who I run across, ie strangers, but I can do it over the computer. I am not a face to them, but what better place to share God's word that on the internet? Most homes have one and everybody is on them. What a great place to share the Word of God.
Heb. 4:13
Oh that we would have wisdom and knowledge. I have noticed that lots of people just don't use a lot of wisdom in their everyday life. I credit my parents for this, and I really don't remember them actually teaching this, plus I am positive that God had a hand in this. I try very hard to stop, look at a situation, think about it, look DOWN the road to see what the ramifications would possibly be if I did a certain thing. Check the pros and cons of it in it completeness and then if I still think that it is a good idea, well do it. If not, don't go there. The end result may not be what we would like it to be. Apply the knowledge the good Lord instilled in us to think about the things that we are doing. Apply his wisdom and knowledge to what we are fixing to do, say or think. There is a great saying around this world that I am sure God really did have a hand in. WWJD. What Would Jesus Do? Think about it. Would Jesus say or do that? Would he think that? Would he feel that way?Apply the wisdom and knowledge that he gave us in his good word and apply it to our daily lives.
Monday, March 16, 2009
The Bible is Back in our Public School!
The Bible is Back in OUR Public School!
Yes, you read that right.. Children are actually awarded in bringing their Bible to School!!!! Yes..Public School!
Now I know many of you are sitting there shocked to read that.. and believe me, I sat in a state of shock, gratitude and thankfulness when this happened in our children's public School.
Just a few weeks ago both of our children brought a paper home to be signed and returned to be able to join in on FCA meetings. A time of devotions, saying memory verses, and prayer. They are awarded prize points for bringing their Bible, saying their memory Verse etc.
My son was even chose for leadership. I was able to join in on the meeting the other day. Right now they have about 30 students attending and more coming in every week.
When you enter this classroom they have Jesus Music playing. A teacher will start the meeting off with prayer. They will play a couple games, then a teacher brings devotions, a student will bring another devotion. Prayer Request taken. Awards given out for bringing their Bibles and saying memory Verses. They then close in prayer and dismiss to class.
When I called the principle to thank for putting the FCA in the school, she told me one of the school counselors submitted it and she approved it!
With this said.. The FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) Is able to do this.. under the first amendment. However, it only took ONE PERSON to be brave enough to stand up to do this. I have already seen one child's life transformed. A 10 year old boy, who many thought would have been hopeless..already with sexual battery charges against him. This young boy came up to me to let me know he accepted Christ. The change is so evident in this young boy as he comes over to play often.. all because of one person who saw hope and the need to get the Bible back in the classroom!!!!!
So I urge all of you.. Get the FCA into your public school.. get lives transformed now!!!
www.fca.org
Time is short as we all know. What a wonderful experience it is to walk into the public school system and see these children carrying Bibles.. HUNGRY for the Word of God..while many do not want to take the time to even spend a few minutes with God!!! Really puts things into perspective!!!
Yes, you read that right.. Children are actually awarded in bringing their Bible to School!!!! Yes..Public School!
Now I know many of you are sitting there shocked to read that.. and believe me, I sat in a state of shock, gratitude and thankfulness when this happened in our children's public School.
Just a few weeks ago both of our children brought a paper home to be signed and returned to be able to join in on FCA meetings. A time of devotions, saying memory verses, and prayer. They are awarded prize points for bringing their Bible, saying their memory Verse etc.
My son was even chose for leadership. I was able to join in on the meeting the other day. Right now they have about 30 students attending and more coming in every week.
When you enter this classroom they have Jesus Music playing. A teacher will start the meeting off with prayer. They will play a couple games, then a teacher brings devotions, a student will bring another devotion. Prayer Request taken. Awards given out for bringing their Bibles and saying memory Verses. They then close in prayer and dismiss to class.
When I called the principle to thank for putting the FCA in the school, she told me one of the school counselors submitted it and she approved it!
With this said.. The FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) Is able to do this.. under the first amendment. However, it only took ONE PERSON to be brave enough to stand up to do this. I have already seen one child's life transformed. A 10 year old boy, who many thought would have been hopeless..already with sexual battery charges against him. This young boy came up to me to let me know he accepted Christ. The change is so evident in this young boy as he comes over to play often.. all because of one person who saw hope and the need to get the Bible back in the classroom!!!!!
So I urge all of you.. Get the FCA into your public school.. get lives transformed now!!!
www.fca.org
Time is short as we all know. What a wonderful experience it is to walk into the public school system and see these children carrying Bibles.. HUNGRY for the Word of God..while many do not want to take the time to even spend a few minutes with God!!! Really puts things into perspective!!!
Monday, March 2, 2009
What is Your Name?
Rev 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
As a bird owner, when I have a new clutch of babies, my kids have learned that the babies choose their own names. We first go by labeling them in order of hatching. "Baby 1, Baby 2" etc. As their personalities develop the name always produces itself.
This time we have Red Beak and Trouble. Red Beak was names because of her beautiful red beak, and Trouble was named because try as hard as he could.. he was always in trouble. Even today as he figured out to open his own cage and come flying out on his own all I could do was shake his head. Certainly he is one that lives up to his name.
With that said, what name do we live up to with our Father God? Perhaps are name is Whiner, or Complainer,Gossiper or it could be Praising , Worshiper, Loving, the list of names can go on and on.. and how well do we live up to our names. Do we live to Exalt the name of God? Or do we live to tear others down. Do we show Christ in our lives?
Remember as we live today, that God is watching us in all we do. Know one day we will be given NEW NAMES.. what will that name be?
Rev 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Thank you God
DEAR GOD: I want to thank You for what you have already done. I am not going to wait until I see results or receive rewards; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until I feel better or things look better; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until people say they are sorry or until they stop talking about me; I am thanking you right now.. I am not g oing to wait until the pain in my body disappears ; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until my financial situation improves; I am going to thank you right now. I am not going to wait until the children are asleep and the house is quiet; I am going to thank you right now. I am not going to wait until I get promoted at work or until I get the job; I am going to thank you right now. I am not going to wait until I understand every experience in my life that has caused me pain or grief; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until the journey gets easier or the challenges are removed; I am thanking you right now. I am thanking you because I am alive. I am thanking you because I made it through the day's difficulties. I am thanking you because I have walked around the obstacles. I am thanking you because I have the ability and the opportunity to do more and do better. I'm thanking you because FATHER, YOU haven't given up on me. God is just so good, and he's good all the time. Send this message to 8 friends, not to the friend who sent it to you and continue to THANK HIM.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Something Simple That Can Change Everything!
I have been praying for a while now about the great need that the Youth of America, and the world for that matter, have in regards to "Needing" a closer relationship with Christ. Now don't get me wrong, I know that this is NOT just a need for the Youth of our world, it is something that ALL of us can use.
I guess the reason why it has been more focused on young people for me recently is that I have been spending a lot of time with the youth of our Church in Tallahassee, listening to them as they talk about the struggles they face in trying to "Stay Close" to God. I have been very surprised by the level of maturity in the actual thought they have all put in to trying to find a "Cure" for this thing that is keeping them "At A Distance" from the Lord.
I am not going to shock anyone when I tell you the "One Thing" that can "Truly" change your life. I know that this answer is something that has been mentioned many times on this blog as well as throughout the generations that have been alive since the time of Jesus Christ. This answer has ALWAYS been here but it has been continuously ignored and overlooked generation after generation! Centuries have passed and the answer has stayed the same, no tricks, no "Smoke and Mirrors", no "Snake Handling" required for this one... it is the ONLY thing in the world that will NOT harm you in any way, but it will CHANGE you COMPLETELY, no matter who you may be, where you may live... NO EXCEPTIONS!
The answer is simply this...
THE BIBLE
I know that may sound too simplistic and some people may even say that it is a "Stupid" answer, well you are entitled to your own opinion! I still stand by this answer, I know it works, I know it makes "THE" difference in my life each and every day and I know it WILL BE THE ANSWER FOR YOU!
I have seen it happen time and time again, Christians "Drift" away from the Lord and they keep making the mistake of thinking they can "Mysteriously" find their way back by themselves. This is a Big, Fat Lie of the Devil! You and I cannot do anything by our own power to "Keep Us" from getting farther and farther from the Lord.
Only God Can Do This!
It is ONLY through His Word that you and I can grow. It is through Him, Through His power, Through His Blood, His Forgiveness, His Restoration, His Righteousness, His Death, Burial and His Glorious, Miraculous Resurrection that we have any hope at all! In the pages of The Bible, we can truly see Jesus reflected in every story, every Character in His word points to "Who" and "What" Jesus Christ actually is!
As an Evangelist, I constantly meet people who are discouraged and "Beaten Down" in their life. I listen to them as they cry and pour out their hearts telling me just how "Far" they feel they have gone from the "Strong Arms" of their "Loving Heavenly Father". They feel unprotected, unloved, unwanted, unneeded by anyone and everyone. This is sadly becoming more and more common in our Homes and in our Churches this whole world over.
If we have ever needed to "Return to The Bible"... THIS IS THAT TIME!
Think on this for a while. Let the Holy Spirit speak to YOU and follow His direction. He will NEVER lead you "AWAY FROM GOD"!
His For Revival,
Brother Dunn
I guess the reason why it has been more focused on young people for me recently is that I have been spending a lot of time with the youth of our Church in Tallahassee, listening to them as they talk about the struggles they face in trying to "Stay Close" to God. I have been very surprised by the level of maturity in the actual thought they have all put in to trying to find a "Cure" for this thing that is keeping them "At A Distance" from the Lord.
I am not going to shock anyone when I tell you the "One Thing" that can "Truly" change your life. I know that this answer is something that has been mentioned many times on this blog as well as throughout the generations that have been alive since the time of Jesus Christ. This answer has ALWAYS been here but it has been continuously ignored and overlooked generation after generation! Centuries have passed and the answer has stayed the same, no tricks, no "Smoke and Mirrors", no "Snake Handling" required for this one... it is the ONLY thing in the world that will NOT harm you in any way, but it will CHANGE you COMPLETELY, no matter who you may be, where you may live... NO EXCEPTIONS!
The answer is simply this...
THE BIBLE
I know that may sound too simplistic and some people may even say that it is a "Stupid" answer, well you are entitled to your own opinion! I still stand by this answer, I know it works, I know it makes "THE" difference in my life each and every day and I know it WILL BE THE ANSWER FOR YOU!
I have seen it happen time and time again, Christians "Drift" away from the Lord and they keep making the mistake of thinking they can "Mysteriously" find their way back by themselves. This is a Big, Fat Lie of the Devil! You and I cannot do anything by our own power to "Keep Us" from getting farther and farther from the Lord.
Only God Can Do This!
It is ONLY through His Word that you and I can grow. It is through Him, Through His power, Through His Blood, His Forgiveness, His Restoration, His Righteousness, His Death, Burial and His Glorious, Miraculous Resurrection that we have any hope at all! In the pages of The Bible, we can truly see Jesus reflected in every story, every Character in His word points to "Who" and "What" Jesus Christ actually is!
As an Evangelist, I constantly meet people who are discouraged and "Beaten Down" in their life. I listen to them as they cry and pour out their hearts telling me just how "Far" they feel they have gone from the "Strong Arms" of their "Loving Heavenly Father". They feel unprotected, unloved, unwanted, unneeded by anyone and everyone. This is sadly becoming more and more common in our Homes and in our Churches this whole world over.
If we have ever needed to "Return to The Bible"... THIS IS THAT TIME!
Think on this for a while. Let the Holy Spirit speak to YOU and follow His direction. He will NEVER lead you "AWAY FROM GOD"!
His For Revival,
Brother Dunn
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Taste my Jesus
At the University of Chicago Divinity School each year they have whatis called 'Baptist Day.' On this day each one is to bring a lunch tobe eaten outdoors in a grassy picnic area. Every 'Baptist Day' theschool would invite one of the greatest minds to lecture in thetheological education center. One year they invited Dr. Paul Tillich. Dr.Tillich spoke for two andone-half hours proving that the resurrection of Jesus was false. Hequoted scholar after scholar and book after book. He concluded thatsince there was no such thing as the historical resurrection thereligious tradition of the church was groundless, emotional mumbo-jumbo,because it was based on a relationship with a risen Jesus, who, in factnever rose from the dead in any literal sense. He then asked if therewere any questions. After about 30 seconds, an old, dark skinned preacher with a head ofshort-cropped, woolly white hair stood up in the back of the auditorium.'Docta Tillich, I got one question,' he said as all eyes turned toward him. He reached into his sack lunch and pulled out an apple and began eatingit. 'Docta Tillich.. CRUNCH, MUNCH 'My question is a simple question,...CRUNCH, MUNCH... 'Now, I ain't never read them books you read.. CRUNCH,MUNCH..' and I can't recite the Scriptures in the original Greek...CRUNCH, MUNCH ...' I don't know nothin' about Niebuhr and Heidegger...CRUNCH,MUNCH... He finished the apple. 'All I wanna know is: This apple I just ate,. . . . . . was it bitter or sweet? Dr Tillich paused for a moment and answered in exemplary scholarlyfashion: 'I cannot possibly answer that question, for I haven'ttasted your apple.' The white-haired preacher dropped the core of his apple into hiscrumpled paper bag, looked up at Dr. Tillich and said calmly, 'Neitherhave you tasted my Jesus.' The 1,000 plus in attendance could not contain themselves. Theauditorium erupted with applause and cheers. Dr. Tillich thanked his audience and promptly left the platform. Have you tasted Jesus? 'Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takesrefuge in Him. If you have, rejoice in the hope of the resurrectionthat your faith in Him brings.' Psalm 34:8!Please pass this on Saints! Jesus has risen... and He's coming back one day...
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Internet Chat Rooms
In the next few weeks, I want to cover many topics of entertainment. This will cover topics such as, internet activity, television and music. My hope is to inspire many of you to take the time to consider how you spend your free time. What things to you fill your void with?
Psalms 101:2-3
I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
Today, we will cover the internet chat room.
I was taken back with this research. To complete my research I had to actually jump into a chat room, just to see what it was all about. So I decided to go into a “Christian” chat room.
Upon entering, I saw many things that I saw displeasing.
1. Professing Christians using God’s name in vain.
2. I saw people trying to fire them up, just to trip them up and make them argue.
3. I saw Christians name calling of the ones that obviously came in for a fight.
Those are but a few of the many things that grieved my heart. I sat and watched not typing a word. However, I knew I could not leave the room without saying something, but what?
There was no conversation about Jesus and the grace that forgives sin. I must admit to feeling guilty of even sitting before a chat room.
I then asked them why they were arguing over pointless things, when one of the trouble makers was quick with words to me. I could not help but roll my eyes and type in a quick thank you, and how they were a sweetie. Well, what was next was amazing..as they thanked me.
My response, “And that folks demonstrates how a soft answer turns away wrath.”
From there, I left as I felt my research was completed.
Now with that said, I want to break down the chat room for you.
1. When you enter a chat room, one thing is certain, everyone has a cool name to represent what they want you to see of them. Their name is their identity.
2. There is ALWAYS 1 or 2 people that control and lead the room. Their mood and demeanor will control how the room goes. If they feel down and depressed, the room will be down and depressed all the same. People work to please these people.
3. You will have lurkers that come in just to watch. Make no mistake, the regulars are checking out their profile to see just WHO they are.
4. Once you’re a regular you will be greeted with “cyber hugs” a cyber hug looks much like this. (((((your name here)))))
There are many dangers in a chat room. I want to share with you many here.
1. People can be who and what they want to be. I have seen the old be young, the young be older. Basically in the net, you can who and what you want to be, of which you can not be in real life.
2. If it sounds too good be true, it often is. For instance, a professional model will not spend 10+ hours a day on the internet.
3. Many people find victims on the internet. It is easy to feel connected to someone you have never met in real life. I have seen marriages and friendships dissolve because someone has met another on the internet. You may think you are too strong for this, and that it will never happen to you. HOWEVER… you got to remember, no one jumps on the internet thinking they will be a victim.
4. People are not as they seem. Many people have lost lives to meeting people on the internet. I once read of a man that abducted a girl that decided to meet her internet friend. Praise God she was found. If you do a search on internet related crimes it can be a very dangerous way of meeting friends. NOTE: I am not saying that everyone is a fraud on the internet. I have met a few wonderful people in that way and plan on keeping them close friends for a lifetime.
Another awful thing I am seeing is Christians using the internet to find new ways of fornication. Let me tell you one thing.. GOD REVEALS SIN! Even those awful things you decide to do on the internet. Be it looking at pornography, or flirting.
Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
I want to give you all a word of caution of a chat room. You may not think right now that the worse can and will happen to you, but there is no new sin… none… nada!!
Remember our opening verse….
Psalms 101:2-3
I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
Ask yourself, are you behaving wisely, in a perfect way. Are you doing things in a perfect heart? Are you turning away from what is wicked as well as the works of them that are wicked?
Always remember, God is watching ALL you do. He knows your heart. He knows your very thoughts.
Psalms 101:2-3
I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
Today, we will cover the internet chat room.
I was taken back with this research. To complete my research I had to actually jump into a chat room, just to see what it was all about. So I decided to go into a “Christian” chat room.
Upon entering, I saw many things that I saw displeasing.
1. Professing Christians using God’s name in vain.
2. I saw people trying to fire them up, just to trip them up and make them argue.
3. I saw Christians name calling of the ones that obviously came in for a fight.
Those are but a few of the many things that grieved my heart. I sat and watched not typing a word. However, I knew I could not leave the room without saying something, but what?
There was no conversation about Jesus and the grace that forgives sin. I must admit to feeling guilty of even sitting before a chat room.
I then asked them why they were arguing over pointless things, when one of the trouble makers was quick with words to me. I could not help but roll my eyes and type in a quick thank you, and how they were a sweetie. Well, what was next was amazing..as they thanked me.
My response, “And that folks demonstrates how a soft answer turns away wrath.”
From there, I left as I felt my research was completed.
Now with that said, I want to break down the chat room for you.
1. When you enter a chat room, one thing is certain, everyone has a cool name to represent what they want you to see of them. Their name is their identity.
2. There is ALWAYS 1 or 2 people that control and lead the room. Their mood and demeanor will control how the room goes. If they feel down and depressed, the room will be down and depressed all the same. People work to please these people.
3. You will have lurkers that come in just to watch. Make no mistake, the regulars are checking out their profile to see just WHO they are.
4. Once you’re a regular you will be greeted with “cyber hugs” a cyber hug looks much like this. (((((your name here)))))
There are many dangers in a chat room. I want to share with you many here.
1. People can be who and what they want to be. I have seen the old be young, the young be older. Basically in the net, you can who and what you want to be, of which you can not be in real life.
2. If it sounds too good be true, it often is. For instance, a professional model will not spend 10+ hours a day on the internet.
3. Many people find victims on the internet. It is easy to feel connected to someone you have never met in real life. I have seen marriages and friendships dissolve because someone has met another on the internet. You may think you are too strong for this, and that it will never happen to you. HOWEVER… you got to remember, no one jumps on the internet thinking they will be a victim.
4. People are not as they seem. Many people have lost lives to meeting people on the internet. I once read of a man that abducted a girl that decided to meet her internet friend. Praise God she was found. If you do a search on internet related crimes it can be a very dangerous way of meeting friends. NOTE: I am not saying that everyone is a fraud on the internet. I have met a few wonderful people in that way and plan on keeping them close friends for a lifetime.
Another awful thing I am seeing is Christians using the internet to find new ways of fornication. Let me tell you one thing.. GOD REVEALS SIN! Even those awful things you decide to do on the internet. Be it looking at pornography, or flirting.
Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
I want to give you all a word of caution of a chat room. You may not think right now that the worse can and will happen to you, but there is no new sin… none… nada!!
Remember our opening verse….
Psalms 101:2-3
I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
Ask yourself, are you behaving wisely, in a perfect way. Are you doing things in a perfect heart? Are you turning away from what is wicked as well as the works of them that are wicked?
Always remember, God is watching ALL you do. He knows your heart. He knows your very thoughts.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
It's called CHRISTmas..Get it? Got it? GOOD!
It's called CHRISTmas...got it? GOOD!
With all the retailers forbidden to say.. "Merry Christmas" I have decided to take my CHRISTmas shopping in stride..making sure to be extra polite so I can tell others.. "Merry Christmas."
So far, I have gotten "Merry Christmas" out of Walmart employees, Dollar General employees, Bi Lo Employees, and sporadic people in general.
I always make sure I start with a smile...and I watch for the cashier to speak to wish me a happy holiday season..when I blurt out..with a smile, "You Have a Merry Christmas now!"
This holiday season is the celebration of the day Jesus Christ was born.. to shed his blood and die on the cross for our sin. Now I know many out there will scoff of what I say..and that is fine too. If your reading this..I know HIS word will not return void.
This week is not about the presents under the tree. It is not about the turkey, the ham..or the deserts. It is the day of the Lord Jesus Christ.. HIS birthday.
So to all of you out there..from our family to yours........
I pray God blesses you with a wonderful CHRISTMAS! Remember, it is not about us...it is about HIM!
Be bold..be radical..but don't be left behind!
With all the retailers forbidden to say.. "Merry Christmas" I have decided to take my CHRISTmas shopping in stride..making sure to be extra polite so I can tell others.. "Merry Christmas."
So far, I have gotten "Merry Christmas" out of Walmart employees, Dollar General employees, Bi Lo Employees, and sporadic people in general.
I always make sure I start with a smile...and I watch for the cashier to speak to wish me a happy holiday season..when I blurt out..with a smile, "You Have a Merry Christmas now!"
This holiday season is the celebration of the day Jesus Christ was born.. to shed his blood and die on the cross for our sin. Now I know many out there will scoff of what I say..and that is fine too. If your reading this..I know HIS word will not return void.
This week is not about the presents under the tree. It is not about the turkey, the ham..or the deserts. It is the day of the Lord Jesus Christ.. HIS birthday.
So to all of you out there..from our family to yours........
I pray God blesses you with a wonderful CHRISTMAS! Remember, it is not about us...it is about HIM!
Be bold..be radical..but don't be left behind!
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