LIKE PEAS IN A POD
A sermon by John A. Bright
1 Corinthians 12:12-31
For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ.13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body -- whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free -- and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.14 For in fact the body is not one member but many.
15 If the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body," is it therefore not of the body?16 And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I am not of the body," is it therefore not of the body?17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling?18 But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.19 And if they were all one member, where would the body be?
20 But now indeed there are many members, yet one body.21 And the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you"; nor again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you."22 No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary.23 And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty,24 but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it,25 that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another.26 And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.
27 Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.28 And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles?30 Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?31 But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.
NKJV
I would like to take a survey. If you have heard at least one sermon on this scripture passage before, please raise your hand. Thank you. You may put your hands down. Let me tell you, it was worse than I expected - almost every last one of you has heard a sermon on this text. Not that it surprises me, the Body of Christ metaphor has been a favorite of preachers for hundreds of years.
Now I have a job for each of you that raised your hand. Forget everything you know about this passage. Forget the sermons. Forget the Sunday School lessons. Forget the Bible Studies. If you are finished, we can take a fresh look at these verses written by the apostle Paul to the church at Corinth.
Let me tell you a story:
Long ago, in a garden far away, there lived some peas. These peas lived in pods, three peas in each pod. They hung in their pods from the vines of the pea plants in the garden.
Because they were hanging down from the vines, one of the peas was always on top. One of the peas was always in the middle. And one of the peas was always on the bottom of the pod. It was the same in all the pods... on all the pea plants... all over the garden.
And all over the garden in all the pea pods, the peas would talk down to one another. The top pea would say, "Look at me! It must have been the Gardener's plan for me to be on top. Since I am on top, all of you peas underneath me must give me the respect that is due me for I have the place of honor."
The middle pea was a little ashamed to be beneath the top pea; but was unable to argue with this line of reasoning. (You see, this is how it was in all the pods in the garden and it had always been this way.) The middle pea said, "Yes, you have the place of honor in this pod, but I also have a place of honor. I may be underneath you, but at least I am not on the bottom. The bottom pea must give me the respect that I must give the top pea."
The bottom pea could fell nothing but shame at hearing the middle pea talk this way. There was no other pea who could honor the bottom pea. All over the garden, all the bottom peas were ashamed because of their positions in their pods, but they could do nothing to change the situation.
******************
This was pretty much the situation in the world in which Paul lived. The Corinthians gave some in the Church great honor, just as in the larger society. If you wanted honor, you only had to acquire the gifts of the Spirit that put you above others. Those without gifts, or with inferior gifts, you would have felt ashamed. Honor and shame were the categories that placed a person or thing in a hierarchical list. You knew your place by knowing who was above you and who was below you. Perhaps our world and our Church are much the same today.
Paul uses these categories of honor and shame when he compares the Church to a human body. The parts of the body that are left uncovered, the eyes and the head, are warned not to speak down to the lower parts of the body that are covered for fear of shame.
Well, back to the story:
Then one day, a bottom pea had an idea and tried to share it with the middle pea in the pod.
"Hey, middle pea, can we talk?", he asked.
The middle pea looked around. This pea was quite confused since bottom peas never talked to the peas further up in the pod. "What ever you want, make it quick before any of the other peas see me talking to you," the middle pea replied.
The bottom pea spoke up, "I was thinking, maybe the Gardener put each of us where we are for a reason. Maybe we all have a role to play here in the garden. Maybe I am just as important as the other peas in this pod."
Shock and indignation swept over the middle pea. What the bottom pea had said was unthinkable. It was tantamount to anarchy. If the other pods heard such talk, it could change things in the garden forever.
The middle pea called up to the top pea, "Did you hear what the bottom pea said?"
The top pea replied, "Yes, and it is already causing trouble in our pod. You have never had the nerve to speak up to me before. This is very bad."
The top pea decided that the best thing would be to talk to all the other top peas in all the pods in the garden so they could take precautions. It was too late. The word had spread from all the bottom peas to all the middle peas and finally to all the top peas. It was decided that the only thing to do was to have all the top and middle peas push downward, thus forcing all the bottom peas out of their pods. It was done and all the bottom peas fell to the ground.
*******************
That is what was happening in the Corinthian church. That is also what happens in our churches today. We give the important people places of honor and simply push all the others aside. Then we do not feel so bad when we go out and do the same thing in our daily lives. We who are white and live comfortable lives push those on the margins of society further and further away.
God, though, seems to take a different view of who is to be honored and who is to be ashamed.
Our story continues:
Everything in the garden returned to the way it had always been, or so they thought.
Upon seeing the pods burst open at the bottom, the Gardener decided it was time to harvest the peas. The Gardener went to the vines and pulled all the pods.
The peas who remained in the pods were excited. They felt sure that they would finally receive the honor due them. They also felt that it must have been the right thing to push all the bottom peas from their pods since this seems to have brought them the honor of being taken from the vines and being removed from their pods. They were so proud of themselves, that is, until they all were placed in a pot of boiling water.
*********************
The Early Church relied on apostles to start new churches. They relied on prophets to interpret God's will for their lives. They relied on teachers to pass on the Gospel to new members. We may not use the same names today, but we need preachers. We need leaders and chairs of committees. We need teachers in our Sunday Schools. Not everyone is given the responsibility of preaching, or leading, or teaching; but we are all vital to the life and growth of the Church. In our present situation at this church, which seems to shrink with each death, all of us might find ourselves depending on those who are crazy enough to ask a friend to come and visit on Sunday morning. What a lowly gift compared with all the others; but so very important.
It is time to finish our story:
You may be wondering what happened to all the bottom peas. Each one sprouted a new pea plant with tall vines and many pea pods. Yet, they never forgot their idea of each pea having a different, but equal, function. So even to this day, all the peas, top, middle, and bottom, live together 'like peas in a pod.'
The end. Amen.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Grac*e-mail for 09/29/09 got grace?
Grac*e-mail for 09/29/09
got grace?
John()_:-) Every time you see this angel, remember that God loves you!
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
This is going out to 126 members of the Grac*e-mail group on Google Groups. Last week I tried to send out invites to the 754 e-mails that were on the old InJesus group. I’m not really sure what happened. I may have to send a message out on the old list directing them to the new group. If that means you get an extra message – sorry!
Have you checked out the Grac*e-mail Blog?
http://gracemail.blogspot.com/
Got this from Christi Medice…
I just want to thank all of you for your educational e-mails over the past year. I am totally messed up now and have little chance of recovery:
• I no longer open a public bathroom door without using a paper towel.
• I no longer have lemon slices in my ice water at a restaurant without worrying about the bacteria on the lemon peel.
• I can't sit down on the hotel bedspread because I can only imagine what has happened on it since it was last washed.
• I have trouble shaking hands with someone who has been driving because the number one pastime while driving alone is picking one's nose (although cell phone usage may be overtaking the number one spot).
• Eating a little snack sends me on a guilt trip because I can only imagine how many gallons of trans fats I have consumed over the years.
• I can't touch any woman's purse for fear she has placed it on the floor of a public bathroom.
• I MUST SEND MY SPECIAL THANKS to whoever sent me the one about poop in the glue on envelopes because I now have to use a wet sponge with every envelope that needs sealing.
• ALSO, now I have to scrub the top of every can I open for the same reason.
• I no longer have any savings because I gave it to a sick girl (Penny Brown) who is about to die in the hospital for the 1,387,258th time.
• I no longer have any money at all, but that will change once I receive the $15,000 that Bill Gates/Microsoft and AOL are sending me for participating in their special e-mail program.
• I no longer worry about my soul because I have 363,214 angels looking out for me, and St. Theresa's Novena has granted my every wish
• I no longer eat KFC because their chickens are actually horrible mutant freaks with no eyes or feathers.
• I no longer use cancer-causing deodorants even though I smell like a water buffalo on a hot day.
• THANKS TO ALL OF YOU I have learned that my prayers only get answered if I forward an e-mail to seven of my friends and make a wish within five minutes.
• BECAUSE OF YOUR CONCERN, I no longer drink Coca Cola because it can remove toilet stains.
• I no longer can buy gasoline without taking someone along to watch the car so a serial killer won't crawl in my back seat when I'm pumping gas.
• I no longer drink Pepsi or Dr. Pepper since the people who make these products are atheists who refuse to put 'Under God' on their cans.
• I no longer use Saran Wrap in the microwave because it causes cancer.
• AND THANKS FOR LETTING ME KNOW I can't boil a cup of water in the microwave anymore because it will blow up in my face... disfiguring me for life.
• I no longer check the coin return on pay phones because I could be pricked with a needle infected with AIDS.
• I no longer go to shopping malls because someone will drug me with a perfume sample and rob me.
• I no longer receive packages from UPS or Fed Ex since they are actually Al Qaeda in disguise.
• I no longer shop at Target since they are French and don't support our American troops or the Salvation Army.
• I no longer answer the phone because someone will ask me to dial a number for which I will get a phone bill with calls to Jamaica , Uganda , Singapore and Uzbekistan
• I no longer buy expensive cookies from Neiman Marcus since I now have their recipe.
• THANKS TO YOU I can't use anyone's toilet but mine because a big brown African spider is lurking under the seat to cause me instant death when it bites my butt.
• AND THANKS TO YOUR GREAT ADVICE I can't ever pick up $5.00 dropped in the parking lot because it probably was placed there by a sex molester waiting underneath my car to grab my leg.
• I can no longer drive my car because I can't buy gas from certain gas companies!
• I can't do any gardening because I'm afraid I'll get bitten by the brown recluse and my hand will fall off.
If you don't send this e-mail to at least 144,000 people in the next 70 minutes, a large dove with diarrhea will land on your head at 5:00 p.m. tomorrow afternoon and the fleas from 12 camels will infest your backside, causing you to grow a hairy hump. I know this will occur because it actually happened to a friend of my next door neighbor's ex-mother-in-law's second husband's cousin's beautician. .
Oh, by the way.....
A German scientist from Argentina, after a lengthy study, has discovered that people with insufficient brain activity read their e-mail with their hand on the mouse.
Don't bother taking it off now, it's too late.
October is Clergy Appreciation Month!
You can get lots of ideas on how to celebrate at…
http://www.parsonage.org/cam/index.cfm
http://www.christianitytoday.com/holidays/clergy/
http://www.lifeway.com/lwc/article_main_page/0,1703,A=166275&M=200829,00.html?emid=22
If you received this from a friend and would like to join the list just check out the subscription info at the end of this mailing. There is always room for one more!
Got this from Larry Burrows…
Subject: 2 Chron. 7:14
I remember reading about the children of Israel who turned from God time and time again, only to realize their mistake and pray for forgiveness. Each time, God would forgive them and they would walk with him for a time. So, I am going to ask you to join me in praying for our nation every day. Please read the email below. God is in control.
When we were in Texarkana last week, there were signs in people's yards that said, "America, prayer is our only hope" - with 2 Chron. 7:14 underneath. We certainly need God's help!
I believe if we pray for our nation that things will turn around.
After contemplation and soul searching, I have decided to reach out to friends and relatives and ask you to do something that has been troubling me for a long time.
Our nation is/has been on the slippery slope for a long time. If you look around you will find corruption, greed, moral decay, and a steady move away from the things that made us great. The principles upon which this nation was founded are no longer our backbone. However, we can reverse this trend.
2 Chron. 7:14 in God's Word, He states:
"If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
I am convinced that we must pray for our nation and its leaders and ask for forgiveness. So I ask you to join me in this plea to our Lord.
Would you please send this to people in your address book? Ask them to pray EVERY DAY. If you do and they comply, we will lift up millions and millions of prayers a day to our Creator. He will hear us, and in faith will answer.
"If we ever forget that we are one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under." Ronald Reagan
I truly believe this is why the United States of America is in the shape it's in today. Most people have forgotten that we are ONE NATION UNDER GOD! Let us as Christians stand up and remind people of this.
Send good stories and clean funnies to: johnlynnbright@gmail.com
NOTE - All material contained in this mailing is shared as received and is believed, by me, to be anonymous... unless credit is given. Please contact me at the address above if you know the author of any material so that I may give credit where credit is due. Thanks!
Grace & peace –
John A. Bright
Pastor, Walmsley Boulevard UMC in Richmond, Virginia
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change..."
got grace?
John()_:-) Every time you see this angel, remember that God loves you!
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
This is going out to 126 members of the Grac*e-mail group on Google Groups. Last week I tried to send out invites to the 754 e-mails that were on the old InJesus group. I’m not really sure what happened. I may have to send a message out on the old list directing them to the new group. If that means you get an extra message – sorry!
Have you checked out the Grac*e-mail Blog?
http://gracemail.blogspot.com/
Got this from Christi Medice…
I just want to thank all of you for your educational e-mails over the past year. I am totally messed up now and have little chance of recovery:
• I no longer open a public bathroom door without using a paper towel.
• I no longer have lemon slices in my ice water at a restaurant without worrying about the bacteria on the lemon peel.
• I can't sit down on the hotel bedspread because I can only imagine what has happened on it since it was last washed.
• I have trouble shaking hands with someone who has been driving because the number one pastime while driving alone is picking one's nose (although cell phone usage may be overtaking the number one spot).
• Eating a little snack sends me on a guilt trip because I can only imagine how many gallons of trans fats I have consumed over the years.
• I can't touch any woman's purse for fear she has placed it on the floor of a public bathroom.
• I MUST SEND MY SPECIAL THANKS to whoever sent me the one about poop in the glue on envelopes because I now have to use a wet sponge with every envelope that needs sealing.
• ALSO, now I have to scrub the top of every can I open for the same reason.
• I no longer have any savings because I gave it to a sick girl (Penny Brown) who is about to die in the hospital for the 1,387,258th time.
• I no longer have any money at all, but that will change once I receive the $15,000 that Bill Gates/Microsoft and AOL are sending me for participating in their special e-mail program.
• I no longer worry about my soul because I have 363,214 angels looking out for me, and St. Theresa's Novena has granted my every wish
• I no longer eat KFC because their chickens are actually horrible mutant freaks with no eyes or feathers.
• I no longer use cancer-causing deodorants even though I smell like a water buffalo on a hot day.
• THANKS TO ALL OF YOU I have learned that my prayers only get answered if I forward an e-mail to seven of my friends and make a wish within five minutes.
• BECAUSE OF YOUR CONCERN, I no longer drink Coca Cola because it can remove toilet stains.
• I no longer can buy gasoline without taking someone along to watch the car so a serial killer won't crawl in my back seat when I'm pumping gas.
• I no longer drink Pepsi or Dr. Pepper since the people who make these products are atheists who refuse to put 'Under God' on their cans.
• I no longer use Saran Wrap in the microwave because it causes cancer.
• AND THANKS FOR LETTING ME KNOW I can't boil a cup of water in the microwave anymore because it will blow up in my face... disfiguring me for life.
• I no longer check the coin return on pay phones because I could be pricked with a needle infected with AIDS.
• I no longer go to shopping malls because someone will drug me with a perfume sample and rob me.
• I no longer receive packages from UPS or Fed Ex since they are actually Al Qaeda in disguise.
• I no longer shop at Target since they are French and don't support our American troops or the Salvation Army.
• I no longer answer the phone because someone will ask me to dial a number for which I will get a phone bill with calls to Jamaica , Uganda , Singapore and Uzbekistan
• I no longer buy expensive cookies from Neiman Marcus since I now have their recipe.
• THANKS TO YOU I can't use anyone's toilet but mine because a big brown African spider is lurking under the seat to cause me instant death when it bites my butt.
• AND THANKS TO YOUR GREAT ADVICE I can't ever pick up $5.00 dropped in the parking lot because it probably was placed there by a sex molester waiting underneath my car to grab my leg.
• I can no longer drive my car because I can't buy gas from certain gas companies!
• I can't do any gardening because I'm afraid I'll get bitten by the brown recluse and my hand will fall off.
If you don't send this e-mail to at least 144,000 people in the next 70 minutes, a large dove with diarrhea will land on your head at 5:00 p.m. tomorrow afternoon and the fleas from 12 camels will infest your backside, causing you to grow a hairy hump. I know this will occur because it actually happened to a friend of my next door neighbor's ex-mother-in-law's second husband's cousin's beautician. .
Oh, by the way.....
A German scientist from Argentina, after a lengthy study, has discovered that people with insufficient brain activity read their e-mail with their hand on the mouse.
Don't bother taking it off now, it's too late.
October is Clergy Appreciation Month!
You can get lots of ideas on how to celebrate at…
http://www.parsonage.org/cam/index.cfm
http://www.christianitytoday.com/holidays/clergy/
http://www.lifeway.com/lwc/article_main_page/0,1703,A=166275&M=200829,00.html?emid=22
If you received this from a friend and would like to join the list just check out the subscription info at the end of this mailing. There is always room for one more!
Got this from Larry Burrows…
Subject: 2 Chron. 7:14
I remember reading about the children of Israel who turned from God time and time again, only to realize their mistake and pray for forgiveness. Each time, God would forgive them and they would walk with him for a time. So, I am going to ask you to join me in praying for our nation every day. Please read the email below. God is in control.
When we were in Texarkana last week, there were signs in people's yards that said, "America, prayer is our only hope" - with 2 Chron. 7:14 underneath. We certainly need God's help!
I believe if we pray for our nation that things will turn around.
After contemplation and soul searching, I have decided to reach out to friends and relatives and ask you to do something that has been troubling me for a long time.
Our nation is/has been on the slippery slope for a long time. If you look around you will find corruption, greed, moral decay, and a steady move away from the things that made us great. The principles upon which this nation was founded are no longer our backbone. However, we can reverse this trend.
2 Chron. 7:14 in God's Word, He states:
"If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
I am convinced that we must pray for our nation and its leaders and ask for forgiveness. So I ask you to join me in this plea to our Lord.
Would you please send this to people in your address book? Ask them to pray EVERY DAY. If you do and they comply, we will lift up millions and millions of prayers a day to our Creator. He will hear us, and in faith will answer.
"If we ever forget that we are one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under." Ronald Reagan
I truly believe this is why the United States of America is in the shape it's in today. Most people have forgotten that we are ONE NATION UNDER GOD! Let us as Christians stand up and remind people of this.
Send good stories and clean funnies to: johnlynnbright@gmail.com
NOTE - All material contained in this mailing is shared as received and is believed, by me, to be anonymous... unless credit is given. Please contact me at the address above if you know the author of any material so that I may give credit where credit is due. Thanks!
Grace & peace –
John A. Bright
Pastor, Walmsley Boulevard UMC in Richmond, Virginia
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change..."
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Your Personal Guide to Fasting and Prayer
Your Personal Guide to Fasting and Prayer
By Dr. Bill Bright
Available at http://ccci.org/training-and-growth.aspx
If you go there, be sure to check out 7 Basic Steps to Successful Fasting & Prayer
Fasting is the most powerful spiritual discipline of all the Christian disciplines. Through fasting and prayer, the Holy Spirit can transform your life.
Fasting and prayer can also work on a much grander scale. According to Scripture, personal experience and observation, I am convinced that when God's people fast with a proper Biblical motive-seeking God's face not His hand-with a broken, repentant, and contrite spirit, God will hear from heaven and heal our lives, our churches, our communities, our nation and world. Fasting and prayer can bring about revival - a change in the direction of our nation, the nations of earth and the fulfillment of the Great Commission.
The awesome power can be released through you as you fast through the enabling of the Holy Spirit.
Fasting is one of the most neglected spiritual admonitions. In fact, it has been ignored for so long that it is difficult to find information on the "how-to's" of this life-changing experience. When I first undertook an extended fast, I had a difficult time finding information on the nature of a Biblical fast, how to start, what to expect physically and spiritually, and how to terminate a fast.
Why You Should Fast
If you do not already know of the power and importance of fasting, here are some very important facts:
• Fasting was an expected discipline in both the Old and New Testament eras. For example, Moses fasted at least two recorded forty-day periods. Jesus fasted 40 days and reminded His followers to fast, "when you fast," not if you fast.
• Fasting and prayer can restore the loss of the "first love" for your Lord and result in a more intimate relationship with Christ.
• Fasting is a biblical way to truly humble yourself in the sight of God (Psalm 35:13; Ezra 8:21). King David said, "I humble myself through fasting."
• Fasting enables the Holy Spirit to reveal your true spiritual condition, resulting in brokenness, repentance, and a transformed life.
• The Holy Spirit will quicken the Word of God in your heart and His truth will become more meaningful to you!
• Fasting can transform your prayer life into a richer and more personal experience.
• Fasting can result in a dynamic personal revival in your own life-and make you a channel of revival to others.
• Fasting and prayer are the only disciplines that fulfill the requirements of II Chronicles 7:14: "If my people, who are called by my name, will 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."
If you fast, you will find yourself being humbled as I did. You will discover more time to pray and seek God's face. And as He leads you to recognize and repent of unconfessed sin, you will experience special blessings from God.
How To Fast Safely
As you begin your fast, you may hear from concerned loved ones and friends who urge you to protect your health. And they are right. You should protect your health. But I assure you, if done properly, fasting will not only prove to be a spiritual blessing, but physical blessing as well.
By all means, consult your doctor before you begin your fast. But, be aware that many doctors have not been trained in this area and so their understanding is limited. Even so, it would be wise to ask your doctor for a physical exam to make sure you are in good health. You may have a physical problem that would make fasting unwise or dangerous. Also, if you are under any type of medication, make sure you talk to your doctor before changing your regime. Prudence and caution are in order.
When you are assured that you are in good health, you are ready to begin your fast. Follow the guidelines in the Physical Preparations and Maintaining Nutritional Balance and Health parts of this website.
In spite of the absolute safety and benefits of fasting, there are certain persons who should NEVER fast without professional supervision. For example:
• Persons who are physically too thin or emaciated.
• Persons who are prone to anorexia, bulimia, or other behavioral disorders.
• Those who suffer weakness or anemia.
• Persons who have tumors, bleeding ulcers, cancer, blood diseases, or who have heart disease.
• Those who suffer chronic problems with kidneys, liver, lungs, heart, or other important organs.
• Individuals who take insulin for diabetes, or suffer any other blood sugar problem such as hyperglycemia.
• Women who are pregnant or nursing.
How Long and What Type of Fast is Right for You
If you have never fasted before, I applaud your present interest! Fasting has been a major emphasis in the lives of many of the great spiritual leaders throughout history. John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist denomination, fasted every Wednesday and Friday and required all of his clergy to do the same. Effective ministers of God from the apostle Paul to Martin Luther to John Calvin made it a continual part of their walks with God.
None of those men had a "formula fast" that was the only "right" way. Fasting is about the condition of the heart, not the number of days. Each time that I have fasted for forty days, it was because I felt impressed by God to do so.
So, start slowly. Fast for one meal a day, or one day a week, or one week a month. Build up your spiritual muscles so that you will be prepared in a period of several months to fast for an extended 40 day period.
The Bible Recounts Primarily Two Types of Fasts
A partial fast is described in the book of Daniel. Although the water fast seemed to be the custom of the prophet, there was a three-week period in which he only abstained from "delicacies," meat, and wine (Daniel 10:3).
The two primary types mentioned in the Bible are the "absolute" and "supernatural absolute" fasts. These are total fasts-no food (solid or liquid) and no water. Paul went on an absolute fast for three days following his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:9). Moses and Elijah engaged in what must be considered a supernatural absolute fast of forty days (Deuteronomy 9:9; I Kings 19:8).
So, I strongly advice you to drink plenty of liquids. Obviously, if God leads you to undertake an absolute fast, you should obey. If so, be certain, without doubt, that God is leading you.
Water-only fasts that last for more than several days need to be undertaken with complete rest and under medical supervision because of the extreme danger of over-toxification, breakdown of vital body tissues, and loss of electrolytes.
I personally recommend and practice water and juice fasting, especially if you are going to fast for an extended period of time. This type of fast will provide you with more energy than absolute or water-only fasts and still lead you into the humbling experience of denying your desire for solid food that you can chew.
When it comes to making your final decision about what type of fast is right for you, the best advise I can give you is to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. He will guide your heart and mind as to what is best for you. Remember, the most important consideration in fasting is your motive. Why are you fasting? To seek something personally from God's hand or to seek His face in worship, praise and thanksgiving?
How to Prepare Yourself Spiritually and Physically
In preparation for this special time with God, I strongly urge you to examine your heart, and detect any unconfessed sin. Scripture records that God always requires His people to repent of their sins before He will hear their prayers. King David said:
Come and hear, all of you who reverence the Lord, and I will tell you what he did for me: For I cried to him for help, with praises ready on my tongue. He would not have listened if I had not confessed my sins. But he listened! He heard my prayer! He paid attention to it!
Blessed be God who didn't turn away when I was praying, and didn't refuse me his kindness and love. (Psalm 66:16-20)
In your prayers, confess not only obvious sins, but less obvious ones as well. The sins of omission as well as the sins of commission experiences. These may be experiences leaving your first love for our Lord: worldly-mindedness, self-centeredness, spiritual indifference, and unwillingness to share your faith in Christ with others, not spending sufficient time in God's Word and in prayer, a poor relationship with your spouse, your children, your pastor, or other members of your church.
Another great way to prepare for your fast is to practice what I call "Spiritual Breathing." The concept is simple, but it has changed my own life and that of millions of others.
Like physical breathing, Spiritual Breathing is a process of exhaling the impure and inhaling the pure. If you knowingly sin, breathe spiritually to restore the fullness of God's Holy Spirit in your life. You exhale by confessing your sins immediately when you become aware of them, and you inhale by inviting the Holy Spirit to re-take control of your life. As an act of faith, trust Him to empower you. During the fast, spiritual breathing-constant reliance on the Holy Spirit-will enable you to resist temptation, not only to sin but to abandon your fast.
Physical Preparation
Although fasting is primarily a spiritual discipline, it begins in the physical realm. You should not fast without specific physical preparation.
If you plan on fasting for several days, you will find it helpful to begin by eating smaller meals before you abstain altogether. Resist the urge to have that "last big feast" before the fast. Cutting down on your meals a few days before you begin the fast will signal your mind, stomach, and appetite that less food is acceptable.
Some health professionals suggest eating only raw foods for two days before starting a fast. I also recommend weaning yourself off caffeine and sugar products to ease your initial hunger or discomfort at the early stages of your fast.
How to Manage Your Schedule While Fasting
How long you fast, the kind of fast you undertake, and how you adjust your work schedule depends mostly on your occupation. Persons with office jobs, pastors, or homemakers may find it easier to continue their duties and fast for longer periods of time. In fact, on the basis of my personal experience, worldwide travels and the many letters, which I have received, I am confident that many, many thousands of pastors and lay men and women have already completed a 40-day fast!
Though there are many who engage in strenuous physical labor and have enjoyed their extended fast, if you are so engaged, you may wish to fast only one or more days of the week, limiting yourselves to partial fasting if you are so engaged. Or you may look to weekends as the prime time to abstain from food. Remember, too, fasting during major holidays is not always a good idea. Families may be inconvenienced, and temptations to eat can be overwhelming.
Reasons for schedule adjustments, especially during an extended fast, are two-fold...
The first is physical. Throughout your fast, you may feel somewhat weaker than normal. During the first few days, you may feel tired and irritable. Lightening your workload and cutting down on strenuous exercise would be a very good idea to maintain your health and your morale.
The second reason is spiritual. Fasting is not just denying yourself food. It is exchanging the needs of the physical body for those of the spiritual. Long times of prayer and reading God's Word will be very essential if you are to enter into a more intimate communion with God to maintain your fast to its completion. While fasting, if you dissipate your energy on numerous errands or busy-work to the neglect of spending special time with God, you will starve both physically and spiritually. You will find yourself becoming discouraged and frustrated with your fast instead of being benefited and uplifted and blessed. I don't want that to happen to you.
The more time you spend with God in fellowship, worship, and adoration of Him, and the more you read and meditate upon His Word, the greater your effectiveness will be in prayer and the more meaningful your fast will be. So I encourage you to arrange your schedule accordingly!
By Dr. Bill Bright
Available at http://ccci.org/training-and-growth.aspx
If you go there, be sure to check out 7 Basic Steps to Successful Fasting & Prayer
Fasting is the most powerful spiritual discipline of all the Christian disciplines. Through fasting and prayer, the Holy Spirit can transform your life.
Fasting and prayer can also work on a much grander scale. According to Scripture, personal experience and observation, I am convinced that when God's people fast with a proper Biblical motive-seeking God's face not His hand-with a broken, repentant, and contrite spirit, God will hear from heaven and heal our lives, our churches, our communities, our nation and world. Fasting and prayer can bring about revival - a change in the direction of our nation, the nations of earth and the fulfillment of the Great Commission.
The awesome power can be released through you as you fast through the enabling of the Holy Spirit.
Fasting is one of the most neglected spiritual admonitions. In fact, it has been ignored for so long that it is difficult to find information on the "how-to's" of this life-changing experience. When I first undertook an extended fast, I had a difficult time finding information on the nature of a Biblical fast, how to start, what to expect physically and spiritually, and how to terminate a fast.
Why You Should Fast
If you do not already know of the power and importance of fasting, here are some very important facts:
• Fasting was an expected discipline in both the Old and New Testament eras. For example, Moses fasted at least two recorded forty-day periods. Jesus fasted 40 days and reminded His followers to fast, "when you fast," not if you fast.
• Fasting and prayer can restore the loss of the "first love" for your Lord and result in a more intimate relationship with Christ.
• Fasting is a biblical way to truly humble yourself in the sight of God (Psalm 35:13; Ezra 8:21). King David said, "I humble myself through fasting."
• Fasting enables the Holy Spirit to reveal your true spiritual condition, resulting in brokenness, repentance, and a transformed life.
• The Holy Spirit will quicken the Word of God in your heart and His truth will become more meaningful to you!
• Fasting can transform your prayer life into a richer and more personal experience.
• Fasting can result in a dynamic personal revival in your own life-and make you a channel of revival to others.
• Fasting and prayer are the only disciplines that fulfill the requirements of II Chronicles 7:14: "If my people, who are called by my name, will 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."
If you fast, you will find yourself being humbled as I did. You will discover more time to pray and seek God's face. And as He leads you to recognize and repent of unconfessed sin, you will experience special blessings from God.
How To Fast Safely
As you begin your fast, you may hear from concerned loved ones and friends who urge you to protect your health. And they are right. You should protect your health. But I assure you, if done properly, fasting will not only prove to be a spiritual blessing, but physical blessing as well.
By all means, consult your doctor before you begin your fast. But, be aware that many doctors have not been trained in this area and so their understanding is limited. Even so, it would be wise to ask your doctor for a physical exam to make sure you are in good health. You may have a physical problem that would make fasting unwise or dangerous. Also, if you are under any type of medication, make sure you talk to your doctor before changing your regime. Prudence and caution are in order.
When you are assured that you are in good health, you are ready to begin your fast. Follow the guidelines in the Physical Preparations and Maintaining Nutritional Balance and Health parts of this website.
In spite of the absolute safety and benefits of fasting, there are certain persons who should NEVER fast without professional supervision. For example:
• Persons who are physically too thin or emaciated.
• Persons who are prone to anorexia, bulimia, or other behavioral disorders.
• Those who suffer weakness or anemia.
• Persons who have tumors, bleeding ulcers, cancer, blood diseases, or who have heart disease.
• Those who suffer chronic problems with kidneys, liver, lungs, heart, or other important organs.
• Individuals who take insulin for diabetes, or suffer any other blood sugar problem such as hyperglycemia.
• Women who are pregnant or nursing.
How Long and What Type of Fast is Right for You
If you have never fasted before, I applaud your present interest! Fasting has been a major emphasis in the lives of many of the great spiritual leaders throughout history. John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist denomination, fasted every Wednesday and Friday and required all of his clergy to do the same. Effective ministers of God from the apostle Paul to Martin Luther to John Calvin made it a continual part of their walks with God.
None of those men had a "formula fast" that was the only "right" way. Fasting is about the condition of the heart, not the number of days. Each time that I have fasted for forty days, it was because I felt impressed by God to do so.
So, start slowly. Fast for one meal a day, or one day a week, or one week a month. Build up your spiritual muscles so that you will be prepared in a period of several months to fast for an extended 40 day period.
The Bible Recounts Primarily Two Types of Fasts
A partial fast is described in the book of Daniel. Although the water fast seemed to be the custom of the prophet, there was a three-week period in which he only abstained from "delicacies," meat, and wine (Daniel 10:3).
The two primary types mentioned in the Bible are the "absolute" and "supernatural absolute" fasts. These are total fasts-no food (solid or liquid) and no water. Paul went on an absolute fast for three days following his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:9). Moses and Elijah engaged in what must be considered a supernatural absolute fast of forty days (Deuteronomy 9:9; I Kings 19:8).
So, I strongly advice you to drink plenty of liquids. Obviously, if God leads you to undertake an absolute fast, you should obey. If so, be certain, without doubt, that God is leading you.
Water-only fasts that last for more than several days need to be undertaken with complete rest and under medical supervision because of the extreme danger of over-toxification, breakdown of vital body tissues, and loss of electrolytes.
I personally recommend and practice water and juice fasting, especially if you are going to fast for an extended period of time. This type of fast will provide you with more energy than absolute or water-only fasts and still lead you into the humbling experience of denying your desire for solid food that you can chew.
When it comes to making your final decision about what type of fast is right for you, the best advise I can give you is to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. He will guide your heart and mind as to what is best for you. Remember, the most important consideration in fasting is your motive. Why are you fasting? To seek something personally from God's hand or to seek His face in worship, praise and thanksgiving?
How to Prepare Yourself Spiritually and Physically
In preparation for this special time with God, I strongly urge you to examine your heart, and detect any unconfessed sin. Scripture records that God always requires His people to repent of their sins before He will hear their prayers. King David said:
Come and hear, all of you who reverence the Lord, and I will tell you what he did for me: For I cried to him for help, with praises ready on my tongue. He would not have listened if I had not confessed my sins. But he listened! He heard my prayer! He paid attention to it!
Blessed be God who didn't turn away when I was praying, and didn't refuse me his kindness and love. (Psalm 66:16-20)
In your prayers, confess not only obvious sins, but less obvious ones as well. The sins of omission as well as the sins of commission experiences. These may be experiences leaving your first love for our Lord: worldly-mindedness, self-centeredness, spiritual indifference, and unwillingness to share your faith in Christ with others, not spending sufficient time in God's Word and in prayer, a poor relationship with your spouse, your children, your pastor, or other members of your church.
Another great way to prepare for your fast is to practice what I call "Spiritual Breathing." The concept is simple, but it has changed my own life and that of millions of others.
Like physical breathing, Spiritual Breathing is a process of exhaling the impure and inhaling the pure. If you knowingly sin, breathe spiritually to restore the fullness of God's Holy Spirit in your life. You exhale by confessing your sins immediately when you become aware of them, and you inhale by inviting the Holy Spirit to re-take control of your life. As an act of faith, trust Him to empower you. During the fast, spiritual breathing-constant reliance on the Holy Spirit-will enable you to resist temptation, not only to sin but to abandon your fast.
Physical Preparation
Although fasting is primarily a spiritual discipline, it begins in the physical realm. You should not fast without specific physical preparation.
If you plan on fasting for several days, you will find it helpful to begin by eating smaller meals before you abstain altogether. Resist the urge to have that "last big feast" before the fast. Cutting down on your meals a few days before you begin the fast will signal your mind, stomach, and appetite that less food is acceptable.
Some health professionals suggest eating only raw foods for two days before starting a fast. I also recommend weaning yourself off caffeine and sugar products to ease your initial hunger or discomfort at the early stages of your fast.
How to Manage Your Schedule While Fasting
How long you fast, the kind of fast you undertake, and how you adjust your work schedule depends mostly on your occupation. Persons with office jobs, pastors, or homemakers may find it easier to continue their duties and fast for longer periods of time. In fact, on the basis of my personal experience, worldwide travels and the many letters, which I have received, I am confident that many, many thousands of pastors and lay men and women have already completed a 40-day fast!
Though there are many who engage in strenuous physical labor and have enjoyed their extended fast, if you are so engaged, you may wish to fast only one or more days of the week, limiting yourselves to partial fasting if you are so engaged. Or you may look to weekends as the prime time to abstain from food. Remember, too, fasting during major holidays is not always a good idea. Families may be inconvenienced, and temptations to eat can be overwhelming.
Reasons for schedule adjustments, especially during an extended fast, are two-fold...
The first is physical. Throughout your fast, you may feel somewhat weaker than normal. During the first few days, you may feel tired and irritable. Lightening your workload and cutting down on strenuous exercise would be a very good idea to maintain your health and your morale.
The second reason is spiritual. Fasting is not just denying yourself food. It is exchanging the needs of the physical body for those of the spiritual. Long times of prayer and reading God's Word will be very essential if you are to enter into a more intimate communion with God to maintain your fast to its completion. While fasting, if you dissipate your energy on numerous errands or busy-work to the neglect of spending special time with God, you will starve both physically and spiritually. You will find yourself becoming discouraged and frustrated with your fast instead of being benefited and uplifted and blessed. I don't want that to happen to you.
The more time you spend with God in fellowship, worship, and adoration of Him, and the more you read and meditate upon His Word, the greater your effectiveness will be in prayer and the more meaningful your fast will be. So I encourage you to arrange your schedule accordingly!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
See You at the Pole
This event is scheduled for tomorrow, Sept. 23.
Please keep it in prayer!
Dan Griffith passed along this info...
Most schools will observe See You at the Pole this Wed.
Here is info:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBkD21LuMao
http://www.syatp.com/
Join in and pray.
John()_:-)
Please keep it in prayer!
Dan Griffith passed along this info...
Most schools will observe See You at the Pole this Wed.
Here is info:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBkD21LuMao
http://www.syatp.com/
Join in and pray.
John()_:-)
Grac*e-mail for 09/21/09 got grace?
Grac*e-mail for 09/21/09 got grace?
John()_:-) Every time you see this angel, remember that God loves you!
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
I want to say thanks to all the folks who kept Grac*e-mail going with financial gifts while at InJesus.com.
As I start this new chapter, the free service at Google Groups seems to be my best option. I have used it for a couple of other groups with no problems.
Hope to hear from folks on the list!
Got this link for a great video from Dan Griffiths…
http://www.sonofmanproject.com/
Got this from Jay Jenkins who will be teaming with me on Richmond Emmaus #94, September 24-27…
35 Reasons Not To Sin
1. Because a little sin leads to more sin.
2. Because my sin invites the discipline of God.
3. Because the time spent in sin is forever wasted.
4. Because my sin never pleases but always grieves God who loves me.
5. Because my sin places a greater burden on my spiritual leaders.
6. Because in time my sin always brings heaviness to my heart.
7. Because I am doing what I do not have to do.
8. Because my sin always makes me less than what I could be.
9. Because others, including my family, suffer consequences due to my sin.
10. Because my sin saddens the godly.
11. Because my sin makes the enemies of God rejoice.
12. Because sin deceives me into believing I have gained when in reality I have lost.
13. Because sin may keep me from qualifying for spiritual leadership.
14. Because the supposed benefits of my sin will never outweigh the consequences of disobedience.
15. Because repenting of my sin is such a painful process, yet I must repent.
16. Because sin is a very brief pleasure for an eternal loss.
17. Because my sin may influence others to sin.
18. Because my sin may keep others from knowing Christ.
19. Because sin makes light of the cross, upon which Christ died for the very purpose of taking away my sin.
20. Because it is impossible to sin and follow the Spirit at the same time.
21. Because God chooses not to respect the prayers of those who cherish their sin.
22. Because sin steals my reputation and robs me of my testimony.
23. Because others once more earnest than I have been destroyed by just such sins.
24. Because the inhabitants of heaven and hell would all testify to the foolishness of this sin.
25. Because sin and guilt may harm both mind and body.
26. Because sins mixed with service make the things of God tasteless.
27. Because suffering for sin has no joy or reward, though suffering for righteousness has both.
28. Because my sin is adultery with the world.
29. Because, though forgiven, I will review this very sin at the Judgment Seat where loss and gain of eternal rewards are applied.
30. Because I can never really know ahead of time just how severe the discipline for my sin might be.
31. Because my sin may be an indication of a lost condition.
32. Because to sin is not to love Christ.
33. Because my unwillingness to reject this sin now grants it an authority over me greater than I wish to believe.
34. Because sin glorifies God only in His judgment of it and His turning of it to good use, never because it is worth anything on it's own.
35. Because I promised God he would be Lord of my life.
Relinquish Your Rights - Reject the Sin - Renew the Mind - Rely on God
Copyright © 1992 Jim Elliff
Christian Communicators Worldwide, Inc.
201 Main, Parkville, MO 64152 USA www.CCWonline.org
Permission granted for not-for-sale reproduction in exact form including copyright Other uses require written permission. Write for additional materials.
Have you checked out the Grac*e-mail blog site?
http://gracemail.blogspot.com/
Here are some funnies from Alma Larsen… (Please keep Alma lifted up for healing from cancer! AMEN!)
LOT'S WIFE
The Sunday School teacher was describing how Lot's wife looked back and turned into a pillar of salt, when little Jason interrupted, 'My Mommy looked back once while she was Driving,' he announced triumphantly, 'and she turned into a telephone pole!'
GOOD SAMARITAN
A Sunday school teacher was telling her class the story of the Good Samaritan. She asked the class, 'If you saw a person lying on the roadside, all wounded and bleeding, what you would do?' A thoughtful little girl broke the hushed silence, 'I think I’d throw up.'
DID NOAH FISH?
A Sunday school teacher asked, 'Johnny, do you think Noah did a lot of fishing when he was on the Ark?' 'No,' replied Johnny. 'How could he, with just two worms.'
MOSES AND THE RED SEA
Nine-year-old Joey was asked by his mother what he had learned in Sunday School. 'Well, Mom, our teacher told us how God sent Moses behind enemy lines on a rescue mission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. When he got to the Red Sea, he had his army build a pontoon bridge and all the people walked across safely. Then he radioed headquarters for Reinforcements. They sent bombers to blow up the bridge and all the Israelites were saved.' 'Now, Joey, is that really what your teacher taught you?' his mother asked. 'Well, no, Mom.. But, if I told it the way the teacher did, you'd never believe it!'
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD
A Sunday School teacher decided to have her young class memorize one of the most quoted passages in the Bible - Psalm 23. She gave the youngsters a month to learn the chapter. Little Rick WA S excited about the task - but he just couldn't remember the Psalm. After much practice, He could barely get past the first line. On the day that the kids were scheduled to recite Psalm 23 in front of the congregation, Ricky was so nervous... When it was his turn, he stepped up to the microphone and said proudly, 'The Lord is my Shepherd, and that's all I need to know.'
UNANSWERED PRAYER
The preacher's 5 year-old daughter noticed that her father always paused and bowed his head for a moment before starting his sermon. One day, she asked him why. 'Well, Honey,' he began, proud that his daughter was so observant of his messages. 'I'm asking the Lord to help me preach a good sermon.' 'How come He doesn't answer it?' she asked.
BEING THANKFUL
A Rabbi said to a precocious six-year-old boy, 'So your mother says your prayers for you each night? That's very commendable. What does she say?' The little boy replied, 'Thank God he's in bed!'
UNTIMELY ANSWERED PRAYER
During the minister's prayer one Sunday, there was a loud whistle from one of the back pews. Tommy's mother was horrified. She pinched him into silence and, after church, asked, 'Tommy, whatever made you do such a thing?' Tommy answered, soberly, 'I asked God to teach me to whistle, and He did!'
TIME TO PRAY B
A pastor asked a little boy if he said his prayers every night. 'Yes, sir,' the boy replied. 'And, do you always say them in the morning, too?' the pastor asked. 'No sir,' the boy replied. 'I ain't scared in the daytime.'
ALL MEN / ALL GIRLS
When my daughter, Kelli, said her bedtime prayers, she would bless every family member, every friend, and every animal (current and past). For several weeks, after we had finished the nightly prayer, Kelli would say, 'And all girls.' This soon became part of her nightly routine, to include this closing. My curiosity got the best of me and I asked her, 'Kelli, why do you always add the part about all girls?' Her response, 'Because everybody always finish their prayers by saying 'All Men'!'
SAY A PRAYER
Little Johnny and his family were having Sunday dinner at his Grandmother's house.. Everyone was seated around the table as the food was being served. When Little Johnny received his plate, he started eating right away. 'Johnny! Please wait until we say our prayer,' said his mother. 'I don't need to,' the boy replied. 'Of course, you do,' his mother insisted. 'We always say a prayer before eating at our house.' 'That's at our house,' Johnny explained. 'But this is Grandma's house and she knows how to cook!'
If you received this from a friend and would like to join the list just check out the subscription info at the end of this mailing. There is always room for one more!
October is Clergy Appreciation Month. Here is a link for resources…
http://www.parsonage.org/cam/index.cfm
Got this from Bass Mitchell…
Twelve Ways to Say "Thanks" to Your Minister
(October is Pastor Appreciation Month)
by Bass Mitchell
There's an old joke about what an easy job ministers have because they only work one day a week. Actually, most ministers are on call 24/7. They are among the most dedicated, caring and hardworking persons I know. They are there when we need them. The demands on them and their families are tremendous. October is a good time to show them some appreciation. Here are a few ways to do just that.
1. A Thank You Note. Send a card, personal note, or even an email thanking your pastor. A thank you means more than you know.
2. Good Job! One of the hazards of ministry is that the pastor often only hears what he/she is doing wrong. For all of October, catch your pastor doing something right and let him/her know about it.
3. Gifts? A pastor friend of mine got a gift of a black felt painting of Jesus that glowed in the dark. It ended up in the next yard sale. Get to know your pastor. Pick something that you know he/or she would really like. It does not have to be religious in nature.
4. A Gift Card. Most pastors love books. Get a gift card from a local bookstore or a store that you know he/she likes.
5. Don't Forget the Family. The pastor's family seldom gets the appreciation they deserve. Special thanks, recognition and even gifts for each member of the family means a lot.
6. Designate a Sunday. Surprise your pastor by using a portion of a Sunday this month to show him/her appreciation. Have persons ready to share what he/she means to them. Invite special guests. Plan a reception of luncheon afterwards.
7. Insist on a Regular Sabbath. Does your minister take a day off each week? Find out. Insist that he/she does. It shows you care. It's also good for the pastor and the church.
8. A Get-Away. Insure that the pastor gets some time away. If you have a cottage somewhere, make it available to your pastor (and his/her family) for a couple of days renewal. If you don't have one, let the church rent a place.
9. Free Childcare. Many pastors and their families are far from relatives, so it's difficult for them to get childcare. Volunteer to keep their children, giving your pastor and spouse an evening out.
10. Listen. Pastors spend a lot of time listening to your needs and concerns. Who listens to theirs? Surprise your pastor sometime by asking, "Pastor, how are things with you?" Then listen and do not run out to tell everyone what you heard!
11. Pray. Keep your pastor and his/her family in your prayers. Let them know often that you are praying for them.
12. Volunteer. Want to make your minister's day? Call him/her and say, "Pastor, you and the church have done so much for me. What can I do for you and the church?" Taking some of the load off the pastor is a great way to show appreciation.
Being a pastor can be a thankless job. Don't let it be. Do something this month to show a little thanks and appreciation for someone who loves and serves all the time and with all his/her heart - your minister.
************
Bass Mitchell is a writer and minister living in Vienna, VA. He has written four books and articles for various publications. He can be contacted at bass.mitchell@homiliesbyemail.com
Send good stories and clean funnies to: johnlynnbright@gmail.com
NOTE - All material contained in this mailing is shared as received and is believed, by me, to be anonymous... unless credit is given. Please contact me at the address above if you know the author of any material so that I may give credit where credit is due. Thanks!
Grace & peace –
John A. Bright
Pastor, Walmsley Boulevard UMC in Richmond, Virginia
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change..."
John()_:-) Every time you see this angel, remember that God loves you!
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
I want to say thanks to all the folks who kept Grac*e-mail going with financial gifts while at InJesus.com.
As I start this new chapter, the free service at Google Groups seems to be my best option. I have used it for a couple of other groups with no problems.
Hope to hear from folks on the list!
Got this link for a great video from Dan Griffiths…
http://www.sonofmanproject.com/
Got this from Jay Jenkins who will be teaming with me on Richmond Emmaus #94, September 24-27…
35 Reasons Not To Sin
1. Because a little sin leads to more sin.
2. Because my sin invites the discipline of God.
3. Because the time spent in sin is forever wasted.
4. Because my sin never pleases but always grieves God who loves me.
5. Because my sin places a greater burden on my spiritual leaders.
6. Because in time my sin always brings heaviness to my heart.
7. Because I am doing what I do not have to do.
8. Because my sin always makes me less than what I could be.
9. Because others, including my family, suffer consequences due to my sin.
10. Because my sin saddens the godly.
11. Because my sin makes the enemies of God rejoice.
12. Because sin deceives me into believing I have gained when in reality I have lost.
13. Because sin may keep me from qualifying for spiritual leadership.
14. Because the supposed benefits of my sin will never outweigh the consequences of disobedience.
15. Because repenting of my sin is such a painful process, yet I must repent.
16. Because sin is a very brief pleasure for an eternal loss.
17. Because my sin may influence others to sin.
18. Because my sin may keep others from knowing Christ.
19. Because sin makes light of the cross, upon which Christ died for the very purpose of taking away my sin.
20. Because it is impossible to sin and follow the Spirit at the same time.
21. Because God chooses not to respect the prayers of those who cherish their sin.
22. Because sin steals my reputation and robs me of my testimony.
23. Because others once more earnest than I have been destroyed by just such sins.
24. Because the inhabitants of heaven and hell would all testify to the foolishness of this sin.
25. Because sin and guilt may harm both mind and body.
26. Because sins mixed with service make the things of God tasteless.
27. Because suffering for sin has no joy or reward, though suffering for righteousness has both.
28. Because my sin is adultery with the world.
29. Because, though forgiven, I will review this very sin at the Judgment Seat where loss and gain of eternal rewards are applied.
30. Because I can never really know ahead of time just how severe the discipline for my sin might be.
31. Because my sin may be an indication of a lost condition.
32. Because to sin is not to love Christ.
33. Because my unwillingness to reject this sin now grants it an authority over me greater than I wish to believe.
34. Because sin glorifies God only in His judgment of it and His turning of it to good use, never because it is worth anything on it's own.
35. Because I promised God he would be Lord of my life.
Relinquish Your Rights - Reject the Sin - Renew the Mind - Rely on God
Copyright © 1992 Jim Elliff
Christian Communicators Worldwide, Inc.
201 Main, Parkville, MO 64152 USA www.CCWonline.org
Permission granted for not-for-sale reproduction in exact form including copyright Other uses require written permission. Write for additional materials.
Have you checked out the Grac*e-mail blog site?
http://gracemail.blogspot.com/
Here are some funnies from Alma Larsen… (Please keep Alma lifted up for healing from cancer! AMEN!)
LOT'S WIFE
The Sunday School teacher was describing how Lot's wife looked back and turned into a pillar of salt, when little Jason interrupted, 'My Mommy looked back once while she was Driving,' he announced triumphantly, 'and she turned into a telephone pole!'
GOOD SAMARITAN
A Sunday school teacher was telling her class the story of the Good Samaritan. She asked the class, 'If you saw a person lying on the roadside, all wounded and bleeding, what you would do?' A thoughtful little girl broke the hushed silence, 'I think I’d throw up.'
DID NOAH FISH?
A Sunday school teacher asked, 'Johnny, do you think Noah did a lot of fishing when he was on the Ark?' 'No,' replied Johnny. 'How could he, with just two worms.'
MOSES AND THE RED SEA
Nine-year-old Joey was asked by his mother what he had learned in Sunday School. 'Well, Mom, our teacher told us how God sent Moses behind enemy lines on a rescue mission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. When he got to the Red Sea, he had his army build a pontoon bridge and all the people walked across safely. Then he radioed headquarters for Reinforcements. They sent bombers to blow up the bridge and all the Israelites were saved.' 'Now, Joey, is that really what your teacher taught you?' his mother asked. 'Well, no, Mom.. But, if I told it the way the teacher did, you'd never believe it!'
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD
A Sunday School teacher decided to have her young class memorize one of the most quoted passages in the Bible - Psalm 23. She gave the youngsters a month to learn the chapter. Little Rick WA S excited about the task - but he just couldn't remember the Psalm. After much practice, He could barely get past the first line. On the day that the kids were scheduled to recite Psalm 23 in front of the congregation, Ricky was so nervous... When it was his turn, he stepped up to the microphone and said proudly, 'The Lord is my Shepherd, and that's all I need to know.'
UNANSWERED PRAYER
The preacher's 5 year-old daughter noticed that her father always paused and bowed his head for a moment before starting his sermon. One day, she asked him why. 'Well, Honey,' he began, proud that his daughter was so observant of his messages. 'I'm asking the Lord to help me preach a good sermon.' 'How come He doesn't answer it?' she asked.
BEING THANKFUL
A Rabbi said to a precocious six-year-old boy, 'So your mother says your prayers for you each night? That's very commendable. What does she say?' The little boy replied, 'Thank God he's in bed!'
UNTIMELY ANSWERED PRAYER
During the minister's prayer one Sunday, there was a loud whistle from one of the back pews. Tommy's mother was horrified. She pinched him into silence and, after church, asked, 'Tommy, whatever made you do such a thing?' Tommy answered, soberly, 'I asked God to teach me to whistle, and He did!'
TIME TO PRAY B
A pastor asked a little boy if he said his prayers every night. 'Yes, sir,' the boy replied. 'And, do you always say them in the morning, too?' the pastor asked. 'No sir,' the boy replied. 'I ain't scared in the daytime.'
ALL MEN / ALL GIRLS
When my daughter, Kelli, said her bedtime prayers, she would bless every family member, every friend, and every animal (current and past). For several weeks, after we had finished the nightly prayer, Kelli would say, 'And all girls.' This soon became part of her nightly routine, to include this closing. My curiosity got the best of me and I asked her, 'Kelli, why do you always add the part about all girls?' Her response, 'Because everybody always finish their prayers by saying 'All Men'!'
SAY A PRAYER
Little Johnny and his family were having Sunday dinner at his Grandmother's house.. Everyone was seated around the table as the food was being served. When Little Johnny received his plate, he started eating right away. 'Johnny! Please wait until we say our prayer,' said his mother. 'I don't need to,' the boy replied. 'Of course, you do,' his mother insisted. 'We always say a prayer before eating at our house.' 'That's at our house,' Johnny explained. 'But this is Grandma's house and she knows how to cook!'
If you received this from a friend and would like to join the list just check out the subscription info at the end of this mailing. There is always room for one more!
October is Clergy Appreciation Month. Here is a link for resources…
http://www.parsonage.org/cam/index.cfm
Got this from Bass Mitchell…
Twelve Ways to Say "Thanks" to Your Minister
(October is Pastor Appreciation Month)
by Bass Mitchell
There's an old joke about what an easy job ministers have because they only work one day a week. Actually, most ministers are on call 24/7. They are among the most dedicated, caring and hardworking persons I know. They are there when we need them. The demands on them and their families are tremendous. October is a good time to show them some appreciation. Here are a few ways to do just that.
1. A Thank You Note. Send a card, personal note, or even an email thanking your pastor. A thank you means more than you know.
2. Good Job! One of the hazards of ministry is that the pastor often only hears what he/she is doing wrong. For all of October, catch your pastor doing something right and let him/her know about it.
3. Gifts? A pastor friend of mine got a gift of a black felt painting of Jesus that glowed in the dark. It ended up in the next yard sale. Get to know your pastor. Pick something that you know he/or she would really like. It does not have to be religious in nature.
4. A Gift Card. Most pastors love books. Get a gift card from a local bookstore or a store that you know he/she likes.
5. Don't Forget the Family. The pastor's family seldom gets the appreciation they deserve. Special thanks, recognition and even gifts for each member of the family means a lot.
6. Designate a Sunday. Surprise your pastor by using a portion of a Sunday this month to show him/her appreciation. Have persons ready to share what he/she means to them. Invite special guests. Plan a reception of luncheon afterwards.
7. Insist on a Regular Sabbath. Does your minister take a day off each week? Find out. Insist that he/she does. It shows you care. It's also good for the pastor and the church.
8. A Get-Away. Insure that the pastor gets some time away. If you have a cottage somewhere, make it available to your pastor (and his/her family) for a couple of days renewal. If you don't have one, let the church rent a place.
9. Free Childcare. Many pastors and their families are far from relatives, so it's difficult for them to get childcare. Volunteer to keep their children, giving your pastor and spouse an evening out.
10. Listen. Pastors spend a lot of time listening to your needs and concerns. Who listens to theirs? Surprise your pastor sometime by asking, "Pastor, how are things with you?" Then listen and do not run out to tell everyone what you heard!
11. Pray. Keep your pastor and his/her family in your prayers. Let them know often that you are praying for them.
12. Volunteer. Want to make your minister's day? Call him/her and say, "Pastor, you and the church have done so much for me. What can I do for you and the church?" Taking some of the load off the pastor is a great way to show appreciation.
Being a pastor can be a thankless job. Don't let it be. Do something this month to show a little thanks and appreciation for someone who loves and serves all the time and with all his/her heart - your minister.
************
Bass Mitchell is a writer and minister living in Vienna, VA. He has written four books and articles for various publications. He can be contacted at bass.mitchell@homiliesbyemail.com
Send good stories and clean funnies to: johnlynnbright@gmail.com
NOTE - All material contained in this mailing is shared as received and is believed, by me, to be anonymous... unless credit is given. Please contact me at the address above if you know the author of any material so that I may give credit where credit is due. Thanks!
Grace & peace –
John A. Bright
Pastor, Walmsley Boulevard UMC in Richmond, Virginia
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change..."
Monday, September 21, 2009
Daily Prayer for the Full Armor of God
This is a prayer that I have shared with lots of Emmaus and Chrysalis teamers...
Daily Prayer for the Full Armor of God
Father in Heaven, in the name of Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I ask you to help me wear the full armor of the Christian life, as described in Ephesians 6:10-17.
My loins are girded in Truth, because I have chosen to imitate Jesus Who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. I am growing in my understanding of Truth by studying Your Word. Holy Spirit, help me to continually improve in my ability to recognize the Truth and to live by the Truth.
I am clothed with Righteousness as my breastplate, because Jesus died for my sins and in so doing, He gave me His Righteousness. Holy Spirit, help me to identify my sinfulness so that I may repent and be restored to the full Righteousness that Jesus has provided. I pray for Your help in following Jesus’ example of holy living so that my Righteousness is evident to everyone around me.
I am wearing the sandals of evangelization; help me to be ready at all times to spread the Gospel of Peace by the way I live my life. Let others see You, oh Lord, in me, as I serve their needs and give them Your unconditional love.
I am holding Faith as my shield to protect me from temptation. Holy Spirit, You have given me Faith as a gift, and therefore I have the same Faith that You have. Help me to use this Faith to stay on the path of righteousness and evangelization. Let Your Faith keep me strong in times of trial.
My mind is protected by the helmet of Salvation, because by my Baptism I have received the mind of Christ Who died for me and saved me from being destroyed by my sinfulness. Let Your thoughts become ever clearer to me.
I am carrying and wielding the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Holy Spirit, help me to learn the Word so thoroughly that I use it rightly to defeat the Enemy and its plans and to forward the plans of the Kingdom of God. Thank you, Lord, for all this armor that You have given me.
Amen!
Daily Prayer for the Full Armor of God
Father in Heaven, in the name of Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I ask you to help me wear the full armor of the Christian life, as described in Ephesians 6:10-17.
My loins are girded in Truth, because I have chosen to imitate Jesus Who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. I am growing in my understanding of Truth by studying Your Word. Holy Spirit, help me to continually improve in my ability to recognize the Truth and to live by the Truth.
I am clothed with Righteousness as my breastplate, because Jesus died for my sins and in so doing, He gave me His Righteousness. Holy Spirit, help me to identify my sinfulness so that I may repent and be restored to the full Righteousness that Jesus has provided. I pray for Your help in following Jesus’ example of holy living so that my Righteousness is evident to everyone around me.
I am wearing the sandals of evangelization; help me to be ready at all times to spread the Gospel of Peace by the way I live my life. Let others see You, oh Lord, in me, as I serve their needs and give them Your unconditional love.
I am holding Faith as my shield to protect me from temptation. Holy Spirit, You have given me Faith as a gift, and therefore I have the same Faith that You have. Help me to use this Faith to stay on the path of righteousness and evangelization. Let Your Faith keep me strong in times of trial.
My mind is protected by the helmet of Salvation, because by my Baptism I have received the mind of Christ Who died for me and saved me from being destroyed by my sinfulness. Let Your thoughts become ever clearer to me.
I am carrying and wielding the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Holy Spirit, help me to learn the Word so thoroughly that I use it rightly to defeat the Enemy and its plans and to forward the plans of the Kingdom of God. Thank you, Lord, for all this armor that You have given me.
Amen!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Old Posting - Grac*e-mail for 09/21/2002 got grace?
I was looking for something on my computer and found some old files that were transfered to this computer from our old one. This is the posting for Grac*e-mail that went out seven years ago this week!
John()_:-) Every time you see this angel, remember that God loves you!
Grac*e-mail for 09/21/2002 got grace?
As October approaches each year I like to mention Clergy Appreciation Month. We don’t do much with it in the UMC – for us, any month that you’re not crying when you leave the Pastor Parish Relations Committee meeting is a GREAT month…hahahaha.
Focus on the Family always puts out an updated planning guide for Clergy Appreciation Month for a donation of $2. Lots of good ideas for just a little money. Here is a link to order…
http://www.family.org/resources/itempg.cfm?itemid=356
John()_:-) Every time you see this angel, remember that God loves you!
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Got this from Berna’s Scrapbook…
Safe at Home
Two outs, bottom of the ninth, behind by one run, Ryan's right foot was pressed to the front edge of the third base bag. Every muscle in his eleven-year-old body was flexed, ready to bolt home with the tying run. Kenny, the winning run, stood grinning on second, Dylan, the team's best hitter was at the plate.
The first pitch was high and outside, "Ball One!" The next caught the inside corner, "Steee-riiick!" Two more balls and a foul tip later the count is full. Ryan's eyes are glued to the ball while his ear is tuned to the third base coach listening for just one word. Dylan drove the next pitch to the right of the pitcher, well out of reach, and the coach screamed the one word, "GO!" Ryan digs for home.
Now at this level of play, a hit like that is usually good for extra bases, but today the third baseman made a play worthy of the Major Leagues. A diving stab knocked the ball down. Quick as a cat, he scooped it up, spun, and made the peg home to stop the tying run from scoring; it was going to be close.
A perfect peg, a perfect slide, a perfect catch, a perfect sweeping tag and a big cloud of dust converge around the plate at the umpire's feet. The umpire hesitated for a second; he couldn't see the tag clearly for dust and the position of the catcher. He glanced at the field referee who gestured that he wasn't sure either.
As he was starting to spread his arms wide, palms down, Ryan looked into the umpire's face. "Sir, I missed the plate, he tagged me out."
"Son, do you know what it means if I call you out? The game is over and you lose"
"Yes sir, I know. But that's the truth." Ryan whispered.
The umpire turned his heads slightly, "Why would you give it up like that?"
"You see Sir, this catcher knows I became a Christian last week. I can't trade a baseball game today for what he will think about me and Christ tomorrow."
Ryan may never make the Baseball Hall of Fame, but he's got a better place waiting. And the impact of his testimony on a catcher and an umpire will last forever.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To subscribe to Berna's Scrapbook please contact johnhake@or57.com
&&&&&&&&&&&&&
As seen on a church sign…
Give God what's right -- not what's left.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Some marriages are made in heaven, but they ALL have to be maintained on earth.
&&&&&&&&&&&
Speaking of churches…
Some minds are like concrete, thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Since I have been sending out the Bible Quiz, thought you might like this “funny” quiz that Kathy Griffith sent my way…
A BIBLE QUIZ .....
=============================================================
Q. WHAT KIND OF MAN WAS BOAZ BEFORE HE MARRIED?
A. RUTHLESS
Q. WHAT DO THEY CALL PASTORS IN GERMANY?
A. GERMAN SHEPHERDS
Q. WHO WAS THE GREATEST FINANCIER IN THE BIBLE
A. NOAH, HE WAS FLOATING HIS STOCK WHILE EVERYONE ELSE WAS IN
LIQUIDATION.
Q. WHO WAS THE GREATEST FEMALE FINANCIER IN THE BIBLE?
A. PHARAOH'S DAUGHTER. SHE WENT DOWN TO THE BANK OF THE NILE AND DREW OUT A LITTLE PROPHET.
Q. WHAT KIND OF MOTOR VEHICLES ARE IN THE BIBLE?
A. JEHOVAH DROVE ADAM AND EVE OUT OF THE GARDEN IN A FURY. DAVID'S
TRIUMPH WAS HEARD THROUGHOUT THE LAND.
HONDA, BECAUSE THE APOSTLES WERE ALL IN ONE ACCORD.
Q. WHO WAS THE GREATEST COMEDIAN IN THE BIBLE?
A. SAMSON, HE BROUGHT THE HOUSE DOWN.
Q. WHAT EXCUSE DID ADAM GIVE TO HIS CHILDREN AS TO WHY HE NO LONGER LIVED IN EDEN?
A. YOUR MOTHER ATE US OUT OF HOUSE AND HOME.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Today’s questions from the Bible Literacy Quiz developed by Sue Bohlin. Each issue I will include more questions with the answers from the previous issue (look at the end of this mailing). Be sure to try and answer them from memory before pulling out you Bible…
21. Who was the first murderer?
22. Which person was afflicted with terrible trials but trusted God through it all?
23. Who was Israel's most well-known and well-loved king?
24. Who was "the weeping prophet?"
25. Who was thrown into the lion's den?
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
(note... do not send prayer requests to the "feed back" address. Please send them to johnlynn@lynchburg.net ) Prayer and Praise…
1. Tonight at 7:00pm EST a dear friend will be anointed for healing. Whitney is 16 years old and has many health problems. Please pray for her to believe that God can and will heal her body! John()_:-)
2. Janene Pennel, wife of Bishop Joe Pennel, was released from Baptist Hospital on September 19. She is recuperating at home in Franklin, Tennessee. She will meet with her cardiologist on Monday to find out about her recovery process. Please continue to keep Janene, Bishop Pennel and the family in your prayers.
3. From “TGRLILY”… A praise report, and request for continued prayers. Tiffany, the young girl who was in a severe auto accident, is still alive, and her coma seems to be not as deep. But, please continue to pray that she regains consciousness, that she is restored to her family and the world. Thank you, take care and God Bless.
&&&&&&&&&&&
Send good stories and clean funnies to: johnlynn@lynchburg.net
NOTE - All material contained in this mailing is shared as received and is believed, by me, to be anonymous... unless credit is given. Please contact me at the address below if you know the author of any material so that I may give credit where credit is due. Thanks! Grace & peace - John A. Bright Pastor, Epworth UMC in Thaxton, Virginia
johnlynn@lynchburg.net
"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change..."
Answers to the Bible Literacy Quiz…
16. Who was the Roman governor who sentenced Christ to death? Pontius Pilate. (Matthew 27:26)
17. Who are the major prophets?
Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel.
18. What people group is the Old Testament about?
The Hebrews, who became the nation of Israel. They were descendants of Abraham though Isaac.
19. What happened while the Lord Jesus was in the desert for 40 days?
He was tempted by the devil. (Matthew 4:1) Hebrews 4:15 tells us that He was tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin.
20. How many people were on Noah's ark?
Eight: Noah and his wife, his three sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth, and their wives. (Genesis 7:13, 1 Peter 2:5)
John()_:-) Every time you see this angel, remember that God loves you!
Grac*e-mail for 09/21/2002 got grace?
As October approaches each year I like to mention Clergy Appreciation Month. We don’t do much with it in the UMC – for us, any month that you’re not crying when you leave the Pastor Parish Relations Committee meeting is a GREAT month…hahahaha.
Focus on the Family always puts out an updated planning guide for Clergy Appreciation Month for a donation of $2. Lots of good ideas for just a little money. Here is a link to order…
http://www.family.org/resources/itempg.cfm?itemid=356
John()_:-) Every time you see this angel, remember that God loves you!
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Got this from Berna’s Scrapbook…
Safe at Home
Two outs, bottom of the ninth, behind by one run, Ryan's right foot was pressed to the front edge of the third base bag. Every muscle in his eleven-year-old body was flexed, ready to bolt home with the tying run. Kenny, the winning run, stood grinning on second, Dylan, the team's best hitter was at the plate.
The first pitch was high and outside, "Ball One!" The next caught the inside corner, "Steee-riiick!" Two more balls and a foul tip later the count is full. Ryan's eyes are glued to the ball while his ear is tuned to the third base coach listening for just one word. Dylan drove the next pitch to the right of the pitcher, well out of reach, and the coach screamed the one word, "GO!" Ryan digs for home.
Now at this level of play, a hit like that is usually good for extra bases, but today the third baseman made a play worthy of the Major Leagues. A diving stab knocked the ball down. Quick as a cat, he scooped it up, spun, and made the peg home to stop the tying run from scoring; it was going to be close.
A perfect peg, a perfect slide, a perfect catch, a perfect sweeping tag and a big cloud of dust converge around the plate at the umpire's feet. The umpire hesitated for a second; he couldn't see the tag clearly for dust and the position of the catcher. He glanced at the field referee who gestured that he wasn't sure either.
As he was starting to spread his arms wide, palms down, Ryan looked into the umpire's face. "Sir, I missed the plate, he tagged me out."
"Son, do you know what it means if I call you out? The game is over and you lose"
"Yes sir, I know. But that's the truth." Ryan whispered.
The umpire turned his heads slightly, "Why would you give it up like that?"
"You see Sir, this catcher knows I became a Christian last week. I can't trade a baseball game today for what he will think about me and Christ tomorrow."
Ryan may never make the Baseball Hall of Fame, but he's got a better place waiting. And the impact of his testimony on a catcher and an umpire will last forever.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To subscribe to Berna's Scrapbook please contact johnhake@or57.com
&&&&&&&&&&&&&
As seen on a church sign…
Give God what's right -- not what's left.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Some marriages are made in heaven, but they ALL have to be maintained on earth.
&&&&&&&&&&&
Speaking of churches…
Some minds are like concrete, thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Since I have been sending out the Bible Quiz, thought you might like this “funny” quiz that Kathy Griffith sent my way…
A BIBLE QUIZ .....
=============================================================
Q. WHAT KIND OF MAN WAS BOAZ BEFORE HE MARRIED?
A. RUTHLESS
Q. WHAT DO THEY CALL PASTORS IN GERMANY?
A. GERMAN SHEPHERDS
Q. WHO WAS THE GREATEST FINANCIER IN THE BIBLE
A. NOAH, HE WAS FLOATING HIS STOCK WHILE EVERYONE ELSE WAS IN
LIQUIDATION.
Q. WHO WAS THE GREATEST FEMALE FINANCIER IN THE BIBLE?
A. PHARAOH'S DAUGHTER. SHE WENT DOWN TO THE BANK OF THE NILE AND DREW OUT A LITTLE PROPHET.
Q. WHAT KIND OF MOTOR VEHICLES ARE IN THE BIBLE?
A. JEHOVAH DROVE ADAM AND EVE OUT OF THE GARDEN IN A FURY. DAVID'S
TRIUMPH WAS HEARD THROUGHOUT THE LAND.
HONDA, BECAUSE THE APOSTLES WERE ALL IN ONE ACCORD.
Q. WHO WAS THE GREATEST COMEDIAN IN THE BIBLE?
A. SAMSON, HE BROUGHT THE HOUSE DOWN.
Q. WHAT EXCUSE DID ADAM GIVE TO HIS CHILDREN AS TO WHY HE NO LONGER LIVED IN EDEN?
A. YOUR MOTHER ATE US OUT OF HOUSE AND HOME.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Today’s questions from the Bible Literacy Quiz developed by Sue Bohlin. Each issue I will include more questions with the answers from the previous issue (look at the end of this mailing). Be sure to try and answer them from memory before pulling out you Bible…
21. Who was the first murderer?
22. Which person was afflicted with terrible trials but trusted God through it all?
23. Who was Israel's most well-known and well-loved king?
24. Who was "the weeping prophet?"
25. Who was thrown into the lion's den?
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
(note... do not send prayer requests to the "feed back" address. Please send them to johnlynn@lynchburg.net ) Prayer and Praise…
1. Tonight at 7:00pm EST a dear friend will be anointed for healing. Whitney is 16 years old and has many health problems. Please pray for her to believe that God can and will heal her body! John()_:-)
2. Janene Pennel, wife of Bishop Joe Pennel, was released from Baptist Hospital on September 19. She is recuperating at home in Franklin, Tennessee. She will meet with her cardiologist on Monday to find out about her recovery process. Please continue to keep Janene, Bishop Pennel and the family in your prayers.
3. From “TGRLILY”… A praise report, and request for continued prayers. Tiffany, the young girl who was in a severe auto accident, is still alive, and her coma seems to be not as deep. But, please continue to pray that she regains consciousness, that she is restored to her family and the world. Thank you, take care and God Bless.
&&&&&&&&&&&
Send good stories and clean funnies to: johnlynn@lynchburg.net
NOTE - All material contained in this mailing is shared as received and is believed, by me, to be anonymous... unless credit is given. Please contact me at the address below if you know the author of any material so that I may give credit where credit is due. Thanks! Grace & peace - John A. Bright Pastor, Epworth UMC in Thaxton, Virginia
johnlynn@lynchburg.net
"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change..."
Answers to the Bible Literacy Quiz…
16. Who was the Roman governor who sentenced Christ to death? Pontius Pilate. (Matthew 27:26)
17. Who are the major prophets?
Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel.
18. What people group is the Old Testament about?
The Hebrews, who became the nation of Israel. They were descendants of Abraham though Isaac.
19. What happened while the Lord Jesus was in the desert for 40 days?
He was tempted by the devil. (Matthew 4:1) Hebrews 4:15 tells us that He was tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin.
20. How many people were on Noah's ark?
Eight: Noah and his wife, his three sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth, and their wives. (Genesis 7:13, 1 Peter 2:5)
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