2011 Builders Blitz will provide homes for two Oceanside families in need

SAN DIEGO, California, July 18, 2011 – From August 1 through August 5, 2011, San Diego Habitat for Humanity, in partnership with Swinerton Builders, will construct two homes – from the ground up – in five days.  This an annual event is called the Home Builders Blitz – construction will take place 24 hours a day and will include nearly 500 volunteers building homes for two families in need in Oceanside.

The Home Builders Blitz represents a partnership between Habitat for Humanity and the building industry to build homes across the nation. The first national Home Builders Blitz in 2006 brought together more than 1,000 professional home builders and 130 Habitat affiliates across the country to build 459 homes in one week, providing housing for nearly 2,000 people. 

Partner Families qualify according to Habitat for Humanity’s family selection criteria – a demonstrated need for improved housing, the ability to repay a 0% mortgage, and willingness to partner with Habitat by completing 250-500 sweat-equity hours before moving into the homes.  

San Diego Habitat for Humanity has participated in the Blitz nearly every year since 2006, and each year has included a Community Build home that is completed solely with in-kind donations of materials and volunteer labor.  Sixteen homes have been built in San Diego County using the Blitz model, through generous partnerships with KB Home, John Laing Homes, Smith Brothers Construction, Turner Construction, Viking Construction, Mission Valley Christian Fellowship, PCL Construction and Swinerton Builders.  The 2011 Builders Blitz marks the third home that Swinerton has partnered with Habitat to build.

The Blitz will take place at The Libby Lake Village Community, located north of the Libby Lake Community Center off North River Road in Oceanside. The entire community will include twenty (20) single-family detached homes, including a new private street and cul-de-sac, a pocket park and underground utilities. There are four (4) 2-story floor plans including twelve (12) 4 bedroom and eight (8) 3 bedroom homes ranging in size from 1,374 to 1,810 square feet with attached garages.  We are currently in the fourth and final phase of the community, which includes 5 homes.  Habitat Partner Families have already moved in to the 15 completed homes.  

About San Diego Habitat for Humanity (SDHFH) San Diego Habitat for Humanity Inc. (SDHFH), the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, is a nonprofit organization that builds simple, decent and affordable homes for ownership by local families in need.  Habitat partner families are selected on the basis of housing need, willingness to partner with Habitat and ability to repay a 0% interest mortgage loan. 

SDHFH is a faith-based organization that invites people of all backgrounds, faiths or no faith to join the effort in strengthening communities and changing lives. Habitat for Humanity exists through volunteer labor and contributions of money, land and materials, including purchases and donations to ReStore, SDHFH’s building supply thrift store. For more information, visit www.sdhfh.org  or call 619-283-HOME (4663).

About Swinerton IncorporatedThe Swinerton Family of Companies provides commercial construction services throughout the Western United States, delivering innovative construction solutions and outstanding customer service to a diverse range of business clients that demand exacting performance. Established in 1888, Swinerton formally incorporated in the State of California in 1908 and holds California Contractor License No. 92. Today, Swinerton offices are located throughout California, in Colorado, Hawaii, Texas, New Mexico and Washington.

Swinerton is committed to continued leadership in the construction industry by actively engaging in furthering the diversity of our employees and subcontractors, developing innovative technological tools, protecting and preserving the environment, and supporting our communities.

As a 100 percent employee-owned company, everyone at Swinerton has a vested interest in the successful delivery of superb services. Please visit  http://www.swinerton.com/ to learn more.

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

San Diego Habitat for Humanity Competing for $25,000 from The Home Depot Foundation in July Facebook Contest

SDHFH One of Four Nonprofits Competing in Foundation’s Aprons in Action Program; Winner to Compete for $250,000 in 2012 SAN DIEGO, CA, July 1, 2011 – San Diego Habitat for Humanity (SDHFH) has been selected as a finalist for Aprons in Action, The Home Depot Foundation’s unique Facebook voting program, and now has the opportunity to win a $25,000 gift card from The Home Depot. Voting begins July 1, 2011 and runs through July 31, 2011 at www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation. The organization with the most votes will win the $25,000 prize, and be in the running for the grand prize of $250,000 at the end of the year-long program. The runner-up organizations from each month will receive $5,000 in The Home Depot gift cards.

During the Aprons in Action Contest, which began in April 2011, 11 monthly winners will be selected. In March 2012, Facebook fans will have the chance to help one of those 11 winners win the $250,000 grand prize. The organization that receives the second and third most votes will receive $150,000 and $100,000 from The Home Depot, respectively.

Working together, San Diego Habitat and 250 Team Depot volunteers have already come together to build two homes at Libby Lake Village in Oceanside. Passionate volunteers from Team Depot teamed up with SDHFH construction supervisors and did framing, worked on foundation trenches and forms, built a fence and a gazebo for a pocket park, planted trees, shrubs, sod, vines and flowers, laid pavers and mulch, assembled prefab countertops and installed and backfilled a retaining wall.

In this fourth round of the competition, San Diego Habitat for Humanity is competing against three other nonprofit organizations from across the country.

“Being selected for the Aprons in Action Program is an honor, and we are so thankful for the recognition,” said Chris Marek, Chief Officer of Development and Strategy of San Diego Habitat for Humanity. “A $25,000 gift card from The Home Depot will enable us to strengthen this community even further and to change the lives forever of families who will be provided the opportunity of homeownership. We encourage everyone to go to Facebook and vote for us!”

Across the country, The Home Depot Associates give back to their communities by volunteering their time and talents with local nonprofit organizations, like San Diego Habitat for Humanity. The Aprons in Action Program recognizes these successful partnerships and gives each of the featured nonprofits the opportunity to do additional work with Team Depot volunteers to better their communities.

“Aprons in Action is our $1 million effort to support the most active and engaged nonprofit organizations across the country,” said Kelly Caffarelli, President of The Home Depot Foundation.  “Over the course of this program, we’ll distribute $1 million to 48 deserving organizations from across the nationwide Team Depot network, allowing them to continue their great work serving our communities.”

How To Vote

Voting runs from July 1 at 9:00 a.m. ET through July 31 at 12 p.m. ET. Aprons in Action is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/homedepot or www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation.

The final percentages of votes for each nonprofit will be posted on The Home Depot and The Home Depot Foundation’s Facebook pages on August 1 at 9:00 a.m. ET.

For more information and to view the program rules, visit The Home Depot on Facebook or go to http://www.homedepotfoundation.org/.

About San Diego Habitat for Humanity (SDHFH) San Diego Habitat for Humanity Inc. (SDHFH), the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, is a nonprofit organization that builds simple, decent and affordable homes for ownership by local families in need. Habitat partner families are selected on the basis of housing need, willingness to partner with Habitat and ability to repay a 0% interest mortgage loan.

SDHFH is a faith-based organization that invites people of all backgrounds, faiths or no faith to join the effort in strengthening communities and changing lives. Habitat for Humanity exists through volunteer labor and contributions of money, land and materials, including purchases and donations to ReStore, SDHFH’s building supply thrift store. For more information, visit www.sdhfh.org or call 619-283-HOME (4663).

About The Home Depot FoundationIn 2011, The Home Depot Foundation committed $30 million over three years to nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the homes of economically disadvantaged veterans. Through Team Depot, the company’s associate-led volunteer program, thousands of Home Depot associates volunteer their time and talents to positively transform neighborhoods and perform basic repairs and modifications to homes and to the facilities serving veterans with critical housing needs. Since its formation in 2002, The Home Depot Foundation has granted more than $270 million to nonprofit organizations improving homes and lives in local communities. To learn more and see our associates in action, visit http://www.homedepotfoundation.org/, follow us on Twitter @homedepotfdn, and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation.

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

I have heard complaints that “some Christians” can get “too-spiritual.”  Why, they even say, if you’re not careful you could take the Bible “too serious” or “literally.”  There are reportedly even those, like Peter, who have gone “overboard” in their efforts to serve Jesus Christ.  Surely God understands that we only have one life to live.  That said; we should keep our commitment to His cause in moderation – while also enjoying life to the fullest. After all, that’s what this “amazing-grace” is all about; right? Wrong!

I guess I am one of those who “crossed-over.” Maybe, I read into this thing too deep.  Perhaps, I am even in error for taking the words of Christ at face value. In my confusion; I thought that “All Christians” were to be spiritual. Perhaps, in my blindness, I perceived that all who bore His name were to live their lives as a living sacrifice and seek His pleasure before their own. I thought I was supposed to abstain from questionable things as an expression of commitment and love – as opposed to seeing what I can “dabble-in” and still get into heaven.

Jesus himself said; “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”  Matthew 16:24

I have seen too many who have become consumed with the pursuit of life; the pursuit of the latest fad; pursuit of the latest technology and toys; even the pursuit of position, recognition, and the prideful praise of men.  It seems that many people who complain about the sacrificial life of a “sold-out-believer,” are not really opposed to the pursuit of a cause; just the cause of the pursuit.  I have concluded; some people are so “Earthly-minded,” they are no “Heavenly-good.”

Maybe I will “catch-on” someday.  Perhaps even “lighten up a bit,” as they say.  I hope not though – I like making Christ the unquenchable obsession of my life.

Dwayne Harris is the founder of Fresh Outpouring Ministries, Inc. and is an Evangelist and Missionary. He is an Ordained Minister within the Church of God of Cleveland Tenn. and the speaker of the “Message in a Minute” web based devotional video series. For more information visit: http://www.freshoutpouring.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA– San Diego Habitat for Humanity kicks off its immensely popular Women Build Season. The 2011 season will begin on Wednesday, June 15, 2011, and will run through December, creating a home for a family in need just in time for the holidays.

Women Build is a Habitat for Humanity program that encourages women to make a difference by building homes and communities. The program seeks to encourage women volunteers to further the home-building mission of Habitat for Humanity. Since the program’s launch in 1998, Women Build volunteers have constructed more than 1,750 homes around the world, including 3 homes in San Diego County. This year, women from San Diego County will build a home in National City in partnership with a family in need.

The program does not exclude men from volunteer efforts, but includes women in the build process. Women Build offers a fun and positive environment for women to give back to their community. Women Build communities provide an opportunity for women to learn new construction skills in a supportive environment, empowering them as they address the problem of substandard housing. Their leadership and service are changing lives.

“We anticipate hundreds of volunteers participating throughout the Women Build season, working alongside a wonderful Habitat partner family”, said Chris Marek, Chief Officer of Development and Strategy for San Diego Habitat for Humanity.

“This home will be very special in that passionate women have come together with heart to build it”.

Individuals, community groups or corporations interested in sponsoring this event or volunteering during this life-changing experience are welcome to visit www.sdhfh.org/WomenBuild for specific build dates and further information.

About San Diego Habitat for Humanity (SDHFH)
San Diego Habitat for Humanity Inc. (SDHFH), the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, is a nonprofit organization that builds simple, decent and affordable homes for ownership by local families in need. Habitat partner families are selected on the basis of housing need, willingness to partner with Habitat and ability to repay a 0% interest mortgage loan.

SDHFH is a faith-based organization that invites people of all backgrounds, faiths or no faith to join the effort in strengthening communities and changing lives. Habitat for Humanity exists through volunteer labor and contributions of money, land and materials, including purchases and donations to ReStore, SDHFH’s building supply thrift store. For more information, visit www.sdhfh.org or call 619-283-HOME (4663).

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

Fear is good when it motivates you to perform at your best, such as fear of failing a test will drive you to study harder, or fear of getting into an accident will force you to drive safely. It is when we allow fear to become chronic, or to cause stress and anxiety, that fear is not good for you. Fear is an emotion and nothing more. Fear is an illusion, and once you overcome the fear, the issue you were worried about will drop away.

How can we break free of fear once and for all? Is it even authentically possible? Resoundingly, the answer is, “YES!” That stated, there is a caveat; you can in NO way overcome that which scares you all by yourself; nor can you defeat fear from a foundation of finite or limited “human” strength. You can, however, take on fear with the infinite, unlimited power of God’s love and conquering might.

Please allow me to explain how this works.

First, God says to us in His Holy Word, love conquers fear.

1 John 4:18 (Apostle John): 18 Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love.

Let’s admit, many Christians have most likely heard the saying “love conquers all.” It is used in various ways and contexts, but, when it is spoken by God’s own Word (Holy Bible), it is 100% true and infinitely powerful. Look at it this way, the Bible is the story, (Book of Life) of God’s perfect love to mankind (us) and how His agape (perfect) love continues to triumph over the darkest of evil. God has bestowed His perfect, fear-conquering love through His ultimate gift, His Son (our Jesus), for our redemption. In other words, God has whisked us away from eternal fear into the everlasting glory and grace of His almighty love.

Believe it or not, may Christians today have a nearly impossible time swallowing the idea that God will deliver them from fear, or anything else for that matter, because they believe themselves to be unworthy or undeserving before such a sovereign Father.

Romans 5:8 (Apostle Paul): 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

Notice here in Romans 5:8, Paul, inspired by Jesus Himself, clearly explains for us that God does not wait for us to become perfect before He acts on our behalf—according to His will and purposes. That definitively means that God saves us not because we have earned our salvation by obeying all of His laws; God saves, protects, and loves us in spite of ourselves by His choice—By His glorious grace. Certainly, we can agree God loves us and will shelter us from any and all things that will come against us; this includes any and all things that may frighten us, scare us, or may attempt to cause us to surrender our lives to fear.

Romans 8:28-31 (Apostle Paul): 28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. 29 For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.

Nothing Can Separate Us from God’s Love

Romans 8:31 (Apostle Paul): 31 What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?

God is love, and if we trust that God is who He says He is, our faith in God’s love will release us from those fears that attempt to crush our faith and negatively consume our lives. For the essence of this kind fear is not from God; for “good” is from God, as love is from God.

2 Timothy 1:7 (Apostle Paul’s Letter to Timothy): 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

God is the author of love. In fact, His very nature is love. Fear cannot dwell where perfect love resides, especially for us who call upon the Father; we are filled with God’s love.

Ephesians 3:20 (Apostle Paul): 20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

As Christians we must remain alert to the devil’s enticements. The devil will do everything he can to steal and destroy all that is God. He scans the earth looking for slivers of weaknesses in our lives. He stands ready to pounce upon you and me whenever we take our eyes off of God and focus upon our fears. We must adamantly refuse to allow him access to our lives by keeping our faith strong in the LORD. When fear comes, that is the moment to run closer to God.

1 Peter 5:8 (Peter): 8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

John 10:10 (Apostle John): 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

James 4:7 (James, Jesus’ Brother): 7 So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

James 4:8 (James, Jesus’ Brother): 8 Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.

As Christians, let us fervently never lose sight of the fact that the battle against fear is ours in Jesus’ name.

1 John 4:4 (Apostle John): 4 But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.

When the phantoms like the Boogieman in the closet, the monster under the bed, or the witch in your window comes-a-calling, or if you are just afraid of being afraid, call upon the name of Jesus and stand ready with God for battle.

Ephesians 6:10-17 (Apostle Paul– The Whole Armor of God): 10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

In a world riddled with paralyzing fear, Christians like us, need to look for opportunities to share the love of God with others, particularly amongst our own, and let everyone we know of the unfailing love, hope, and salvation that could only be found in Christ.

And always remember in your heart, the words of the apostle John, as provided directly from God to you:

1 John 4:4 (Apostle John): 4 But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.

The next time and anytime you are overcome with fear, I encourage you to call upon God immediately and without hesitation. God is always ready to act in your best interest rendering His peace, joy, hope, forgiveness, and love. Allow God to set you free from fear. God speaks to us today as He spoke to David in Psalm 27.

Psalm 27 (David):

A psalm of David.

1 The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?

2 When evil people come to devour me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall.

3 Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident.

4 The one thing I ask of the Lord—the thing I seek most—is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord’s perfections and meditating in his Temple.

5 For he will conceal me there when troubles come; he will hide me in his sanctuary. He will place me out of reach on a high rock.

6 Then I will hold my head high above my enemies who surround me. At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy, singing and praising the Lord with music.

7 Hear me as I pray, O Lord. Be merciful and answer me!

8 My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming.”

9 Do not turn your back on me. Do not reject your servant in anger. You have always been my helper. Don’t leave me now; don’t abandon me, O God of my salvation!

10 Even if my father and mother abandon me, the Lord will hold me close.

11 Teach me how to live, O Lord. Lead me along the right path, for my enemies are waiting for me.

12 Do not let me fall into their hands. For they accuse me of things I’ve never done; with every breath they threaten me with violence.

13 Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living.

14 Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.

May almighty God bless you abundantly,

Tony

Tony Marino
Founder, Executive Publisher
Christian Times Online
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

So, why do we spend 70% of our days in worry? What are we afraid of? What is it that (or who) scares us so?

After I get through this teaching, the only way you will be able to worry is if you choose to worry. Why would you ever make the effort to allow yourself to worry about anything? Now you say, but Tony, “What if this? What is that?” Well, what if? “If” is not here. At least not yet. So, why worry about what may never come? And, if by chance “if” does arrive, I have a sure fire way to instantly overcome it!

Doubts often cause worry and fear. We can decide to lift our worries to the LORD. We can accept that God is who He says He is, and Jesus is who He says He is. One of God’s many names is Jehovah-jireh which means, “God provides,” or God is our provider.

As the apostle John sat in prison, he felt some doubts about whether Jesus really was the Savior. How did Jesus respond to John? Was He angry? Was He offended? Was He upset? Did He threaten to send John to hell for doubting He is who He is? Jesus answered John’s doubts, in His loving way, by reminding John of the acts that revealed His true identity: healing the sick, raising the dead, and preaching the gospel (teaching the Good News) to the poor. With so much evidence, Jesus’ identity is obvious. Do you sometimes share John’s doubts? It would be OK by Jesus when you do? For Jesus will speak to you and share the evidence of His love in Scripture (God’s Holy Bible), and in your life. When you doubt, don’t turn away for Jesus, instead, turn to Him.

When you allow yourself, and make no mistake, you must give yourself permission to be afraid, or to worry, that is the instant of which to turn and trust in Jesus who is always beside you. God tells us that troubles will come, but you must always remember, Jesus stands with you to lighten your load of even what you believe to be the heaviest of burdens. Whatever is impossible TO you, is made easy FOR you by Jesus.

Matthew 11:30 (Jesus): For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.

God does not want you to waste a single second worrying. Instead, God wants us to know how much He loves us and how truly invaluable we are to Him. In fact, Jesus said that God cares for the sparrows’ every need. You are far more valuable to God than these little birds.

Matthew 6:25-34 (Jesus): 25 “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? 27 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?

28 “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, 29 yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 30 And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

31 “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

34 “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

Think about it and know, your value to God was proven perfectly by the fact that God sent His only Son to die for you in order for you to be free.

John 3:16: For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

We know deep within our heart, God loves us and values us. In fact, God places such value on you, you need never fear personal threats or difficult trials. Yes, they will come, but God will stand with you and for you. You see, although we are of such amazing value to God, does not mean that He will take away all of your troubles.

Matthew 10:16 (Jesus): Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves.

As a loving father, God tests you to see how well you hold up under the hassles of everyday life. He watches you carefully to see whether you will rely on self and fold up, or turn to Him to return to safety. As you stand up for Christ in spite of your troubles, you will receive great rewards.

Matthew 5:11-12 (Jesus: The Beatitudes): 11 God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. 12 Be happy about it! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.

Doubt leads to fear. Fear leads to worry. So, when you remove doubt, you remove fear. In other words, when you know God, you know His universal sovereign power of any and all things. When you call upon God, you are trusting God. By trusting God, you are loving God. Jesus teaches us that love conquers fear. Love is the absence of fear and doubt. Without fear and doubt, you are liberated; set free from worry.

God expects us in and of ourselves to doubt, but Jesus stands ready just as He did as He appeared before Thomas (Doubting Thomas, Didymus: The Twin).

John 20:24-29 (Jesus): 24 One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. 25 They told him, “We have seen the Lord!”

But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.”

26 Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!”

28 “My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed.

29 Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”

As you doubt or begin to wallow in worry, just as Jesus appeared before Thomas, Jesus will appear before you. As you seek Christ, Christ will draw near to you with peace, joy, love, and understanding. Jesus will touch our heart with the fruit of His Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-23: 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things.

The law spoken here, is the law of nature, or the natural, or the flesh. In other words, no worry—no doubt can stand against you when you call upon the name of Jesus. When you bind worry in the name of Jesus, worry will immediately flee your presence. You see, worry is not from God, but from the devil. Satan wants to immobilize you in doubt, fear, and worry. As a child of God, you have the instant ability to stand against the father of lies and deception by faithfully choosing to call upon the name of the LORD.

James 4:7 (Jesus’ brother): Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

In other words, give your doubts, fears, and worries to God. In doing so, you are resisting the devil, and by God’s almighty power, the devil will instantly flee from you, taking with him, doubt, fear, and worry.

Imagine never being worried about anything! Until now, it seemed an impossibility. The apostle Paul shares with us an important piece of holy advice by encouraging us to convert our worries into prayers.

Philippians 4:6-9 (Paul): 6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

God’s peace will be with you. Peace is a 180 degree opposite of worry. Therefore, we can confidently state, “the absence of worry is peace;” not just any old peace, but God’s perfect peace. Peace is a strength that is provided by God.

Psalm 10-11 (David): The Lord gives his people strength. The Lord blesses them with peace.

Allow me to share with you seven reasons not to worry directly from the words of Jesus as written for us in the gospel of Matthew. As I share, you decide.

1. The same God who created life in you can be trusted with every detail of your life (Matthew 6:24).

2. Worrying about the future hampers your efforts for today (Matthew 6:26).

3. Worrying is more harmful than helpful (Matthew 6:27).

4. God does not ignore those who depend on Him (Matthew 6:28-30).

5. Worry shows a lack of faith and understanding of God (Matthew 6:31-32).

6. There are real challenges God wants us to pursue and worrying keeps us from them (Matthew 6:33).

7. Living one day at a time keeps us from being consumed with worry (Matthew 6:34).

The next time and anytime you are overcome with worry, despair, doubt, or fear, I encourage you to call upon God immediately and without hesitation. God is always ready to act in your best interest rendering His peace, joy, hope, forgiveness and love. Allow God to set you free from all worry, all doubt, and all fear. God speaks to us today as He spoke to David in Psalm 37.

Psalm 37 (David):

A psalm of David.

1 Don’t worry about the wicked
or envy those who do wrong.

2 For like grass, they soon fade away.
Like spring flowers, they soon wither.

3 Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.

4 Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you your heart’s desires

5 Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him, and he will help you.

6 He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.

7 Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don’t worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.

8 Stop being angry!
Turn from your rage!
Do not lose your temper—
it only leads to harm.

9 For the wicked will be destroyed,
but those who trust in the Lord will possess the land.

10 Soon the wicked will disappear.
Though you look for them, they will be gone.

11 The lowly will possess the land
and will live in peace and prosperity.

12 The wicked plot against the godly;
they snarl at them in defiance.

13 But the Lord just laughs,
for he sees their day of judgment coming.

14 The wicked draw their swords
and string their bows
to kill the poor and the oppressed,
to slaughter those who do right.

15 But their swords will stab their own hearts,
and their bows will be broken.

16 It is better to be godly and have little
than to be evil and rich.

17 For the strength of the wicked will be shattered,
but the Lord takes care of the godly.

18 Day by day the Lord takes care of the innocent,
and they will receive an inheritance that lasts forever.

19 They will not be disgraced in hard times;
even in famine they will have more than enough.

20 But the wicked will die.
The Lord’s enemies are like flowers in a field—
they will disappear like smoke.

21 The wicked borrow and never repay,
but the godly are generous givers.

22 Those the Lord blesses will possess the land,
but those he curses will die.

23 The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.

24 Though they stumble, they will never fall,
for the Lord holds them by the hand.

25 Once I was young, and now I am old.
Yet I have never seen the godly abandoned
or their children begging for bread.

26 The godly always give generous loans to others,
and their children are a blessing.

27 Turn from evil and do good,
and you will live in the land forever.

28 For the Lord loves justice,
and he will never abandon the godly.
He will keep them safe forever,
but the children of the wicked will die.

29 The godly will possess the land
and will live there forever.

30 The godly offer good counsel;
they teach right from wrong.

31 They have made God’s law their own,
so they will never slip from his path.

32 The wicked wait in ambush for the godly,
looking for an excuse to kill them.

33 But the Lord will not let the wicked succeed
or let the godly be condemned when they are put on trial.

34 Put your hope in the Lord.
Travel steadily along his path.
He will honor you by giving you the land.
You will see the wicked destroyed.

35 I have seen wicked and ruthless people
flourishing like a tree in its native soil.

36 But when I looked again, they were gone!
Though I searched for them, I could not find them!

37 Look at those who are honest and good,
for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace.

38 But the rebellious will be destroyed;
they have no future.

39 The Lord rescues the godly;
he is their fortress in times of trouble.

40 The Lord helps them,
rescuing them from the wicked.
He saves them,
and they find shelter in him.

May almight God bless you always,

Tony

Tony Marino
Founder, Executive Publisher
Christian Times Online
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

About San Diego Habitat for Humanity (SDHFH)
San Diego Habitat for Humanity Inc. (SDHFH), the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, is a nonprofit organization that builds simple, decent and affordable homes for ownership by local families in need.  Habitat partner families are selected on the basis of housing need, willingness to partner with Habitat and ability to repay a 0% interest mortgage loan. 

SDHFH is a faith-based organization that invites people of all backgrounds, faiths or no faith to join the effort in strengthening communities and changing lives. Habitat for Humanity exists through volunteer labor and contributions of money, land and materials, including purchases and donations to ReStore, SDHFH’s building supply thrift store. For more information, visit www.sdhfh.org  or call 619-283-HOME (4663).
 
About The Home Depot Foundation:                                     
 In 2011, The Home Depot Foundation committed $30 million over three years to nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the homes of economically disadvantaged veterans.  Through Team Depot, the company’s associate-led volunteer program, thousands of Home Depot associates volunteer their time and talents to positively transform neighborhoods and perform basic repairs and modifications to homes and to the facilities serving veterans with critical housing needs.     
 
Since its formation in 2002, The Home Depot Foundation has granted more than $270 million to nonprofit organizations improving homes and lives in local communities. To learn more and see our associates in action, visit www.homedepotfoundation.org, follow us on Twitter @homedepotfdn, and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation.

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

Clothes rent, tied to a post, his back was torn.  The rhythmic count of the whip lashing upon his exposed back was the only sound to be heard above the blood thirsty cries of the crowd.
 
No justification for his death, Pilate washed his hands.  The crowd chanted as the most notorious of sinners was released from the bonds of eternal punishment; all in exchange for the life of the spotless “Lamb of God” being led to the slaughter.  Innocent in the hands of brutal soldiers he was mocked and stripped naked for all to see.

Upon his arrival to earth, wise men honored him with treasure – upon his death, blinded fools would crown him with a crown of thorns.

The very same mouth that had spoken words of life and taught mortal men the ways of a righteous God, was mockingly slapped and punched.  Lips that had once spoken to the storms, saying, “Peace, be still,” were now swollen shut from the hatred of sin’s furry.  This man, who called Lazarus back to life, would now be silent unto death.
 
Dusty roads, once filled with the feet of those running to see his miracles, would become crowded with those seeking his death.  On his knees he fell – the cross heavy upon his back.  The dry dirt beneath him quickly gathered up precious drops of blood and sweat, still thirsty for more.

There, at the height of a hill, for all to see, it would happen – this spectacle of shame. In a demonstration like no other, the very son of God would be murdered at the hands of his creation.

Fighting the urge to resist, he willingly lay upon a cross. He starred through swollen eyes at the face of the one who swung the hammer. His hand helplessly clinched in pain around the very nail that pierced it.  The deafening sound of the striking hammer filled his ears – ears that had once heard the sounds of children happily running and the laughter shared with his disciples.

His body convulsed and his lungs rapidly fought for air as the cross was lifted into place.  Although in pain beyond measure, he was still very much aware.  He overheard the laughs and whispers of the onlookers.  He heard the soldiers, as they jokingly gambled for the robe of this supposed, “King of the Jews.”

His fears and expectations had been greatly exceeded.  The sting of death was overwhelming. His muscles cramped in dehydration as he helplessly fought to find a position that would bring the slightest of relief – it would not be found.

The muscles in his legs shook uncontrollably as the weight of his body rested upon the broad nail that pierced his feet, eerily holding them in place.  The excruciating pain was immeasurable. His mouth widened and gasped as if to ease the pain and show forth proof that life still remained within him.
 
Blood from his open wounds mixed with his pouring sweat, covering his entire body.  He was unrecognizable. His bruised and swollen features no longer showed the beauty of the man seen feeding the hungry multitudes on a hillside. The face that once carried a warm smile was now gripped with the anguish of death. Time slowly passed, allowing adequate time for the torturous effects of each living moment that remained.

His movements began to settle, except for the momentary convulsions and cries of pain. Death was approaching him, along with it the visual demonstration of his submission and invite. The drops of life giving blood slowly began to cease.

His mind was flooded with human emotions, and divine realities. At the height of a hill, raised above the on-looking crowds, he gazed over his creation through tear-filled eyes.  The clouds grew dark and the coming wind filled the air with dust as the crowd quickly dispersed at the sign of the incoming storm.

Looking down upon his body for the last time, he saw his purpose come to pass.  Loves unending journey had brought him here.  Fighting to speak, he raised his head towards heaven and declared, “It is finished.”

As life quickly faded for one, it was becoming available for all.  Sin’s rightful penalty now hung lifeless upon that cross.  The earth shook in acceptance, the veil of separation from God was torn, the gates of hell were invaded, and death found itself defenseless against the power of eternal life.
 
“Finished” was the penalty and bondage of sin. “Finished” was the separation of man from his beloved creator.  Even today, the beautiful fragrance of life fills the air, as the resonating voice of Jesus can still be heard saying; “It is finished.”

Dwayne Harris is the founder of Fresh Outpouring Ministries, Inc. and is an Evangelist and Missionary. He is an Ordained Minister within the Church of God of Cleveland Tenn. and the speaker of the “Message in a Minute” web based devotional video series. For more information visit: http://www.freshoutpouring.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

So what is the fascination with a royal wedding? Simply one word – romance. This is a true life fairy tale. This is Kings and Queens in the making, it is the Royal family and all that entails.

But we all know how real a fairy tale truly is. Many of you will remember when Prince Williams parents were married. That royal wedding, also dubbed a “fairy tale wedding,” took place when Charles, Prince of Wales wed Lady Diana Spenser, whom the press called, “Shy Di” at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London on the 29th of July 1981. The world watched as Diana turned from being a wall flower to a ravishing Princess whom millions tried to emulate. She was beautiful and had a sense of style and grace which matched her royal title.

But as the years passed, we saw the marriage fall apart and become riddled with affairs and betrayal. What seemed like a fairy tale had become such a nightmare that a once “Shy Di” suffered from bulimia and contemplated suicide. Ultimately as we all know that “perfect” union ended in divorce.

So if all the money, power and prestige is not enough to keep a marriage together, what is? And is there really any such thing as the “perfect marriage” or “fairy tale marriage?” I believe the only mature answer to this question is a resounding NO! But so many in society today strive to have all, do all, and be all. We base what our lives should look like by what we read in fictional novels and watch on TV or see in movies. Then when our spouse does not act like these characters, we get discouraged, angry or resentful wondering what we did wrong or if we married the wrong person.

Another huge detriment to a marriage is selfishness. Marriage requires a constant outpouring of self. Most divorces are caused by one or both partners insisting on having it their way or the highway. We have become such a throwaway society that even marriage is not longer sacred. We believe that if we are not getting OUR needs met by our significant other, THEY are the ones that need to change. We have become so self focused that we don’t even know the meaning of self sacrifice.

Being submissive has gotten a bad name due to the equal lib and women’s movements. As women we are told that if we get our husbands a cup of coffee in the morning that we are being submissive and taken advantage of. Yet wouldn’t you like the same from your spouse? What does gender have to do with it? Man has taken what God had intended for good and twisted it deceiving many and creating chaos. Ephesians 5:22-24 tells us,

“Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.”

Now this does not mean we are to allow ourselves to be treated poorly. In fact, the men have a huge expectation to live up to as well. In Ephesians 5:25-33 we go on to learn what is usually ignored by women’s rights activists and we learn what a husband’s responsibility is to his wife.

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— for we are members of his body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”

God has a perfect plan for marriage. He would never ask us to do anything that would harm us, nor would he allow someone else the right to harm or treat us poorly. We are commanded to submit to our husbands, but with that our husbands have the responsibility to love us as Christ loves the church. That is total and complete selfless love.

But as humans we live with a sin nature and though we strive for perfection we will never achieve it while we are in these fleshly bodies. But we can work every day to bless our spouses and to not expect perfect spouses or perfect marriages, but enjoy the perfect moments of our marriages. Our model should not be that of the Royal family, or even the family next door. We need to work on living as God would have us live. Only then do any of our marriages truly have a chance.

So go ahead, watch, and enjoy the celebration of the Royal wedding on TV. I plan to. But I will be constantly reminding myself of the blessings God has given me in my own life and family. And I will remember to keep my eyes focused on Jesus and live in this world, not of it.

Lynn
Lynn Kennedy
Associate Publisher, Director of Women’s Ministry
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

Exciting things are happening at Alive in Christ Radio. As of this week we are proud to announce that we will be featuring segments from Joyce Meyer Ministries, Focus on the Family, and the Luis Palau Association.
	Beginning with our April 19, 2011 broadcast we will air "Everyday Moments" with Joyce Meyer. Everyday Moments is a quick, practical thought from Joyce surrounded with biblical insight and wisdom that's intended to challenge and inspire you to live a godly and relevant life in the good and bad "everyday moments" of your life.
	From Focus on the Family we will feature 2 segments. The first is "Plugged-In Movie Review." Hosted by Bob Waliszewski, a youth culture analyst for Focus on the Family, the Plugged-In Movie Review provides a 60-second family-friendly review of today's hottest movies.
	Next up is the "Focus on the Family Minute." In just 60 seconds, the Focus on the Family Minute provides a daily "nugget of truth" for building strong families. Hosted by Dr. Bill Maier, the Focus on the Family Minute features helpful advice on how to strengthen your marriage and raise your kids on the right path.
	Finally we are proud to include a short feature by Luis Palau. Luis is a world renowned evangelist, author and radio host whose outstanding and significant contribution to the field of Christian communications was recognized in 2008 with the National Religious Broadcasters William Ward Ayer Distinguished Service Award. "Reaching Your World with Luis Palau" is a daily, one-minute feature that equips individuals like you to effectively share their faith. The program answers questions like: How do you start conversations about Christ? How do you talk to an atheist? How do you witness to your children?
	We sincerely hope you will tune in to the Alive in Christ Radio program this Tuesday were you will enjoy these new features along with a new line up of very talented and anointed musical guests who will be sharing some of their exciting new music with us. And of course you can expect insightful and entertaining biblical teaching from our own Founder and CEO Tony Marino, who along with his delightful co-host Lynn Kennedy bring God's word alive and relevant to your life today.
Tune in LIVE this Tuesday, and every Tuesday evening! 8:00 - 10:00 PM Pacific Time http://www.AliveInChristRadio.com/ Come be a part of the "Alive in Christ" family! Christian Times Online: http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

Moses was a reactor. When there was action, he reacted. Whether checking out a burning bush that did not burn, defending a Hebrew slave, or trying to stop a fight, Moses reacted to the world around him.

Moses ultimately become a great leader because he learned to “act”, rather than to “react.” He was not perfect–he even went so far as to make a fatal mistake that kept him out of the Promised Land. But God shaped and used his life in spite of his victories, challenges, and poor choices. God did not change “who” or “what” Moses was; Our heavenly Father worked on “how” Moses used what he had been given by Father God.

You see, God wants to change us in the same way. He will make the “best” version of us there could ever possible be, if we will simply “let go and let God.” God is an awesome God; when He changes us, He enhances the “good” qualities He gave us at the start. He also forgives us (through Christ) and straightens us out so that we may be His holy (set apart) children; living our lives according to His perfect will and perfect purpose.

Moses: His UPS:

• Egyptian education; wilderness training.
• Greatest Jewish leader; set the Exodus in motion.
• Prophet and lawgiver; recorder of the Ten Commandments.

Moses: His DOWNS:

• Failed to enter the Promised Land because of disobedience to God.
• Did not always recognize and use the talents of others.

Moses: His STATS:

• Where: Egypt, Midian, Wilderness of Sinai.
• Occupation: Prince, shepherd, leader of the Israelites.
• Relatives: Miriam (sister); Aaron (brother); Zipporah (wife); Gershom and Eliezer (sons).

Moses: His LESSONS:

• God first prepares His people, then uses them to do His work.
• God does His greatest work through frail people.

Moses’ story is told in the books of Exodus through Deuteronomy. He also is mentioned in Matthew 17:3-4; Acts 7:20-44; Hebrews 11:23-28.

May almighty God bless you always,

Tony

Tony Marino
Founder, Executive Publisher
Christian Times Online
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

My body tensed with fear. I cried out, “God, I need your help. I don’t wanna die.”

BLAM! My car spun around, ending up 50 feet behind the crash. Instantly it was deathly quiet. The impact stunned me as my knee flattened the key in the ignition and my head compressed the steering wheel. I struggled to keep consciousness. I can’t die. I just can’t die. I’m going to be a missionary. God help me.

“Ouch!” I ached all over. Feeling blood dripping off my chin, I reached up and touched new holes in my face. Oh no, not my face. I’m getting married in a month.

Stress is a major problem, affecting people more each year.

I was almost home from college for the weekend. My week had been stressful as I was finishing everything before graduation in less than a month. Between school work and finishing my thesis, I was also finalizing the details for my wedding—a week after graduation.

People began running toward my car as I tried to open the door. Groan. I hurt all over.

As if in a tunnel, words echoed in my brain, “I can’t believe she is alive. No one should have lived through that.”

The sirens screamed in the distance, coming closer. “Someone must have been looking out for you,” a short, plump woman said, as she opened my door.
As the police arrived, the tall, dark man who hit me got out of his car, unhurt. I stared in amazement as he started running up the embankment. The officers raced after him, tackling him to the ground. Walking back to their patrol car with the disheveled man, one said, “Whoa! The alcohol on his breath could almost knock me out.”

I finally managed to get myself out, but had to grab the car door to keep from fainting. The ambulance, with its bright, flashing lights and wailing siren, stopped a few feet from me. The kind-faced paramedic put his arm around me, holding me upright as we walked to the ambulance. After quickly checking me, he said, “We’ve got to get her to the emergency room.”

“No! Just call my parents. They’ll take me. I don’t want my parents to have a huge ambulance bill.”

“You’ve got to be kidding,” someone behind me said.

After they called my parents, I asked, “Can you please clean as much blood off me as you can? I don’t want my mom freaked out.”

“We’ll do our best, but it won’t be perfect.”

When my parents arrived at the accident scene, I saw tears in my mom’s eyes. At the hospital, the admitting doctor checked me. He announced, “I’ll sew her face up and then she can go to a plastic surgeon later.” Amazingly, nothing was broken.

“But she’s getting married in a month!” My mom insisted they call a plastic surgeon immediately to put my face back together.
 
Over the next few weeks, my body healed, despite massive bruising and pain that became arthritis a few months later. Thank you, Lord, for my seatbelt, and the interesting bruises it caused! To this day, I’m thankful for the faint scars on my face, reminding me of God’s grace, faithfulness and protection.

Just like my car wreck, things happen that are out of our control, causing us trauma and anxiety. Stress is a major problem, affecting people more each year. A recent study found:

• 75 percent of adults experienced moderate to high levels of stress in the past month.
• 42 percent said their stress had increased in the past year.

Can you relate?
 
Did you know, stress itself is not bad? How you react to it is what affects you. There are many ways to respond to stress, some more beneficial than others. One way to react is by taking the advice of an old Navy slogan: “When in danger or in doubt, run in circles, scream and shout.” I don’t know about you, but I’ve never found that method works too well.

Have you ever felt like you were all stressed up with everywhere to go? You have too much to do and don’t even know where to start. Does stress run your life? Are you ever paralyzed with feelings of being overwhelmed? Maybe you even begin to run in circles, scream and shout.
 
We all have choices in how we will react to stress—some more positive than others. I could have gotten angry because of my accident—which was one month before I graduated from college and five weeks before I was to get married. But that wouldn’t help, would it? But I must admit I have reacted that way at times. Think about how you react when you are faced with stressful situations.

Do your reactions help your stress levels? Why or why not?

What can you do today to lower your stress?

For a simple list of some things you can do today to de-stress your life, go to www.stress-management-tips.us and get the free report, “10 Tips Help You De-Stress Your Life.”
 
This article is adapted from All Stressed Up and Everywhere to Go! Solutions to De-Stressing Your Life and Recovering Your Sanity, by Gaylyn Williams and Ken Williams Ph.D. Gaylyn is the president of Relationship Resources and author of sixteen books. Learn more at www.stress-management-tips.us.

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

That being said, I believe this term could also be used to describe the condition of a lot of Christians today. I believe many find themselves stirred in their service for God, yet lack a true life shaking experience and relationship with Him.

The term “Stirred” is used numerous times in the Bible to express the ability of man to be moved to a specific call or action based upon immediate stimulus or influence. The term does not describe the underlying convictions of a man, for no man has to be stirred to do something that he already holds fast too. In almost all references in the Bible it is used in conjunction with the enemies of God or those who respond merely based on fleshly desires and outside peer pressure.
    
“Shaken” on the other hand is used in the Bible to describe the total breaking down of powers or people into complete submission to God. When things are truly shaken by God all that remains is what is pure and holy. Prior to His return even the earth, stars, and heavens will be shaken. This is the true response to anyone or anything that comes into the presence of a Holy God.
 
1. God’s Shaking Brings Power in Ministry

Act 4:31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

The birth of the church is a great example of lives that were shaken and not stirred.  After seeing the resurrection of Jesus Christ, many of His followers were stirred with enthusiasm and living on a momentary high. However, if they were to change the world a momentary stirring would not suffice; they would have to be shaken to their very core. Gathered together the Spirit of God fell upon them and the place where they gathered and all within were shaken.  All that remained were lives that were completely submitted and affected in such a way that they were ready to be His salt and light in a world of darkness.

Many movements within the church today have the ability to stir us.  Wonderful music, programs, and functions can entertain us and keep us busy until the cows come home, or Jesus Christ for that matter. In an age where church attendance is steadily declining we have attempted to draw in crowds on merits other than the gospel message.  We have developed church growth plans based on society’s polls instead of taking our objectives and mission from God’s divine blueprint found in the Bible.  He said “If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me.”  Maybe the problem with the decline of the present church is not so much the ineffectiveness of God’s ability to draw people in with His Spirit, but our inability to truly lift Him up as the focus of our gatherings. 

Our goal is not to launch people into “New Seasons”, “An Age of Prosperity”, or even lead them into their destiny of “Favor.”  Our goal is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  If we are not careful, we will create a church body that is only stirred into momentary action, yet fail to possess a true relationship with Christ.  If they are only being fed what they desire to hear by pastors who desire to grow at any cost, they will eventually leave for the next big stirring that comes along.  The greatest fabric and glue that will hold the church together is simply the message of Jesus Christ, not a worldly substitute.

2. God’s Shaking Brings Freedom

Act 16:26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody’s chains came loose.

Many people attend church hoping that the moral support of others will enable them to find freedom from the bondages of sin that grip their lives.  Their investment of time and membership will soon leave them frustrated and defeated as they realize that people and programs lack the ability to bring true freedom.  Only those who are truly shaken by God’s power can be set free. 

3. God’s Shaking produces Righteousness

Heb 12:27 The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.

The effect on anyone or anything that encounters the presence of God is a shaking.  It is a dying of sin and removal of anything that is not pure.  God is Holy and no sin or unrighteousness can stand before Him.  You can be stirred and still remain in sin, but those who press in and open themselves to God’s righteousness will be empowered to be set free and made righteous.  It is an act of grace and a direct result of coming into His presence.  It is then, when we are shaken, that we can fulfill His command to, “Be ye Holy for I am Holy.”

Conclusion:

When we as a church get back to prayer and serving God, not out of habit, but in response to His Holy nature, we will once again enjoy the refreshing outpouring of His Spirit upon us.  We will revisit and experience the great moves of God upon the hearts of sinners who are compelled to repent and surrender their lives to Him.  The greatest drawing and secret to a successful move of God is people who are humbled and seeking Him on the merit of who He is and not what they want Him to be. 

Make no doubt about it, God is beginning to do a mighty work in the world even as we speak.  He is rising up men and women, boys and girls who are truly seeking His desire; a generation of believers who are not content with being stirred any longer and desire to be shaken by the mighty power of God.

I guess the question is, “What is your preference?”  Would you rather yourself shaken by God, or merely stirred in the flesh? 

About Dwayne Harris

Dwayne Harris is the founder of Fresh Outpouring Ministries, Inc. and is an Evangelist and Missionary. He is an Ordained Minister within the Church of God of Cleveland Tenn. and the speaker of the “Message in a Minute” web based devotional video series. For more information visit: http://www.freshoutpouring.com

Dwayne Harris © 2011 All rights reserved.

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

Most self-proclaimed Christians do not even attend a local church. So how do they passionately praise God’s glorious grace per His specific instructions as found in His Holy Bible (Hebrews 10:25)? This is precisely why we have developed and now manage an all-new, online Christian church community. It is time for those who claim  to love Christ to finally make a meaningful, life-changing commitment to serve Him above self. Will we be “lukewarm” or will we obediently seek God first? Will we choose to watch secular television and read secular books while we secularly serve ourselves, or  will we lovingly choose Christ above all else, including self? It is high-time that we as Christians unite for the wonderful glory of God. The devil would love nothing more than to make you feel that it is perfecty fine to put off service until tomorrow, but Jesus has already given His life for us; what are we waiting for?

The power of Internet is just the vehicle to help make it happen.

Are you one of the 500 million members of Facebook? Maybe you have signed up but are not one of the 45.3 million active users. Perhaps you believe it is a waste of time, or that you have nothing to say which will benefit or interest anyone else. Why, you wonder, would anyone choose to spend their valuable, limited time on any social network site?

With the estimated value of Facebook topping 30 billion dollars, one can conclude that there must be some worth to these sites. The use of social networking may be a modern day phenomena, but plenty of people are engaging. Studies indicate that total minutes spent on social networking sites has increased 83 percent year-to-year. The fact is people continue to gravitate in droves towards social networking and blog sites, spending more and more time interacting with others. Never before in history have we had the opportunity to interact, or impact, the world on such a global scale. The question is, what do we do with these sites to really make a difference.

As popular as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, along with a myriad of other social networking sites are, they are secular. They may provide a wonderful and convenient  platform to reconnect with long lost school classmates or post photographs for Grandma, but these sites have also been used to lure victims into dangerous situations. Many believe that the internet is nothing more than a playground for Satan and with the amount of trash out there, it may be hard to argue this point. But maybe we should decide that it is time to use this amazingly powerful tool for a more meaningful purpose.

It is high-time that we, as Christians, level the online playing field. By purposefully aligning together, we can share the glorious news about our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As Christians, we are commanded by Christ Himself to “go and make disciples of every nation” (Matthew 28:19). By the power of God’s Holy Spirit, it is my prayer that we do our part to make a difference for God, saving and training (discipling) another one for Jesus.

19 “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).

People generally have a need for human connection -  the need to be loved and/or be recognized. Social media tools like Facebook allow for that to happen on a magnified scale. God created each and every person to be a unique individual. He has given us special gifts and talents to be used for His kingdom and His glory. We all have a story. The twists and turns of life and each circumstance we endure is an opportunity to learn more about God and His will and purpose for our lives.

Your story can be used to encourage and support those experiencing similar trials in their own lives strengthening their spiritual path of growth. Online platforms provide a way to connect with those who may be in a whole different part of the world yet can become a new best friend whom you would never otherwise have had the opportunity to meet. It provides a way to shine the light of the world. (Matthew 5:14-15). We are exposed to others whose stories touch our lives in ways never before possible.

14 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house” (Matthew 5:14-15).

Christian Disciple Fellowship is basically the Facebook for the Christian community. It is a tool to positively influence people’s lives with the word and love of Jesus Christ by connecting with fellow believers, building relationships and encouraging all towards a closer and more meaningful love and understanding of Gods glorious grace. I would encourage you to join Christian Disciple Fellowship and make your voice heard.

How to Make the Most of your Online Christian Fellowship Experience:

Personalized Profiles

First, begin by creating your personal profile. Design your own profile and upload videos, blogs and profile information. Christian Disciple Fellowship allows you to control your privacy settings as well. Other familiar features including walls, activity feeds and the ability to search other members using multiple criteria. [Register]

Easy Messaging

A hallmark of any strong network is the ability of members to message one another directly creating a real sense of involvement and personal ownership. Christian Disciple Fellowship allows you to do this as well as create sub groups within the community which can be created privately or publically. Group members share photos, videos and discussions within groups. [Register]

Promoting Events

Christian Disciple Fellowship is an excellent platform for organizing and promoting events. Members and sub-groups have the option of making an event public or private. People can then mark their attendance, write on the wall and upload photos. [Register]

Text and Video Chat

Another fun feature of the site is the a chat bar which shows which members are online at that moment. It’s possible to chat in real time via text, but also via video without the need to download any additional software. [Register]

Forums

Forums provide members a place to debate hot topics in specially created forums and post video and photos as part of their replies. Participants are notified of any new responses by email. What’s more, groups are able to keep their own forums private if they choose. [Register]

Blogging/Magazine

Blogs are a great way of encouraging participation in the network, so you may choose to have your moderated, communal blog (known as ‘The Magazine’) as your home page. You can, however, simply choose to post blog entries to their own profile page, complete with any photos, videos, content from YouTube and so on. [Register]

As with any social networking site, or church fellowship, interactivity is paramount. As Christian members of this anointed Christian Disciple Fellowship (online church community), I would encourage you to  invite your friends and loved ones to join in the fellowship. The greater the membership the greater benefit to all. Let your voice be heard. It may be just what someone else needs to hear. Let us together save another one for Jesus.

Register Now:
http://Fellowship.ChristianDiscipleshipMinistries.com 

I  look forward to meeting you on the inside!

May almighty God bless you always,

Tony

Tony Marino
Founder, Executive Publisher
Christian Times Online
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

Christian Disciple Fellowship is not affiliated with or sponsored by Facebook.

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

1. What would happen if it did not exist?
2. What would you give to have it or keep it?
3. What does it make possible?
4. How does it weather critics and detractors?
5. How much effort should be given to spread it and preserve it?

In the video below he answers these questions about the Bible at a breakfast gathering at Lausanne:

John Piper @ GELF Breakfast – Lausanne 2010 from Crossway on Vimeo.

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

However, a lot of us today do not understand the book of Revelations, and we then translate it into our own interpretation. 2 Peter 1:20 clearly says that “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.”

So if it is not of private interpretation then how can I as an individual understand Bible Prophecy?

1. Before Opening The Bible always say a word of prayer, and ask the Lord  to provide you with wisdom, and understanding. In James 1:5 it says that  “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, and it shall be given him.”  So how do you know that you will be given the wisdom that you have prayed for? Numbers 23:19 says that  “God is not a man, that he should lie.”
2. Search the Scriptures. “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39  In this scripture Jesus admonishes us to search the scriptures because the scriptures testify of Him Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. The one that has died for our sins.

To understand the Prophecies of Revelation.  We must first have a background. To obtain that background we must have knowledge of the Old Testament.  There are a lot of people that says that the Old Testament has nothing to do with the New Testament. If you do not understand the Old Testament then you  will never understand the New. There are 404 verses found in the book Of Revelation.  Out of the 404 verses of the book, 278 verses refer to other stories, and prophecies in the Old Testament. The Old Testament is a platform for the first coming of Jesus. It sets the stage, and gives us examples of things that would happen to Jesus when He comes, in the New Testament.

In the Old Testament we will review two stories, and then refer to them in the New Testament, and how they related to the Life of Jesus.

First we will review the story of Joseph.  Joseph was one of 12 brothers. (Gen. 37:9  & Gen. 42:13) Joseph had his robe taken away from him; his brothers placed him into a pit where he did not have any food or water. Joseph was then sold for the price of slave.(Gen. 37:28) After he was sold, his brothers took his coat, and dipped it into blood.(Gen. 37:32)  Even though Joseph went through this ordeal he still came out alive. What Joseph, and his brothers did not know was that God had a greater plan in store for them. God later used Joseph to save his family during the time of famine in the land of Egypt.

Now we will review the Life of Jesus, in the New Testament, and see how it relates to the story of Joseph in the Old Testament.

Jesus had 12 disciples. (Matt. 11:1)  Judas sold Jesus for the price of a slave, or 30 pieces of silver. (Matt. 27:3)  Once Jesus was in the hands of the Chief Priests and Pilate, He was beaten and his clothes were taken away from him, which was splattered with his own blood. (Matt. 27:31) Before Jesus died he prayed for those who crucified him, and said “Father Forgive them for they no not what they have done.” (Luke 23:32) God too had a plan for Jesus.  He came to save the world from sin.

Here in these two stories you will see that the prophecy was predicted in the life Of Joseph, and was fulfilled in the life Of Jesus Christ.

Some similarities that are found here are:

1. Both Joseph, and Jesus were sold as a slave.
2. Both, had their garments taken away from them.
3. Both forgave those who had sinned against them.

The Second Story that we will review is of Abraham, and Isaac. Isaac was a special child because Abraham’s wife Sarah could not have children, and in their old age God Blessed Abraham, and Sarah with a son, Isaac. (Gen. 21:3)  God, testing Abraham’s faith, and told him to sacrifice his only son on the altar, as a burnt offering. (Gen. 22:2)  Isaac, then carried the wood on his back for the alter. (Gen. 22:6) When they reached the mountain that  the Lord had specified, Abraham, then made an alter, and tied Isaac to it.  When he was ready to slay his son, he heard a Angels voice from heaven saying  “Abraham, Abraham Do not lay a hand upon that lad, and do not do anything to him. (Gen.22: 9 – 12) With thanksgiving, and praise, Abraham, lifted his eyes, and saw a ram caught in a thicket by his horns.  Abraham took the ram, and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son (Gen. 22:13).

Now we will compare the story of Abraham, and Isaac to the Story of Jesus, and God the Father. As Isaac had to carry the wood to the altar, so did Jesus carry wood, He carried the Cross.  When Jesus died, he had a crown of thorns upon his head (Matt. 27:29).

This story of Abraham, and Isaac is one of Importance.  God knew that one day He too have to offer his Son as a sacrifice, a ransom, to pay for the price of sin. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16  I cannot even begin to imagine the pain that God the Father felt for his son dying on the cross. “But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled” (Matt. 26:56).

All I can say is what a loving God we serve! He looked beyond all selfishness, and gave his only son for the sins of mankind.

So as you can see here with the two examples, I have given, a knowledge of the Old Testament is needed to open the stories or keys of the New Testament.  If you are trying to understand Bible Prophecy then you will need to have a background. If you want to understand what is going, on in the world today, and try to unlock Bible Prophecy, then you need to know the history of the bible from the Old Testament.

Peace be with you always,

Tony

Tony Marino
Founder, Executive Publisher
Christian Times Online
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

 Christmas Today

Can you imagine that kind of excitement and enthusiasm for our Lord, Jesus? Yet many don’t even stop to think that Christmas is anything more than a time to party, overeat, overindulge and exchange a bunch of useless, expensive gifts. Everyone wants to celebrate “Christmas”, yet many don’t want to acknowledge that Christ even exists, much less believe Him to be Lord and Savior. We have fought the existence and influence of Christ in our lives to the point where there is no prayer in school, nativity scenes are not allowed on state property and we have reduced “Merry Christmas” to “Happy Holidays” in an attempt to not offend anyone, further eliminating Christ from the very holiday which was created in His honor. Yet these same people are the first in line to buy “Christmas gifts” and demand the time off from work to celebrate that which they do not even embrace. They base a good Christmas on the quality or quantity of gifts or how many parties they attended further reducing the holiday to nothing more than a social event.

 Christmas Spending

So with so much focus on shopping, what are people buying this Christmas? Everything. Never before in history have we had the variety or availability of merchandise. If we cannot find that perfect gift locally we can usually find it readily available on the internet. It is estimated that the average American will spend nearly 15 hours shopping and $700.00 for gifts this year. Imagine how God’s kingdom could benefit if each of us where to give that same amount of time and money to our local church.

 Most of the gifts we give comprise of frivolous items which contribute little to the everyday quality of life and in fact become distractions from what is truly important in life. Eventually our homes and our lives become overwhelmed with more and more clutter. Items such as video games, TV’s, computers, jewelry, and toys. Items needed for everyday living are rarely considered appropriate gifts and are seldom given. I mean, who really wants socks and underwear beautifully wrapped under the tree to be opened in front of Aunt Emma from Omaha.

And we have all heard the stories about the kids who open the presents and half an hour later are playing with the wrapping paper completely ignoring the expensive do-hicky they so desperately pleaded Santa for.  

 Yes, we have become obsessed with “stuff”.  But we must remember that everything we see on this earth will someday no longer exist. Matthew 6:19-20 tells us, “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.” Luke 16:13 tells us, “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” So what are we saying when we are willing to stand in line for hours and trample others in total disregard just to buy “stuff”? We are saying that these items have become all important in our lives. They have become our idols.

A New Perspective on Gift Giving

Now I am not saying we should not buy gifts for others. What I am saying is that we need to really think about the true meaning of giving and do it for the right reasons, not because of a specific date on the calendar, or because someone gave you a gift therefore you feel obligated to do the same. Have you ever felt guilted into buying a gift for someone because you felt they expected it, or you feared they would think poorly or less of you if you didn’t? I have and it does not feel good. This totally violates the essence of giving. I would never want someone to feel obligated to buy something for me. That is not the true spirit of giving. We also need to examine what a gift is. Too often we believe it must be something tangible purchased at the local mall, yet giving can be a warm plate of homemade cookies, a handmade card or bookmark, or even something as simple as a hug or a smile. A busy father’s time is much more valuable to a child than any video game, or high priced pair of jeans ever could be. Too many times expensive gifts are given as guilt offerings and sadly some have come to expect as much. The Beatles said it well when they sang, “Can’t buy me love”.

The Greatest Gift of All

This Christmas perhaps we should focus less on the presents and celebrate the greatest gift of all. Jesus Christ, whom the holiday is in honor, was born and delivers the gift of salvation for those who choose to receive it. We learn from a very young age that if we are “good” we will receive good gifts, if not we get a big lump of coal. Well, I have news for you, no one is “good” and we all deserve a whole mound of coal, yet God loves us so much he chose to give us the greatest gift of all, eternal life. There is nothing on this earth that we can buy that even comes close to this most precious gift. John 3:16 sums it up perfectly, “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” Now that is a priceless gift indeed.

Since we have already been given the greatest gift of all and in the true spirit of Christmas, let’s consider giving a gift this year that will truly make a difference in someone’s life. We live in a very prosperous country. The world’s average income – total world income divided by total number of people – is about $7,000. Still, only about 19 percent of the world’s population lives in countries with per capita incomes at least this high. The average income in the United States is nearly $40,000. Most Americans have no idea what real need is. Every year we hear about how retailers are opening their doors earlier and earlier on Black Friday, with lines of people blocks long who have camped out for hours just waiting to take advantage of the unbelievable bargains.

But the fact remains that there is much suffering in the world today and we have the means available to us to make a difference for those less fortunate.

A Challenge

As we approach this Christmas season I challenge you to make a change and make a difference not only in your life but the life of those in dire need. First spend time with your family learning more about our precious Savior. Read His word and learn more about who He is. Then I would encourage you to give a gift that could make the difference between life and death for someone less fortunate. “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25)

You do not need to look far to find opportunities to help others. There are organizations locally as well as worldwide in need. One of my favorites is Life Outreach International. Jim and Betty Robison’s Mission: Water for Life provides fresh water and supports the drilling of water wells for Asia, Africa, and South American people. You can visit their website at: http://www.lifetoday.org

If you are unsure where to help, ask God. Pray about it, He will give you direction. And continue to press into His word this Holiday Season. This year, instead of hearing about the shopping mayhem and just shaking our heads, let’s do something about it. Let’s put Christ back into Christmas.

May God bless you and your family richly.

Merry Christmas,

Lynn

Lynn Kennedy
Associate Publisher, Director of Women’s Ministry
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

The Book of John was written by the apostle John between A.D. 85 and 90 to prove conclusively that Jesus is the Son of God and that all who believe in Him will have eternal life. It was originally written to new Christians and seeking non-Christians.  

The Book of John was written after the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 and before John’s exile to the island of Patmos. The key people found in the Book of John are Jesus, John the Baptist, the disciples, Mary, Martha, Lazarus, Jesus’ mother (Mary), Pilate, and Mary Magdalene.

Key Places: Judean countryside, Samaria, Galilee, Bethany, and Jerusalem.

Eternal Life

Because Jesus is God, He can offer eternal life–unending life–to us. This personal, eternal relationship with Him begins now and will continue after our lives end here on earth.

Signs of Life

John records specific signs or miracles that prove Jesus’ identity as the promised Savior. These signs encourage us to believe in Him. When we believe in Jesus and commit our lives to Him, He empowers us to build His kingdom.

Holy Spirit

Jesus told His disciples that after He went back to heaven, the Holy Spirit would come. The Holy Spirit would guide and comfort all believers. The Holy Spirit draws us to Jesus in faith.

 Resurrection

On the third day after Jesus died, He rose from the dead. This reality changed the disciples from frightened deserters to dynamics leaders in the new church. We can experience the same change (from fear to freedom) and look forward to living with Christ forever.

May almighty God bless you always,

Tony

Tony Marino
Founder, Executive Publisher
Christian Times Online
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

If this sounds like you, rest assured you are not alone. We live in a fallen world with a fallen economy. Let’s face it, life is just plain tough and it is not hard to find the negatives in our lives. It is also easy to compare ourselves to others. But we must remember that no one escapes difficulties in their lives and we don’t know what life is really like for them. We all try to put on a happy face to the outside world, but the truth is, we are all struggling. Despite what we are dealing with, we need to remember to, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Our culture constantly bombards us with images of what the good life should look like dictating what our homes should look like, (observed a Pottery Barn catalog lately), what we should wear (walked through a mall recently? $200.00 for a pair of New Religion jeans!) what car to drive, a BMW or Mercedes if you are successful. We pay huge sums to enroll our kids in all types of extracurricular activities and run ourselves, and them, raged running them here and there. Even going to the movies with a family of 4 will set you back $75.00.

The ideal Thanksgiving and Christmas day are also imposed upon us on TV and in magazines. Wouldn’t you love to spend Thanksgiving day at Martha Stewart’s farm with her recipe for the perfectly cooked turkey and trimmings then sit at a beautifully decorated table with people who love, respect and appreciate one another? How about Christmas (which we know will be here in a flash). Again, the whole house is decorated to mimic the pages of Better Homes and Gardens, there are gifts galore and all the children are perfectly neat and clean in their new PJ’s. Are you kidding? Christmas morning at my house involves my family desperately trying to pry me out of bed to partake in the joy of the day. I stumble out of bed, grab a cup of coffee and hope Santa cleaned up his mess before bed. (Side note: We may not look like the “Cleavers” but I do enjoy my family.)

If we don’t buy into or participate in this marketing minutia we believe that we don’t measure up, we are not successful enough, or are not blessed enough. The truth is we have become so addicted to the comfortable life, it has become nearly impossible to even recognize the blessings in our lives which are much more prevalent than we often realize. We miss these blessings because we focus on trying to gain and acquire more of our selfish desires or of the things we think we want. Do we even really know what we want?

We are not taught to be thankful. We are a spoiled, ungrateful nation. Few of us are immune. I sometimes fall prey to this attitude myself. But it is at these times that I must remind myself of what God told Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient.”

If more Christians would believe that, take it to heart and truly live it, their lives would be blessed beyond measure. They already are; they just don’t realize or accept it. What greater gift is there than the sacrifice of Christ dying on the cross for us insuring our eternal life? If we would simply accept this fact, our lives would look different. We would live more peacefully and we would have grateful hearts giving thanks for the simplest of things and enjoying the sometimes mundane activities of everyday life. Remember what we are told in Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”

That which we thought we had to have in order to be happy such as the big house, expensive car, extravagant vacations, the dream job, and money to support them all, suddenly does not seem nearly as important. Our focus begins to shift from the noise of the world and we begin to find joy in the basics of life. The sun peaking through the clouds on a rainy day becomes a reason for celebration. We begin to recognize and acknowledge the blessings that God bestows upon us every day. “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done” (Philippians 4:6).

Perhaps you have fallen into the fear of losing what you have worked so hard to achieve. By society’s standards you are a success, but deep down you know that it would take very little for the world as you know it to topple. Our lives are always at risk of destruction. Spouses and even children sometimes come down with life threatening illnesses. Jobs are lost, homes are devastated by natural disasters. We have no control over such events. But we do not need to despair. We know that God is always there to provide for us. He is Jehovah Jirah, God the provider. We have everything we need in Him and he will “never leave us or forsake us” (Hebrews 13:5).

So see, you have everything to be thankful for. “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). What more could we possibly want or need more than eternal life with the creator and father of the universe?

This Thanksgiving I pray you will accept the greatest gift of all. That you would recognize the blessings that surround your life, and that you would learn to be a blessing to others as well.

May almighty God bless you always,

Lynn

Lynn Kennedy
Associate Publisher, Director of Women’s Ministry
http://www.ChristianTimesOnline.com

©2012 Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977. All Rights Reserved.

If certain soothsayers are accurate with their predictions, this spells “Good News” for the Christian. But, what if somehow God has slipped and changed His mind about the end times? What if somehow one of these human predictors have pulled a fast one on God by gaining God’s sovereignty? Well, one thing is for sure; if December 2012 proves to be the end of the world as we know it, then let us who have accepted Christ rejoice; we are coming home!

The 2012 Doomsday prophesy has many origins. The most well know is that of the belief based on the Mayan Calendar. It is believed that the Mayan calendar was more accurate than our own and was able to accurately predict eclipses several thousand years before they occurred. The calendar ends a 5,125 year long cycle on December 21, 2010 which coincides with the winter solstice leading to this end of the world theory.

Other theories which point to the end of the world as we know it include: Sybilline Prophecies, the Pythian Prophecies, the I-Ching Prophecies, the Mayan Prophecies,  “Merlin” Prophecies, and the modern day Web-bot project which uses the internet to make its predictions. All claim that the world will end on or near December 21, 2010.

Besides this doomsday prophecy, our society has a fascination with various degrees of the occult which includes astrology, fortune telling, palm reading, crystals, channeling, spirituality, new age practices, witchcraft and others. And Satan is behind all of them.

What Does God Say About All This?

A Dangerous Fascination (Deuteronomy 18:9-14)

Just as most of us are naturally curious about a magician’s trick, the Israelites were curious about the occult practices of the Canaanites.  Because Satan was involved in these practices, God warned Israel to avoid them.  People today are still fascinated by horoscopes fortune-telling, witchcraft and cults.  Often their interest comes from a desire to know and control the future. But the information Satan offers is likely to be distorted or completely false.  With the trustworthy guidance of the Holy Spirit through the Scriptures and the church, we don’t need to turn to occult sources for information.

⁹ “When you enter the land the Lord your God is giving you, be very careful not to imitate the detestable customs of the nations living there. ¹⁰ For example, never sacrifice your son or daughter as a burnt offering. And do not let your people practice fortune-telling, or use sorcery, or interpret omens, or engage in witchcraft, ¹¹ or cast spells, or function as mediums or psychics, or call forth the spirits of the dead. ¹² Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord. It is because the other nations have done these detestable things that the Lord your God will drive them out ahead of you. ¹³ But you must be blameless before the Lord your God. ¹⁴ The nations you are about to displace consult sorcerers and fortune-tellers, but the Lord your God forbids you to do such things.” (Deuteronomy 18:9-14)

Just Say No to the Occult (Leviticus 20:6)

Everyone is interested in what the future holds. We often look to others for guidance.  But God warned the Israelites against looking to the occult for advice.  Mediums and psychics were outlawed because God was not the source of their information. At best, occult practitioners are fakes whose predictions cannot be trusted. At worst, they are in contact with evil spirits and are thus extremely dangerous. We don’t need to look to the occult for information about the future. God has given us the Bible-a trustworthy source-for guidance. Is it your one-stop wisdom check?

² “Give the people of Israel these instructions, which apply both to native Israelites and to the foreigners living in Israel. “If any of them offer their children as a sacrifice to Molech, they must be put to death. The people of the community must stone them to death. ³ I myself will turn against them and cut them off from the community, because they have defiled my sanctuary and brought shame on my holy name by offering their children to Molech. ⁴ And if the people of the community ignore those who offer their children to Molech and refuse to execute them, ⁵ I myself will turn against them and their families and will cut them off from the community. This will happen to all who commit spiritual prostitution by worshiping Molech. ⁶ “I will also turn against those who commit spiritual prostitution by putting their trust in mediums or in those who consult the spirits of the dead. I will cut them off from the community. (Leviticus 20:2-6)

Star Charts (Jeremiah 10:1-5)

Everyone would like to know the future. Decisions would be easier, failures avoided, and success assured. The people of Judah tried to figure out the future by reading signs in the sky (like horoscopes). Jeremiah’s response applies today: God made the stars that people consult. God, who promises to guide you, knows your future and will be with you all the way. Don’t trust the stars; trust the One who made them.

¹ Hear the word that the Lord speaks to you, O Israel! ² This is what the Lord says: “Do not act like the other nations, who try to read their future in the stars. Do not be afraid of their predictions, even though other nations are terrified by them. ³ Their ways are futile and foolish. They cut down a tree, and a craftsman carves an idol. ⁴ They decorate it with gold and silver and then fasten it securely with hammer and nails so it won’t fall over. ⁵ Their gods are like helpless scarecrows in a cucumber field! They cannot speak, and they need to be carried because they cannot walk. Do not be afraid of such gods, for they can neither harm you nor do you any good.” (Jeremiah 10:1-5)

Acting on What’s Right (1 Samuel 28:3-25)

Although Saul had banned all mediums and psychics from Israel, he turned to one in desperation.  Likewise, we may make a great show of denouncing something that we know is wrong. Yet if our heart doesn’t change, we may find ourselves doing what we said was wrong. Knowing what is right and condemning what is wrong does not take the place of doing what is right.

³ Meanwhile, Samuel had died, and all Israel had mourned for him. He was buried in Ramah, his hometown. And Saul had banned from the land of Israel all mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead.  ⁴ The Philistines set up their camp at Shunem, and Saul gathered all the army of Israel and camped at Gilboa. ⁵ When Saul saw the vast Philistine army, he became frantic with fear. ⁶ He asked the Lord what he should do, but the Lord refused to answer him, either by dreams or by sacred lots or by the prophets. ⁷ Saul then said to his advisers, “Find a woman who is a medium, so I can go and ask her what to do.”  

His advisers replied, “There is a medium at Endor.” ⁸ So Saul disguised himself by wearing ordinary clothing instead of his royal robes. Then he went to the woman’s home at night, accompanied by two of his men.  “I have to talk to a man who has died,” he said. “Will you call up his spirit for me?” ⁹ “Are you trying to get me killed?” the woman demanded. “You know that Saul has outlawed all the mediums and all who consult the spirits of the dead. Why are you setting a trap for me?”

¹⁰ But Saul took an oath in the name of the Lord and promised, “As surely as the Lord lives, nothing bad will happen to you for doing this.”

¹¹ Finally, the woman said, “Well, whose spirit do you want me to call up?” “Call up Samuel,” Saul replied.

 ¹² When the woman saw Samuel, she screamed, “You’ve deceived me! You are Saul!”

¹³ “Don’t be afraid!” the king told her. “What do you see?”  “I see a god coming up out of the earth,” she said.

¹⁴ “What does he look like?” Saul asked. “He is an old man wrapped in a robe,” she replied. Saul realized it was Samuel, and he fell to the ground before him.

¹⁵ “Why have you disturbed me by calling me back?” Samuel asked Saul. “Because I am in deep trouble,” Saul replied. “The Philistines are at war with me, and God has left me and won’t reply by prophets or dreams. So I have called for you to tell me what to do.”

¹⁶ But Samuel replied, “Why ask me, since the Lord has left you and has become your enemy? ¹⁷ The Lord has done just as he said he would. He has torn the kingdom from you and given it to your rival, David. ¹⁸ The Lord has done this to you today because you refused to carry out his fierce anger against the Amalekites. ¹⁹ What’s more, the Lord will hand you and the army of Israel over to the Philistines tomorrow, and you and your sons will be here with me. The Lord will bring down the entire army of Israel in defeat.”

²⁰ Saul fell full length on the ground, paralyzed with fright because of Samuel’s words. He was also faint with hunger, for he had eaten nothing all day and all night.

²¹ When the woman saw how distraught he was, she said, “Sir, I obeyed your command at the risk of my life. ²² Now do what I say, and let me give you a little something to eat so you can regain your strength for the trip back.”

²³ But Saul refused. The men who were with him also urged him to eat, so he finally yielded and got up from the ground and sat on the couch.

²⁴ The woman had been fattening a calf, so she hurried out and killed it. She took some flour, kneaded it into dough and baked unleavened bread. ²⁵ She brought the meal to Saul and his men, and they ate it. Then they went out into the night. (1 Samuel 28:3-25)

The Power of His Name (Acts 19:13-19)

The sons of Sceva were impressed by Paul, whose power to cast out demons came from the Holy Spirit.  This power obviously was greater than theirs. They discovered the hard way that Jesus’ name could not be used like a magic charm. No person can control or duplicate God’s power. Only through a relationship with Jesus-one sealed by the presence of the Holy Spirit-can one experience the power of God.

¹³ A group of Jews was traveling from town to town casting out evil spirits. They tried to use the name of the Lord Jesus in their incantation, saying, “I command you in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, to come out!” ¹⁴ Seven sons of Sceva, a leading priest, were doing this. ¹⁵ But one time when they tried it, the evil spirit replied, “I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who are you?” ¹⁶ Then the man with the evil spirit leaped on them, overpowered them, and attacked them with such violence that they fled from the house, naked and battered.

 ¹⁷ The story of what happened spread quickly all through Ephesus, to Jews and Greeks alike. A solemn fear descended on the city, and the name of the Lord Jesus was greatly honored. ¹⁸ Many who became believers confessed their sinful practices. ¹⁹ A number of them who had been practicing sorcery brought their incantation books and burned them at a public bonfire. The value of the books was several million dollars. (Acts 19:13-19)

God’s Infallible Commands

God’s position on this subject has always been the same; so much so, He inspired Jeremiah, Moses, Isaiah, Micah, and others to be clear about His commands pertaining to the occult and knowing the exact date of the end times.

² This is what the Lord says: “Do not act like the other nations, who try to read their future in the stars. Do not be afraid of their predictions, even though other nations are terrified by them.  ³ Their ways are futile and foolish. They cut down a tree, and a craftsman carves an idol. (Jeremiah 10:2-3)

“Do not practice fortune-telling or witchcraft.” (Leviticus 19:26)

Someone may say to you, “Let’s ask the mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead. With their whisperings and mutterings, they will tell us what to do.” But shouldn’t people ask God for guidance? Should the living seek guidance from the dead? (Isaiah 8:19 – 19) 

Manasseh also sacrificed his own son in the fire. He practiced sorcery and divination, and he consulted with mediums and psychics. He did much that was evil in the Lord’s sight, arousing his anger. (2 Kings 21:6)

I will put an end to all witchcraft, and there will be no more fortune-tellers. (Micah 5:12)

King Joram demanded, “Do you come in peace, Jehu?” Jehu replied, “How can there be peace as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of your mother, Jezebel, are all around us?” (2 Kings 9:22)

¹⁰ For example, never sacrifice your son or daughter as a burnt offering. And do not let your people practice fortune-telling, or use sorcery, or interpret omens, or engage in witchcraft, ¹¹ or cast spells, or function as mediums or psychics, or call forth the spirits of the dead. ¹² Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord. It is because the other nations have done these detestable things that the Lord your God will drive them out ahead of you. (Deuteronomy 18:10-12 10)

Christian Conclusion

For centuries people have looked everywhere outside of God’s word to find guarantees and certainties to what the future holds. The idol worship of the Old Testament mirrors our current day practices from horoscopes to tarot card readings to psychic hot lines to playing with Ouija boards along with a myriad of occult practices. Those who believe that they are  simply dabbling are proclaiming their lack of faith and belief in our one true Sovereign God. One must remember, at the end of the day, that each of us will stand, individually, before the Lord our God according to Revelation 20:13 which states, ” And all were judged according to their deeds.”

Our unchanging God makes it perfectly clear that he does not want us to know the future. This should be good enough for all of us unless in our arrogance we believe that we know something that God doesn’t. Therefore,  though you may believe these things to be innocent and harmless,  anything which turns your focus from the Lord is rooted in evil and can lead directly to Hell! Satan’s “purpose is to steal and kill and destroy” (John 10:10).

 And finally, what is it we are looking for really? If we knew what the future held would it really have a positive effect on our lives? Would we live differently? When one attempts to find answers outside of God’s word, what they are really saying is that God does not have the answer or that He cannot be trusted.

We live in a volatile world with no guarantees. But one thing we can count on is God’s promise in Malachi 3:6, which states “I am the Lord, and I do not change.” He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). That is one promise of the future we can always count on.

May almighty God bless you always,

Tony

Tony Marino
Founder, Executive Publisher
http://www.ChristianTimesNewsletter.com

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