Friday, July 31, 2009

welcome words...

Hey brothers,
I received an e-mail today that really sits with my circumstances today.... Just as I was reading Jack called. He made me realize the distinct importance of such times and how they may provide a very strong testimony to an individual who is new in Christ or doesn't know Him at all.
See Jack let me know that I may not have stature monetarily but, he said I did have things to offer regarding the Lord's kingdom. They were very enlightening words of affirmation and I am very gracious to receive them. Brothers if I'm being truly transparent, I have to tell you I have been fearing the "un-known," though I know that He will sustain me. It's been a "teeter-totter" if you will, for me during this season. I have day's where I'm alright, and day's where I'm riding down the road wiping tears to see the road...
I don't know what the Lord has in store for me and my family. I do know this, I accept what He offers and to take a line from the movie "Top-Gun,"
"I am not leaving my wing-man!" (Jesus Christ)

Here is the e-mail devotional from GotQuestions.org: Question: "How can I trust God when I am facing unemployment, foreclosure, or bankruptcy?"
Answer: The loss of employment and/or income is one of the most distressing events in life, especially for those supporting a family. Foreclosure on the family home or having to declare bankruptcy due to unemployment adds additional fear, uncertainty, and emotional turmoil. For the Christian man or woman facing unemployment, foreclosure or bankruptcy, there can be additional doubts about God’s goodness and His promises to provide for His children. How is the Christian to react to these catastrophic life events? What biblical principles can we apply to the loss of a home or a job and benefits (health/life insurance, retirement)?
First, it’s important to understand that God has ordained work for mankind. Work is described in the Bible as beneficial in that it provides for our needs (Proverbs 14:23; Ecclesiastes 2:24, 3:13, 5:18-19) and gives us the resources to share with others in need (Ephesians 4:28). Paul reminded the believers in Thessalonica that anyone who was not willing to work should not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10) and that he himself worked at tent making so as not to be a burden on anyone (Acts 18:3; 2 Corinthians 11:9). So loss of employment should not be an excuse for laziness, and all due diligence should be exercised to find other employment as quickly as possible (Proverbs 6:9-11).
At the same time, it may not be possible to find a position equal in pay and status to the one that was lost. In these cases, Christians should not allow pride to keep them from taking jobs in other fields, even if it means lowered status or less pay, at least temporarily. We should also be willing to accept help from other believers and our churches, perhaps in exchange for work that needs to be done in homes, yards, and church facilities. Extending and accepting a ‘helping hand’ in these times is a blessing to those who give and to those who receive and exhibits the ‘law of Christ’ which is love for one another (Galatians 6:2; John 13:34).
Similarly, loss of the family home through foreclosure or bankruptcy can even be a time of blessing for the family, a time when parents and children “close ranks” and become more keenly aware of their love for one another and the important things in life—faith, family and community—and less focused on material things that have no eternal value and can disappear in a moment. God can also use these circumstances to remind us of the truth spoken by Jesus in Matthew 6:19-20, and refocus our hearts on heavenly treasure.
Above all, renewing our faith and trust in God’s promises is of utmost importance during times of financial stress. Revisiting passages that speak of God’s faithfulness to His children will strengthen and encourage us when the future looks bleak. First Corinthians 10:13 reminds us that God is faithful and will not test us beyond our ability to bear it and will provide a way out of the trial. This ‘way out’ may mean a new and better job that comes up right away. It may also mean a lengthy period of unemployment during which God’s faithfulness in providing our daily bread is shown to us. It may mean a new home or it may mean living in reduced circumstances with relatives for a period of time. In each case, the way out is really the ‘way through’ the trial, in which we learn of God’s faithful provision as He walks by our side through the entire ordeal. When the time of testing is over, our faith will be strengthened and we will be able to strengthen others by bearing strong testimony to the faithfulness of our God.


Bless you brothers,

Michael.....






Wednesday, July 29, 2009

A Thank you to the men around the table....

My brothers,

I would like to thank you all for praying for me and with me last night. I am in the midst of a very tough journey, and I know with faith and the love of my brothers, I will emerge stronger. Long ago, I did a spiritual gift assessment, I found that one of the gifts was "encouragement." I seem to be able to encourage others far better than I can encourage myself. It's really a treat for me to focus on others because it's an escape from myself for awhile. I feel I need to pay some attention to me now though, but in a way the Lord would have it, just like we discussed, in prayer... Deep, unwavering, dedicated, prayer. You see I have no where else to turn and after fellowship with you all last night and spending that time with my Father today, I feel that is exactly where He wants me.
Thank you, the Holy Spirit is moving through you all and God is working on a recovery for me at this very moment.

"I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, "Go, throw yourself into the sea, and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." Matthew 21:21-22 niv

Joey, Bert, Jack, Kasen, Charlie, Larry, and David,
Thank you for making me a part of your lives and being a "spiritual-defense" around me!

In Him,
Michael......

God's Way Out of the Pit

Psa 40:1 I waited patiently for the LORD; And He inclined to me and heard my cry.

Psa 40:2 He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.

Today I was impressed that the command of Jesus to deny ourselves daily, pick up our cross, and follow Him ties in with God's word in Psalms 40:2- "He brought me ... out of the miry clay, And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm."

In Genesis we are told that God created man out of the dust of the earth and breathed His Spirit into Him, giving Adam life as a living soul. In the New Teatament Jesus is described as the Chief Cornerstone Whom the builders rejected.

Psalm 40:2 describes what happens when we obey Jesus by reckoning ourselves dead in the flesh (miry clay) and ask God the Father to give us His Spirit so we are walking in the Holy Spirit, which is walking in Christ (The Solid Rock)!

Glory!

The pit of destruction is not our circumstances, it is the body of flesh that we live in. Paul talks about the Christian as having the power of sin that is in us, but that is not us. When we are born again we receive God's Holy Spirit and our spirit is brought to life and our soul is made new... our body remains as is to be redeemed at death or rapture. So, we have the specific instructions to follow, NO MATTER OUR CIRCUMSTANCES.

Fellow Followers of Christ, does this resonate with what you understand God's Word to say?
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Spirit Empowered Patriots

During the small group discussion time at Sarasota Wildmen last night, we were discussing spiritual warfare. I realized that God is mobilizing His spirit empowered Patriots at this time in history. This morning I was impressed that Socialism is man's system of government to attempt the impossible task of creating "heaven" on earth by man's own efforts. This philosophy of government is straight from the pit!
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How to be faithful at work

Presumption Versus Faith
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1
by Os HillmanWednesday,
July 29 2009

"The Lord's anger burned against Uzzah, and He struck him down because he had put his hand on the ark. So he died there before God." 1 Chronicles 13:10

A life of faith often requires us to leave God's work alone. Responding to a need out of a desire to help move a vision along can be the greatest challenge for a Christian entrepreneur. There is a fine line between presumption and faith.

Uzzah learned that presumption could cost him his life. He was part of the crew that was to move the ark with the help of a team of oxen. When the way became rough, Uzzah responded in a natural way. He grabbed the ark to steady it. When he did, he was immediately struck down. God said it was forbidden to touch the ark. King David mourned the death of his servant and argued with God about this loss. Walking with God in the workplace requires sensitivity to balancing our God-given talents and operating in the power of the Holy Spirit in and through our work life.

A mentor once told me, "You almost have to hold back your natural gifting to ensure that God is the one who is guiding you. If not, you will not know if it is through your skill versus His hand that you are accomplishing the work." I find this the most challenging aspect of a walk with God in the workplace.

You can only grow in your understanding of this balance by being accountable to others in the process. By having other committed Christians walking close to you, they become the safety net to keep you from presumption and the deceit of the heart. God also gives godly spouses to help many in this area.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Zig Ziglar quotes

"If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you."

"If you think nobody cares about you, try missing a couple of payments."

"My mechanic told me, "I couldn't repair your brakes, so I made your horn louder."

"It's not an optical illusion. It just looks like one."

Now, doesn't that feel better?

Your Daily Bread

Interesting Message for Today, what does it say to you? Proverbs 28???

1.The wicked man flees though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
2.When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order.
3.A ruler who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain that leaves no crops.
4.Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law resist them.
5.Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it fully.
6.Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a rich man whose ways are perverse.
7.He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.
8.He who increases his wealth by exorbitant interest amasses it for another, who will be kind to the poor.
9.If anyone turns a deaf ear to the law, even his prayers are detestable.
10.He who leads the upright along an evil path will fall into his own trap, but the blameless will receive a good inheritance.
11.A rich man may be wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has discernment sees through him.
12.When the righteous triumph, there is great elation; but when the wicked rise to power, men go into hiding.
13.He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
14.Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble.
15.Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked man ruling over a helpless people.
16.A tyrannical ruler lacks judgment, but he who hates ill-gotten gain will enjoy a long life.
17.A man tormented by the guilt of murder will be a fugitive till death; let no one support him.
18.He whose walk is blameless is kept safe, but he whose ways are perverse will suddenly fall.
19.He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.
20.A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.
21.To show partiality is not good -- yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.
22.A stingy man is eager to get rich and is unaware that poverty awaits him.
23.He who rebukes a man will in the end gain more favor than he who has a flattering tongue.
24.He who robs his father or mother and says, "It's not wrong"-- he is partner to him who destroys.
25.A greedy man stirs up dissension, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper.
26.He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe.
27.He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses.
28.When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding; but when the wicked perish, the righteous thrive.

Pray for me

Guys,

Please pray for me and my family we are under a big attack but God is faithful and we need strength, understanding and wisdom.

Thanks,


Peter

Gods time is not our time

When the Lord Tarries
TGIF Today God Is First
Volume 1 by Os HillmanTuesday, July 28 2009

"For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay." Habakkuk 2:3

God has a storehouse of blessings that He has reserved for you and me. However, our timing to receive those blessings may not be the same as our Lord's. God has a specific timetable that He requires to accomplish His purposes in the life of the believer. Sometimes that timetable seems excruciatingly cruel and painful, yet it is needful.

When we read that Joseph remained a slave in Egypt and was then placed in prison after being wrongfully accused, it would be easy to second-guess the God of the universe. Oh, how cruel and uncaring, we might think. Joseph thought he was going to be delivered from prison when he interpreted a dream for a court official, but then he was forgotten another two years. Why? An early release would have disrupted God's perfect plan.

God takes time to develop character before anything else. God could not afford to have a prideful 30-year-old managing the resources of an entire region of the world.

We can sometimes delay this timetable if we refuse His correction.

Although it is sometimes difficult to understand, the Lord is just and gracious in His dealings with His children. When He does decide to move on our behalf, we will appreciate the delay and will often understand the reason it was needed.

"Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!" (Is. 30:18)

If you are awaiting the fulfillment of a vision in your life, ask the Lord for His grace to sustain you. It will be worth the wait.

Monday, July 27, 2009

Please brothers, a continued prayer for Keith Martin...

Keith Martin is the minister in charge of "worship-arts" at Woodland community church.

Please use this link to stay in touch with his present condition. http://gowoodland.com/templates/System/details.asp?id=34829&PID=706472
The power of prayer is needed and appreciated by all who participate...

Thank you, and may the Lord bless you all,
Michael....

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Power over the enemy.

Mark 5

1. They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes.
2. When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an evil spirit came from the tombs to meet him.
3. This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him any more, not even with a chain.
4. For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him.
5. Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones.
6. When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him.
7. He shouted at the top of his voice, "What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? Swear to God that you won't torture me!"
8. For Jesus had said to him, "Come out of this man, you evil spirit!"
9. Then Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" "My name is Legion," he replied, "for we are many."
10. And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area.
11. A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside.
12. The demons begged Jesus, "Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them."
13. He gave them permission, and the evil spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.
14. Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened.
15. When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid.
16. Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man--and told about the pigs as well.
17. Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region.
18.As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him.
19.Jesus did not let him, but said, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you."
20.So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.

A Dead Girl and a Sick Woman

21.When Jesus had again crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake.
22.Then one of the synagogue rulers, named Jairus, came there. Seeing Jesus, he fell at his feet
23.and pleaded earnestly with him, "My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live."
24.So Jesus went with him. A large crowd followed and pressed around him.
25.And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years.
26.She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse.
27.When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak,
28.because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed."
29.Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.
30.At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my clothes?"
You see the people crowding against you," his disciples answered, "and yet you can ask, 'Who touched me?' "
32.But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it.
33.Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth.
34.He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."
35.While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," they said. "Why bother the teacher any more?"
36.Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe."
37.He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James.
38.When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly.
39.He went in and said to them, "Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep."
40.But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the child's father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was.
41.He took her by the hand and said to her, ""Talitha koum!"" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!").
42.Immediately the girl stood up and walked around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished.
43.He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Finding Meaning In Our Labor TGIF

"But I said, 'I have labored to no purpose; I have spent my strength in vain and for nothing. Yet what is due me is in the Lord's hand, and my reward is with my God.'" Isaiah 49:4

Have you ever felt like you're spending your life using your talent for nothing? Life is often spent doing mundane activities that seem to have little eternal purpose. The great prophet Isaiah was struggling with his own purpose. He knew he was chosen to be a voice for God, yet life became purposeless for Isaiah. We all go through periods when our purpose seems to be clouded with the mundane. We see little meaning in life. On the other hand, Isaiah didn't stay in this place.

We read in this passage that he knew the truth of his existence. He could look past his present circumstance and know that his real reward and purpose would be revealed in eternity. He knew that God was just and fair, so he placed his faith on this truth.

When life appears to lack meaning and purpose, remember that if you devote your life to the purposes He has for you, the fruits of your labor will be manifested in due time. "The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it" (1 Thess. 5:24).

Thursday, July 23, 2009

End times?

Hello brothers,

Considering current events, our ministry, and some personal intrigue, I thought it may be appropriate to take a look at a subject that in my opinion, gets the "back-seat" to many others. It may be because we have so much pain, suffering, and uncertainty around us on a daily basis. We may be so full of the devastating head-lines, the tragedy, and sorrow that we miss the main objective. It's natural to steer clear of adverse conditions or things that make us uncomfortable. Fact is though, we must face a tremendous portion of this before we will experience that faithful and miraculous day we all wonder and long for... When those clouds spread apart, the trumpets blow, and the King of Kings atop the white horse, the one known as Faithful and True, tells us to come and join together for the great supper of God, we will know then for all time that we endured and gladly gave up the world to gain Him!



A friend of mine, Mike Schall wrote a book titled, "The Hidden Rapture Code," secrets within the seven scrolls." He has studied this subject for thirty years. There are many views and theological debates encompassing this part of our future. I am not in anyway trying to say that I have any position to dictate to you what's what. I will leave that to the Lord and His Holy word residing in the bible. I will say I enjoyed the book and that as far as I can tell, scripture does relate accordingly. I merely ask that as a necessity of spiritual growth, you take a look at this topic at some point of your journey.

Also check out this link that shows more view on the matter: http://post-triborpre-trib.blogspot.com/2007/06/end-times-bible-prophcey-conference.html



Jesus answered: "Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, I am the Christ, and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." Matthew 24:4-14 niv



There it is, you will be a part of this one way or another... The reward is indescribable by man. We will endure some tribulation in one form or another, some would say we are right now. What's ahead for all Christ's followers in the end, an eternity with our Father in heaven. It will be worth every hardship to say the least...



Bless you all,

Michael.......

Trust

"Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, have never abandoned anyone who searches for you." Psalm 9:10 NLT

"My job is to take care of the possible and trust God with the impossible." Ruth Bell Graham

"Dependence upon God makes heroes of ordinary people like you and me!" Bruce Wilkinson

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Your Daily Bread

If there are any aspects of the Daily Bread that impacts your life today please share in the comments section.

1. A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.
2. Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all.
3. A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.
4. Humility and the fear of the LORD bring wealth and honor and life.
5. In the paths of the wicked lie thorns and snares, but he who guards his soul stays far from them.
6. Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
7. The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.
8. He who sows wickedness reaps trouble, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed.
9. A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.
10. Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended.
11. He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend.
12. The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful.
13. The sluggard says, "There is a lion outside!" or, "I will be murdered in the streets!"
14. The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; he who is under the LORD's wrath will fall into it.
15. Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.
16. He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who gives gifts to the rich--both come to poverty.
0.
Sayings of the Wise
17. Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach,
18. for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips.
19. So that your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today, even you.
20. Have I not written thirty sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge,
21. teaching you true and reliable words, so that you can give sound answers to him who sent you?
22. Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court,
23. for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who plunder them.
24. Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered,
25. or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared.
26. Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts;
27. if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.
28. Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your forefathers.
29. Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.

Great Info

For anyone that Doubts the Bible

http://bible.christianity.com/Bibles/11542346/

A brother is ill.

Hey brothers,
I found out yesterday that our brother Charlie is having issues with his heart and is in the hospital. Larry and I plan on visiting with him this morning sometime before lunch... We will keep you informed of his condition and prognosis.
In the mean time, please keep Charlie lifted with prayer and love. He has quickly become a valued soldier for Christ and a personal friend to many in our group.
Be a blessing,
Michael.....

Guard Your Gates this Summer

Beware of the Thief
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1
by Os HillmanWednesday, July 22 2009

"But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into." Luke 12:39

What are the times when you and I are most vulnerable to being caught off guard by the enemy of our souls? One of those times is just after you've had a great victory. Consider Jesus when He was baptized and was about to begin His public ministry. He was taken away into the desert to be tempted by satan.

Leisure time is another place in which satan seeks to take us off our normal routine of personal quiet times. In the normal routine of life, our senses are tuned to the need to draw upon God's Spirit to see us through the activities of each day. However, when we get away from our routine and go on vacation, we can often drop these routines. We wrongfully think that we do not need to spend time with the Lord during leisure times. This is a grave mistake. The vacation becomes a test of character. During vacations we turn freely to what we love most. It reveals to us what is at the core of our existence.

A teacher in a large school reportedly said, "The greatest difficulty we encounter is the summer vacation. Just when we have brought a student to a certain discipline and place in their study habits, we lose him; when he comes back we have to begin all over again." It is the same in our spiritual lives. It only takes a small crack in the door of our heart to lose our spiritual focus.
This summer, be on guard when times of retreat are made available to you. Use these times for spiritual refreshment, not just physical refreshment, and you will keep the thief from entering your house

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Message from John Eldredge

Friends,

Stasi and I just finished our book Love and War : Finding the Marriage You Dreamed of. I don’t think you will have read another book on marriage quite like it! We believe God is going to use it to bring hope, joy, intimacy and life into couple’s relationships. The book will be released in January! The two of us are putting together a tour to speak, together, on a few of the things God has shown us in our marriage. Thus this letter… we are looking for about eight churches across the country that would passionately host our evening with the community. It will be a powerful time.

We are asking your help to find those passionate host churches. We’ve found that it’s crucial to find the right venue – a church that has both the facilities and the passion to host an event. I thought it best to start with you, our allies.
If you know of a church, passionate about the Ransomed Heart message with a seating capacity between 2,000 and 5,000, we would love to hear from that church. We are asking that an employee/representative from any potential church contact us at

loveandwar@ransomedheart.com with the following info:

· Church Name
· Location
· Size (Seating Capacity)
· Availability of evenings in January & February

We’ll make a list and pray over it, asking God what he has in mind. Your help is such a blessing, thank you!!!

John
Ransomed Heart

Gov't funded abortion and ethanasia

There is battle going on in Washington DC that may be the most serious attack on The Sanctity of Life since The Supreme Court made abortion legal with Roe v Wade in 1973.

The casualties will be the most vulnerable among us the unborn, the elderly, the handicapped, cancer patients and those most gravely ill if the proposed Government Take Over of Health Care is allowed to become law.

To stop that from happening, go to www.FreeourHealthCareNow.com and sign this petition.

The National Abortion Bill? That is what the legislation should be called, because the bill pending in Congress includes the unlimited right of a woman to end the life of her baby, with the government footing the bill. And groups like Planned Parenthood will be the beneficiaries of your tax dollars.

To stop the state sponsorship of abortion , ACT NOW.

Casual Eye Guy

Casual Eye Guy

Sexual immorality is all around us and is in my opinion is the Devils Number One Weapon against us. Very few men that I know have not wrestled with pornography, lust and sins of the heart. Everywhere we look we are bombarded with sexual images and you know the old saying “we are men that is the way we are wired”. That is NOT true, God did not create us that way and nor are we supposed to simply accept it.

I have an older friend, he is like Obi One from Star Wars for me and this is a man that has an incredible love and relationship with God. One day he told me a story about how when he walks on the beach with his wife and a beautiful bikini clad woman comes strolling by he turns his head and Looks Away. He then shared with me that one day his wife thanked him for doing that. Yes, she had noticed. Is that not the love that Christ describes in the bible that we should have for our wives?

Are you a “Casual Eye Guy” the guy that scopes our every chick that walks buy and mentally undresses them? Thinking that taking that Casual Glimpse no one will see and it will not hurt anyone. WRONG…. God sees everything and the one that it hurts is you because it damages your relationship with your Father. It also damages your relationship with your wife because they do notice and it maybe years before it ever effects your marriage but someday it will. Why not follow the bible and love our wives as Jesus so loved the church.

In our walk with God the bible says “Draw close to God and God will draw close to you” but that can be hindered by sin. Are you happy with your walk? Maybe it is time to search your heart.

I am sharing this with you my brothers because I am a reformed “casual eye guy” and the club is looking for new members. It will change your walk with God.

Monday, July 20, 2009

He will use us to aid others...

Hello brothers,
We don't have to search hard to find someone in need or someone who is suffering. There are so many around us who are ill and have family or friends that are battling sickness and some grieving losses of loved ones. We all seem to be so busy in this modern and complicated world. There is so much going on that our schedules are packed so full it leaves little time for all who need us. We even struggle to keep God where we should...
Let us make it a point to extend ourselves just a bit further than we think we can and offer some aid to people in need. Some of the help needed isn't a structured ministry or mission. Some of the hearts that need us are right next to us. Warm a heart, hold a hand, and dry some tears. One day He will wipe them all away but, in the mean time, we should comfort one another.

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort." 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 niv

We all need to enhance these skills, I know it seems sometimes we don't have the words so if hard-pressed, use His!
Be wise and loving everyone,

In His loving grace,
Michael...........

Keith Martin in Hospital

Guys:

Keith Martin who is our Worshop Arts Director is in the hospital and in need of your prayers.

http://www.gowoodland.com/templates/System/details.asp?id=34829&PID=706472

Please keep in your prayers.

Prayer for today

Dear Lord, I thank You for this day,
I thank You for my being able to see
and to hear this morning.
I'm blessed because You are
a forgiving God and
an understanding God.
You have done so much for me
and You keep on blessing me.
Forgive me this day for everything
I have done, said or thought
that was not pleasing to you.I ask now for Your forgiveness.
Please keep me safe
from all danger and harm.
Help me to start this day
with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude.
Let me make the best of each and every day
to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.
Please broaden my mind
that I can accept all things.
Let me not whine and whimper
over things I have no control over.And give me the best response
when I'm pushed beyond my limits.I know that when I can't pray,
You listen to my heart.
Continue to use me to do Your will.
Continue to bless me that I may be
a blessing to others.
Keep me strong that I may help the weak...
Keep me uplifted that I may have
words of encouragement for others.
I pray for those that are lost
and can't find their way.
I pray for those that are misjudged
and misunderstood.
I pray for those who
don't know You intimately.
I pray for those that will delete this
without sharing it with others
I pray for those that don't believe.But I thank You that I believe
that God changes people and
God changes things.
I pray for all my sisters and brothers.
For each and every family member
in their households.
I pray for peace, love and joy
in their homes; that they are out of debt
and all their needs are met.
I pray that every eye that reads this
knows there is no problem, circumstance,
or situation greater than God.
Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight.
I pray that these words be received
into the hearts of every eye that sees it
in Jesus' name. Amen!

The power of the internet

Over 1.2 billion people use the internet as part of their daily lives. And according to Google, there are two million spiritual searches made on the internet every single day. 90 websites provide answers to the question, "Who is Jesus?". And in June over 1 million people responded to an internet presentation on how to become a follower of Jesus.

www.whoisjesus-really.com

Have a great week!
Douglas Poll

Your Daily Bread

Your Daily Bread, Proverbs 20

1. Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
2. A king's wrath is like the roar of a lion; he who angers him forfeits his life.
3. It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.
4. A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing.
5. The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.
6. Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful man who can find?
7. The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his children after him.
8. When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes.
9. Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?
10. Differing weights and differing measures-- the LORD detests them both.
11. Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right.
12. Ears that hear and eyes that see-- the LORD has made them both.
13. Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare.
14. "It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.
15. Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.
16. Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if he does it for a wayward woman.
17. Food gained by fraud tastes sweet to a man, but he ends up with a mouth full of gravel.
18. Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance.
19. A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.
20. If a man curses his father or mother, his lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness.
21. An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning will not be blessed at the end.
22. Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you.
23. The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him.
24. A man's steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand his own way?
25. It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows.
26. A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing wheel over them.
27. The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man ; it searches out his inmost being.
28. Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure.
29. The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.
30. Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being.

This Proverb is full of advice that can help you, did anything above relate to your day and what you are going thru??? Please comment and share...

Are you A Faithful Man???

A Faithful Man
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1
by Os HillmanMonday, July 20 2009

"A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished." Proverbs 28:20

There is a distinct difference between the workplace believer who operates based on living in the Promised Land versus the one who operates in Egypt. In Egypt, the workplace believer sweats and toils to generate an outcome. The final objective is foremost in their mind. Outcome is everything.

In the Promised Land, we learn that obedience is the only thing that matters. We are called to execute, and leave outcome to God. Sometimes that outcome is very positive, yielding a return. In other cases, we may not yield a corresponding return. We may even get a negative outcome. The difference is that we know that we have been faithful to what God has called us to and we yield results to God. God often blesses obedience beyond what we deserve. If God brings wealth to your life, it should come as a by-product of obedience, not an end in itself.

God may call each of us to be obedient to situations that may not yield immediate, positive results. It is in these times that our faith must be obedience-based versus outcome-based. What if Jesus had considered the immediate ramifications of whether he would go to the cross? Based on the immediate outcome, the decision would have been an easy one. Who wants to die on a cross? However, for Him there was a higher purpose in that obedience. We are called to this same kind of obedience. This means putting our own flesh on the line daily, dying to our own self-will.

This is what it means to be a faithful man. Pray that God will make you a faithful man today.

How does this make you feel when you ask yourself the question are you a faithful man or just going thru the motions????? Share your comment below.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Making the Lord Our Banner

Making the Lord Our Banner
TGIF Today God Is First
Volume 1 by Os Hillman
Friday, July 17 2009

"Moses built an altar and called it The Lord is my Banner." Exodus 17:15

The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. God instructed Moses to stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in his hand. Moses' staff represented something that God said He would use to bring glory to Himself. The staff represented what Moses had done for most of his life - shepherding. It was his vocation. When God first called Moses at the burning bush, He told him to pick up the staff; He would perform miracles through it.


God wants to perform miracles through each of our vocations. At Rephidim, God defeated the Amalekites only when Moses held his staff to Heaven. It was a symbol of dependence and acknowledgment that Heaven was the source of the Israelites' power. When he dropped his hand, the power was removed and they began to lose the battle.

Each day we are challenged to reach toward Heaven and allow God to be the source of victory in the workplace or be defeated. God calls us to let His banner reign over the workplace so that others may know the source of our victory. "Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Write this on a scroll as something to be remembered and make sure that Joshua hears it, because I will completely blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven' " (Ex. 17:14).

The Lord wants those behind us and around us to know that He is the source of our power and success. With each victory is a testimony that is to be shared with our children and our associates.

Is the Lord your banner today? Reach toward Heaven today and let His banner wave over your work so that He might receive glory from your life.

Laugh Often

It has been said that Laughter it the best medicine.

"Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them." Psalm 126:2 NKJV

"Humor is to life what shock absorbers are to automobiles." Unknown

"A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs. It's jolted by every pebble on the road." Henry Ward Beecher

If you remember what we learnt when Mike Rozel was in town about "Guarding our Gates" and take it full circle to what we watch on TV our "eye gates" try to watch funny shows on TV, like comedy shows as opposed to all the senseless violence that is on TV.

It will be a challenge for you, last night I turned on the tube and with all the channels I could not find anything on worth watching. This may sound silly to some but someone said to me would I watch that with Jesus sitting on the couch with me and as I turned the channel I was embarrassed.

There is another old saying: "Garbage in..... Garbage out" watch what you let in because it will effect what you put out.... Guard your heart every day.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Samantha's Story

Some of you know this story, but I felt led to post it here in its entirety.

Thanks and Praise be to God.

When 2007 began, our nine year old daughter Samantha was experiencing multiple health problems. She could barely make it through a day of school because she was so weak. Her bones hurt; she had asthma and bronchitis; we couldn’t touch her without her feeling pain; she couldn’t run and sometimes couldn’t even walk. She was pale and looked sickly. We couldn’t make it through a dinner without her putting her head on the table, exhausted.

The year before, we noticed Samantha had health problems in a variety of seemingly unrelated areas. She was listless, extremely sensitive to heat, she felt nauseous at every meal. She always seemed fatigued, no matter how much she rested.

We saw doctor after doctor over the better part of a year. After test after test, and more blood work than I care to remember, we were told Samantha had everything from irritable bowel syndrome to that she was depressed and needed to see a psychiatrist. It wasn’t until Lauren, my wife, went online for hours at a time comparing Samantha’s symptoms that we came up with the diagnosis of Celiac’s disease. Then we had her tested through an endoscopic exam and our fears were confirmed. Celiac’s is a severe allergy to gluten. Almost everything seems to have gluten in it these days. But at least we had something to focus on.

However, the doctors we saw to treat our daughter for Celiac’s knew less about it than Lauren did. The nutritionist we were assigned to by All Children’s Hospital told Lauren it was okay for Samantha to eat certain foods that we knew contained gluten. The thing about someone with Celiac’s is that it doesn’t matter how much gluten is in the food, it is all or nothing. The smallest crumb produces the same results as a large amount of gluten.

So, that spring we went gluten free, and for awhile Samantha improved. Once she was off gluten, if she ever ate anything with gluten in it, within a matter of hours, she would become ill, with headache and stomach ache, and she would seem exhausted to the point where she would have to pass out for several hours. The symptoms would then persist for up to four days afterward. She seemed much better over the summer with the fatigue after going gluten free, but still had shooting pains in her chest and legs, even when we were sure she had not ingested any gluten.

In the fall, we also took her off milk. This improved her symptoms somewhat, but they persisted sporadically, always causing us to wonder where we had erred in her diet.

In December of 2007, a good friend of mine told me about a “healer” who was coming to speak at a church nearby, on Friday, the 7th. It was, in fact, only about 15 minutes from my house.

That week, my wife and I had reached a desperation point. Not only did Samantha have her health issues, but we noticed that she was having an increasingly more difficult time getting along with her sisters, and she was having emotional breakdowns over minor problems. She had also begun exhibiting a variety of obsessive / compulsive behaviors; repeating things multiple times, ritualistic activities, and difficulty reading. This was particularly disturbing as Samantha had always been an “A” student. She began having other O.C.D. behaviors, such as having to do everything in threes: reading paragraphs, repeating phrases, asking questions, even saying prayers.

So in December, we had seen improvement with Samantha’s physical condition, but the O.C.D. was getting worse than ever. We had radically altered our daughter’s diet, but we knew she still wasn’t right.

The week before the “healer” was to come to town, a friend in my small group asked me if I had ever considered that Samantha might be under demonic influence. It hadn’t occurred to me, but something clicked when he asked me the question. It was like a veil was lifted from my eyes.

I studied the Scriptures, talked with some of my brothers in Christ, and came to the conclusion that that it was a possibility we had to look at.

So on Wednesday night, December 5, my wife and I prayer over Samantha, the best we knew how, and cast out the enemy from her. The next morning, we noticed a peace about her that we hadn’t seen in years. She awoke well rested, got along with everyone in the family, and seemed content. This continued for a couple of days, to the point where we decided we didn’t need to go see the speaker on Friday.

But Samantha had other ideas. She heard that there was a healer coming to town and all she wanted was to eat pizza again, so at the last minute, we (the whole family) headed out to Son Point Church.

We got lost on the way. We had the address, but couldn’t seem to find the street. We were already late and Lauren and I had decided to give up, but for Samantha’s sake we persisted. I decided to take one more turn down a side road (something was telling me to go that way) even though the street name was wrong, and sure enough, we stumbled upon the little church.

The place was packed, and the only seats were up front. We walked in late, and as we climbed through the packed congregation to take our place in the second row, a man I recognized was giving his testimony.

Greg Lee was telling those assembled how Michael Rozell had taken his family through deliverance and the Lord had healed his son of his allergies. In fact, his son could eat pizza again. This was all Samantha and I needed to hear.

The praise and worship, teaching and testimonies lasted over three hours. We left somewhat disappointed as Samantha thought she would be healed that night. It was late, and with a three year old, we had to leave and get the kids to bed. I put our name in to be contacted for an appointment, and we went home.

On the ride home, you would never know we just came from church. All hell broke loose with fighting and crying and yelling between all of us. At the time, we thought it was over tired children and over stressed parents. Now I see it for the spiritual attack it was.

Several months went by with my hoping and praying that we might be contacted by this man who had healed the boy of his allergies. Samantha’s problems persisted; even causing us to doubt the night we had cast the enemy out from her.

I called the numbers I had, and pleaded with my friend that told me about the event in the first place to get us in to see Michael, all to no avail. We just couldn’t seem to get an appointment to see him.

Then in March, I received an email that Michael was coming to town and had an appointment open on Wednesday, April 2. I had literally just given up on seeing him and had finally given it over to the Lord.

So Lauren and I followed the instructions we were given on deliverance, about making our lists of things that we needed to examine in our lives, things such as bitterness or un-forgiveness, un-confessed sin, involvement in the occult, etc.

And on April 2, 2008, Lauren, Samantha and I met with Michael Rozell and he took us through deliverance. And afterwards we went and had pizza; pizza that is full of both gluten and dairy; pizza that should have been like poison to my daughter. But that day it wasn’t any longer.

The Lord had honored His promises from Scripture. We had broken the strongholds and assignments of the enemy and he no longer had any legal right to affect my daughter’s health. So then the Lord could act. And He mercifully, miraculously healed my daughter, and she has been eating pizza and ice cream ever since.

What’s more is on April 2, 2009, we celebrated the one year anniversary of her healing by Jehovah Rapha, as she says it, which means "the Lord that healeth thee"; An anniversary that was punctuated by my daughter playing three sports in the year since her healing: cross country, where, as a fifth grader competing against seventh and eighth graders, she consistently placed in the top five; competitive soccer, as center midfielder for almost 60 minutes every game; and in volleyball, which she had never played before. This from a young lady who the year before had difficulty walking let alone running.

So, as recent as the week before Samantha was healed (after being gluten free for a full year) she had a very small amount of gluten by accident, was out on the couch within the hour for the rest of the day, with symptoms for the following four days. And after she was healed, she is no longer gluten free or dairy free, the O.C.D. behaviors have ceased, and my daughter no longer suffers the pains and problems associated with her former disease. Praise be to God. She now gets up every morning to study her Bible and do her devotions.

We have much to be thankful for. I have studied the Scriptures and know that Michael speaks truth, and that the Word of the Lord dwells within him and speaks through him. I thank God for the ministry of Refuge Ranch, and am so thankful that He has seen fit to bless me, my family, and my daughter in this way.

I pray that He uses my testimony to help others, and to spread the Good News of the Kingdom and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

This is my testimony.

Respectfully Submitted for Your Consideration,

David C. Hunihan

“Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony;” -Revelation 12:10-11

Has anyone heard of this

Guys,



Has anyone heard of this group?



http://www.identityanddestiny.com/index.php



Peter

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Endurance...

My brothers,
Lately I've been listening to many conversations about current events, day-to-day living, and our place in history... Are we in the "end-times?" "Why is all this happening?" People seem to want to get back to the "good-old-day's." Truth is, there is a lot going on and it's going to continue. I think for this very reason we should take advantage of the time we share among family and friends. The Lord does not want us scared, miserable, or full of worry. He is all about the opposite. I am one to talk, I get depressed and doubtful about my future, and my ability to provide for my family, but the hidden evil is in my thoughts, "my ability." The things I can do or the talents I hold don't come from me at all, they're gifts. They are entrusted to me by my Father who will use them to their full potential by the Holy Spirit, when I manage to get out of my own way. The feelings of sorrow, regret, shame, irritability and so on come from someone else. This is exactly his plan, to keep me down and in-effective. The lucidity of this attack is in plain view and I still allow it to happen. This is not what God wants for any of His children. Still under construction I imagine, I think about what John Eldridge said that, "we are vulnerable, our hearts are not yet holy." It's in these times I need to remind myself how to properly prepare...

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with our feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Ephesians 6:10-17 niv

Yes I think we all tend to let the wicked-one trip us and knock us off coarse. We get zapped of our energy and instead of feeling optimistic about our present situation, we dangle there, right in the web of lies.
Help me brothers, not to take the bait and lose focus. I have so much to experience with my wife and beautiful children and all of you... Please, make sure my yoke is steadfast, unwavering, and abiding in faith! I want to have proper endurance.
Thankful to all of you...

God's love and mine,
Michael..............



Deliverance

Deliverance

Today’s daily bread is full of references to wisdom and the gathering of it. On my journey I have been blessed to spend some time with Mike Rozel from Refuge Ranch Ministries and one of the pearls of knowledge he imparted to me was that Deliverance is not a one time event; it is a process of cleansing.

He describes it as a large tube of muddy water and as we pour pure living water into the top the muck gets stirred up and is replaced. If we turn off the tap of living water the change will stop. Be encouraged and continue to daily fill yourself with the water of life.

Your Daily Bread

Proverbs 15

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

The eyes of the LORD are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.

The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the income of the wicked brings them trouble.

The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools.

The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him.

The LORD detests the way of the wicked but he loves those who pursue righteousness.

Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.

Death and Destruction lie open before the Lord -- how much more the hearts of men!

A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise.

A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.

The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.

All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil.

Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.

A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.

The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway.

A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.

Folly delights a man who lacks judgment, but a man of understanding keeps a straight course.
"He who guards his mouth and his tongue, Guards his soul from troubles." Proverbs 21:23

"Silence is one of the hardest arguments to refute." Josh Billings

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Praise and Pity

As we Wildmen where having discussions tonight in our small groups, one of the men in my group said an interesting thing. "Having been to many different men's bible studies and mens groups over a thirty year period at multiple churches, this is by far the most open, honest, and best discussion I have ever been to." WOW! The more I think about this the more I am amazed. My own walk with the Lord is fairly new so my perspective is not as broad as some, but I am priviledged to be a part of this Wildmen group and apparently don't know just how lucky I am. Is it the fact that we feel free to sit in our group and tell our brothers that we are sinners and not fear rejection, or the fact that we even talk honestly about the daily struggles of being a Godly man in this ever increasingly Godless world? I'm not sure but I welcome your thoughts as to why Wildmen is the best mens group some have ever experienced. On the other hand, why? What a conviction to so many other groups, churches, etc... all we do is what we are told to do in the bible; to meet regularly with fellow believers and to build each other up, to love each other. Wildmen is real life and real love. Is that really so special, I pray not. Look forward to your thoughts.

You

Dylan accepts Jesus

Brothers:

Today, my son Dylan accepted Jesus as the Lord of his life and invited him into his heart. I have never been happier to know that his name is now in the "Lambs book of Life"

Please pray a special protection over our newest brother and may God fill him with Peace and Wisdom.

Great Ideas for Success in Hard Economic Times


Great Ideas for Success in Hard Economic Times
Ideas from the Manatee Chamber of Commerce and its members on how to succeed in a challenging economy
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Lessons of the Hot Dog Vendor
During these days of continually being bombarded by doom and gloom about the economy, it might be a good time to re-visit the story of the Hot Dog Vendor...
A Man lived by the side of the road...and sold hot dogs.
He was hard of hearing, so he had no radio.
He had trouble with his eyes, so he had no newspaper. But he sold good hot dogs.
He put up a sign on the highway, telling how good they were. He stood by the side of the road and cried, "Buy a hot dog, mister!" And people bought.
He increased his meat and bun order, and he bought a bigger stove to take care of his trade. He got his son home from college to help him. But then something happened. His son said, "Father, haven't you been listening to the radio? There's a big Depression on. The international situation is terrible, and the domestic situation is even worse."
Whereupon the father thought, "Well, my son has gone to college. He listens to the radio and reads the newspaper, so he ought to know." So, the father cut down on the bun order, took down his advertising sign, and no longer bothered to stand on the highway to sell hot dogs.
His hot dog sales fell almost overnight. "You were right, son", the father said to the boy. "We are certainly in the middle of a Great Depression."
Moral of the story --
Stop reading the newspaper, turn off the news on the radio and television, and KEEP SELLING!
Roger Reynolds, President / CEOABCO Payroll Services
Posted by About Us at 7:08 AM

Saturday, July 11, 2009

The passer bye's...

Hey soldiers,
Ever run through the course of life and have a brief contact with an individual or group of people even? Remember a certain day, a conversation, or an act of kindness or surprising gesture? If you ever talk with my wife Kelly long enough, she will tell you that I have struck-up conversation with a ton of people we've seen for minutes... Sometimes those occurrences lead into further contact or interaction but, the rewarding one's, the times that make her and I smile are the one's with a suttle hint of spiritual connotation. At times I do the sewing, and other times I do the reaping. Truth is, I have many that only I know of and you know what, I think we all have had this... You know what I'm talking about, that warm feeling you get, or the tingling sensation that you are exactly in the spot you were supposed to be in at that very moment! Oh yeah, me too, I think that those moments, the positive one's, are our "for-sure" experiences with the Holy Spirit.
"We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written:
"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him."
but God has revealed it to us by His Spirit." 1 Corinthians 2:6-9 niv
None of us can claim to understand the complexity of our God, we never will... Even His own Son wondered for an instance, "Why have you forsaken Me?"
I think the above mentioned is a glimpse at our Masters "blue-prints" a little nod that says your on the right trail...
Don't pass up a good moment, you never know what's being constructed when it comes to the Creator!
gladly receiving His love,
Michael........




Friday, July 10, 2009

You have power within you...

Hey brothers,



One thing I struggled with and sometimes still do, I used to look back at my past and allow thoughts of failure to cripple me. See before I knew Christ, I carried the heavy baggage everywhere. It was and still is for many hard to cut the rope that is tethered to the bundle of sin that used to be a part of us...
Truth is you can't move ahead till you rid yourself of it fully. You can't do it on your own either. We will always remember those things, our poor choices, and failures. They are part of our testimony, they can be used as part of doing something good. Ministering to another perhaps...

"Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not may of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things--and the things that are not--to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before Him. It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God-- that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." 1st Corinthians 1:26-31 niv

Just as our salvation came through the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ working in us, so does the positive motions we make to further His kingdom. We were never asked to do it by ourselves. While your looking at your stats, and thinking what am I gonna do? Just remember with His Holy Spirit we all become "All Stars!"
Always remember you were cleansed at the cross...
In His loving grace,

Michael.....



Thursday, July 9, 2009

Your Daily Bread

Proverbs 9
1. Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn out its seven pillars.
2. She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine; she has also set her table.
3. She has sent out her maids, and she calls from the highest point of the city.
4. "Let all who are simple come in here!" she says to those who lack judgment.
5. "Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed.
6. Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of understanding.
7. "Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse.
8. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you.
9. Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.
10. "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
11. For through me your days will be many, and years will be added to your life.
12. If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer."
13. The woman Folly is loud; she is undisciplined and without knowledge.
14. She sits at the door of her house, on a seat at the highest point of the city,
15. calling out to those who pass by, who go straight on their way.
16. "Let all who are simple come in here!" she says to those who lack judgment.
17. "Stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is delicious! "
18. But little do they know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of the grave.

Getting started...

Hello brothers,
There are many views on baptism, confession, and repentance. Other denominations have various practices and methods of absolving their sin. I feel that all mankind has that need inter-woven within that seeks this, I believe it is the Holy Spirit at work in each.
Our Savior never sinned. He modeled, and when He did, He really didn't leave much to question. As Christians we are to follow Him in every way we can. This is how He got started in His ministry:

"In the beginning of the Gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
It is written in Isaiah the prophet:
I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him."
And so John came baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance and for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. John wore clothing made of camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, he ate locusts and wild honey. And this was his message: "After me will come one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptize you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.
At this time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. As Jesus was coming out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on Him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased." Mark 1:1-11 niv

If we are to be "mirror images" of Him, wouldn't we all long to walk in His footsteps? Your sin was washed with His blood at the cross. Your baptism is you being obedient, publicly professing your love for Christ, and raising to walk like Him. Left behind is your sin, dead at the bottom of the sea... Those wolves that hounded you are gone! I feel we should start-off like our Lord and Saviour did...

Bless you all!
Michael......

Pride

"A man's pride shall bring him low; but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit."
Proverbs 29:23

"The Lord can do great things through those who don't care who gets the credit."
Helen Pearson

"Swallowing your pride occasionally will never cause indigestion."
Unknown

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Men at the Cross

Check this out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAvVJmH1DeM

Your Daily Bread

In the bible we learn about God providing Manna from Heaven and that we are to feed ourselves with Gods word. In today’s trying times, when we are all challenged on every side it comforts me to know that God has provided the Wisdom (Daily Bread) to help us. He gives it to us freely and abundantly.

As part my personal journey I read a daily proverb, the one that corresponds with the day of the month. I have been doing this for almost 2 years and I am constantly amazed that every month when I read it, I am touched or more importantly a question is answered for me for that particular day. To think that something written so long ago could have such and impact today is mind boggling.

If you are challenged today at home, work or personally….. Pick up your Bible and turn to Proverbs…. You might be surprised….

This is today’s “Daily Bread” enjoy.

1. Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice?
2. On the heights along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand;
3. beside the gates leading into the city, at the entrances, she cries aloud:
4. "To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind.
5. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding.
6. Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right.
7. My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness.
8. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse.
9. To the discerning all of them are right; they are faultless to those who have knowledge.
10. Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold,
11. for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.
12. "I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion.
13. To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.
14. Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have understanding and power.
15. By me kings reign and rulers make laws that are just;
16. by me princes govern, and all nobles who rule on earth.
17. I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.
18. With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity.
19. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver.
20. I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice,
21. bestowing wealth on those who love me and making their treasuries full.

Brother

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17 NIV

TGIF

Living As If You Were Dead
TGIF Today God Is First
Volume 1 by Os Hillman
Wednesday, July 08 2009"

In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus." Romans 6:11
What are the things that arouse the strongest emotions in you? Perhaps it is a rude motorist who cuts you off in traffic. Perhaps it is the anger you feel when you are wrongfully accused. Perhaps it is frustration that results from not having enough money to meet perceived needs. When do emotions turn into sin?

Whenever our peace is upset over events and circumstances in life, we have moved past emotions into sin. Sin says that circumstances of life now dictate anxiety, worry, fear, or anger. Consider the attributes of a dead man. He does not get angry when slandered. He does not worry about the future. He does not fear what can be done to him. Why? Because he is dead. Nothing can harm a dead man.

Christ said we are to live as if we are dead - dead to the temptation of responding to stimuli in our life that are designed to stir up the sinful nature that resides in each of us. We do not have to respond to that nature; we can consider it dead. Christ said He is enough. When He is our all in all, nothing can move us. If we are moved, then Christ is not our all in all.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Maximize

In order to maximize the communication potential we have a Facebook group at:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/group.php?gid=119199330995&ref=ts

Check it out. I will repost a link back to our blog, as well.

A friend sent this to me

A word of encouragement. This past Sundays sermon was a message that applies to us as we serve as His Leaders.

(1) We need each other
(2) We depend on each other
(3) We should be thankful for each other
(4) We should pray for each other
(5) We should encourage each otherIn these perilous times we cannot afford to “go it alone.”

We need each other!!I thank God for each of you. Have a wonderful celebration of our freedom with your families.You are Loved,-- Don Light

Laugh Often

To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people
And the affection of children,
To earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others,
to leave the world a bit better
whether by a healthy child, a garden patch,
or a redeemed social condition;
to know even one life has breathed easier
because you lived.
This is to have succeeded.
RALPH WALDO EMERSON

Monday, July 6, 2009

Act accordingly...

My brothers,

I have been very fortunate and blessed to have a few very good friends that I converse with regulary. Some of the subjects we discuss are very intricate. There are social and political views, spiritual and church related talks or debates.
With a wide variety of topics, and unique creations as we all are considered, them more than me in my opinion, we find that we tend to have times where we feel differently on certain issues.
The beauty is, we all have a sizable amount of respect for each other. There have been some heated discussions but, at the end of the day, we don't let it spoil our regard for each other. We remain "linked" as brothers in Christ, never squandering a friendship or relationship for trivial disbutes...

"You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you."
Ephesians 4:22-32 niv

I would like to include you all in the group I mentioned above. If I have done anything that does not coincide with the scripture above to any of you I ask the forgiveness of the Father in heaven and of you now... I ask it as I also extend it.

"Wild-Men" : A safe place where men can be men as they grow in their
relationship with Jesus Christ.
Bless you all!

Michael.........

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Glory, Glory, Hallelujah!

Don't take my word for it...

"let me live for those holy rules which Thou hast this day prescribed in Thy holy word... Direct me to the true object, Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life. Bless O Lord , the people of this land."
George Washington...

"It is impossible to rightly govern... without God and the bible."
George Washington...

"Religion and virtue are the only foundations, not only of republicanism and of all free government, but of social felicity under all governments and in all the combinations of human society."
John Adams...

"Of all the systems of morality, ancient or modern, which have come under my observation, none appears to me so pure as that of Jesus."
Thomas Jefferson...

"We have stacked the whole future of American civilization, not on the power of government... but on the capacity of each and every one of us to govern ourselves according to the Ten commandments of God."
James Madison...

"The greatest glory of the American revolution was this: it connected in one indissoluble bond, the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity."
John Quincy Adams...

"Without God there could be no form of American government, nor an American way of life. Recognition of the Supreme Being is the first--the most basic--expression of Americanism. Thus, the founding fathers of America saw it, and thus with God's help, it will continue to be."
Gerald Ford...

What will we do to preserve the roots of our great nation? How can we be effective citizens that return the values our country's designers had in mind.? And, how can we remain in a constant loving connection with our Lord God? WE LISTEN TO HIM!

Planned for God's pleasure (Worship)
Formed of God's Family (Fellowship)
Created to become like Christ (Dicipleship)
Shaped to serve God (Ministry)
Made for a mission (Evangleism)

Take back your country, take back your life...

In His loving grace,
Michael..............

Friday, July 3, 2009

Step your game up!

My brothers,

It is clear to me that we must be mindful of our present state of soul, mind, and body. I have been effected by the world around me to the point of falling to my knees and begging Him for his mercy. This pattern repeats itself again and again, at least to me during the coarse of my walk. The Lord knows exactly the moments I face and has every intention of mending my wounds. He nurtures us all and provides each of us the fuel to press on.
In the midst of these times, I ask that you make sure I am doing what I propose to you now, that we should as a brotherhood in Christ, "link-up" and fortify our defense as a unit.
While in the Marine Corps, I learned that your platoon is only as strong as your weakest man. You may have to share a fighting hole with one of these individuals, and it is your job to ensure that he has been trained properly or the entire unit will suffer from a penetrable spot in your perimeter. I know that this isn't the Corps, and all of us are not military minded, I get that but, I think we all know by now that we are in one "HELL," of a battle...

"We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about baptisms, the laying of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgement. And God permitting, we will do so.
It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God, and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace."
Hebrews 5:11-14, 6:1-6

This country has had some men that defied all odds, rose to the occasion, and made their mark on the soil of this great land of ours and some, at a point, with their own blood.
Blood was shed for you then and blood was shed for you by the King of Kings, do you want to finish the battle?
Happy and joyous "Fourth of July" to you all... May God bless you and your families.

Michael.........

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

A WORD From the LORD for My Struggling Brothers

There are many of you who are tired. There are many who feel like giving up. It seems that the more you try to get close to God, to live in His will, to perform good works in His name, the worse life becomes.

Some of you feel isolated. Some are confused. You are wondering if this is all there is, if this season is ever going to end; if you will be able to pay your bills, keep your home, feed your family; if you will ever work again.

This is more than a spiritual attack. The Enemy of our souls has us coming and going. He has us believing that we aren't good enough, strong enough, Christian enough to serve God; then when we fight and try, He makes us feel isolated and empty, like our walk isn't all it was cracked up to be; not at all what we expected.

Where is the joy of the Lord we heard about? Why is it so hard?

I believe I know the reason. And it is right in front of all of us.

I have felt what some of you are feeling. It threatens to consume me every day.

But the Lord is faithful and patient; you need to listen to His still, small voice.

I have said this before: TIME IS SHORT. The Lord is coming soon to claim His own, and the Enemy knows it. It is always darkest before the dawn; and the fight in any enemy is always fiercest before his defeat.

Satan cannot take our salvation, but he can still try to make us ineffective. If we are so focused on our own battles, on our own shortcomings, on our own fears and struggles, then we won't be able to focus on others; on our brothers who are struggling; on those who are still lost.

TURN YOUR FOCUS OUTWARD. Seek first His Kingdom and His Righteousness and all else will be added to you. God has our backs, and He has promised to NEVER leave us or forsake us.

WE MUST TRUST HIM.

Let HIS GLORY be our REAR GUARD and let us do the job HE has called us to do.

WE ARE HIS INTERCESSORS. THE TIME HAS COME TO TAKE THE FIGHT TO THE ENEMY. WE HAVE BUT ONE WEAPON: THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD, administered through PRAYER.

PRAYER WARRIORS AWAKE!!! We must INTERCEDE for our brothers and sisters in Christ; for the CHURCH; for the lost.

THE BATTLE IS ALREADY WON! The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Pray that the Lord will send more workers!

Pray for your family. Pray for you co-workers. Pray for the Church. Pray for the Lost. Pick one person a week and focus concentrated prayer on them and their life, to draw them to GOD. Pray for your enemies. Pray for the Lord's return.

MEMORIZE SCRIPTURE! Remember the example of our Lord, who when tempted by Satan, used Holy Scripture to avoid the tempation and drive the Enemy away.

IF WE DON'T KNOW THE WORD BY HEART, WE MIGHT AS WELL ENTER THE BATTLE WITHOUT OUR SWORDS. The end result is the same. We cannot defend ourselves and we perish, and those we sought to champion and defend perish with us.

So, "Commit My Word to memory and I will fight for you; I am the Lord your GOD; no one can stand before Me. Behold, I am coming soon; the battle is mine, and it is already won. I have but to claim My victory. Who will serve the Lord? Who will go forth and reap My harvest? "

Thus saith the Lord.