Overwhelmed With Thankfulness

I have many emotions today as I think of all the men and women who have served, and are presently serving our country!  Yesterday morning, as we were preparing for church, I received a group text from our oldest granddaughter, Savanna. "Happy Sunday to you!!!" It made me happy to hear from her. I responded, then Alayna, our second granddaughter wrote, "Happy Sunday to you!!!  I love y'all and I'm going to pray for papa and you mimi.  Tell papa I love him."  My heart melted, and as I read these sweet words to Papa we both felt the tears!  I answered her and told her how deeply we were touched, then, Savanna wrote,  "Love you too Layna!!!  I am also praying for y'all...I can't wait for thanksgiving!!!"

I was overwhelmed with the fact that I was talking to two of our granddaughters who love church, prayer, and the things of God!  Oh yes, my heart couldn't hold much more thankfulness, it was about to explode! As we traveled to get to service I thought about the weekend and what Monday, Nov. 11 was commemorating... Veterans Day.  That was all it took, I overwhelmed with thankfulness! The men and women who have served and are now serving, are giving of themselves to keep our beautiful America FREE!  I was getting to go to church to worship the way I wanted to worship.  I was getting to enjoy a text with my granddaughters that talked openly about prayer.  In just a few days, I will be enjoying Thanksgiving Day with a table full of food, and time with our precious family where we will offer "special thanks" to God, the One who makes all of this possible.  So, this morning on this beautiful Veterans Day '13, I want to say THANK YOU to all the veterans of America for your love and loyalty for our country!  If it wasn't for you, we wouldn't have the beautiful life we have!  We are blessed beyond measure!  We enjoy life, because...you sacrificed.

Goodbye...But Not for Long

Late this morning I was checking my newsfeed on Facebook, and ran across a post by my friend Shirley Stanley.  She was sharing that Bishop Bud Davis of the Lufkin First United Pentecostal Church had gone in for surgery this morning, and when given anesthesia, passed away.  I was shocked, as is his precious wife and family, church family, and all of the Texas District.  Our love and prayers are with Sis. Davis and family. 

My morning seem to slow down a bit upon hearing the news, then after awhile I found a song being played in my mind:

Heaven will surely be worth it all.
Worth all the sorrows that here befall;
After this life with all its strife,
Heaven will surely be worth it all.

Bro. Bud Davis has gone on to his reward.  This week we will celebrate his life, and remember him for the great man he was.  I do not understand why Bro. Davis was taken from us, but one thing I do know is...Bro. Davis will meet us on the other side.  I can see him walking up as we enter the gates, and hear him saying, "I'm so glad you're here!"  Bro. Davis we will definitely be there!

Last week another warrior of the cross was ushered into Heaven's gates!  Pastor Armando Navarro, was a wonderful man of God!  He was the Pastor of Lufkin Rosa DeSaron, UPC, and also the Spanish Ministries Director of the Texas District.  Every time I saw Bro. Navarro he had a big smile on his face, and was always so kind!  What a great loss for his beautiful wife and family, his church, and our district!  Bro. Navarro, we will meet you "in the morning"...just inside the Eastern Gate.

This afternoon I was at Wal-mart, and saw Bro. Martin Navarro.  After greeting each other, we both went about doing our shopping.  I was somewhere around the bread aisle when I saw Bro. Martin again.  I told him how sorry I was about his father's passing, and he was appreciative of my condolences, then he smiled and started talking about Heaven, and how Bro. Navarro would not want to come back.  We talked a little about our loved ones who have gone on before, and about Bro. Davis passing this morning.  Bro. Martin said, "I'm sure Dad and Bro. Davis are having themselves a time!"  I couldn't agree more.  We talked about how my parents, brother, and Bro. Navarro wouldn't even think about coming back to this earth with the pain and suffering they had gone through.  They were now on the other side, and though they loved us they had "made it!"  It's only us who remain that grieve. 

This evening as my husband and I drove through the country with the top down on our convertible, I looked toward the sky.  It was a clear beautiful evening with no clouds.  I couldn't get away from the two men we will greatly miss in our lives and in the Texas District.  As we drove, my mind was busy once again singing songs about our "blessed hope".

Won't it be wonderful there...having no burdens to bear...

In the sweet by and by...we shall meet on that beautiful shore...

Beulah Land...I'm longing for you...and someday on thee I'll stand...

Won't we have a time when we get over yonder...OH...won't we have a time...

Yes, two warriors...preacher's of the Gospel have said good-bye to all of us, but one of these days...we will see them, again.  I just feel like it won't be long!

Rest well Bro. Navarro and Bro. Davis...for when we all get over there we have a lot of rejoicing to do...together!

Little Impressions

The "little impression" came ever so gently, so gently that I hardly noticed it. I breathed a prayer, yet it came again, as if a feather drifting in the wind touched my thoughts. There was something about it that I couldn't ignore. I once again prayed. "Jesus, please keep your hand on Wendell as he walks outside today. Don't let him be hit by a car. I plead your blood over him in Jesus Name! Amen."

It was a little while later when my husband came back to the room. The first words out of his mouth were, "I've never come so close to being hit by a car like I was today. A policeman driving the car was coming right at me and when he was 4-6 feet from me, he jerked so he wouldn't hit me!" I breathed a prayer of thankfulness that my husband had not been hit, and that God had whispered into my spirit to pray for protection! There's power in prayer!

It amazes me how God works. I was just going about my morning when the "little impression" came. It came so softly that I could have brushed it aside and went about my day. I fully believe if prayer had not been made, if the blood of Jesus had not been applied, that Wendell would have been hit by a careless driver and badly injured, possibly killed. I'm so thankful God I listened to the "voice of God" that morning, and whispered a simple prayer.

"Oh how He loves you and me..."

He Preached With Passion

A message my dad preached when I was a teenager came to me this evening..."Seven Barriers to Hell" I do not remember all of the seven, although I'm sure I could come up with them, but I know one of the barriers was; the prayers of your mom and dad, or someone who loved you. He went on to preach..."To go to hell you will have to trample over the prayers of the ones who loved you more than life, and if you continue in your ungodliness, as you go over the precipice of hell you'll hear the voice of your mother (father) ringing in your ears...OH GOD PLEASE SAVE MY CHILD!" I cannot figure out how a person who knows truth can be so unfeeling after hearing their mom or dad crying out to God for their soul. Neither can I imagine a parent who knows truth continuing in their "happy-go-lucky-sinful way" when they know that their child's heart breaks in prayer. I thought about apologizing for such a serious, heavy post, however I feel like someone might be standing in the valley of decision. What will your answer be?

SURPRISE!

From the time I can remember my family has loved to "surprise" each other.  Many times through the years Daddy and Mother would show up "unannounced" and we would be SO SURPRISED to see them standing at our door.

Our little family was living in North Carolina where we had gone to start a church, and I was very homesick.  I really missed my parents, and missed seeing all of our family and friends in Texas.  Jonathan and Andrew were little guys, and I wanted them to be around their grandparents, but God had called us to start a church, so we went.  I cannot say it was the easiest thing we had ever done, but His will had led us there, and we would be okay.   One day I got a call from Daddy and while we were talking I asked him if they could come and see us.  He told me all the reasons why they could not come at that time.  When I hung up I was very sad and disappointed.  Fast forward...

About five days later we had gone to some friends house to eat dinner.  When we arrived they invited us into their family room to sit down and visit awhile before we ate.  I hadn't quite made it to the couch to sit down when a door opened and standing there was DADDY and MOTHER!  I was speechless, and looked at Wendell and the boys where they were sitting on the couch, and they were stunned!  No one moved except me!  I tried to talk and make some sense, then realized I was about to faint from the "surprise" that was standing in the doorway!  I do not remember if I hugged them before or after I sat down.  Our friends were thrilled that we were so surprised, and that they had been a part of keeping a secret.

Through the years I've thought about that awesome time in my life when something I wanted so badly happened so UNEXPECTEDLY!  After that experience, I really believe I know how the disciples felt when Jesus appeared to them after His resurrection.  :-) 

As they said these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, "Peace be to you."  But they were terrified and filled with fear, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.  He said to them, "Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is truly me. Touch me and see, for a spirit doesn't have flesh and bones, as you see that I have." When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet...then He said to them, "This is what I told you, while I was still with you..." (Luke 24:36-49)

Jesus was God, manifested in the flesh, and since we are made in his image I like to imagine how excited Jesus was when he was about to enter the house where his friends were gathered.  (I know how I would be if I was getting ready to walk in on my friends.) They were not expecting him at all, and he was anxious to see their faces when he "appeared!"  A smile probably came across his face as he thought, "The shock is going to be priceless!  I can't wait to surprise them! I  wonder if they picked up anything in our conversation that would make them believe I would actually come see them again?" After he had been there a little while and everyone finally calmed down,  I can hear him say, with a twinkle in his eyes..."I told you so!"  :-)

Have you ever had Jesus tell you something?  Sure you have!  You may have been in prayer and deep in your spirit he spoke and let you know what he was about to do.  You might have been reading the Bible, and it seemed like a light came on in your mind and you saw something you had never seen before.  When that happened you knew without a doubt that God had spoken to you!  Maybe you got a phone call and the person calling said, "I was praying and God told me to call you.  I don't know what it's all about, but He wants you to know...."  At that moment, once again you know you heard from God!

Then, there are times it seems as if the windows of heaven are locked tight, and your prayers are not getting through to him.  We pray...no answer.  We fast...no answer.  We testify about what we're expecting...no answer.  We claim our promise...still there's no answer!  Yes, there are those times, and you wonder, "Where is God?  Why doesn't he answer?"

Friend...don't be downhearted!  Jesus could be standing on the other side of the door waiting for that perfect time when you are least expecting him.  Just as you step into the room where he's planned to meet you, he'll open the door, smile, and say..."SURPRISE!  Here's your ANSWERED PRAYER!"  After you realize what has actually taken place, and you're over the shock, you will see a big smile come across his face as you hear him say..."I told you I'd do it!"

"YET?"

We've come this far by faith...leaning on The Lord.
Trusting in His Holy Word; he's never failed me, yet.
Oh-h-h-h-h can't turn around; we've come this far by faith.

This is an old song and we've sung it for years.  It makes me want to keep traveling on! There are many things that would try to stop us and discourage us from our goal, but don't look back! Keep traveling!

I do have to smile when this song comes to mind, because every time I sing it, and other songs about The Lord never failing us..."YET"...I think of an evangelist that came to preach for us. One night he said, "I don't like songs that say, "He's never failed us, "YET" because Jesus will NEVER FAIL US! He had a great point! I NEVER have to worry about Him not coming through on His promises! He always has, and always will!

"Failure is NOT an option when it comes to Almighty God!" If someone were to ask Him if he ever failed to fulfill a promise, I believe He would look at them with a puzzled look and ask..."FAIL?"  Then, with a confidence that only God has, His next few words would echo into the hearts of men and women around the world... "I don't know HOW to fail!"  

I believe the same "puzzled look" comes across His face when satan goes to him and brings up someone's sin from the past. I can almost hear Him saying..."Ummm...SIN?  What sin?"  The most powerful truth lies in the fact that Jesus loved us so much that He died for our sins! Once we have our sins washed away, using His Name in baptism, He remembers our sin no more!

My conclusion is this...Jesus loved us enough to die for us, so why wouldn't He take care of us in our struggles, pain, heartache, and disappointments?  His promises are SURE!  His love is unending!  He LOVES taking care of US!  Knowing this, I can go to Him with full confidence, because He loves me and promised to NEVER fail me!

Another song comes to mind. As a child I remember hearing it. It was slow and only had a few words, but oh the impact it had when it was sung. After living my life, and going through situations where only God had the answer, I understand this song so much more. Let me "sing it" for you...

J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!
J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!
Heaven and earth may pass away......
But, J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!

What Do You Fear?

Through the years I have said, and prayed..."Oh God, PLEASE don't let me be deceived!"  I have also heard others voice their fear of "being deceived."  

The other day I was reading my Bible and I saw something I hadn't "seen" before.  The more I think about it, the bigger this subject gets.  Here is the scripture that caught my attention.  Oh yes, I've heard it preached all of my life, and I've read it numerous times, but this time it spoke to me in a different way.  

"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." (James 1:22 KJV)

Here is the Amplified version:

"But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. (James 1:22 AMP) 

This scripture spoke volumes to me.  In the last days when many are "being deceived" we must stop and take inventory of our own hearts and make sure we have an "obedient spirit." If we do, and we're walking with the Lord like we should be...if we're praying, being faithful, and obeying the Word that is preached by a "Truth preaching preacher," there is no way for satan to deceive us.  He is not powerful enough to walk into the heart of a Holy Ghost filled child of God and destroy them!  

The following is a quote from Pastor Mark Foster that struck a chord in my heart...

"It is inconceivable to think the same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead would come into our lives and do nothing." 

The power of God is greater than the schemes of satan!  Be obedient to God's Word and satan has no power in your life!  After all, Jesus used the Word against satan, and satan was DEFEATED!

In all of my simple thinking, I came to this conclusion...Born again, children of God do not need to walk through life being afraid of the "spirit of deception jumping on them."  What we should fear is our own carnal mind that wants us to "intentionally reason contrary to the Truth." Those who "reason contrary to the Truth" will go on their way as if they never heard Truth, fulfilling the lusts of the flesh.  That person is then set up for deception to invade their heart and mind, and if they do not come to their senses, they'll never know they have been "deceived!"  Now that's something to fear.  

Stay alert child of God!  Be obedient to the Word of God!  Save yourself from this world by dying to your flesh!  Crave the things of God!  Walk in the Spirit!  Keep yourself unspotted from the world!  Jesus is coming back for His bride, so be ready!   

When I go to prayer I want my heart to be open:

"Dear Lord,  please look deep into my heart and walk into every corner and cleanse me from anything that is not pleasing to You.  Help me to see "me" like YOU see me.  I want to be obedient to Your Word, and act upon it...lest I deceive myself into thinking that I'm alright when I'm not, and be lost because of my own negligence and self will.  Help me to be a doer of the Word and not just hear it.  In Jesus Name!"

I'd Do It Again

As I was packing all the Christmas decorations away my back and legs were hurting very badly, because I had been on my feet for hours working toward finishing today. I started thinking about the great time we'd had with our family, and how pretty my house looked during the Christmas holiday, and I felt so happy! I started thanking The Lord for all of the blessings in our life, and I thought..."I would do all of this all over again." I do not have one complaint about all the work it takes to decorate, entertain, cleaning it all up, and putting it all away! Not even one tiny word of complaint came out of my mouth.

You know, it's easy to focus on the negative, when really, if you have a messed up house, extra food in the fridge that needs to be thrown away, and decorations take several hours to pack away...you are BLESSED!

So...

"Thank God for dirty dishes; they have a tale to tell.
While others may go hungry, we're eating very well.
For the stack of evidence I shouldn't want to fuss.
With home and health and happiness, God's been good to us."

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all my friends and family! May we all focus on the goodness of God and the blessings in our lives.

2012 Ended...2013 Was Born

It is 10:51 PM, Dec. 31, 2012

It seems like yesterday was January 1, 2012 and now I'm only 59 minutes from it being January 1, 2013! Let me just say, God has been good to us this year! Of course, that is just another year that He's been good, but I am thankful each day for His goodness.

At the beginning of each new year I find myself wondering what all will take place as the days go by. I'm expecting a good year, and trusting all my friends and family will have one also.

As our family gathered for Christmas I was so thankful we could all be together! We had such a lovely time and had a lot of fun just being together! There's nothing like having our kids home!

Now, we move on into the New Year! I'm really excited to see what God is going to do this year! Could it be He might tell Gabrielle to blow the trumpet so we can all be "HOME" forever?

Many blessings to you and your families! Thank you for being my friend!

Just ONE Little Word

A little observation that happened to me this morning...

It's amazing how just ONE WORD will create a "want" in your mind.  This morning I read the word BROWNIE while skimming over some email, now I really want one!  :-)  What "word" could you use today to create a hunger in someone's heart to know the true Savior of the world...JESUS?  You may not even realize the impact you are having on someone today, but your "word" just might be the very one that awakens their spiritual appetite to know Him! God knows the exact timing for that one "word" to be spoken.  He see's the heart of the people you are surrounded by, and loves them so much that He reaches to them in some of the simplest of ways. They may not know at that particular moment what is going on, but in the quiet of their evening He will bring to their remembrance that one "word" when something stirred inside their heart.  When I let myself think about Jesus and how He came to redeem us, I think of LOVE...just one simple "word," but the most powerful of all!

Have a blessed Monday! 

A Time Well Spent

As I was getting ready to go to bed tonight, I felt drawn to sit down at my piano. The songs that flooded my mind and got my fingers to "tickling the ivory" were:

Everybody Will Be Happy Over There
Until Then
I Want to Go There
Lord, When Are You Coming?
I Want to Hear Your Welcome

Once I started singing, I didn't want to stop, so I kept playing and singing for awhile. The longer I sang, the more "homesick" I got for Heaven. I want to be ready to meet The Lord when He comes to take us all home.

There's something great about letting your "soul" sing. It lightens your load. It re-focuses your mind. It brings to remembrance the one thing that's most important, and keeps Heaven in view. Oh yes! I had a wonderful time as I sang. My voice isn't as strong as it once was, and at times it struggles to reach a note, but my heart had no problem of reaching into the heavens. Then, I felt Him walk into MY world, and I had the desire to grow closer to Him!

Christmas Countdown

It's just a few more days till Christmas, and I haven't finished buying gifts, yet! At times I feel that panic mode, then remind myself that 'll get it done! I always have!

We are really looking forward to a few days with our kids and grandkids! Our granddaughters are growing up way too fast, yet I'm enjoying each stage! They range from pre-teen to little toddlers, so I can enjoy great conversation with the older ones, and cuddle with the babies. What a life!

I have my house decorated with all the Christmas decorations, our nativity, and my Santa collection. I love this time of year! All the green and red that fills our home makes it cheerful and fun!

When I think about the "Reason for the Season," I think of the song..."We are the reason that He gave His life..." Calvary wasn't the first or only time He gave His life. When Jesus came to earth as a baby, He gave His life, for He knew He would have to suffer and be ridiculed, mocked, and crucified! He came with a purpose! My heart overflows with thankfulness, and I am humbled to know how much He loves me...and you.

Yes, Christmas Day is almost here, but while I am approaching the day filled with family, fun, food, and presents, I pause to reflect on the REASON for it all!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Judge Not

In reading the chapter my friend Gayla Millstid Hardin recommended on her Facebook status update this morning, one scripture really stood out to me. It's one of the most heartwarming scriptures in the Bible, or it can bring a sting of reproach to the person that is pointing their finger at others.

(1 Cor. 6:11) "And such were some of you..."

If it had not been for The Lord we would all still be living a life full of sin. Be careful who you point your finger at...they could be someone God is giving "lessons" to and they are struggling to understand His ways. I love the rest of the scripture:

"...but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you are justified in the name of The Lord Jesus and by the spirit of our God." (NKJV)

I'm thankful for the blood of Jesus that washes away our sin! We are all "sinners saved by grace!" We need His precious blood applied each day.

Could It Be?

Seeing all the planning of parties, shopping for gifts, and the busyness of life, I have a quiet nagging inside that's saying..."All of the above is well and good, but REALLY...the MOST important happening in my life is the 'twinkling of an eye' trip I'm planning, and Who I'm going to see when I get there!" Friends, don't get too distracted in this world! We have a hope and a promise! My heart is singing..."

I want to go there; I want to go there.
Christ said I could go; His Word tells me so, the beauties of Heaven to share.
I want to go there. I mean to go there!
My mansion awaits, just inside those gates, and I want to go there!"

Do you think we just might be spending this Christmas where roses never fade, and the light we see shining is coming from the throne because JESUS, the light of the world is there?

Lift up your eyes and look to the sky...HE'S COMING!

A weekend With Andrew and Family

This past weekend we got to spend a few days with our kids. It was wonderful! The girls are growing up too fast, and they are all sweethearts! :-)

On Sunday morning we went to church with them, and my husband preached a soul-stirring message. He preached with passion about being "shut in with God" and "receiving the blessing." I left with a deeper desire to know God more intimately, to have His approval and blessing more than ever!

The church in Balch Springs is growing numerically. Souls are being brought into the Kingdom, and that brings excitement to the church family! There is joy in giving to those new babies in Christ! The service Sunday morning was filled with the glory of God! Our souls were fed by the richness of His everlasting love!

I took a few pictures with my phone, which aren't as sharp as my good camera, but at least I have pictures! :-)

Rethinking My Blog

After feeling guilty for not writing on my blog faithfully, and a friend from home mentioning to me that the "last time I had written a post to Echoes from the Elms was in October, and that she isn't on Facebook where she can keep up with us," I am rethinking my blog. I don't know how it will be, but I'm am going to try and share on my blog short thoughts I have, and what's happening in our life in a shorter post...more like what I post on Facebook. I may add a little more of my "thought" here since I can write more, but will work to keep it shorter. That is hard for me! So...please bear with me, and if you have a suggestion, please share with me. Also, if you have a comment, I would love to hear from you. The interaction is what I love about Facebook, so I am pulled toward the connection with friends and family in that forum. As you know, "relationship with God, family and friends is MOST important in my life!" May you have a blessed day and experience the presence of Almighty God as you go through this day!

Pure Worship

I will be right up front and tell you that I'm fired up!  When I walked in my house tonight I was very tired and really thought I would be going to bed after washing my hair, but my mind decided to review some things I had read this week.

1.  I received an article in my email about "male-friendly churches".  Here is what I said about it on Facebook:

Reading an email from the Leadership Journal my mind became a little frustrated! What caught my attention was the Subject line in the email. You might have received the same one. "Make Your Church Male-Friendly". :-/ Evidently, this problem exists in churches that are not Apostolic. Didn't Jesus have 12 disciples that were MEN? They definitely were not "pansies"! Since our churches follow the Apostolic doctrine and separation from the world and it's thinking, I don't think REAL MEN have a problem of needing our churches to be more MALE-FRIENDLY. From what I've observed, it takes a REAL MAN to follow Jesus and His teachings! If the church world isn't careful they will be making church another gender debate! In my opinion we do not need to stoop to the leadership level of the "church world" and try to fashion our churches after their thinking. Yes, we need Men's Ministry, and we have it. REAL MEN that want to have a MAN-FRIENDLY church can find it when they seek TRUTH in Apostolic Churches! This is just a little that's been going on in my mind this evening. :-)

2.  On a FB page I'm part of, someone had come to a music director and asked if he could find "manly songs" to sing in church.  This was my reply to that request:

OK...I've read a lot of the posts, but I want to say that I am tired of the "world's thinking" and "church world's thinking" infiltrating OUR thinking. The Apostolic Church should never be drawn into the "carnal thinking of the church world". (I'm pretty sure most of us are Apostolic.) As Apostolic worship leader's we should raise our thoughts and hearts higher than the thinking of those who do not possess the precious gift of the Holy Ghost and know God in all Truth! Relationship with Jesus is not "sensual, sexual, and intimate in the way the world thinks". It is pure and holy! Sing songs that lift Jesus up and speak of relationship with Him! When a person has been rejuvenated from the power of Almighty God and their mind has been changed from the "old man", their thinking changes and they want to be drawn into His presence. Just a final thought...If there's a song that feels a little "strange" when we sing it, or something in our spirit doesn't feel right, maybe we shouldn't be singing it. If we're living close to God like we should be the Holy Ghost will lead us in what we should and shouldn't sing.

I do not feel like I have the answer to all of this, but since I wrote on Facebook, I remembered a statement my husband said to me a few weeks ago.  I can hear his voice very clearly as he said, "Honey, I'm afraid that what's happening is that the devil is trying to destroy our praise and worship through some of our music and songs we (our churches) are singing."  That hit me like a brick!  My husband is a man of few words, but when he speaks I sit up and take notice.  And, when he speaks about the things of God my ears, heart and mind listen very intently.  

Let me quote again what I said at the end of one of my Facebook posts:  "If there's a song that feels a little "strange" when we sing it, or something in our spirit doesn't feel right, maybe we shouldn't be singing it. If we're living close to God like we should be the Holy Ghost will lead us in what we should and shouldn't sing."  We definitely need to be led by the Holy Ghost!

If you know me at all, you know that I love music and that I do my best to flow with the times.  This is not what I'm talking about right now.  What I want to say is this:  One of the things our Apostolic churches have been known for is our music, and the power that falls when we are singing and worshiping the Lord.  I could talk a long time about the the powerful services we have had when a group or a choir began singing and the glory of God filled the sanctuary.  My mind goes to many services where I saw men and women with their hands raised, tears streaming down their faces as they worshiped God through song.  One of the most powerful times I remember is when our choir was singing "At Your Feet".  The song brought men and ladies to the altar, some came out of the choir and they fell to their knees in worship to Almighty God!  There are many songs that are about relationship to Jesus, such as "Jesus, I love You because you care.  I couldn't imagine if you weren't there."  Our congregation (men and women) was once again moved into the spirit of worship.  Who cannot worship when you're singing about the One who gave His life so we could be free from sin?  

Hence my concern...satan would love to destroy the "pure worship" we have in our churches by attacking the meaning of the songs we sing!  The world is full of sin and those who have forgotten WHO they were when they were born.  I can't help that some have decided to have a demented relationship with someone of the same sex,  and that some of them think about a relationship with Jesus as being a "lover relationship".  I can't help that they choose to live like they do, but I can stop the onslaught of satan that is doing his best to destroy our PURE WORSHIP to Jesus Christ!  Let's not forget who Jesus IS!  He is God manifested in the flesh that came to earth to redeem us from our sin!  We must be careful that our mind is not contaminated by the carnal thinking of the world that causes us to think in the same sick way that the world does.  Let the Church be the Church!  Let us stand up and stand against the trick of the enemy, and sing songs of worship to our King and Savior, Jesus Christ!  I will not let the very one that was cast out of heaven because of his pride, stop me from singing about my love to the One that gave His ALL for me.  

I challenge every music director to pray against the sensual spirits that are trying to destroy our pure worship!  I challenge you to stand up and sing with more conviction, and power than ever before.  I challenge you to pull out some songs about "power in the blood", "the old rugged cross", and sing about "when He was on the cross...I was on His mind."  Soften the music, soften the drums, let the guitars and bass be silent for a few lines while you sing, and sing about the Name of Jesus!  See what will happen in your churches when you sing "Oh, love of God...how rich and pure!"  Watch people sing with tears flowing down their face as they remember where He brought them from.  

SING CHURCH SING!  DON'T LET THE WORLD TAKE YOUR SONG! 

Just Sing!

I've lived a long time, and I do not remember hearing people talk about the "old vs. new" songs as much I hear now. I'm really getting kind of tired of it. :-) Not wanting to get into a discussion about it, please. It's just an observation I've been thinking about. I have decided to go to church, worship God from the depths of my heart, and if I don't know the song, and really don't even like the style of it, what does it matter? If I focus my attention on HIM...I will be doing well. If I can't...then...I'll figure it out at that time, but my worship doesn't depend on anyone else and what they do or don't do. Let's live for God with gladness, and let everyone around us know that we're not "gripey guts"! I say all of this with love, kindness, and goodwill toward my fellow travelers. I will close with this song that is "old, yet new if you've never heard it"... ;-) "I feel like traveling on...I feel like traveling on. My heavenly home is bright and fair, and I feel like traveling on." If the trumpet sounds tonight I will see you all on the other side and we will all be singing a NEW SONG...

P.S.   I really think it is a ploy of the enemy to get us distracted from our worship!  We can get so wrapped up in things we don't like that we become focused on that one thing and lose the meaning of true worship!  

 

Dear Preacher and Preacher's Wife

I don't know why my mind has wandered off to far away places today, but for some reason I found myself in my Grandpa and Grandma Layne's living room.  In the middle of the room was Daddy and Grandpa Layne.  At times, they would get into a "wrestling match" just for fun, and Grandpa always "won"!  This time was no different, but what WAS different is that in the car I overheard Daddy telling Mother..."You know Lila, I could have wrestled Pop to the floor, but I just won't do that to the old man."  He said "old man" very respectfully!  He went on to say, "I didn't want him to "feel bad" because he just didn't have the strength he use to have."  

WHY did my mind wander down that "memory lane" today?  I was really kind of shocked!  Almost as soon as that memory invaded my thoughts, I had another thought that formed, and as I realized what was taking place, I knew God was speaking to my heart. 

 A "spiritual wrestling match" has been going on for sometime now between the "deceiver" and those who have been taught Biblical holiness and separation.  The message the "deceiver" brings is from the pits of hell.  He will say things like, "Surely you don't believe those old-fashioned things anymore! Don't you think you could do away with them?  Really...do you think those things are still necessary?"  A saint who has loved their separated life is suddenly under attack!  They now find themselves in a "wrestling match" that they really don't understand, because the "deceiver" has already been working on them through anger, a critical spirit, and a tiny seed of bitterness.  After the onslaught of "sweet smiles, and silvery words from the deceiver" they have become weaker, until they can no longer tell right from wrong.  They find themselves questioning the very truth they once loved!   The things of God seem so...far...away.  Then, without notice...they feel their legs give way.  They cannot withstand the "deceiver" any longer.   Now, they reason..."I love my church...but I just can't believe "that" anymore.  I don't want to leave my friends and family here, and I wish they would go with me, but they're still holding onto what we've always been taught.  I just can't understand how they can go along with that kind of preaching anymore!  Oh, I know they've stood beside me through many trials, and they said they loved me, but they're "love" was so shallow.  They really didn't mean it."  And the "deceiver" keeps weaving his web!  Everyday that goes by the "deceivers" words play over and over in their mind, and they feel a confusion like never before as they reason of how it wouldn't be right to leave all those they love.  Their thoughts become more muddy, and their head  feels like it is literally spinning.  One minute they want to leave, the next..."I think I'll just stay here.  I'm sure it'll all be okay!  People will understand that I've made a few changes, but they'll see I'm really happier than I was when I was doing what the Pastor preached.  They'll eventually see that the REAL me really hasn't changed at all.  I'm still the same person I was years ago."  As they continue to reason, never making a fresh dedication, or a new commitment, they find themselves lulled to sleep from the ever so soothing music of the "deceivers voice", and what they once knew was truth is no longer part of their life.     

On the sidelines, sits the Old Prophet of God that has led his people to righteous, holy living and he watches as those he has given his life for buckles to their knees.  He weeps as he remembers the countless times he has led his congregation to the throne room of God, and their lives were changed after he preached, "Thus sayeth the Word of the Lord!"  As he sits there, it's as if he feels a sword rip through his chest and it goes directly to his heart!  He has preached about the spirit of compromise, and warned his people about the last days, but he never dreamed he would ever SEE that day happen!  His very being is torn into, and his heart cries for those he loves...but it seems there is nothing he can do.  Under the load of discouragement that has broken his heart he closes his eyes...

Just as the Old Prophet is about to take his last breath, someone steps into the room.  Who is it?  A young man?  As he tries to focus his eyes on the young man, he thinks of when HE was young and strong.  As he watches the young man stroll towards him, he notices his vision has been restored.  He feels his strength return as he "remembers".  The young man is now standing in front of him, so the Old Prophet raises his head and asks..."Young man, who are you?  Where do you come from?  What are you doing here?  What is your name?"  As the young man begins to speak, the Old Prophet realizes that he has been sent by God to help fight the battle that has been raging.  And FIGHT he does!  With an anointing that only comes from the Holy One, the young man reaches out and grabs that long, ugly sword of discouragement that has pierced the Old Prophet's heart.  With his strong hands he carefully removes it.  With a power like the Old Prophet has not seen for awhile he watches as the young man  throws "discouragement" aside.  Then...Encouragement speaks, "Oh man of God!  What the "deceiver" has tried to do to those you have given your life for, will no longer prevail!  God has sent me to tell you that all you have done...is not in vain!  You have preached, you have given, you have prayed and fasted, you have loved unconditionally.  The "deceiver" may have destroyed a few, but he hasn't destroyed the CHURCH!  Stand up now!  Look around you and look at the CHURCH!  It is ALIVE and WELL!"       

Loyalty

LOYAL - faithful to - steady in allegiance...Those who gripe, complain, and criticize America needs to ADJUST THEIR ATTITUDE or LEAVE IT!  It's easy for some people to forget where they would be if it hadn't been for those who fought for their freedom.  I remember a speaker on the radio that use to say when he had made a point, "Are you listening?"   :-)   Friends...ARE WE LISTENING?  Sometimes I like to do an "attitude checkup" on myself. What is my attitude about my church, my church family, my Pastor, my organization?  Am I thankful for what they have done for me?  Do I still LOVE  them enough to DEFEND them, or am I going to sit around and "gripe, complain, and criticize" that which brought me FREEDOM, and those who have fought to KEEP ME FREE?  I don't have a choice to LEAVE IT...that's not in my vocabulary, SOOOO  what does one do when they find themselves "griping, complaining, and criticizing"?  It's easy!  Pray until your spirit gets right, your attitude adjusted, and..."If I don't have anything good to say, then don't say anything at all."  Ok...I'm done!  It's just a little thought I had...