NEWSPAPER DEVOTIONAL ARTICLES
July- December, 2000

    These weekly articles were written by Rev Mike Jones for South Carolina Area Newspaper on a busy Pastor's schedule. Space was limited to around 300 words per article so in depth exposition is not possible.
   To receive Devotional articles like this each week via E-mail simply request them by clicking on the envelope at the right.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, July 4, 2000

    I’m free from the bondage that I once lived in. I’m free from what I used to be. The chains that once held me now lay rusting at my feet. Satan once controlled me but now, thank God, greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4).
    How did I obtain this freedom? What price did I pay in order to escape the clutches of Satan? It was so easy. I simply admitted to God that I could not save myself and then, by faith, I accepted the fact that God’s son, Jesus Christ, died in my place to pay my sin debt (Glory!).
    Time after time Satan has tried to convince me that I couldn’t hold out or that God would not hold on to me and I would fall back into his captivity but I found that "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed (John 8:36). I have learned that Satan is a liar and that listening to him leads to continual heartache, controlling habits, and captivities horrors. Living for Christ, however, leads me to the actual truth about life so that I can enjoy real freedom- "ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free"(John 8:32).
    If you have not come to the liberty life in Christ then let me encourage you to do so today. You will find that freedom is fun and serving the Lord is the way to real abundant life.
    If you are a child of God then watch out for Satan’s tricks and traps and "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage" (Gal 5:1).

Miracle Message for Wednesday, July 5, 2000

(Mat 9:36) But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
    Oh, What a heart Jesus had! We look at multitudes clambering for our help and we many times feel anger, anxiety, and anguish. Jesus looked at the multitude and He was "moved" with compassion. His love overwhelmed Him.
    What makes the difference? I believe the difference in our view point lies in the way we perceive the "sheep" that we see. Jesus had compassion on them because He saw them as:
    1) FAINT- Weak and in need of help and support. Unable to enjoy living or have an abundant life.
    2) SCATTERED- Lonely and isolated. Constantly moving but never enjoying fellowship and companionship.
    3) SHEPHERD LESS- Without a leader. Without a defender to guard and protect them. Having no plan, no purpose, and no protection in their journey.
    When YOU look on the multitudes around you do you see problems and stress? Or do you look with eyes of love and see hurting hearts, broken relationships, and people in desperate need of someone to show them the right way?
    Look with the eyes of Jesus and see what a difference it will make in the way you deal with people.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, July 11, 2000

    Eddie Hobbs, the manager of the Free Will Baptist Book Store in Florence recently spoke to a local Minister’s meeting. As a layman speaking to preachers he said he was as concerned with the motive the ministers had as he was with the message they delivered. He then proceeded to ask these pastor three heart searching questions. I believe these questions should be applied to every worker in every church. See if you agree.
    1) Do you do your job from joy or from necessity? When you come to church on Sunday Morning do you enter your class with enthusiasm about the fact that you get to share Christ or do you teach those Junior boys because no one else will do it?
    2) Do you still have the burning passion for your work or has the fire died down? Ministry without fire is just a "mannequin ministry"- you may do a good job dressing things up but you will never get any results and you never impart life!
    3) Do you view the people you minister to with compassion or as a burden you must endure? My flock put up with a lot of sorry sermons and a lot of innocent mistakes because they knew that I deeply loved them. I learned a long time ago that if a preacher or teacher gives me the impression that they would much rather be somewhere else then I would be better off if they WERE somewhere else!
    If you were given an exam using these questions about the ministry you perform, what sort of grade would you get??

Miracle Message for Wednesday, July 12, 2000

    The story is told about a school teacher who had a birthday. That morning several of the students brought her presents. The father of the first student who came up was a florist so the teacher guessed that the packet contained some flowers.
    The students were simply amazed that she could guess what was in the packet without opening it so when the next child came up, whose father ran the local candy store, she guessed that the box contained candy. Again she was right and the kids thought they had a really wonderful teacher.
    The father of the third student who brought a present ran a local winery. When the student handed the package to the teacher there was some liquid dripping from the wrapping. The teacher ran her finger along the paper and tasted this liquid and pronounced that the package contained a bottle of fine wine. Sadly, the student shook his head.
    Once again she ran her finger along the liquid and tasted it and said it was a bottle of quality champagne. "No teacher," the student exclaimed. "It’s a puppy!"
    Sometimes we begin to think we are so smart until we can outsmart sin and Satan. That is when we find something totally different than what we thought in our "present". The best advice I can give you is to never accept a present from Satan. It might be a "puppy" instead of what you thought you were getting!

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, July 18, 2000

    All of my time, my energy, and my life are devoted to serving the Lord. What is there about the Lord that could gain such a devotion from me? Who is this Lord I serve and proclaim? Let me simply quote what other faithful followers have said about Him through the ages.
    (Exo 15:2) The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him.
    (Nahum 1:7) The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.
    (Num 14:18) The LORD is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation.
    (Psa 16:5) The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.
    (Psa 27:1) The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
    (Psa 96:4) For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.
    (Psa 129:4) The LORD is righteous: he hath cut asunder the cords of the wicked.
    (2 Th 3:3) ...the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.
    (Heb 13:6) ...The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
    Finally, and wonderfully, (Psa 23:1) The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
    That is the Lord I serve. He is worthy of my time, my energy, and my devotion. Don’t waste your time on anything less than this Lord.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, July19, 2000

    **Feeling frustrated and fatigued as you try to minister for God?? Maybe you have been wasting your time and effort trying to do something that only God can do- (Mat 16:18) ...I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
    **Tired of trying to change your life and failing over and over? Maybe you should relax and let the master craftsman straighten up the mess you have made and change you into a vessel unto honor, sanctified and meet for the Master’s use- (Isa 64:8) But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
    **Weary from worrying about making ends meet? Why don’t you rest in the provision provided by the God who would not let the widow’s pot run out of oil and who taught us to pray each day - (Mat 6:11) Give us this day our daily bread. Then every day you will be able to say, with the psalmist- (Psa 68:19) Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation.
    **Why don’t you quit trying to be God and let God do it! After all, He is (Eph 3:20) ...able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, July 25, 2000

    It began partly from curiosity and partly as a result of my "job." As a Pastor, I have to visit cemeteries on a regular basis; either helping with, or attending funerals. And one of the most prominent features of a cemetery is the tombstones.
    At first I just noticed them as obstacles to be avoided, but then I started looking for the messages on the tombstones. Some contain just the bare facts; name, date of birth, and date of death. But even that was helpful because it allowed me to determine the age of the person when they died (Lots and lots of people die very young!!).
    If it was a husband and wife tomb it might also contain the wedding date of the couple. That allowed me to see how old they were when they were married (Sometimes people marry VERY young) and how long one lived after the other's death.
    Sometimes, however, the tomb would also contain a short saying or a poem. Those were the ones that allow me to see how the person was perceived by their loved ones. In many of them you could almost feel the aching heart of parents for small children or the longing of a husband for a departed wife.
    Tombstones indeed have a testimony. Among other things, they tell us three very important truths: 1) Everyone has to die. 2) Many die a lot sooner than they expect. And 3) Those who are left behind will reflect on the way you have lived.
    When the tombstone is placed over you will your family rejoice in the life you've lived and look forward to seeing you again in Heaven? Or will it be just cold hard stone over a wasted life and missed opportunities?

Miracle Message for Wednesday, July 26. 2000

    I am a Free Will Baptist today as a result of the first principle of our church covenant- we have "accepted the word of God as our rule of Faith and Practice". I put such a great emphasis on the Word of God because the Word of God is the only permanent thing we can rely on- (Mat 24:35) Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
    Such a strong belief in the Bible has led me to follow three life principles concerning the Word of God:
    HIDE THE WORD- (Psa 119:11) Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. The word of God has been placed in my memory and in my heart. It guides my decisions, cautions me about temptations, and brings peace and comfort to my troubled soul. I read it daily, listen to it being preached often, and study about its meaning at every opportunity.
    TELL THE WORD- (Mark 4:14) The sower soweth the word. My master has given me "eternal life seed" to sow and I am accountable to Him if I must face Him with seed still in my bag. It is my job, and my joy, to tell everyone I can, every chance I can about the son of God, Jesus Christ.
    DO THE WORD- (James 1:22) But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. The Bible must affect my behavior as well as my belief. I have been born again so I live as a new creature, looking forward to a Heavenly Home!

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, August 1, 2000

    When a man has a consistent pattern of success and growth you are well advised to listen to his counsel. Rev Bill Jacobs came to the Marion, Mullin area 30 years ago with a vision in his eyes and a call from God on his heart. Now he has a full time Christian school, an active presence in his community, and one of the largest Free Will Baptist churches in our state. Recently he shared four principles that have guided him during these years of growth. Four "growth guidelines" that you would do well to apply to your situation.
    First, there must be a DESIRE to grow. Many churches are content with the group they have. They don’t want any strangers coming in and "messing up their playhouse" so they cry and complain about how small they are but they really have no desire to grow.
    Second, there must be DETERMINATION to grow. Desire must bloom into programs, plans, and participation that actually leads to growth. Most churches talk growth but never do anything about it. Praying for the lost must lead to witnessing to the lost about their need of Jesus as savior. A desire for a larger Sunday School class must lead to inviting friends and family to join you in class each week.
    Third, consistent growth involves DEDICATION. Growth brings problems- the need of new teachers for new classes, the assimilation of new people into the church social structure, the building of new building, and so forth. The church must be so dedicated to its mission of reaching new people for Christ until it does not allow these problems to stop its progress.
    Finally, and most importantly, real growth only comes with DIVINE HELP- "unless the Lord build the house they labor in vain that build it". Programs and plans are failures without the divine partnership of God; but it is not the will of God that any be lost, so join Him in building His church this week.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, August 2, 2000

    It was nothing but a curtain; attractive but not too imposing. It’s purpose as a barrier, however, turned the cloth into "stone". On one side were the people in the first class section of the plane. On the other side were us just plain folks.
    The first class section was well lit and the flight attendants were always evident. Those of us in couch sat in the dark and waved at the attendants at they passed.
    I know of another dividing curtain. In the Old Testament Tabernacle the Holy Place was divided from the Holy of Holies by a curtain. Regular priest came and went on one side of the curtain on a regular basis but only the High Priest was allowed pass the curtain into the presence of God.
    Then God’s only begotten son, Jesus Christ, came to earth, lived among men, and died on a cruel cross to pay the sin debt of mankind. As He died the curtain of division in the temple was split by God. Now, praise be to the name of our Wonderful God, everyone is allowed free access into God’s presence.
    No longer are people divided into "first class" and "couch". Now we all have personal access to a prayer answering God who delights in hearing, and answering, our prayers. The curtain is gone and fellowship is now available to anyone who desires to come into the presence of God. What a great privilege, have you taken advantage of it today?

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, August 8, 2000

    We thought it was the fact that we opened the door into the kitchen so much. Or the fact that we used the stove in the kitchen and the heat from that caused the kitchen to be warmer. Until one day I dropped something on the floor. While on my knees looking for this item I noticed that the only vent in the kitchen was closed! Boy, what a difference it made when I opened that vent and let the cool air flow like it should.
    Sometimes it appears that churches might have their "vents" closed also. Despite the fact that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever (Heb 13:8). Despite the fact that the prayer of the upright is the delight of God (Prov 15:8). Despite the fact that with men many things are impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible (Mark 10:27). Despite all these things, many churches never have anything supernatural happen in their church services.
    Everything is available; but its like the vent is closed. And, like the kitchen in our home, everybody knows something is wrong but they never seem to blame it on "closed vents". It is a lot easier to fire the preacher, pout at home, or pretend nothing is wrong than it is to begin looking for the real problem.
    Is God’s work evident in your life and in the life of your church? If not, do you think God has died; or do you think that you might need to get on your knees and see if your "vent" is open?

Miracle Message for Wednesday, August 9, 2000

    Boundaries prove a blessing when they keep you out of trouble. Walls keep me from being outside all the time; but they also keep out insects, hot air, and raindrops! In the same way, I have tried to erect three "walls" in my relationship with the Lord that can help bring abundant life to my daily living.
    The first wall is one that I erected in order that I may not DISPLEASE HIM. My greatest goal is to do always those things that please the Father (John 8:29). This is the positive side of life that many people seem to miss. I do not simply want to avoid doing wrong; I want to always do right. When God looks at my life and my activities, I want it to bring a smile to His face.
    That just naturally brings me to erecting a second wall that will cause me to never DISOBEY HIM. There are some things that are obviously wrong and I certainly know to avoid these things. But Jesus taught that wrong begins in the heart before it is manifested in words or actions. I have found that I have a rebellious attitude before I do rebellious actions so I must build a wall in my heart as well as in my home.
    Finally, I want a wall that will cause me to live in such a way until I will never DISGRACE HIM. I never want God to be ashamed to be called my God! (Heb 11:16). It is not enough to erect a wall of public opinion; that changes too often! I want a wall in my life that will Honor Him; and never hurt His heart.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, August 15, 2000

    In my mind’s eye I can see it as clear as day. The golden street will sparkle and shine. Beside this golden street will stand mansions of such magnificence until they will literally take your breath away. The flowers in bloom along the road will have so many colors and be so fragrance until I can almost see the crowd of children running from one to another shouting that "this one is the prettiest, no this one is prettier".
    Suddenly a shout will roll through the assembled crowd like a March wind blows across a Kansas wheat field, "They are coming. They are coming." Dads will lift children to their shoulders, Moms will stand on tip toes, and children will ease toward the front of the crowd to find a seat on the curb.
    Some of the participates will have famous names- Moody, Spurgeon, Billy Sunday, Charles Finney, Apostle Paul. But many will only be known by a small group in the crowd as they cry out, "That’s him. He was my Pastor. He led me to the Lord and taught me how to live as a Christian. He brought comfort when my loved ones died and he brought cheer when life tried to beat me down. That’s my Pastor. Oh, what a man of God he was!"
    Many of these Pastors were reviled and persecuted on earth. Most of them gave up houses, land, and fortune in order to follow God’s call on their life. Many times they were tempted to quit or compromise but God’s fire burned in their heart and, week after week, they stood and delivered God’s message. Now they look with awe and wonder at the shouting crowd and stand in amazement at the depth of God’s rewards.
    What a day that will be when Preacher’s Parade in heaven. Hope you are there to witness it; and hope you will give your Pastor a few of his praise flowers now.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, August 16, 2000

    You have seen them under the back windows of cars. You know what I mean; those little dogs that nod their head as the car moves. Well, that is what this Sunday School teacher brought out and placed on the podium. His explanation; if I can’t get the members of this class to amen the truth then I will keep tapping my little dog and let him nod amen!
    Later, I began to think about why the people were not saying, "Amen" when this teacher taught. This is an important question because every teacher wants to feel like their lesson is having an impact on the student.
    Chapter 27 of Deuteronomy says that the people are supposed to "amen" the preaching of the truth. The last word of all four gospels, and most of the epistles, is "amen". So why did these people not amen the truth this man was teaching?
    Maybe they did not understand what he was saying- (1 Cor 14:16) Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
    Or maybe they had their mind somewhere else; or their pride got in the way; or they didn’t want to hear the truth. Regardless, they need to know that Jesus said the rocks would praise Him if the people didn’t- - and this may even apply to nodding dogs!!

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, August 22, 2000

    (Phil 2:14_15) Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
    The characteristic of Christians should never be confusion. We will not always agree on everything but we should always agree to disagree agreeably. The world silently watches as Churches fight, fuss, and divide; and then say within themselves, "I already have confusion and chaos in my life. Why should I go to Church for more?"
    In fact, one of the most discouraging sight I see as I travel around is the large number of churches that dot our landscape. Now, before you call me a heretic, let me explain. I am all for building new churches to reach a lost world for Christ. My problem is with all the churches that spring up because a "preacher" thinks he is the only one who knows the truth and since he can’t get along with anyone else he starts his own little group (see 2 Pet 1:20). Or two or three people in a church don’t like the brown carpet in their church (Anyone with any lick of sense knows that blue carpet is the only carpet for the church!) so they pull out and start their own little group that does well until someone decides to put green curtains in a room- and here we go again!
    How Satan must laugh as the honor of God’s people is tarnished, valuable resources are "sucked up" building numerous big buildings in which a few souls rattle around, and people are so busy defending their own point of view until they never get around to telling anyone the good news of the Gospel. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
    (Eph 4:1_3) I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, August 23, 2000

(Psa 5:11_12) But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.

    Defended by God. Fenced in by God’s Favor. No wonder the psalmist declares that the child of God should "ever shout for joy".
    Just think of it. All the bad that comes our way meets the barrier of God and only what He knows is for our ultimate good is allowed through. That is what it means to be defended by God. No enemy is too strong. No weapon is too mighty. When God is our defense then the enemy might as well save their breath because we WILL be victorious!
    God’s defense would be enough by itself; but not for a God as good as our God. He not only defends us from the devil but He also fences us in with His favor. He doesn’t just keep the bad from getting to us; He surrounds us with good! No wonder that everywhere a Christian turns ALL things work together for good (Rom 8:28).
    Don’t listen to Satan’s lies. God is defending you from defeat and fencing you in with His favor. Ever shout for Joy!

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, August 29, 2000

    One of the joys of being State Promotional Director is that I get to visit churches all across our state. Some are big and some are small. Some are very vocal in their worship while others are more subdued. Some are located on main thoroughfares and some are located well off the beaten path. And that is where our story comes in.
    Since this is my first time visiting many of our churches I have to get some general directions before I try to locate them. Recently, I was invited to Home Coming at a church so I asked several Pastors in the area for directions. One said, "Preacher, I don’t think you can get there from here!". Another said the best thing I could do was call the Pastor, have him meet me on a main road to lead me in; and then be very careful to never lose sight of him!
    Finally, I was able to get in contact with the Pastor and he gave me these directions. Take exit 21 off the interstate. Go to the first red light and turn left. This will take you pass the largest mall in town. As soon as you pass the mall the road goes from four lanes into two lanes, when this happens take the first paved road to the right. Take the next paved road to the right and the church will be directly in front of you. With these directions I was able to drive directly to the church.
    Sometimes Preachers make things complicated and confusing because they are a little confused themselves. But when they become Pastor of a church they learn it is not so hard to give good directions to others who are seeking that church. Pastor, if people who listen to your sermon this week are thinking, "I can’t get there from here" maybe it’s because you never got to the place you are talking about before you started giving directions to others about how to get there!

Miracle Message for Wednesday, August 30, 2000

    A friend told me this story. One of the well known citizens of a certain community passed on to his eternal reward. On the day of his funeral the church was completely full. As the family of the deceased began to enter and be seated suddenly a horrible creak sounded and, with a mighty crash, the floor of nearly half the church fell to the ground.
    Luckily, the church was built low to the ground and several ankle injuries plus some scrapes and scratches were the only injuries. Later investigation revealed that termites had infested the building and the weigh from all those people turned out to be more than the weakened lumber could support.
    Sadly, numerous churches are also infected with "termite trouble" and one day everything may come crashing down around them. These termites, however, are not the kind that the local pest control company can detect and destroy. These termites go by other names like gossip, pride, bitter envying and strife, worldly living, and rebellious attitudes. Like their physical counterparts, they can silently destroy the very foundation of the church.
    I recommend that these "termites" be treated with some powerful preaching and teaching from the word of God which is able to pierce even to the diving asunder of the soul and the spirit and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb 4:12). That will solidify your foundation as it should be.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, September 5, 2000

    It began in a run down store front. A few seeking people, an energetic and determined Pastor, and a common vision of a coming house of worship in which they could find the Lord, raise their kids, and stabilize their lives. Months followed weeks as new members joined in; and a few dropped out, until crowded Sunday School Rooms and the absences of seats for new worshipers changed the dream about a new sanctuary into an immediate necessity.
    Land was sought; and finally bought. This was in the days before Planning Commissions and never ending regulations. The Pastor and deacons drove out to the new lot determined to mark off where they wanted the church to be located and then to start digging the foundation. It was only after they got out of the car and the Pastor looked at that wood covered lot that he finally realized he did not have a clue about what the dimensions of the new church should be.
    To cover his confusion, he told the men he wanted to kneel and pray before they started. Following their time of prayer the Pastor looked up and suddenly a dove landed on a stump directly in front of him. The dove watched him for a moment and then flew directly down the lot to a pine tree. It landed there for a second and then flew directly across the lot to land on another tree. And those are the dimensions of Peace Free Will Baptist Church today.
    Like Noah in the ark (Gen 8:6-11) and the Disciples who watched Jesus be baptized (Matt 3:16), this Pastor found that "Divine Doves" give good directions. If God calls you to do a job don’t let Satan defeat you. After all, If God can make rocks praise Him then He will find a way to direct you as you do His will, even if it makes you become a bird watcher!

Miracle Message for Wednesday, September 6, 2000

    Sometimes we NEED to laugh at ourselves. Here are some cute saying about "Changing a light bulb" that may help us look at ourselves in a brand new "light"!
    1. How many Charismatics does it take to change a light bulb?One to change the bulb and nine to pray against the spirit of darkness.
    2. How many Baptists does it take to change a light bulb? Change???
    3 . How many TV evangelists does it take to change a light bulb? One. But for the message of light to continue, send in your donation today.
    4 . How many liberals does it take to change a light bulb? At least ten, as they need to hold a debate on whether or not the light bulb exists. Even if they can agree upon the existence of the light bulb, they still might not change it, to keep from alienating those who might use other forms of light.
    5 . How many Catholics does it take to change a light bulb? None. They always use candles.
    6. How many members of an established Bible teaching church that is over 20 years old does it take to change a light bulb? One to actually change the bulb, and nine to say how much they liked the old one.
    Whoever you are, I hope you will allow God to work a change in your life that will make you the Light of the World. After all, a sin darkened world is much more interested in the light they so desperately need than in the label on the light bulb.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, September 12, 2000

    Company was coming and we needed a fan installed in the spare bedroom. A busy schedule prevented me from installing it until late on Saturday night. Everything went fine until I was ready to install the very last blade on the fan. That is when we found that the two screws needed to install the blade were no where to be found. Not good!
    We looked and looked, said a few unkind words about the fan company not packing the needed equipment, and were about ready to disassembly the fan and go back to the basic light. That is when I noticed that the screws that fastened the fan to the ceiling looked almost like the ones that were missing. Could I possibly use them to connect the fan blade and then "jury rig" some other screws to hold the base in place?
    When I unscrewed the first screw from the base it slipped from my hand, bounced one time, and fell into the motor! Now, it is almost midnight and in addition to missing fan screws, I have to take the motor apart in order to get this screw out. I removed the bottom plate from the fan and there lay the screw I had dropped, as well as the two missing screws that had some how gotten into the motor during shipping.
    I would never in a thousand years have thought of looking in the motor for the missing screws; but God knew where they were the entire time. He just had to use a "problem" to get me to look in the right place! Remember that this week when things aren’t going the way you want and Satan whispers in your ear that God doesn’t love you. Anyone who would believe that lie has some screws loose sure enough.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, September 13, 2000

    Someone has humorously suggested that if Jesus lived in America today, He would be wanted by...
    *the FBI for turning water into wine without a license.
    *the EPA for killing fig trees.
    *the AMA for practicing medicine without a license.
    *the Department of Health for opening graves to raise the dead
    *OSHA for walking on water without a life jacket.
    *the SPCA for allowing hogs to jump into the sea..
    *the national Board of Psychiatrists for giving advice on how to live a guilt-free life.
    *the Interfaith Movement for condemning all other religions.
    *and by the Zoning Board for building mansions without a permit!
    The truth is, Jesus was more interested in obeying the commands of His Father than He was in following the precepts of the people. He offended Pharisees by allowing the unclean to touch Him so that He might truly touch them. He taught that it did not matter if you interrupted an important class long enough to hug a child because that was the real purpose of the class anyway!
    Sometimes we allow the limits imposed on us by others to suck the life out of life. We are not to be lawless; yet we are not to allow the laws of man to keep us from sharing the love of God. That won’t make the bureaucrats happy but it will allow our life to be a blessing. And isn’t that what its really all about?

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, September 19, 2000

    If 50.1% of the people in our state go absolutely morally bankrupt and approve the evil of a state lottery then everyone in our state must accept it and live with the consequences. But if 99% of the people in a school want to pray before their children play a ball game they must forsake that privilege because of the possibility that one person may be offended. I don’t understand.
   Jesus preached more sermons on Hell than He did on Heaven; and the Hell He preached about was hot and horrible. Jesus plainly stated that the ONLY way to Heaven was His way; yet we live in a day when every belief must be right and no religion can be wrong. If Jesus was right, and He was, why are most pulpits in America filled with men preaching about how to overcome worry or how to feel good about yourself instead of plainly presenting Jesus as man’s only hope? I don’t understand.
   Christians stand week after week in churches to sing and testify about their great love for God. Yet week after week they come in contact with family and friends who are unprepared to face death and the judgment of God but they never share God’s plan of salvation with these people. They share gossip and gripes but they never share the gospel. I don’t understand.
   God is God and nothing man can legislate can change that. Jesus is coming back to claim His Bride and judge the nations and He won’t use the audience of a TV talk show to determine who is right and wrong. The time God has given me on this earth is the only time I have to prepare to meet God and face that Judgment. That I understand.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, September 20, 2000

Give us a watchword for the hour,
    A thrilling word, a word of power;
A battle cry, a flaming breath,
    A call to conquest or to death;
A word to rouse the church from rest,
    To heed the Master’s last request.
The Call is given, ye hosts arise,
    The watchword is EVANGELIZE!
To fallen men, a dying race,
    Make known the gift of Gospel grace,
The world that now in darkness lies,
    O Church of Christ, EVANGELIZE!

    How comfortable the Church has become. Where is our Concern? Where is our Compassion for a lost world? Can sinners headed to a devil’s hell echo the cry of the Psalmist- (Psa 142:4) I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul.
   Have we become so interested in living a worry free, prosperous life until the purpose of Jesus’ coming is dying in the Church like sinners are dying in the world? - (Luke 19:10) For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
    Do we care? Do we share the Gospel? Do we Evangelize?

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, September 26, 2000

    The leak problem came from a good problem. The attendance at church had grown so much until a new sanctuary was needed. Land problems prevented building a new sanctuary so it was decided to extend the present sanctuary. Doing this involved tying the new sanctuary into a presently existing Sunday School facility. And there is where the leak occurred.
    Numerous people were contacted about fixing the leak but no one was successful. Finally, one of the men in the church said he knew someone who said he would guarantee that he could fix the problem. The church told him to tell this man to come and do the work. Several days later the preacher noticed a Cadillac drive up in the parking lot. A man got out in a nice suit and came into the Church office. When the Pastor asked if he could help him the man said he had come to fix the Church leak. He then went into the rest room, changed into some coveralls, and commenced hammering and banging in the attic.
    The pastor was skeptical about the work but when the next rain shower came along he was amazed to find no leak. Everyone was happy until one of the Trustees in the Church became curious enough to go up into the attic. That is when he found that the man who had "fixed" the problem had done so by hanging a five gallon bucket below the leak and allowing the water to accumulate there!!
    We face many problems in life. We can "hang buckets" below them and try to ignore them or we can really deal with them by allowing God to do a genuine work in our heart. It is easier to just hang a bucket under the problem and try to ignore it but, eventually, the bucket will overflow and your problem will be worst than ever. Why don’t you let God do the work in your life. The only buckets He will use are buckets of blessings.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, September 27, 2000

    One of our elderly Pastors was talking with me recently and he made an interesting statement. He said, "Mike, I have reached the place in my life where Tomorrow is Today!".
    We laughed a little but the more I thought about it the more accurate the statement became. Age, Health, and Circumstances had all combined to take this pastor out of "full time" ministry. He still spoke whenever possible and assisted in every way he could but his ability to function as an active, energetic Pastor has come to an end.
    Now, his tomorrow has become his today. All those things he hoped to do "tomorrow" need to be done as soon as possible because the sand in his hour glass is rapidly running out. No man knows his day or hour but common sense and declining health all point toward getting the house in as much order as possible; and doing with haste all those things you feel you need to do.
    If YOU knew today would be YOUR tomorrow what would you need, or want, to do different? Is there someone whom you plan to tell how much they mean in your life, tomorrow? Is there a person to whom you need to tell the gospel and you plan to do so tomorrow? (Remember, Today is the day of Salvation. Tomorrow is always too late to be saved).
    What do you plan to do tomorrow that you need to do today? You might need to call today tomorrow and get it done!

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, October 3, 2000

    Recently some friends of mine bought a motorcycle. The next day they went out and bought cemetery plots! They said it was a coincidence but it sure did look funny.
    My dad was the first one in our family to own a motorcycle. Soon all four of us boys either owned a motorcycle or were busy riding his. One of us slipped on the pavement as he was turning around and now carries the scars on his elbow. Another had to lay his bike down in the middle of a road to avoid a car that pulled out in front of him. Then there was the one that flipped his bike on a sandy road and ended up doing a scratch dance with the bushes beside the road. We all rode bikes; and we all carry scars from the experience.
    Life is a lot like riding a motorcycle; it is hard to come out of it alive, and, even if you do, you end up with many scars. Some are physical scars as a consequence of carelessness, conflict, or circumstances. Some are emotional scars that came from broken hearts, broken promises, or broken dreams. Some even have soul scars as a result of demonic attacks, temptation failures, or "being wounded in the house of a brother". And, like motorcycle scars, most of them last for a lifetime.
    I’m older now. I remember the thrill of letting the wind whip through your hair (when I had hair!) and the excitement of feeling part of the machine as you sped down the road. But I also remember the scars. So I am happy driving in the cocoon of my car and letting others buy the motorcycles and cemetery plots. Just like I’m content that I now live for God and find my joy in Him. I’ll let Satan’s children worry about death and scars from the wild ride he gives them.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, October 4, 2000

    One of the questions people ask me from time to time is "What is wrong with Gambling"?. There are 4 reasons I think it is wrong to Gamble:
    1) It CAPTURES those who play. Oh, the heartache and pain I have witnessed when people began with a "little innocent fun" that developed into a debt developing, family destroying habit. They would soon beg, borrow, or steal to get just one more dollar; convinced that the "next" dollar would be the one that hit the jackpot and made up for all their previous losses.
    2) It CORRUPTS the Government officials who promote it. The profits are so enormous and the temptation to "compromise" just a little for your piece of the pot is so great until it is extremely hard to avoid entanglement. And a little thread soon leads to a steel rope that controls the actions and attitudes of many.
    3) It CIRCUMVENTS the plan of God that men would earn his living by the sweat of his brow. If no one farms than a million dollars would not buy a loaf of bread!
    4) It CONDITIONS men to look to "luck" to meet their needs instead of trusting in the Lord. Father God is replaced with "lady luck"; and she is a hard woman to live with, and extremely fickle. The only "sure bet" is to trust God for daily bread. That way you will always be a winner.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, October 10, 2000

    Christians have the most needed "product" in the history of the world; eternal abundant life with God. Yet, many in the world have not received this "product"; and many have not even hear of it! Why are Christians such weak witnesses for such a needed "product"? The answer, I think, is threefold.
    Christians are weak witnesses because they are WEAK IN CHARACTER. Careless, lukewarm living causes many Christians to be very poor "samples" for the "product" we promote. The abundant life that we pronounce with our lips seems a terribly poor choice when compared with the "fun life" that the world lives; and that many Christians seem to envy and emulate! It is hard to get you to switch to "dove" soap is you find I, like you, am using "zest".
    Christians are weak witnesses because they are WEAK IN FAITH. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God; yet many Christians look for ANY excuse to miss Church and seldom, if ever, have a consistent daily devotion with God. Many Christians would be totally shocked if something actually happened when they pray! And because their faith and fellowship with God are weak they don’t have an impact on a world that is desperately looking for something that is supernatural; and yet real.
    Finally, Christians are weak witnesses because they are WEAK IN COURAGE. Christians can talk about ball games, social events, and even the latest Gossip! But in church after church, when I ask how many people try to share their faith with at least one person each week, all I get are dropped heads and embarrassed looks. The reason is simple. Most Christians seem terrified to tell anyone about the most important event in their life; when they met God and became His child.
    God commanded you to tell. The World needs to hear. Don’t be a weak witness.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, October 11, 2000

    Satan hates Christians. He wants to destroy them but he can’t do that because greater is He that is in the Christian than he that is in the world. Knowing he can not destroy them Satan next tries to defeat them. That will not work either because Christians are more than conquerors thru Christ who loves them.
    That leaves Satan only one avenue of attack. He knows that if he can defile Christians then that will defeat their testimony and destroy their effectiveness for God so that is how he attacks. And, like an ant trying to eat an elephant, he does his job slowly but consistently until even the mighty have fallen.
    Like Lot, he vexes the righteous soul of Christians day by day with the ungodly conduct of an ungodly world. Television, music, office conversations, and worldly advertisements all promote values and morals that are hurtful and offensive to Christian growth and weaken Christian character.
    As in the case of David, Satan uses wicked imagination to stir thoughts and actions that defile and defeat Christian conduct. Animal sex replaces human love in the hearts and minds of people until purity is lightly honored while promiscuous behavior is praised, applauded, and laughed at; even by Christians!
    If you are a Christian, Satan cannot destroy you and he cannot not defeat you. But he will try to defile you. You must constantly be on guard or the "ant will eat the elephant!"

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, October 17, 2000

    (Heb 4:12) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
    The Word of God is wonderful. This familiar scripture verse tells us that the Word of God is Alive- It changes every time you read it while remaining changeless in its affirmation of God and His plan. It is also powerful- In its endurance: (Mat 24:35) Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. And in its ability: (Rom 10:17) So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
    It is also an exposer. The Word of God is like a knife that cuts pass our defenses and pierces into the very heart of who we are. It has no pity on our pride; it opens us up and shows us secret places and passions in our soul that we really would prefer not to know about!
    When this verse says that the Word of God exposes the "thoughts" of the heart it uses a Greek word that means our "underwear". In other words, we are exposed down to our private and intimate parts. Attitudes and actions that we are able to hide from others (and sometimes even ourselves) are exposed by God’s word so we can see how much we need His righteous covering.
    The word "intents" is a Greek word meaning to "expose the jugular" and is used of a person in the Greek games who is defeated and a sword is at his throat awaiting the thumbs up of mercy or the thumbs down of death. The Word of God exposes just how helpless and hopeless we are apart from Christ.
    Read God’s word today. Heed God’s word today. And if it exposes your underwear it only means you need the Garment of Salvation that God freely provides.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, October 18, 2000

    In my position as state Promotional Director for Free Will Baptist I get to attend a large number of revivals and special services. Many times as the speaker delivers God’s message some particular point stands out and makes me "ponder". Here are some of those "pondering points" I have written down recently.
    "How many people will be in Heaven because of you?" Rev Dale Yarborough.
    "Is the moral stand you make based on crowd convictions, church convictions, or Christ convictions" Rev Eddie Reddick
    "When God’s people get serious, God gets serious" Rev John Diggers.
    "I started out with nothing and still have most of it!" Missionary to Brazil, Jim Cowart
    "God called me to be a fisher of men. He then gave me India as my fish pond. I can’t quit as long as their remain fish to catch." 75 year old missionary to India, Carlisle Hanna
    "My job is not to bring all men to Christ. My job is to bring Christ to all men". Home Missionary Bennie Turner
    "It is seeing a lost world through the eyes of Christ and the heart of God that makes us go on when we want to give up." Home Missionary Todd Smith.
    "We lose the joy of life when we begin to love the Blessing more than the Blesser." Rev Theron Scott

.Lessons for Living for Tuesday, October 24, 2000

    I love feeding Preachers! From time to time I get the opportunity to buy a meal for a Preacher. To me it is one of the most exciting things you can do because you know God is going to "return the favor" somewhere down the line; and God always gives more than has been given!
    Recently at a Minister’s Meeting I realized that I did not have very much money. My first thought was, "I need to pay for some preacher’s meals today". Carefully counting my pennies I was able to pick up several tickets and tell the Pastors that I would pay for them. On the way home from the Minister’s Meet my wife called and said we were going to have to go out to supper that night. Now you want to second guess buying those minister’s meals.
    My wife’s sister in law’s mother had passed away and her nephew was home from service for the funeral. The family wanted to spend some time together with him, and since most of the ladies worked, it was decided to go out to eat and enjoy some fellowship. Sounds good except for the fact that I had cut myself pretty trim paying for those minister meals.
    As soon as we walked into the restaurant one of my brother in laws said to me, "Mike, my wife and I have been talking and we want to buy supper for you and your wife tonight." I love feeding preachers. It is one of the most exciting things you can do!
    (Eccl 11:1) "Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days." (And sometimes even the same day you sow it!!).

Miracle Message for Wednesday, October 25, 2000

    (Rev 14:13) And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.
    Sometimes it is a long time before you see the fruit from the seed that is sown. Let me tell you a true story.
    I was at Home Coming at First Free Will Baptist Church in Greenville. People were testifying about what the Church had meant to them. The Piano player told about how she came to the Church and the long range impact it had.
    She and her husband decided to visit their family in Coward. The family convinced them to attend Sand Hill Free Will Baptist Church with them. Pastor Washington Miles preached a powerful message and the couple got saved. Brother Miles told them to find a local Free Will Baptist Church in their home town of Greenville when they returned.
    The next Sunday they attended the First Free Will Baptist Church in Greenville. Unknown to them, the Pastor of the Church had become discouraged and was thinking about leaving. He had prayed that week that if God wanted him to stay that somehow God would bring a couple into the Church so he could see some progress. This couple came in and 33 years later the successful ministry of this pastor is a matter of history.
    Brother Washington Miles has gone on to be with the Lord. But the work that he did for God that Sunday is still bearing fruit in a most unusual way. Sometimes it is just marvelous to see how God works in our labors so that our "works do follow us".

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, October 31, 2000

        In my mind’s eye I can see it as clear as night. The sun is just going down on the sleepy little village of Nazareth. The cool October weather has allowed all the children to get out of the house and there are shouts of excitement and fun echoing down every street in town. About mid way down a side street, at the door of a home beside a carpenter’s shop, a still lovely lady wipes a wisp of hair from her eyes and calls out, "Jesus, it’s time for supper. Gather your brothers and come on home."
    With one last yell of "see you tomorrow" they all come tramping down the street. The younger ones are quarreling about having to come in and begging for one last adventure but Jesus herds them toward the house just like a shepherd would lead his sheep into safety for the night. Mary greets them all with a point toward the wash basin and tells Jesus to go next door and tell Joseph that supper is ready.
    Soon they are all gathered around the table and Joseph asks Jesus if he would like to return thanks for the meal. The younger ones squirm a little but Mary and Joseph still marvel at how simple and honest are the prayers of Jesus; just like a son who is talking to his father. The supper talk is about events of the day and plans for tomorrow but as soon as the meal is finished Joseph asks Jesus to bring the most treasured item in their poor home to his chair. Jesus fetches the holy scriptures and the evening hour takes on a sacred stillness as the word of God is read and discussed.
    That is what I see on an October night in Nazareth. What I don’t see is Jesus dressing up as a witch and threatening his neighbors with violence and vandalism if they don’t fill his bucket with candy. What do you see Jesus doing on the last night in October?

 Miracle Message for Wednesday, November 1, 2000

    John Stott in his classic book "Basic Christianity" makes the following statement- "The best contribution anyone can make to the supply of the world’s needs is to live a Christian life, build a Christian home, and radiate the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ".
    How succinctly he describes the Three main duties of a Christian who wants to be a good citizen.
    1) Live a Christian Life- Can you think of a greater need in society today than pure, peaceable, godly living? Christians are the salt of the earth and what a horror it is when the "salt has lost its savor!" How important is this- remember, it is the removing of the Christian Church that ushers in the terrible tribulation time.
    2) Build a Christian Home- Society increasingly believes it is the duty of the government or the schools to raise children correctly. Christians know that children are an heritage of the Lord and Christian parents are responsible for training them in the way they should go. The principles and practices taught in the Christian home are extremely important for now; and for eternity.
    3) Share the Gospel Light- Christian Citizens are very aware that "the boat is sinking". We value the environment but we know that it will be burned up one day- along with all who reject God! Our priority must be the preaching of the Gospel with our life and lips so that people can be saved and enjoy a new earth wherein dwells righteousness!.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, November 7, 2000

    Email was what finally did it. For over seventy years this lady had found no real use for a computer. She had seen them and even used one a little at work, but she never had a desire for one until she found the benefits of Email. Suddenly, those far away friends were as close as a few taps on a keyboard.
    Finances put a new computer out of range but an older model that was not needed by a local store so it could be donated to her was just her price. But even free items sometimes cost as she ended up having to purchase telephone connectors, wires, and a power strip in order to plug in all the components. And the power strip is where the problem came in.
    She hooked everything up and plugged everything into the power strip. But when she tried to plug in the power strip it wouldn’t work. She turned it over; and even tried a different receptacle but still she could not get the strip to plug in. Finally, she called a friend to see if she needed a special receptacle for her power strip.
    As she described her problem it suddenly dawned on her friend that she had left the plastic protectors on the plug and that was why she couldn’t get it to plug into the receptacle! It made me laugh until I thought about the number of times I fail to "power up" for God because I have left sin or self coverings over my connection to God. And I have found, as this lady found, that you cannot get power if you do not remove the obstacles between you and the source of power.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, November 8, 2000

    Far too many Christians have become "bushel believers" who hide the light of their relationship with God under the "bushel" of busyness or bashfulness. Their Christianity is a private personal possession instead of a world changing, people drawing, life style.
    The world has convinced us that it proper to talk about sexual exploits or sleazy gossip but we must never mention our private religious convictions. To the world it is quite proper to get on national TV and reveal you are having an affair with your mother but it would be the height of embarrassment to declare publically that you were praying for the salvation of your mother.
    The world does not mind if you talk with foul language, expose your sinful desires, or even parade your naked body in public (!) but it cringes in terror if you talk about your life changing relationship with Christ.
    Jesus said the light of believers was supposed to shine from the mountain tops; not cower under bushel baskets. Christians can chose to be politically correct or biblically obedient with their light. But what a sad day it will be for these "bushel believers" when they face the blinding light of a righteous God and try to explain the devouring darkness that enveloped this sin cursed world while they cowered under cover.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, November 14, 2000

    Why do Pastors go gray (or bald) so soon? Why do so many of them have "stress stomachs" full of ulcers? Part of the answer lies in the concerns every good pastor has for his congregation. These concerns are almost innumerable but let me list three that preoccupy most pastors.
    The SALVATION of the Sheep. Pastors are well aware that we live in a world bound for destruction. Only those who trust Jesus Christ as Savior will escape the tears and torments of the eternally lost. The primary concern of every true Pastor is that the members of his congregation repent of their sins and turn in faith to God’s offer of eternal life in Christ. To a Pastor this is so clear, and so necessary, yet he must preach his heart out week after week to people who seem little concerned with the flames of hell that lick at their feet.
    Secondly, a good pastor is concerned with the SANCTIFICATION of his flock. It is not enough for men just to get right, they must walk right also. Purity of life is the only way to build a consistent relationship with the Lord and a consistent testimony with the world. Developing Biblical Standards and Christian Character in people takes a lot of hard work and practical preaching on the part of a Pastor.
    Finally, a good pastor has to work hard at getting his congregation actively involved in Christian SERVICE. Faith without works is a dead faith. Christians must be enlisted and trained in the work of God. And then the pastor must continually work with these volunteers in order to prevent desertions, disputes, and discouragements. My ulcer acts up just thinking about it!
    Pray for your pastor this week. He has many concerns on his shoulders; and one of those concerns is you!

Miracle Message for Wednesday, November 15, 2000

    (Mark 11:24) Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
    Can this verse really be in scripture? Is it possible that God really WANTS to answer our prayers? The answer, of course, is that (1 Pet 3:12) the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers:. Like any loving Father, God wants the very best for His children and He delights in granting them their proper requests.
    Why then do so many Christians pray so much and get so few results? The answer lies in recognizing the three major barriers to consistently answered prayer:
    - the Iniquity in our Heart- (Psa 66:18) If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: Sin in our life breaks our fellowship with God and blocks our prayer line.
    - the Ignorance in our Mind- We don’t know HOW to ask or WHAT to ask or even WHEN to ask and we have not because we ask not (James 4:2). Learning the mind of God helps bring the Blessings from God.
    - the Infirmities of our Body- Sometimes you just don’t feel like praying (remember the disciples slept while Jesus prayed). Praying is very hard work and many are too lazy to pray.
    If few of our prayers are answered, it is because we beg and hope instead of asking, believing, and receiving.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, November 21, 2000

    A year ago 2434 was nothing but a grown up field. A year ago 2434 was covered with weeds and almost useless. Today, due to the kindness of a Christian friend and the help of my wonderful brother, it is a level lot covered with grass and blooming with flowers.
    A year ago people started driving on 2434 and bogging down was a normal part of their travel. Mud and slick piles of weeds made each excursion an adventure; and not the pleasant kind. Today, thanks to the kindness of Christian friends in a wonderful Church, 2434 has a concrete drive way, a concrete parking area, and a paved entrance.
    A year ago snakes, rats, and spiders were the main occupants of 2434. A year ago 2434 was just a field to traverse for local rabbits, squirrels, and dogs. Today, due to the mercy and grace of our wonderful Lord, it holds the first home that 2 wayfaring strangers on this earth have owned in over 31 years.
    A year ago the present residents of 2434 were filled with confusion and despair as they tried every method in their means to find a place to dwell but every road seemed to led to a dead end and every effort at finding a place to stay ended in failure. Today the lights of 2434 gleam brightly each night as they cast a welcome glow that spells Home as I drive in from work.
    God is great and greatly to be praised. There are many things that I thank Him for and for which I praise His wonderful name. Among them this year is the place I now call home- 2434 Allen Road. It was bought with God’s directions. It is being paid for by God’s provision. And it exist so that 2 workers for God will have a place of refuge and refreshment as they journey around our state doing a work for God. Thank God for 2434.

 Miracle Message for Wednesday, November 22, 2000

    Did you know that the middle chapter in the Bible is Psalm 118? The shortest chapter in the Bible is the one before this chapter (Psalm 117) and the longest chapter in the Bible is the chapter after this chapter (Psalm 119).
    The Bible has 594 chapters before Psalm 118 and 594 chapters after Psalm 118 making a total of 1188 chapters. 1188 could be translated Psalm 118:8. Guess what? This is the middle verse in the Bible. Should the central verse in the Bible have an important message? Look at it- "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man." Is this not the main message of the entire Bible?
    The Bible begins by showing man in a pristine state of innocence in the Garden of Eden. He has almost anything a man could want; and even when he needed a helpmate to make him complete God graciously provided one for him. His work was easy, his fellowship with God was daily, and his life was great.
    Then came sin, expulsion from the garden, and all the deceit of sin at work in man’s character and conduct. Since then the middle verse of the Bible has proved to be all too true- It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. In a world of chaos and confusion, who is your trust in today? Sinful man or a loving God? Put trust in God at the center of your life and see the wonderful difference it will make.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, November 28, 2000

    Pastor Brian Tolliver of New Prospect Free Will Baptist Church recently prayed before I preached. In his prayer he asked God to do three things with the message I was about to deliver. As I listened to his prayer it occurred to me that the three things he had asked for were the three main purposes of a sermon.
    1) Sermons are supposed to Convict us of the sin and wrong in our life. A famous preacher once said that the best way to preach so as to get no one converted was to preach about sin but never name any! Sermons are not discourses on current events. Nor should they be discussions about the pet peeves of the speaker. Sermons are messages from the Most High God that are intended to show how much we need God; and then show how God has provided a way for us to meet His standards through faith in the death and resurrection of His dear Son.
    2) Sermons are supposed to Challenge us to commit to serving God with all our heart and soul. Sermons are not meant just to inform us about circumstances and situations; they are supposed to lead to action. The Bible admonition is always "Faith without works is dead, being alone". So a sermon will not be presented just to make you feel good; it’s main goal will be to motivate you to action for God.
    3) Finally, a Sermon is meant to show how God can Change us into a new creature in Christ. The book stores are full of theories and programs that are supposed to help you make a success out of life. Only the word of God, preached under the anointing of God, can bring about real change, however.
    God does not convict us of our wrong and challenge us to do right without providing a way for us to accomplish what He requires. And He reveals this plan in Sermons. Visit the House of God and listen to one this Sunday.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, November 29, 2000

    Rev Tony Trott, Pastor of Jefferson Road Free Will Baptist Church in Sumter, recently shared numerous reasons why he was thankful he was a Christian. The reasons he gave starting with the letter "T" are enough to make any person stand up and shout about the privilege of being called a child of God.
    Christ Transformed me from a sinner into a son of God when He forgave my sins and covered them with His shed blood. His Tenderness toward me during our years Together has kept me from falling.
    Christ is the Truth and I can Trust Him to always lead me in the right way. The greatest Thrill I have in life is having unbroken fellowship with Christ. The greatest opportunity I look for in this world is to Tell someone else about what Christ has done for me.
   Christ will Transport me one day to a Heavenly home where I will be able to enjoy His presence always. Christ might even come back today and rapture me from the Tribulation that will soon engulf this world. And when I finally get to Heaven I will see all the Treasures He has laid up for me to enjoy.
    I believe Brother Tony’s statements fit Christianity to a "T"! What a joy to know that God loved me enough to come to earth and die for my sins. What a pleasure have the Spirit of Christ abiding in my heart each day. And what an anticipation it is to look forward to Heaven where I will finally see him Face to Face.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, December 5, 2000

    As Paul was writing Second Corinthians he came to a place in his telling of God’s goodness that he simply had to proclaim, "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift." (2 Cor 9:15). What is this gift and what would make it so valuable that words could not describe it? The answer, of course, is the heart of Christmas.
    Notice the MOTIVE of this Unspeakable Gift- God’s Great Love- "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life". (John 3:16)
    Next see the PURPOSE of this Unspeakable Gift- To free men from sin’s penalty and give them eternal abundant life- "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Rom 6:23)
    But what makes this gift so overwhelming until it simply cannot be described is the COST of this gift. Most of you expect that here I will say this gift cost the death of God’s precious Son, Jesus Christ- and it did! But that is not the crux of the cost.
    Note one finally verse- "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him".(2 Cor 5:21) Let me explain it this way. God and I go to lunch. I incur a debt when I order a meal. When it comes time to pay I cannot pay. God says He will pay for me. If He reaches into His bottomless pocket and pulls out the payment for my meal I am thankful. But God says, "I don’t have any money either but I will wash the dishes for you in order to pay your debt!"
    That’s it!! That is what makes God’s Gift "Unspeakable". Christ did not just die for my sins; He took my punishment of hell and endured it for me so that I could spend eternity in Heaven! Glory, Glory, Glory! What a wonderful savior; and what an unspeakable gift He gave!

Miracle Message for Wednesday, December 6, 2000

    (Mat 1:18_21) Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
    What a dilemma Joseph was in. Just before his long anticipated marriage he found his wife was pregnant. Three choices lay before him; choices that would affect millions.
   In the loose moral standards of today this does not seem like such a big deal. In the time of Joseph and Mary it was a "killing offense". Had Joseph wanted to, he could have publically exposed Mary and asked the city to stone her. That would be the self righteous, angry vengeance choice that suited the mob.
   Joseph was a "Just man", however and decided to simply put her away privately. Translation- You go your way and I will go mine and we’ll let you deal with this problem. The selfish Choice.
   But Joseph chose the final option- listen to the voice of God, marry Mary, accept the gossip, and fulfil God’s plan for man. Not an easy choice but the right choice.
   This Christmas season will present you with many choices. Will you choose to follow the mob, think only of yourself, or listen to God and obey His plan for your time?? Your answer is important.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, December 12, 2000

KILLER ORANGE JUICE

    It started as a sniffle. Then came the hoarse sounding voice. Then the "I just don’t feel good" comments and it was obvious that a cold was beginning. The manager of our Free Will Baptist Bookstore is a dedicated Christian, a hard worker, and the only full time employee at the store! It sounded like he was getting sick and that would put us in a big bind here at Christmas.
    We didn’t have time for him to go to a doctor; and catch no telling what from the sick people there, so I prescribed some home remedies. Two aspirins, some Vicks salve under his nose, and a gallon of orange juice. That’s when he told me, "Preacher, you must be trying to kill me instead of cure me". Then it dawned on me that Brother Eddie is a diabetic and that much orange juice would send him into insulin shock.
    For years good men have done the same thing. They have tried to deal with the chaos of a sin cursed world by recommending every "human remedy" they thought would work- religion, good works, self confidence, education, etc.. What they failed to realize was that they were doing the same thing I was doing for Brother Eddie, killing him instead of curing him.
    Christmas is about many things to many people but its true meaning is that God looked down from Heaven and saw that mankind was separated from Him and destined for eternal punishment with Satan. Unwilling in His love for this to happen, God sent His only begotten Son to earth to provide the only remedy that would cure instead of kill. He wrapped this gift to the world in a manger and attached a cross ornament to the bow and then presented it in such a way that whosoever will may come and receive eternal life.
    This Christmas you can drink "orange juice" and slowly kill yourself, or you can accept God’s Son as your savior and follow Him to a new and abundant life. The choice seems easy to me.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, December 14, 2000

    Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. (Acts 1:11)
    All around people are making preparations to celebrate the first coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. It would do them well to turn their thoughts toward His second coming! For just as surely as He came the first time as a babe in Bethlehem, so He will come again very soon as the King of kings and Lord of lords.
    At His first coming prophets had preached for years that He would come; but few really believed it. So it is today as only a few believers are anxiously awaiting His second coming.
    At His first coming many were unaware of what had happened as Angels sang and shepherds worshiped. Even so, at His second coming the Church will be "snatched" away in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye and most people will hardly know or care about the removal of the righteous.
    Today many only celebrate His first coming as an excuse to give gifts and celebrate with parties and festivities. After His second coming men will give gifts and celebrate at the death of the two witnesses who proclaimed His word (Rev 11:10). In each case they are inviting the wrath of God.
    He Came before. He WILL come again. You need to factor that into your Christmas plans.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, December 19, 2000

    (Mat 1:20_23) But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
    One of the most important aspects of Christmas is the Virgin Birth. Unless that truth is true then the rest of the Gospels are simply good moral stories. Without the Virgin Birth Jesus is simply another man born in a small village in a small nation who grew beyond his circumstances and became a great teacher and leader.
    The Virgin Birth means that Jesus was born without the sinful nature that condemns all men after the fall of Adam. The Virgin Birth means that Jesus was the Son of God come to earth to die for the sins of mankind instead of the son of Mary born in a stable under suspicious circumstances.
    Paul said that if you did not believe in the resurrection you were of all men most miserable (I Cor 15:19). I contend that if you do not believe in the Virgin Birth then Christmas is simply Xmas and the stress and commercialization that have become such a normal part of the holiday season will make it a miserable time for you. But if Christ was born of a virgin that makes Him the Son of God; and that is the only thing that will turns this holiday into a Holy Day.

    Miracle Message for Wednesday, December 20, 2000

    (John 1:1,114) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
    When God wanted to talk "People" He sent a person! Man’s sinful rebellion had brought different dialects to the earth (Gen 11). How could one person communicate to all these different languages and cultures? God knew the only way was for that person to be the "Word"; so God, the Word, was made flesh and dwelt among men.
    This means then that Christmas is not just a celebration; it is a communication. It is God talking about the three things that most need to be talked about in any language or culture: Love, Redemption, and Hope.
    Love for man caused God to leave the comforts of Heaven and come to the cruelty of earth. Love beyond expression. Love beyond comprehension. Love that could only come from a God who is Love.
    Redemption is the reason Love acted. God’s Love was not some mushy sentiment meant to make us feel good. He knew we were slaves to sin, captives to corruption, and bound for Hell. So His love brought Redemption. And that brought Hope for all mankind.
    What a Word God gave us at Christmas! Listen to Him today.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, December 26, 2000

    I call it one of those "Glory" verses- (Psa 78:72) So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his hands. It shows that God provides for, and pilots, His people.
    Everyone needs Nourishment and Direction. The Nourishment sustains our life and the Direction provides meaning to our life. That is why Jesus stressed that He was the "Bread of Life" and the "Light of the world"; He came so that man would have everything he really needed to live an abundant life.
    But note how God Provides and Pilots. He feeds us according to the integrity of his heart! The "integrity of his heart"- and we are talking about a pure and holy God! That is as good as it gets! When God provides our needs He does so with pure motives that seeks only the ultimate good of the person.
    And look at how He leads us, "by the skilfulness of his hands". Is there anyone more skillful than God? Would anyone else’s hand on the steering wheel of your life be as steady or as sure? Absolutely not! What a joy it has been in my life over and over to see God’s skillful steering in my circumstances and situations. Often the passages have been narrow and the obstacles have loomed directly ahead, but God’s guiding hand has always brought me safely through.
    A new year looms just over the horizon. I don’t know what it will bring or where it will lead. But, as a Christian, I can rest in a God who provides provision according to the integrity of his heart and who pilots my ship by the skillfulness of his hands. And that allows me to face the new year with faith and hope.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, December 27, 2000

    (James 4:13_17) Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: {14} Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. {15} For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. {16} But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. {17} Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
    In a short article, that is a lot of scripture but it was necessary in order to show you what God revealed to me. First note the folly of Presumption. As one man said, "Man composes but God disposes". We make our plans but God can change all of our plans in a moment of time- sickness, death, disaster, etc.
    But note verse Seventeen. It reveals the necessity of Positive Practice if we are to be acceptable to God. Verse seventeen begins with a "Therefore" and the therefore is there for us to see that, while it is wrong to leave God out of our Plans; it is a sin to leave good works out of our Practice!
    Just as it would be presumptuous for me to plan my life as if God did not exist, so it would be folly for me to claim to be a Christian and fail to actively live for God. Remember that; and put God first in your plans and in your practice this year.