Jesus Saves

I'm Walking On Sunhine

2012-01-27T13:16:00.000-06:00

Katrina and the Waves had a hit song back in the 80's with "I'm Walking on Sunshine." But when they wrote the tune, they were nowhere near sunshine. In fact, it was cold, clammy, and not even daytime in New York City when they wrote it. But listening to the song with its upbeat lyrics, you would never have known. Maybe that is some very good advice for all of us. Some days are just not all sunshine. But, as the old saying says, maybe we should "fake it until we make it". I find that "acting" happy even when I am not can sometimes snap me out of a funk very quickly. Are you down in the dumps right now? Well consider two things: First, that is a normal feeling and second, you can change it with God's help. Just think about Jesus and let His complete peace chase away your blues. You know He can do it; think how many times he has helped you in the past. Trust in Him, and before long you will be "Running on Sunshine" Amen!!!

Priceless

2011-10-04T11:33:00.000-05:00

Not having to go to church on Sundays: Zero dollars.

Not having to be nice to other people: Zero dollars.

Not having to read the Bible: Zero dollars.

Not having to ask for forgiveness: Zero dollars.

Having to spend eternity in hell: CHRISTless.

Romans 10:13 says, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Father, thank you for Your Son Jesus. Help us to always put Him first and to bring honor and Glory to His precious name. Touch the hearts of those who have not yet come to Him. In Jesus name, Amen.

Evil Amoung Us

2011-10-02T15:24:00.000-05:00

It was on this day nine years ago when the terror began, and it lasted for 23 excruciating days before the killers were finally apprehended. "Still recovering from the terrorist attacks of 9/11, innocent people in the Washington D.C. area found themselves under siege once more-by an unseen, unknown, and seemingly unstoppable enemy." [Angie Cannon of U.S. News and World Report] We will never forget the pain, anger, and sadness that John Allen Muhammad and Lee Boyd Malvo injected into the lives of their victim's families and friends when they murdered at least 10 people and wounded even more with a stolen Bushmaster XM-15 semiautomatic .223 caliber rifle equipped with a reflex sight at ranges of between 50 and over 100 yards. Muhammad was executed by lethal injection on November 10, 2009, and Malvo was sentenced to 6 consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole. He could still be extradited to Alabama or Louisiana for prosecution stemming from crimes in those states as well.

I have never experienced the magnitude of pain and sorrow that these families did, and I am not sure how one goes about forgiving such hideous acts. I do know that forgiveness is a process, just like healing. I can't imagine how a human being could possibly process all the emotions that are involved with losing a loved one to murder. But I do know that Jesus Christ is a Master at helping people deal with such things. Jesus helps us sort out problems through our friends, family, and counselors. If you are dealing with an issue right now that involves you having to forgive someone, and you feel there is no way you will ever be able to do that, ask Jesus for help. Always remain open-minded to the paths and avenues through which He may lead you. If you are unable to forgive at this moment, don't beat yourself up over it. We are only human, and God understands our struggles. He created us, and He knows us even better than we know ourselves. Don't give up. With Jesus, there is always hope!

Romans 2:7 says, "To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life."

Father, please wrap your loving arms around those who may need You most. Help us all learn how to forgive, just as You have forgiven us. In Jesus name, Amen.

Concentric Circles

2011-09-27T09:41:00.000-05:00

In Geometry, concentric circles are defined as circles that have the same center point. You can create concentric circles by tossing a rock into a pond. After the rock hits the water, ripples or waves form and flow out from the center. These circles grow larger as they continue flowing away from the center. This is precisely what happens during a tsunami. The waves from a tsunami can travel up to 500 miles per hour and thousands of miles from the center. These waves travel out in all directions with incredible energy. I guess we will never forget the tsunami of 2004 that killed thousands of people. The power created by these concentric circles is unbelievable!

When we put Jesus in charge and at the center of our lives, many things change for the better. We become happier, live more peacefully, and gain tons of hope. Like ripples on a pond, these changes flow out from us in all directions and have the power to change others. Have you ever known someone who had such an electric personality that you were drawn to them? You can also have that kind of personality that draws people to you. And when people are drawn to you, they will see Christ as the reason. Just toss the Solid Rock that is our Savior into the center of your life. The ripples that result can be very powerful!

Proverbs 3:6 says, "In all thy ways, acknowledge Him and he shall direct thy path."

Father, I am proud to have You at the center of my life. I ask you to help me win souls for Your Kingdom, according to Your perfect will. In Jesus name, Amen.

Follow These Simple Rules

2011-09-26T16:39:00.000-05:00

I had an awesome time in Salt Springs, Florida this past weekend! It was amazing to see all my family, and especially amazing to see how much kids and grand kids have grown. I didn't even recognize some of them. Each family had their own personal cottage for the weekend, and I stayed in #17. It was about as nice as being at home. One thing that kind of amused me, though, was a form that was left on the coffee table for tenants. It read, "Welcome to our cottage. Please follow these simple rules." It did seem simple, at first. There were only 8 rules...until I noticed there were some on the other side of the form, too. The flip-side contained 14 more, for a total of 22 "simple" rules.

In the Old Testament of the Bible, God gave Moses certain "rules" to follow. Known as the Mosaic Law, those rules were intended for the people of Israel. Such rules in the Old Testament covered a variety of topics including the Sabbath (seventh day), animal sacrifices, the Levitical priesthood, circumcision, special holy days, burning incense, tithing, instrumental music, and dancing in worship. I have to admit that I have a very hard time just trying to remember all those rules, and I can only imagine how hard it must have been to obey all of them. But the good news, at least for us today, is that these rules are no longer binding. God gave the rules, and only He can change them, which He did when He sent His Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins. Hebrews Chapter 8 says, ""Behold, the days are coming, says the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah - not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they did not continue in My covenant . . ." says the LORD. “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days," says the LORD: I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people . . . In that He says, “A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away."

Father, thank-you for the New Covenant that is Jesus Christ. I personally accept it and will always have my faith in Him. In Jesus name, Amen.

Trust Me

2011-09-22T06:20:00.000-05:00

Back in the old days, a hand shake was all that was needed to solidify a contract. In contrast, it takes several pages of legal jargon and scores of sign heres and initial theres for a contract today. Back in the day, people never even considered locking their doors at night. But today, it is wise to keep them locked even in the middle of the day. What has happened to trust? It seems so hard to build trust anymore because of the number of times we get let down. Not only is it hard to trust others anymore, but it is also hard for others to trust us. A promise just isn't what it used to be. How many times have we let others down in the past? I know we are only human, born to make mistakes, but you know as well as I do that once trust is broken, it can be so very hard to regain.

How many times would it take somebody breaking your trust before you simply threw your hands in the air and gave up? How many times of them breaking your heart before you finally decided you were just a fool to trust and believe them in the first place? I know I have had my share of let-downs. Not only have others betrayed my trust, but I have broken theirs as well. But aren't we lucky that we serve a God who trusts us no matter how many times we sin against Him? If other people did to us only occasionally what we do to Christ daily, we would never trust them again. But our Jesus forgives us no matter what we do or how often we do it, and He even forgives us before we ask Him. What an incredible demonstration of the power of God's Grace! I know there is a big difference between forgiving somebody and trusting somebody after they have betrayed us. Maybe the forgiving part is easier than the trusting part, but with Christ's help, perhaps we can learn to do both. And that's a promise we can "shake" on.

Psalm 103:8 says, "The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy."

Father, thank you for forgiving and trusting us when we mess up. Please help us to do the same when others betray us. In Jesus name, Amen

A Teaching Moment

2011-09-21T07:02:00.000-05:00

Yesterday in my classroom, a very good opportunity came up to teach my students about something beyond the regular curriculum. Although a sad topic, most students were very involved in the discussion. We got to talking about some of their classmates who had been called to heaven by the Lord. Most of those who had already passed were involved in motor-vehicle collisions. But two of our Dothan High students stood out in my mind as dying from something other than a car crash: One was struck and killed by lightning, and the other was playing a stupid game of Russian Roulette. A few of my students were not familiar with this deadly "game". After explaining it to the class, most could not believe a person with any sense would play such a game. So I questioned them about it. I asked if any of them thought they might ever try it. One student told me, "I know peer pressure can cause students to do some dumb things, but I don't think any pressure would cause me to do something that dumb". 100% of the class agreed that the game was too risky and that their lives were much more important to them, their friends, and their families to try something so stupid. So then I asked how many of them text and drive at the same time. Silence....

I was not judging my students, because Lord knows I have texted while driving before, too. But when I think about it afterwards, I realize that it was just as dangerous to do that as it would be to play Russian Roulette. But texting while driving is much worse because there are a lot of innocent people on the road that can be affected by it. I will never forget when I lived in New Jersey and learned about a 17-year old that had been drinking and driving. He veered just a little too far over the center line and hit an on-coming car head-on. It killed three people in that car...his mom, dad, and little brother. They just happened to be driving on that road at that very moment. To this day, he continues to struggle with his bad decision that wiped-out his family. We all do dumb things, but God gave us a brain and expects us to use it. Please don't drive while intoxicated nor when intexticated. I'm challenging you as well as myself to never, ever do that again.

Father, please forgive us for continuing to do certain things that we know we should never do. Help us to place our bibles on top of our cell phones while we are driving. In Jesus name, Amen.

Family Matters

2011-09-19T21:12:00.000-05:00

This coming weekend, I will be on my way to Salt Springs, Florida for a family reunion. I am looking very forward to it! Although I am ashamed to admit it, this will be the first one that I have attended in 3 years. I haven't been absent from the past 3 reunions because of anything me family did to me. I have been absent from the past 3 reunions simply because of my own self-centered, bull-headiness. Each year that I would announce I wasn't going to attend, my family, though not too surprised, was still very understanding and encouraging.  You see, I have the best family in the world, and I know they always love me. As I write this devotion, I am almost in tears, both happy ones and sad ones. I am sad that I have wasted 3 years with them that I will never, ever get back. But I also have happy tears too, because, well, I feel like I am coming home. I feel like the Prodigal son, and just like the Father in the Bible story, my family will be waiting for me with open, forgiving arms. Trust me, I am going to absolutely enjoy every single second of this trip!

If you are having any trouble with your family, whether it is a result of your own doing or theirs, I encourage you to make every attempt to patch it up as quickly as you possibly can. You know, when it comes right down to it, family is all we truly have.  Think about those people in the world that have no family. They probably feel extremely isolated, like tiny islands surrounded by a big ocean. Can you only imagine their loneliness? But God chose to bless most of us with family. Why would we try to separate ourselves from the very thing God gave us?  I can not tell you what a relief I feel for reuniting with my family. Is it now possibly your turn to do the same?

Father, thank-you for our families, and I ask you to please help those who may not be seeing things eye-to-eye. In Jesus name, Amen.

More Than Just Facts

2011-09-19T06:30:00.000-05:00

Do you know where Jesus was born? Do you know who His earthly parents were? Do you know where He was baptized? Do you know how old He was when He started His ministry? Do you know where He was the night He was arrested? Do you know who sentenced Him to death? Do you know where He was crucified? Do you know what day He was resurrected? Now, the most important question of all? Do you know Him personally?

As we begin a new week, let's focus less on all the facts about Jesus and more on getting to know Him on a personal basis. The Bible teaches us that He longs to have a deep relationship with us. Just think about the scope of that for a minute: The Lord that created this whole world and everything in it still wants to be a personal basis with us. How awesome is that?

John 15:15 says, "I no longer call you servants....instead I call you friends."

Father, please help us get closer to You today. Teach us how to have a personal relationship with the God of the universe. In Jesus name, Amen.

Bam! Pow! Bang!

2011-09-18T10:21:00.000-05:00

Like many, I sure do enjoy watching a good college football game on TV. This past weekend, I saw some of the most fierce, bone-crunching hits on the field that I think I have ever seen before. You know the ones I am talking about. The receiver goes out for a pass, gets to the end of his route, and then turns around to find the ball almost already in his arms. He has great sight on the ball, but unfortunately for him, he is the only one in the entire world that doesn't have sight on the 290-pound defender closing in on his position ready to lower the boom. And then, BOOM! A collective "ugh" echos throughout the entire stadium. But the receiver just bounces right back up and hurries back to his team's huddle, ready to go out for another pass. How in the world can these guys take such violent hits and still keep going? I'm told it is through daily exercise, intense training, and an almost inhuman will to play this game called college football.

The rest of us may not play college football on Saturdays, but I think we all know what it feels like to get blind-sided by things in our everyday lives. Unexpected bills, aggravations at work, arguments with the family, and about a thousand other things stand in the shadows waiting to knock us out cold. We can't avoid these things, but there is a way to keep them from knocking us out of the game. We, too must exercise and train everyday. But our trainers are Jesus Christ and His Holy Word. When we take up our crosses daily, pray without ceasing, and meditate on His Word continously, we, too are able to bounce right back up and go out for another play. I am thrilled that the leader of my team is Coach Jesus, and that he gives me an almost inhuman will to play this game called life.

I Corinthians 15:58 says, "Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know your labor in the Lord is not in vain."

Father, oh how I thank you for helping me back up when things knock me down. Please help me to train even harder to be more prepared for 290-pound defenders. In Jesus name, Amen.

Best Poem In The World

2011-09-15T23:32:00.000-05:00

I am not sure if you have ever heard this poem before, but it sure is a good one! I was asked to re-post it, and I am glad to do so.

BEST POEM IN THE WORLD (Author Unknown)

I was shocked, confused, bewildered
As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
Nor the lights or its decor.
But it was the folks in Heaven
Who made me sputter and gasp--The thieves, the liars,
the sinners,The alcoholics and the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade
Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
Who never said anything nice.
Dan, who I always thought
Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
Looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal?
I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake.'
And why's everyone so quiet,
So somber - give me a clue.
''Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock.
No one thought they'd be seeing you.

'JUDGE NOT.

Every saint has a PAST.... Every sinner has a FUTURE!

Free Ride

2011-09-15T03:01:00.000-05:00

In the early 80's, Dan Hartman recorded a hit called I Can Dream About You. Hartman was a long-time singer/songwriter who once played in the band The Edgar Winter Group, a hard-rock band formed by Edgar Winter of Beaumont Texas. In fact, Hartman wrote one of their most memorable hits, Free Ride, in 1973. It is a very catchy, up-tempo song that is now famous for a couple of very hot guitar licks. I have always liked the song, but recently I really started focusing on the lyrics. They are powerful, and although I know Hartman probably didn't have this in mind when he wrote the song, they almost sound like lyrics about Jesus Christ and His plan of Salvation. Check this out:

The mountain is high, the valley is low
And you're confused 'bout which way to go
So I flew here to give you a hand
And lead you into the promised land

So, come on and take a free ride (free ride)
Come on and take it by my side
Come on and take a free ride

Jesus does in fact offer us a free ride to heaven. He booked our trip and paid for our tickets when He gave His life on Calvary. All we have to do now is accept His gift. Like the lyrics in the song say, there is no reason for us to be confused about which way to go, nor is there any reason we should wait any longer to accept His "once-in-a-lifetime" offer. I can still remember before I became a Christian, that I would feel an almost unexplainable tugging sensation deep inside whenever I would contemplate God. Of course now I know that that was the calling of the Holy Spirit. I am so glad I finally answered His call. I just wish I would have done it sooner. The last verse of Free Ride is:

We got to do better
It's time to begin.
You know all the answers,
are a stones-throw within.

Father, thank-you for offering me a Free Ride to the Promised Land. I pray for all those who are not Christians and who may be struggling with this decision. In Jesus name, Amen.

Eternal Means Eternal

2011-09-13T23:38:00.000-05:00

I tell my students to check over their tests very carefully after I grade them and hand them back. I am only human, and I can accidentally mark some of their answers wrong when in fact they are right. Once I am made aware of my mistake, I correct it immediately and add to their score. Sometimes I mess up the other way, though. Thankfully it doesn't happen much, but I have marked answers right before when they were actually wrong! For the student, that is just the luck of the draw. I will always grade in their favor. I will add to their score when necessary but never will I subtract from it.

Jesus promised us that if we believe in Him, He will give us Eternal life. John 3:16 is just one example of this Truth. But is it possible to sin our way out of that gift? Is it possible to lose our salvation? I believe with all my heart that the answer is no. Can our perfect God make a mistake? Would He give us Eternal life one day and then take it away the next? No way! If He did that, it would not be Eternal life. If God places an A+ on our paper, we can rest assured that He will never lower it to a B or a C, no matter what mistakes we may make or how many times we may make them. The more I learn about our Great Teacher Jesus Christ, the more I am amazed at His awesomeness! Praise Him!

God, Where Are You?

2011-09-13T03:05:00.000-05:00

My grandfather used to tell me this joke when I was younger. He said one day an elderly man was driving his wife to the store when they passed two teenage lovers in a sports car. The boy was driving the car and the girl was practically sitting in his lap. The elderly man's wife questioned, "Why don't we still drive like that? The elderly gentleman responded, "I have never moved".

During our hard times, we may ask, "Where is God?" But if we are truthful with ourselves, we know that we should be asking, "Where am I?" God promises He will never leave us in our most trying and difficult times. He is always sitting right there beside us in the driver's seat. Sometimes though, we get complacent and slowly inch away from Him. Then all of a sudden, a big bump in the road jars us awake and we look around and wonder where God has gone. But it is not He who has drifted from us, but instead, it is we who have drifted from Him. He is still right there, guiding us through the bumpy parts. We have all lived long enough to know that bumps in the road are simply a part of life and are bound to happen when we least expect it. Today, let's work on getting back to God, and let's practice on staying there with Him through thick and thin. Isn't it an awesome feeling to know that no matter how far away we may drift from Jesus, that He never truly drifts from us, and that He is always just one short "help" away? Call Him.

Hebrews 13:5 says, "I will never fail you nor abandon you."

Lord, thank-you for loving and caring for us so much that you will never leave us. You are an amazing God...You are THE amazing God. In Jesus name, Amen.

The Most Amazing Miracle

2011-05-14T12:05:00.000-05:00

Are you facing a crisis right now? Do you feel like the whole world is caving-in around you and that there is no escape? Maybe your situation is not as severe as going through the death of a loved one or going through a divorce or even some kind of drug addiction. But if you are like me, even your tiny problems can seem like huge, over-whelming monsters. There is hope! I have a key chain that reads, "With God, all things are possible". Sure, we have all heard that a thousand times, and most of us quote it to people when they are struggling. But do we truly believe that God can help us? Do you truly believe that God can help you right this instant?

Most of the time, it takes many steps to gradually crawl out of a hole and get ourselves back up. Taking the first step is the most important:  Turning it over to the Master, Jesus Christ.  But sometimes, that help can come to us in an instant. Remember when Jesus was peacefully sleeping during a storm on the Sea of Galilee? His disciples were in a panic and feared that they were about to drown. In a desperate attempt, they woke up Jesus and asked Him to save them. It's one of my favorite miracles in the entire Bible. Jesus calmed the storm instantly, not with a gradual decrease in rain and then a little less wind and then a clear sky. No, He did it fast, quick, in an flash, and with three simple words, not 12 steps or 6 sessions, or anything like that.  I pray that God is spreading his arms over you right this second and saying, "Peace, be still". Do you believe He can do that in your life today? I sure do.  Remember, David didn't just stun Goliath. He knocked him out cold, and in an instant! Maybe at this very minute, God has already fired that rock towards your enemy. I believe! Do you?

Psalm 60:12 says, "With God, we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies."

Father, I am praying for those who may be facing a major crisis in their lives. Remind us that You are the key to victory in every situation.  Although You do work in steps, we know You have the Power for an instant recovery!

Are We The Terminal Generation?

2011-03-29T13:31:00.000-05:00

I love studying about Bible prophesy and the topic of End Times. There is a wealth of information out there about it. It fascinates me to hear the pros and cons. Some people are absolutely certain in their belief that we will be the generation that witnesses the return of Jesus Christ. Yet others hardly give it a second thought. I am not sure which I believe; I am probably somewhere in the middle. But no matter how convincing people may sound on either side of the argument, the truth is nobody really knows for certain. But there is one truth about it that can not be ignored.  Whether we are the terminal generation or not, we might as well be. Either we will see Jesus coming back for us, or we will see us returning back to Him. The important thing is to be ready.

In a game of baseball, football, or basketball, a team always knows how much time it has left to come from behind.  But the subject of Jesus' return is not a game. We don't know how much time we have left on the scoreboard. Whether it is the first two minutes of the game or the final 2-minute warning, we must be winning at all times.  And the way we win is by accepting Christ now, not 10 minutes from now. The Bible promises us that we can be saved in an instant, but does not guarantee us another second to decide. We must be sure, positive, and certain now, just in case there is no later. We truly may be in sudden-death overtime.

Jeremiah 6:16 says, "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the Good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls."

Father, thank-you for saving us through Your perfect Son Jesus Christ. Give each of us the courage to accept Him. In Jesus name, Amen.

Whole Lot Of Shakin' Going On

2011-03-14T13:17:00.000-05:00

Earthquakes on the rise? Are earthquakes getting more intense? Depends on who you ask. I can find just as many websites that state there has been a sharp increase in earthquakes as I can find that say otherwise. If you check-out some Christian sites, the frequency and intensity of earthquakes are definitely on the rise, just as Jesus predicted there would be. But if you check out some science sites, there is really no significant increase in activity over the past million decades, give or take. Does it really matter, anyway?

I say no. I totally believe the Bible, and I feel strongly enough about its reliability that I don't need any "proof" to justify my belief. Being a Christian is completely and solely about just that... having a belief or faith in Jesus Christ. I have found that it is so much easier to just simply believe some things than it is to try to prove them. In mathematics, that is called a postulate; we accept some things to be true without proof. I can no more prove God's existence than an atheist can disprove it. So why fret over it? Instead, let's just remain steady in our faith, and do the best we can to share that faith with others.

Lord, please be with those who have been affected by the latest earthquake. Help us to remember that You are in complete control, no matter how tragic situations may get in the future.

Forgive Me Father, For I Have Sinned

2011-03-11T10:28:00.000-06:00

I love the story of the Prodigal Son in the Book of Luke. As with all of Jesus' parables, many lessons can be drawn. We all know the story, and I am sure we all see the parallel between the earthly father in the story and our real Father in Heaven. But I don't think this story ever gets old, and most of us find ourselves in the same shoes of the foolish, young son over and over again. In fact, if we think we don't, we are only deceiving ourselves. The Bible teaches us that we all sin, all the time. Oh, how many times have we fallen away, just to come back begging for God's mercy?

I love what the father does in the story. He stops his son's prepared speech in mid-sentence. His father was so thrilled that his son had come back that he couldn't even wait for him to finish talking before he ordered a celebration. It gives me tons of comfort to know God is the same way. We just can not out-sin the forgiving blood of Jesus Christ...Amen! So, no matter what we have done and no matter how many times we have done it, God still rushes to embrace us and forgive. Is there really any Power greater than that?

Luke 15:22 says, "But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. ²³ Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. ²⁴ For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate."

Father, How incredibly Great You are! Forgive me of all my trespasses and teach me to also forgive others. In Jesus name, Amen.

I Don't Belong To This World

2011-03-10T13:15:00.000-06:00

Do you remember the singer Phil Collins? I just read on the news that he has decided to "retire". According to the article, though, it may not be permanent. He said he just needs to take a little time off to be a full-time Dad. He has sold millions of records over the years, so his success as a recording artist speaks for itself. Now he wants to feel successful as a Dad. Good for him! But something he said in the article really caught my attention. He has another reason for retiring. He said after watching this years' MTV awards, he realizes he doesn't belong to this new musical world. Being a D.J. for 20-plus years, I agree 100%. But you don't have to be a D.J. to see how much music has deteriorated.

Jesus taught that we should not feel like we belong to this world. Instead, we should prepare ourselves for heaven. That is so hard to do when this world is all that we know. But as you get older, do you feel more alienated from this world? When I was a kid, it seemed like everyone was a Christian and went to church. But today, the media portrays Christians as some radical, not-with-it group. I am not implying that if you watch MTV or listen to today's music, then you are not a Christian. In fact, I am probably just venting here. But there is a lesson to be learned from Collin's interview. The saying goes "stand for something or you will fall for anything". Pray that God will help us continue to stand for Him and to not cave-in to the pressures of this world.

Put God First?

2011-02-13T19:22:00.000-06:00

Just the other day, I saw the broadcast of a local church service. This devotion is not meant in any way to be critical of that church, their pastor, or their members. The title of the service was "Put God First." The pastor was a dynamic speaker, more of a motivational kind of speaker than a traditional pastor. At the end of the service, I was left a little confused. The next day, the same broadcast came on again, so this time I watched it with "different eyes". Again, the name of the service was "Put God First". I counted how many times the pastor used that title or some kind of reference to it. He either actually said it or allluded to it only 4 times. But in that same 30-minute broadcast, he "reminded" the congregation that the church sold vitamins for their convenience 7 times.

What does it mean to put God first? Jesus told the people to seek Heaven first, and then all the others things they desired would be added unto them. But, as I have to remind myself many times, these two events of putting God first and all other things being added are mutually exclusive events, that is, they are two totally separate things. We should not be putting God first in order to get the other things we desire. We should be putting God first because we love Him...period. We should allow Him, in His infinite wisdom, to add to our lives only the things He deems necessary. Are we truly putting God first? God's words through that church broadcast reminded me that many times, I am not.

Deuteronomy 4:29 says, "If you seek the Lord your God, you will find Him if you look for Him with all your heart and with all your soul."

Jesus, please help me to truly put You first in my life and to put everything else third or fourth. In Jesus name, Amen.

Where Am I?

2011-02-09T21:26:00.001-06:00

I guess just about everybody has a G.P.S these days. I would be lost without mine. If you don't have one, you don't know what you are missing. It is hard to believe that little box can guide you just about anywhere. Simply type in the address and presto! One night, I was about out of fuel. I was traveling on an unfamiliar road and had no idea where I could find a gas station. But thanks to my G.P.S., it guided me to the closest one. That saved me. Bailey starts driving in a year. I will guarantee she will have one in her car!

God is like a G.P.S. No matter how lost we get or how far off the beaten path we may go, He can instantly guide us back on track. We may feel that we are just too lost for Him to find us. Maybe we feel that we have strayed so far away that He doesn't even want to find us. No way. There is no place we can go that he won't come after us. And don't ever think He doesn't want to. God specializes in saving us. If you are a long way from "Home", punch in your address into God's G.P.S. Trust me, He is there even before you get the address typed in. Our Lord is amazing. G.P.S. should stand for God Personally Saves. Amen!

Chronicles 15:2 says, "The Lord is with you. If you seek Him, you will find Him."

Father, thank-you for saving me from the beaten path. Your perfect love is demonstrated each time you come to our rescue. In Jesus name, Amen,

Eerie Coincidence

2011-02-05T03:22:00.000-06:00

Country and rockabilly singer Johnny Horton (North To Alaska) was haunted by premonitions of his own death. To those who were close to him, Johnny had an unusual fear of dying. He was married to Billie Jean, Hank Williams Sr.'s Widow. Williams had died on New Year's Day in 1952. Later that year, Horton and Billie Jean tied the knot. On November 5, 1960, Horton was killed in an auto accident. He had just finished performing at the Skyline Club in Austin, Texas. Incredibly, that was also the last place Hank Williams performed before his tragic death. Both men had kissed Billy Jean at the exact same place and on the exact same cheek before each one's death. Coincidence?

Many people didn't believe Jesus was the messiah that had been prophesied generations earlier in the Old Testament. Many thought he was just an ordinary man, despite the mountains of evidence suggesting otherwise. For whatever reason, people chose to overlook His virgin birth, His performed miracles, His raising people from death, and His power over nature. The Bible documents over 50 prophesies from the Old Testament that Christ fulfilled in the New Testament. A modern statistician decided to calculate the odds of any ordinary man fulfilling just 7 of those prophesies. The probability was staggering! He put it into terms that is easier to understand. He said suppose you take one quarter and paint it red. Then you fill up the state of Texas knee-high with regular quarters. Mix all those quarters together, and then blind-fold a man and tell him to walk into that "state" of quarters as far as he wants and pick one quarter. The odds of him picking that exact painted quarter would be the same as any one man fulfilling just seven of those prophesies. Coincidence? No way! Jesus is the Christ!

Luke 2:11 says, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."

Father, thank-you for the gift of your Son. Thank you for Jesus. In Jesus name, Amen.

We Will Miss You, Candi

2011-01-29T10:22:00.000-06:00

Our friend, Candi Taylor is gone. We are sad, confused, angry, hurt, and all the other feelings rolled into one. I guess the only people who completely understand what goes through a person's mind the split-second that they pull the trigger of their own gun are already gone. The rest of us are left to speculate and simply ask "why". I can still remember the numb feeling I received when I was told yesterday morning at school. She taught at my high school for years, but a couple years ago, she moved down to the middle school. She leaves an 8th-grade class with students who are also trying to make sense of what has happened. She also leaves a young son...

God is the only judge. I remember telling one of our co-workers at the copy machine yesterday. Obviously it was a shock to her, too. But she made a comment that really bugged me. She said, "I wonder what drives a person to commit the unforgivable sin of suicide? "What could possibly drive them to the point to take their own life and lose their salvation?" My first thought was in anger, and I wanted to lash out. I wanted so much to ask her what Bible she reads. My Bible, the Holy Bible, does NOT state that about suicide. But, I held my tongue, because again, God is the only judge. I wanted to give you a link to read about this subject from someone much more qualified than I. It is supported by several Bible verses. Please read it if you get a chance. http://www.gotquestions.org/suicide-Bible-Christian.html

Good-bye Candi. We will see you again real soon at God's table.

Order of Operations

2011-01-27T18:29:00.000-06:00

Ok, here's a simple arithmetic problem for you: What is 4 + 3 X 5 ? Did you get 35 or did you get 19? It all depends on how you look at it. Did you add 4 and 3 and then multiply that by 5 or did you multiply 3 by 5 first and then add 4? The correct way is the latter. The correct answer is 19. In mathematics, there is a certain order in which we calculate (called the Order of Operations...Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally). If there wasn't a set, correct order, we could all interpret the problem differently, and thus, get different answers.

The same is true about the Bible. Depending on how we read and interpret passages, the true meaning could be all over the map. I know some passages are very hard to discern, but it is what it is. We can't add to or take away from any part of it. We can't twist and turn the meaning around just so it will fit snug into our own personal lives. Rather, God set the "Order of Operations" and we must take it exactly as He intended it to be. If we could read it any 'ole way, we would all come up with different answers. But there is only One answer...God's answer. I have always loved this saying at Christmas: X-mas. Solve for X. Christ is the only solution....

Psalm 119:160 says, "All Your words are true; all Your righteous laws are eternal."

Oh Father, I ask you to please open my eyes to your Truths each day. Help me to always follow Your correct order of operations. In Jesus name, Amen.

Are You Serious?

2011-01-26T21:02:00.000-06:00

Students have really changed over the years that I have been teaching and from the years I went to school. On the first night of my college classes, I generally do those first-night things: Introduce myself, welcome them to my class, go over the expectations of the class, and then start on page one in the book. It used to be that everyone had their books the first night and were ready to start digging-in. But these days, I get this question, "Are you serious? You are going to actually teach us the first night?" It starts steam-rolling down-hill from there. "Do we really have to do homework? Do you take roll? Does it matter how many nights we miss? When do you do make-up tests? Again, this is my college class, not high school. After I burst a few bubbles and tell them, "YES you have to be here, Yes you have to do homework, YES you have to study in order to pass", it is amazing how many don't even show-up again. In 24 hours, I can usually weed through those who are serious about their education and those who are not.

Jesus had it going on! He had his disciples all around Him and they were so eager to learn from this awesome God/man. They were all so ready with bright-eyes and bushy tails. But then Jesus lowered the boom, so-to-speak. In a nut-shell, He told them that they could not follow Him half-heartily. There were no kind-a or sort-a; It was all or nothing. He certainly burst a few bubbles that day. The Bible verse says, "When they heard Him say this, they turned away from Him and followed no more." Ironically, the quote is John 6:66. Are we asking God if we have to do our homework, come to class, and study his Word real hard? Are we kinda sorta following Him? Are we serious about our God education?

Father, please help us follow you closer than we have been. Forgive us, for we are only humans. But also please help us not to over-use that excuse, either. You are the King of Kings! I am very honored to be in Your "Class".

My Hero, Paul

2011-01-19T21:16:00.000-06:00

Have you ever felt like God would not pick you to do anything important because you have been too "bad"? I have...many times. When it comes to "bad", it didn't get much worse than Paul. He worked 24/7 trying to persecute Christians. He was even there when the first Christian Martyr was stoned to death: Stephen. Paul was, simply put, a thug!

We all know the story. God spoke to Paul while he was on the road to Damascus ( which by the way, Paul was on his way to persecute even more Christians). The Bible documents that after Paul realized it was God talking to him, he instantly did a complete 180. Now, instead of being against God, he was for God. And the amazing part is that he never even asked Jesus for help. God chose Paul!Paul studied long and hard to be able to go out and teach others about Christ. Isn't our Lord amazing? If God can turn a complete thug around for the better, He certainly can turn you or me around. There is no sin that any of us could have committed that is bigger than the Power of God's love and forgiveness. Ask Him to "turn you around" today.

Psalm 94:11 says, "The Lord knows the thoughts of man; he knows that they are futile."

Father, turn me to you and please use me to further your Kingdom, according to your perfect will.

Trot Line

2011-01-15T11:56:00.000-06:00

I passed out several fliers trying to sell commercials for my radio show. I also passed out several fliers advertising the fact that I am available for math tutoring again. It is almost like setting out a long trot line and waiting to see how many hits you get. So far, I have had none, zilch, nada. It is so disheartening. Oh, I'm not giving up, and I know it takes time. But still...

We are all like hooks on a single trot line for God. He sets us all out hoping we can snag a few for His Kingdom. It is not our job to save them, it is only our job to be available to lead them to Him. We are like the hook on the trot line. If the fish is not hungry, we can't do anything about that. But as soon as God moves them to be hungry, He expects us to be ready to snag them when they strike. Are you on God's trot line? Ask Him today to sharpen your "hook", and make you more attractive to the "fish".

Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and Praise your Father in heaven."

Father, help me to lead more people to You, if it be Your will. In Jesus name, Amen.

My Uncle Harold

2011-01-12T21:02:00.000-06:00

This devotion is dedicated to my Uncle Harold. He has become ill, and as a result, has been put in a nursing home. He shows severe signs of some type of dementia, but doctors can not find anything wrong with him. There is most definitely something wrong. He sees things that are not there. He talks almost completely out of his head, and now, he doesn't even know my aunt, who has been married to for ever. It breaks her heart to have to place him in this nursing home, but she is unable to take care of him while he is in this state. Uncle Harold is retired Army and has never been sick other than an occasional cold. That's why this hurts so much. This is one of the strongest men I have ever known, physically, emotionally, and intellectually. You may not know my Uncle Harold, but you probably know someone in this same shape. God only knows what is going through his mind!

You know what? That's one thing that gives me strength at this moment: God does know what is going on in his mind. Uncle Harold may not be able to communicate with us the way he used to, but I feel positive he is still communicating with God the same way he always has. He is a Christian and loves the Lord very much. God is holding him right this very minute. Please pray for him, and also, please pray for my Aunt Glenda, as she is a bucket of emotions right now. I also feel positive God is holding her, too. Our God holds all of us when we need Him. Praise be to the Lord!

Psalm 119:165 says, "Great peace have they who love Your law, and nothing can make them stumble."

Father, I pray for Uncle Harold right now and ask you to give him a speedy recovery. Also, please be with my aunt as she also struggles through these hard times. In Jesus name, Amen.

Bad Habits

2011-01-11T16:55:00.000-06:00

The other day, I noticed that one of the spindles on the railing around my front porch was broken. Upon closer inspection, I noticed that a small bush had grown into a fork. And wouldn't you know it, the spindle on the railing just happen to be in the middle of the fork in the bush. As the bush continued to grow, the fork pushed the spindle so hard that it broke it from the bottom. If only I had noticed it sooner, I could have trimmed the bush back and saved myself $12.99 and 20 minutes of my time.

That's the way it is with our bad habits. We all have them, but if we try to keep them cut-back to a minimum, we just might be able to keep them from destroying things around us. I admit that my spindle was only a little thing, but you and I have both heard of some people's bad habits destroying much, much more. It is so much easier to pull-up a small twig from the ground before it grows into a medium-sized bush. And if we let that bad habit continue to grow to tree-size, well, we may never be able to remove it.

Psalm 68:19 says, "Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens."

Father, help us to keep our bad habits in check. We admit we are not perfect, but agree that You are and that You are willing to help us with our burdens everyday. In Jesus name, Amen.

Pop-Up Blocker

2011-01-06T17:46:00.001-06:00

I used to get so aggravated when surfing the net because of those annoying pop-ups. I know it only takes a second to close them, but some are so sophisticated that once you close one, two or three more pop-up in its place. Thank Goodness for pop-up blockers! Most are free and easily down-loadable from the Internet. I love the sound mine makes when it blocks a pop-up. It sounds like a bug hitting one of those outdoor zappers.

When Jesus Ascended into heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit in His place. The Holy Spirit does many things for us. One thing in particular that I like is that He is like one of those pop-up blockers. Everyday, we are faced with scores of temptations, some small and some large. But if we stay in-tune to the Holy Spirit, he can zap those "pop-ups" away in an instant. Have you down-loaded God's pop-up blocker? It's free, and 100% effective. And once you install it in your heart, you can surf through your day with a lot less aggravation.

Ezekiel 36:27 says, "And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgements and do them."

Father, thank-you for the Holy Spirit. Help us to always listen for His voice. In Jesus name, Amen

Scars

2011-01-03T23:39:00.000-06:00

I was watching an episode of Criminal Minds just a second ago, and one of the actors said a line that made me jump out of bed and write this devotion. Rossi said, "emotional scars show where we have been, but they don't have to dictate where we are going". We all carry scars, emotionally and physically, that are tough to deal with. Everyone of us have scars from the past, and in that sense, we are all the same. But the difference between us is what we do with those scars. Do we continue to let them haunt and hurt us, or do we force them away and go on with our lives?

Jesus suffered many scars while he spent some 30-plus years here on earth. But he certainly moved on and didn't allow them to derail His path. And with His help, we can do the same thing. Here's an idea: Gather up all your scars and give them to the Lord. He promises He will help to share your load. We may never lose those scars completely; Even Jesus still carried the scars in his hands and his side, even after his dead body was resurrected. If He can do it, we certainly can to, with His help.

Psalm 30:2 says, "O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me."

Father, please help our scars to heal. Remind us that it is not where we have been that matters as much as where we are going. In Jesus name, Amen.

Facebook

2011-01-02T11:25:00.002-06:00

I guess I am like most everybody else these days: I enjoy "playing" on Facebook. I know I am also guilty of this, but it is very comical what some people write on their status. One I read recently said, "I just woke up, now I am gonna watch some TV..later". Another one simply said, "Taking the dog for a walk." Do we really believe that there are people out there that truly care that much about us and what we do?

I bet if Jesus had a Facebook account, He would love to see every single one of our posts. I saw a movie one time about Jesus coming to earth as a man and visiting a teenager. She didn't believe He was really Jesus until later in the movie. When she realized He was truly Christ, of course she was full of thousands of questions. After answering most of them for her, Jesus then started asking her some questions. She started answering His questions, and then it hit her, and she stopped in mid-sentence. She said, "Lord, why are you asking me anything? You are Jesus and know everything I am going to say even before I say it." I will never forget His response. He smiled very warmly and replied, "Yes I do know what you will say, but I sure am enjoying having a conversation with you." We can "Facebook" Jesus anytime just by praying. I bet it would thrill Him for us to just talk to Him...even if it is in short "status updates".

Jeremiah 33:3 says, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

Father, here is my status update for You: "Just woke up. Gonna go through my day speaking with You often". In Jesus name, Amen.

It Is Over

2010-12-31T23:15:00.002-06:00

Goodbye 2010. Although there were some good times, the year as a whole was not a good one for me. And it was totally my fault. For one thing, I got away from writing devotions. That one bad decision led to a domino-effect of bad consequences. But not this year, Satan. You hear me! Jesus is and always will be Lord of my life. You have been kicked from my life, Satan. Trust me, it won't be a long process. My Jesus promises me it will be instantaneous!

So happy New Year to all. I pray that God wraps you in so much peace that you can hardly stand it. Let 2010 and Satan go....welcome in 2011 and our precious Jesus Christ.

Psalm 40:2 says, "He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock gave me a firm place to stand."

Father, I love you. I dedicate my life to you in 2011.

It's The Thought That Counts

2010-11-20T12:03:00.002-06:00

I wanted to share with you what my daughter Bailey did last night at the grocery store. While we were buying a few items, she came up to me and asked for a couple dollars. I reached into my wallet and took out two bucks. As I was handing it to her, I guess I just naturally asked what she needed. She said, "I am going to donate it to the lady outside who is collecting for diabetes research." I thought to myself, "instead of buying some junk?" I was very proud of her at that very moment.

But then the funny part hit me: It is so easy to be generous with somebody else's money. I nearly laughed and wondered why she didn't just ask for 5 or 10 dollars. Bailey has a kind heart, with my money or with her own. The more I thought about it, the more I wondered if I would have given those same two dollars to the lady outside. I guess the bottom line is that the money was given, and hopefully it will do some good. Is it truly the thought that counts? This time, it was my 14-year old's thought that counted the most. I love you, Boo.

Psalm 112:5 says, "Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely."

Father, thank-you for Bailey. She is such an awesome young lady, and I am so lucky you chose me to be her daddy. In Jesus name, Amen.

As Good As...Almost New

2010-11-16T23:02:00.002-06:00

First of all, I wanna thank those who commented on my recent devotion concerning being a little upset at God. Your comments were very thought-provoking and really helped me deep down. So again, thank-you very much.

Today I had some medical trouble that landed me in the E.R. When I got there, I was praying like crazy, asking God to take away the pain and discomfort I was feeling. Due to the pain, needless to say my blood pressure was through the roof. It is amazing what the Good Lord and a doctor can do. I am back home now and feeling 100% better. I am having a slight case of insomnia, but I think that is more because I wanted to write this devotion. I got to thinking how we can have moments of extreme pain, and then with some help, can have moments of total relief. That's what I experienced today physically. But we also have those same episodes spiritually. Yesterday, I was questioning God why such mean people can hurt the innocent, and in turn, hurt us. But then today I can pray to God for relief, and He can give it to me in such a short time. Yesterday, I was "upset" at God. But today, I didn't hesitate to ask him to cure my physical pain. So I wanted to give God some praise for helping me today physically and spiritually. I have learned that it is OK to be upset with Him sometimes. He still loves us enough to make all our hurts and fears go away. Thank-you, Lord for helping me learn another level of your incredible Grace. You are my Lord; Please use me however You want.

Pure Hell

2010-11-15T14:59:00.004-06:00

I am writing this devotion just to get it off my chest. I invite you to give your thoughts in the "comments" section. When I read the testimony of Elizabeth Smart and learn of the pure hell her captor put her through, first of all, I realize I have no problems that can even compare. Second, how could a person possibly be so cruel to another human being? How could that monster completely rob that little 14-year old baby of her life? And this question hurts to ask: How could a loving, caring God ALLOW that child to go through such horror? I know it is not my place to question God, and I also know He lets people make up their own minds. I understand it was not God's fault, but why would He allow it to happen?

I love the Lord and believe He will "fix" humanity one day. It almost makes me think I am sinning to ask God why He would allow this to happen, for He is perfect and none of us come close to understanding His perfect ways. But He also gave me a brain and a heart. Doesn't He understand that sometimes we can be so over-whelmed by grief that we may ask such questions? Is it alright for us to be "upset with God" during these times?

Forgive Me, Forgive Me Not

2010-11-08T20:42:00.003-06:00

I have a friend (we'll call him John) who is constantly deciding to start all over. Do you know what I mean? He decides to do everything for Christ, then after a little while, he back-slides. Soon after, he will ask everyone to forgive him and then start the whole process over. It's like he can't stay on the right path long before something comes along and derails him. Gosh, how many times will I continue to fall for his "I'm sorry, please forgive me" line? How many "just one more chances" do I give him? The fact is, as a human, I may number those "one more chances" that I allow him, and one of these times, it will be just too late; I will give up. I can't keep going through this time and time again. Do you blame me?

Our Jesus goes through this "on again, off again" process with every single one of us to some degree or another. We may not be able to forgive others 100 times, but Jesus sure does. Thank God for that! So if you are like John, and I think we all probably are, then rest assured that Jesus forgives us EVERY SINGLE time we ask Him. Don't worry if other people won't keep forgiving you; that is their problem. God does! And to show our appreciation for that, we should really work on forgiving others...no matter how many times they ask.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:14, "If you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly father will also forgive you."

Father, forgive me of all my sins. Thank-you for being a gracious God. Please help me to forgive all others. In Jesus name, Amen.

He Has The Power To Save

2010-10-11T22:28:00.002-05:00

I have a serious concern that I am sure everyone reading this devotion can relate to. I have someone in my family who has chosen NOT to accept Christ. This person has so completely shut out the idea, that he has asked me to no longer talk about anything that has to do with religion. I must honor his wishes. All I can really do now is just keep loving him and praying for him. It is truly a decision that he has to make on his own. I can only hope that God will stir his heart when the time is right.

You know, we have always been told to just turn everything over to God and let him shoulder our burdens. But as humans, we can't help but to worry ourselves sick in situations like this. I know I sure have worried about it, and I am sure I will continue to worry about it. Do you have someone you are also worried about? We have to remember all the miracles God has performed over the years and believe that He can also handle this situation. The Bible teaches us that when we accepted Christ, it was only because the Holy Spirit drew us unto Him. We can not take any credit for our decision. That Truth does give me some comfort to think that maybe my loved one has not accepted Christ, not because he has chosen that path, but because God hasn't drawn him in yet. I pray that He will...soon.

John 6:44 says, "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him: and I will raise him up at the last day."

Father, thank you for drawing me and allowing me to be a Christian. I pray for those who may still be waiting. In Jesus name, Amen.

Still In Command

2010-10-02T23:21:00.002-05:00

In a time when our President has all but turned us into a Socialist nation, in a time when terrorist rule the world, in a time where the gay agenda is Top Story, it's good to know that our Lord and Savior is still in command. Are these the bad days the Bible warns us about? Only time will tell. But I am thankful I still have Jesus to comfort me...no matter what times we may be in.

Psalm 55:22 says, "Cast your cares on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fall."

Father, please keep us from evil. In Jesus name, Amen.

Confirmation

2010-09-28T20:24:00.002-05:00

I just want to confirm my faith in humanity. Today, one of my students stole my phone from my top desk drawer at school. I do not know who it was, but I forgive him. Oh, it hurt me deeply. But God reminded me that MOST of the blame should be placed on Satan, not just on the person. Satan causes all of us to make some poor decisions. Well, at least he has caused me to make some. So whomever you are, I forgive you, and so does our sweet Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Jesus said in Matthew 6:14, "If you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."

Father, forgive them...and forgive me. Keep us all safely away from Satan. In Jesus name, Amen.

Are You Ready?

2010-09-27T21:22:00.003-05:00

I am absolutely sick! It just ran right out in front of me. All I can think about now is some little boy or girl crying over their puppy. Gosh, what an awful feeling! But it did get me to thinking:

We don't know when our time will come, but we all must be ready for it. I don't really know how one plans for such a thing physically, but I certainly know how the Bible says we should plan for it spiritually: We must accept Christ and make Him Lord! Do you have life insurance? Do you have everlasting life insurance?

Romans 10:9 says, "If you confess with your mouth 'Jesus is Lord', and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."

Father, forgive me. In Jesus name, Amen.

He's Gone Country

2010-08-30T00:32:00.002-05:00

God has led me to a major change in my life. For the past 6 years, I have been hosting an Oldies request show on Saturday nights. I have enjoyed doing that show very much. But I have accepted an offer to change stations and host a different request show. Starting Saturday, Sept 4th, I will be hosting the debut of Big Dog Saturday Night on 96.9 in Dothan. It will be a Country music request show. This is a real big deal. The station is huge!! It is the number 1 station in the market, with tens of thousands of listeners! As far as radio goes in this area, 96.9 is the big time. It is like I have been called up to the Major Leagues. I have been blessed with 23 years in the radio business. I have worked at several stations over that 23-year span, but I find myself more excited about this opportunity than any others I have ever had in radio. God is awesome! Although I have to admit to being nervous about the challenge, I am certain that God will see me through it.

I am so proud to serve Jesus Christ! Even in my bad times, He has always been right there leading me by the hand. To me, I have a wonderful life. God blessed me with the most incredible daughter in the world, He gave me an extremely rewarding career as a high school and college math teacher, and now He has led me to a point in my radio career that, honestly, I never thought I would be. It is nearly 1 in the morning, and I have to be up at 6. I am so excited about what He has done that I can't even sleep. I had to jump on here and share it all with you. As I close tonight's devotion, I encourage you to reflect on the things God has given you. I know it seems so much easier to focus on the things we don't have, but God promised that if we put Him first, all those other things will come at the right time. I have never believed that nearly as much as I do at this very moment. Thank-you Sweet Jesus!

Psalm 95:1 says, "Oh come, let us sing unto the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our Salvation"

Father, you've done it again! I don't deserve half of what you have given me. Thank you for this new opportunity you have placed before me. I could not have gotten here without You, and I know I can only be successful because of You. In Jesus name, Amen.

Back To School

2010-08-04T05:32:00.003-05:00

For the teachers in Dothan City Schools, it is back to work today. The summer is over. It is always sad to see that nice, long vacation come to an end. But the arrival of the new school year does bring exciting new opportunities from God. I wanted to share what God has done to me over this past summer. When the school-year ended, the math teacher with the highest amount of seniority in the department retired after 35 incredible years of teaching. That put me at the top in seniority of the math department. I have waited patiently for her good classes, and expected to get those classes once she retired. Well, I didn't. In fact, instead of getting any upper-level classes, I got below-level ones. At first I was angry, but then realized that is was not anger as much as it was hurt feelings. Everyone wants to feel like they are moving up at work. And after 15 years of waiting, my time had come. But I was moved down instead and it crushed my spirit. As I thought back over my performance from the previous year, it was easy to see why I hadn't moved up at all. Most of the year, I carried a bad attitude, fussed at everything I was asked to do, and just generally had a bad year. Would I have given myself the upper-level classes if I had been in the Principal's shoes? Honestly, I don't think I could have.

So after some serious praying and asking all parties to forgive me, I started the summer with the attitude that I got the classes that God allowed me to get, and He doesn't make mistakes. Over the summer, I was asked to tutor some needy students for a 2-week period, and I immediately accepted. Then a week later, I was asked to go to a conference out of town for 5 days. Again, I did not hesitate. Some time after returning from the conference, my principal complimented me and how much of a change he had seen in my attitude in just a short time. I told him that God straightened me out. I want you to know, while I was at school yesterday, "certain unforeseen circumstances" occurred, and as a result, my schedule was changed to include two of the highest-level courses that the school offers. I was so shocked and excited! One may call it a coincidence. However, we who trust in Jesus know there are no coincidences. I totally believe God stepped in and helped me get those classes, but only after I admitted my bad attitude and asked Him to fix it for me. I just love Jesus! What is it that He can't do? I know this "miracle" only pales in comparison to others. But to me, it is a perfectly clear sign that God still helps those who love Him.

Jeremiah 17:10 says, "I, the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve"

Father, thank-you for continuing to be real in my everyday life. Please give me the strength to continue back to writing these daily devotions. In Jesus name, Amen.

Faith Hall of Fame

2010-07-14T02:36:00.003-05:00

The Bible is full of people who had an extraordinary amount of faith. If I asked you to list 5 people from the Bible who had tons of faith, whom would you list? Job? Mary? Moses? How about Paul or Daniel? No doubt, these would certainly make the "Faith Hall of Fame" But I want to talk about one whom you may or may not have thought about. What do you think about Noah's amount of faith? Here was a man preaching to the people that a giant flood was coming to destroy everything on earth. More than just preaching it, he also started building a giant boat to prepare for it. In fact, the boat he was building was larger than the biggest body of water in the area. It would have been impossible for the ark to navigate the entire length of the Euphrates River. At the time he started building the ark, Noah was already around 500 years old. The people must have thought he was just an old mental case, especially when one considers that the flood did not happen right away. Noah slaved for 120 years on the ark before the flood actually began. 120 years? Would you have thought he was just an old fool? I know I would have.

God tells us that it is impossible to please Him without faith. How much faith do we really have? I know it is easy to say that we have a lot of faith, but do we actually have as much as Noah or any of those other Bible Hall of Famers? If placed in the terrible position and situations that some of these Bible people were placed, would we still be preaching the Mighty name of Jesus? I guess there is really no way to answer that question. How would we really know how we would react to something unless it happened to us personally? What tough situation are you facing at this hour? Do you have enough faith? If you do, then you know it is only a matter of time before God intervenes and pulls you through it. If you don't have enough faith, then ask God to strengthen it for you. I continue to discover that there is no situation or road that I can go down from which my Lord won't come to get me. Pray for faith! There is an old saying, "I hope my ship comes in before my dock rots". God's time is perfect time. Ask Him for more faith right now.

Revelation 2:10 says, "Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life."

Lord, please help me to stay faithful and to continue believing that You will soon turns things in my favor. In Jesus name, Amen.

Happy Birthday

2010-07-05T08:50:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday, America! The smell of fireworks and BBQ grills filled the air in my neighborhood last night. The 4th of July is a happy celebration for us all. Over the past couple days, the History Channel has been showing a variety of Independence Day-type shows. I got a chance to watch a few this past weekend. It is a wonder we even have an opportunity to celebrate the 4th of July. How those first few American soldiers fought off the mighty British, we may never truly know. Out-numbered, out-gunned, and in most cases, out-smarted, somehow our soldiers fought through and were victorious. If you get a chance, go back and read some of the stories of the Revolution and see how much luck played on the side of the Americans. Actually, I believe it was more than luck. We don't say "God bless America" for nothing. When you look at just how unlikely it was for us to win, you soon come to the inevitable conclusion that God was on our side!

But how much longer will He be on our side? How much further away will He allow this country to push Him? I don't think Hurricane Katrina, 9-11, or the BP oil spill were random events. I think God is saying the same thing those Verizon phone commercials say--"Can you hear me now?" He has been sending us several warnings, but the powers-that-be in this country are not heeding His warnings. Are we personally listening to God? Are we living our lives in a way that reflect the Goodness of God? I try so hard not to be hypocritical. It does no good for me to fuss and complain about our government's lack of love for the Lord when I don't show it as much as I should either. This is a problem that has to be addressed individually. If each one of us would turn completely to God, maybe our government would too. There is strength in numbers. I know how unlikely it seems that our government will ever publicly turn to God. But remember just how unlikely it was that we defeated the mighty British. God, bless America.

Father, thank you for allowing us to live in a free country. Remind us everyday that it is because of You, and not because of us, that we are truly free. In Jesus name, Amen.

We Need A Tutor

2010-06-29T00:44:00.004-05:00

Today, I started tutoring a few students at the high school who have previously failed the math portion of the Alabama Graduation Exam. The principal of the school called me about two weeks ago and asked me if I wanted to do it. The tutoring lasts 4 hours per day for a total of 8 days. When he asked me about doing it on the phone, and told me how much it would pay, I jumped at the chance! This pay is above and beyond my regular salary, and it is very good pay! For the past two weeks, all I have been able to think about is how I could spend the money. My daughter and I will be needing back-to-school clothes, I need (want) a new grill, a new big-screen TV would be nice, and...and..and..You know how it can be when you get some extra money in your pocket. For the past two weeks, I have been thanking God for the extra money and have really shared with people how He has blessed me financially with this tutoring job. But as I arrived at the school this morning, something hit me completely out of the blue.

This whole time, all I could think about was me and how much money I would be making. I never thought for a second about those students who may need me. Please don't let me sound boastful or like I am bragging, but just maybe, those kids do need me to help them. I mean, I know they need some teacher to help, but maybe it is ME personally that they need. I am fortunate to have a very high success rate when teaching students who have failed this major exam in the past. To date, my success rate is over 95% of students passing the Grad Exam. I have always believed that God called me to be a teacher, and I tend to be one of the students' favorite. That simply verifies in my heart that God is behind my teaching. So maybe it was God's plan that I personally take time from my summer vacation to help them. (Again, I pray that you don't think I am being boastful, just fortunate). But sadly, instead of thanking God for the opportunity to help these students, all I could think about was the money. I will earn $800 from this job. I have to admit that I did spend $200 today on a brand-new grill. But I have decided that I am committing the other $600 to God. Maybe you can comment on this devotion and suggest a good, Christian way I can give the $600. I know there is nothing wrong with splurging on ourselves sometimes, but I guess what hit me so hard this morning was my intent for taking on this job in the first place. I am ashamed. So if you have time, please suggest a way I can give the rest to the Lord.

Proverbs 22:9 says, "A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor."

Father, forgive me for thinking more about the money than the students. I know You have blessed me with this abundance. Please direct me in the way You would have me share it. In Jesus name, Amen.

I'm Proud Of You

2010-06-26T02:44:00.004-05:00

I think it is fairly apparent from my previous two devotions that I am a firm believer in Salvation by faith alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 makes it very clear that our good works have nothing to do with our Salvation. So are good works even important? Oh yes, definitely. I grew up without my dad due to divorce, but I was very fortunate to get to know him in my adult life. He was a good man! I can remember how anxious he was to see me when I would make plans to visit him. He always made me feel welcomed in his home, which also included his wife and my three half-sisters. It brought me great joy to learn that my visits brought him great joy. My daddy was proud of me and the things that I had accomplished. I guess everyone wants their dad to be proud of them, even in their adult life. I loved doing things that made him proud of me even though I knew he would have loved me the same if I didn't do those things. I realized that even more when I became a daddy. I love my daughter Bailey more than anything in this world. There is nothing she could ever do, good or bad, that would make me love her any more or any less.

I think that is the way it is with God and His children. We could never do anything that would diminish the degree of love that He has for each one of us. But just as I tried to please my earthly father, I find myself striving even harder to please my Heavenly Father. I want to do great works that reflect my true dedication and love for Jesus. I'm not really sure if God looks at it in that same way, but I still find myself trying to please Him. There is no doubt that He can be pleased, for He announced at least twice how pleased He was with Jesus. I know I can never even come close to the Goodness of Jesus, but that doesn't make me want to try any less. When Jesus Saved me, He also empowered me with the Holy Spirit. It is this Holy Spirit who motivates me to do good works, and who convicts me when I don't. I don't want to simply be an "arm-chair" Christian. I always want my external evidence to reflect my internal conviction, even when it doesn't really matter.

James 2:14 says, "What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith, but does not have works?"

Father, teach me to do the things that please You. I know I can do nothing that is good without Your help. In Jesus name, Amen.

No Place For Guilt

2010-06-23T18:36:00.003-05:00

If you worry about your Salvation or know somebody who does, please read today's devotion with an open mind and heart. I am not a preacher nor am I a Bible scholar. I have not been to theology school, nor do I attend church as often as I should. I don't read or speak a lick of Hebrew nor Greek, and even though my Bible is written in perfect English, I still find much of it over my head. But I am absolutely, positively convinced about one thing: If you believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died on a cross and was resurrected, and you have asked Him to wash away all your sins, then you are Saved and have Eternal Life...Period! Please don't even give it a second thought. John 3:16 and at least 17 other Bible verses teach this simple but most critical Truth.

The reason I chose to write this devotion today is because I keep running into people who are afraid they have messed up too much for God to accept them or that they are afraid they don't do enough good deeds to keep their Salvation. First of all, the Bible tells us that God will never, ever abandon His children. If you accepted Him, you are "stuck" with Him...praise God! There is absolutely nothing you can do, now or later, that will ever sever the love that Jesus has for you. So shake off any worries that you are too "bad" for Him. There is nothing so bad that His blood and Goodness can't cover. Thank God for that, or I would be heading to hell on a sliding board. And also don't worry that you don't do enough good things to keep your salvation. Whether you do 1 million good deeds or no good deeds, you are still saved and on your way to heaven. Those who think good works are necessary for Salvation, I ask you two questions: 1. Which good works? and 2. How many good works? No, Salvation is based totally on our faith in Jesus Christ, and that is a gift which can never be earned. Please don't get me wrong. Good works are a regular part of our Christian life. But we do Good works BECAUSE we are saved and not IN ORDER to be saved. Have you accepted God's free and powerful gift?

Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."

Father, thank-you for your Son Jesus. I have accepted your gift of Salvation, and I pray for all those who have not. In Jesus name, Amen.

Salvation By Faith Alone

2010-06-17T06:56:00.002-05:00

The more I learn about Peter, the more I like him. We all know of how he denied Christ on the night Jesus was arrested. We also know of how Jesus forgave Peter. Peter was the sort of man that I would like to be, that is when he was wrong, he was quick to admit it and to start doing the right thing. In the Book of Galatians, again we see Peter doing the wrong thing. He had shifted from preaching Salvation by grace to Salvation by works, namely, the works of the Jewish faith in the Old Testament. Paul called him on it. In fact, Paul confronted Peter in front of "them all". Again, Peter saw the errors of his ways and repented. Lord, teach me to be more like that when I am wrong.

This debate of salvation by works and salvation by faith is one of the biggest dividers among Christians today. Because of what I have read from God's Word, I am a firm believer that we are saved by our faith in Jesus, and not by any good works we can perform. We do good works because we are saved and not in order to be saved. Paul states in Galatians 2:16, "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law, no flesh shall be justified." In other words, we can not be saved by going to church, being baptized, giving to the poor, keeping the 10 commandments, or any other good work. Sure, we should strive very hard to do these things, but these things don't "earn" us everlasting life. In fact, Eternal life can not be "earned" at all. It is simply a gift from God. And the only way we can accept that gift is by accepting Christ as our Personal Savior. Have you accepted God's free gift? I saw a bumper sticker the other day that read, "Jesus Christ: Our get out of HELL free card."

Father, thank-you for drawing me to accepting Christ. I pray for those who have not accepted Your free gift. Please draw them too, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.

Jesus Struck By Lightning

2010-06-16T02:03:00.003-05:00

Yesterday in Ohio, lightning struck a 6-foot tall statue of Jesus, destroying it in a matter of seconds. I saw this story on Yahoo News, and there always follows comments from viewers. I was not surprised by the negative and blasphemous responses from people. One person wrote that this lightning strike "proves that even God is tired of Christianity". Another wrote that the strike was yet another "proof that God does not even exist". Although not surprised, the comments still hurt me as a Christian. Somebody wrote that some of the greatest thinking minds in the world have already dismissed Christianity as a hoax, and those who still believe continue to show their ignorance. I would like to give my 2-cents worth on this subject.

First of all, God normally works within the very laws of nature that He created. Sure, He can perform miracles outside the norm, and He does on a regular basis. But for the most part, He allows things to happen naturally. The lightning strike that destroyed the Jesus statue no more proves God doesn't exist than a strike on a statue of Satan would prove that He does. I still remember a tornado touching down in Piedmont, Alabama on a Sunday morning, destroying a church and killing several members who were there worshipping God. Sad, yes, but it happens. Pertaining to the lightning strike that destroyed the statue of Jesus, maybe it was a miracle after all. For all we know, that lightning bolt could have been heading to a person or to a family, but God redirected it to save their lives. Just think, maybe Jesus "died" yet again to save another person. So what does the lightning strike prove? Probably nothing. Strike or no strike, my God still lives, and He still saves anybody who asks Him and believes that Jesus is His Son.

Psalm 27:13 says, "I am still confident of this: I will see the Goodness of the Lord in the land of the living."

Father, forgive those who have not accepted Your Son. Show us Christians how to spread the Good News about You. I know if You can save me, You can save anybody. In Jesus name, Amen.

Don't Let It Grow

2010-06-11T05:25:00.002-05:00

I once heard a story about an old tutor and his young student. They were walking in the woods when suddenly the old tutor stopped. He pointed out four plants to his student. The first one was barely visible above the ground, the second one was about 2 inches tall, the third one was a medium-sized bush, and the fourth one was a tall tree. The tutor told his student to pull each one out of the ground. The first two plants were easy for the student to pull out of the ground, but the third one, the bush, was very difficult. After some fighting with it, he finally managed to pull it out of the ground as well. But then he attempted to pull up the full-grown tree. He wrapped his arms around the tree but with all his strength, he was unable to even shake its leaves.

This lesson is simple. Bad habits are easy to uproot from our lives when they are new. But the longer they take root, the harder they are to destroy. I have learned that either you can destroy the bad habit, or it can destroy you. I had to deal with a couple bad habits this past summer, and with God's help, I was able to defeat and destroy them. So I am now a witness to God's enormous strength. Maybe you are fighting some "large trees" in your life. No matter how hard you try, you can simply not defeat them on your own. But God sure can! Further, He wants to help you. Consider doing what I did..I let go, and let God! It made all the difference in the world. With God's help, you can even uproot a giant Redwood!

Psalm 72:12 says, "God will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help."

Father, thank you for destroying my addiction this past summer. I ask you to encourage others who may be facing some bad habits to turn it over to You. You are God Almighty! What is too tough for you? In Jesus name, Amen.

Spin That Ball

2010-06-10T04:22:00.004-05:00

Although I have seen them on TV a thousand times, I still enjoy watching the Harlem Globetrotters every time they come on. In fact, I watched them yesterday. These guys are not only the most talented basketball players in the world, they are also just down-right entertaining! I am amazed at their level of athleticism and dedication to perfecting their craft. Yesterday, I watched their leader, Special K, spin the ball on his finger for over 30 seconds. Not only on his finger, but also on his head, his knee, his back, and his foot. Amazing!

As I watched him, I thought about God holding our spinning world on his finger. One can't help but to watch the News on TV today and get the sense that our world is all but spinning out of control. Earthquakes, tornadoes, tsunamis, hurricanes, floods, and more seem to be increasing all around our globe at an alarming rate. It is like "Mother Nature" has gone postal. But we have to remember that our precious and all-powerful God still has the world under His control. He made this world, and He controls this world. And even though God's Word warns that things will only get worse before they get better, we should not fear. God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of strength. That strength comes from God's Son Jesus Christ! But we are only human, so fear and worry is a part of our lives, especially in the face of tragedy. But we can draw on Jesus for His perfect strength anytime we feel the need. Remember, He holds this spinning world on His finger. We can think of Him as being the leader of the "Heaven Globetrotters"! Now that is one show I would love to see!

Isaiah 41:10 says, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Father, thank-you for creating this world and for giving us the strength to live in it. Help us to remember that no matter how rough things may get in our lives, that You are right there protecting us. In Jesus name, Amen.

Steady As She Goes

2010-06-09T01:09:00.003-05:00

I apologize for not writing any devotions recently. I really have no excuses, or at least I should I have no good excuses. I have missed writing them very much. Like reading God's Word and praying, expressing what I feel in my heart through writing devotions helps me to grow as a Christian. Actually, it just makes me feel good. If you have ever considered writing devotions, allow me to encourage you to do so. There is no better feeling in the world than to connect with Christ! Writing these devotions makes me feel connected to Him.

I also wanted to share some other news with you that makes me feel good. I got some great health news from my last doctors visit. For the past couple years, I have been experiencing high blood pressure. This past Friday, my BP was the best it has been in a long time. I also got the results of some lab work that I had done a couple weeks ago. I am thrilled to report that not only is my BP lower, but my cholesterol is also better than it has been in a long time. In fact, the lab work showed that I am much healthier than I have been in a while. This, coupled with the fact that I have been losing some weight and getting a little exercise, has made me feel wonderful! I thank Jesus for helping me to get healthier. The Bible says that all good things come from Him, and I think this is something that is very good. I just wanted to share my fortunate news with you, and to also let you know that I will start back to writing devotions. Thank you for reading my devotions and for encouraging me all the way. You all are very special to me!

Psalm 30:2 says, "O Lord my God, I called to you for help, and You healed me."

Father, thank-you for making me healthier. Please help those who are also in need of healing. In Jesus name, Amen.

From Bunny To Lion

2010-05-26T09:04:00.005-05:00

On the night Jesus was arrested by Roman soldiers, His once-devoted, brave disciples split and ran in all directions. Even Peter, whom Jesus called the Rock because of his solid faith, denied he even knew Jesus. For days after the Crucifixion, they hid-out in a secret room, afraid of the angry mobs and Jewish leaders. Would they be killed next? How could they have followed and believed in this man Jesus when He couldn't even save Himself from humiliation and death? How could He have been the long-awaited Messiah, but leave them to fend for themselves? Could their life get any worse?

Over the next 50 days, an absolutely amazing transformation occurred. Not only did Jesus come back to them, but He also sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within them. The disciples grew in spirit, bravery, and stamina. They slowly changed from trembling, weak bunnies to confident, strong lions. They became so brave in fact, that every single one of them boldly preached about Jesus, even when their lives were threatened because of it. Are we that confident today about Jesus? Are we ashamed or embarrassed to tell our co-workers, our friends, or even complete strangers that we gladly serve Jesus Christ? Are we trembling bunnies or are we confident lions?

Jeremiah 1:8 says, "Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord."

Father, teach us how to be brave for You. Help us to boldly tell everyone the Good News about Your Son Jesus. In Jesus name, Amen.

Summer Vacation!

2010-05-25T08:23:00.002-05:00

Oh, the excitement, the thrill, the laughter, the anticipation! They are running up and down the halls, hugging everyone in sight! They are about to bubble-over with happiness! And that is just the teachers...imagine how excited the students are! Summer vacation is just 2 days away. Do you remember the excitement you used to feel when you were in school? This is my 16th year as a teacher, and I am just as excited about summer vacation right now as I was when I was a student. Knowing that vacation is close-by gives everyone a boost of adrenaline. We are friendlier to each other. We smile more. It is an awesome feeling!

Why can't we all feel this excited everyday, knowing that Heaven is awaiting each one of us? Why can't we run around hugging everyone and bragging about what all our Jesus has done for us? He has truly blessed every single one of us, and He is preparing a perfect place for us to spend Eternity. The Bible tells us that there are no words available to describe how wonderful heaven will be. There could only be a few more days left here before He calls us to our perfect home. I am so ready to leave this world behind and be with my Jesus! That will be the best "Summer Vacation" ever!

Jesus said in revelation 22:7, "Look, I am coming soon!"

Father, we long to be with You in heaven. Help us to spread the Good News about Your coming. In Jesus name, Amen.

Sweet Jesus

2010-05-24T10:08:00.001-05:00

I am proud to say that I serve an all-powerful, all-loving God. Not only did He love me enough to send His Son Jesus to save me, but God even loves me enough to take care of me every single minute, even when I don't deserve it. I am proud that God understands me, even if I don't understand myself. I'm proud that God will never abandon me, even when everybody else has. I love God with all my heart. And through my most difficult trials and circumstances, He loves me too. I will never, ever give up striving to please Him, even when I can please nobody else. We are all born to make mistakes, to do incredibly dumb things, and to make a mess of our lives. But God loves us anyway! I completely dedicate my life to Him, even though I make mistakes and will continue to make them. There is no circumstance too big for My God!!! Before you judge others, consider your own faults. God is also there for you, too.

Psalm 119:169 says, "Let my cry come near before thee, O Lord, give me understanding according to thy word."

Father, thank you for loving me. I pray for everyone who is troubled at this hour. Teach us that the only true peace is the peace we find in You. In Jesus name, Amen.

Here Today, Gone Today

2010-05-21T08:49:00.002-05:00

Two fatal car-crashes in our area yesterday have saddened this town. One involved a grandmother who was killed when her car was struck by a train. The other fatality was the mom of an 8-year old child. These families badly need our prayers. I can't even imagine the heartache and loss that they must be feeling at this hour. Oh Lord, why does this have to happen? I know He knows best and that He has a plan for everything that happens to us while here on earth. But it still hurts so much. God, please be with those that are crushed in heart and spirit today. Your perfect Word promises that You will never leave us to deal with tragedy alone. We are counting on you so much right now, Lord.

I don't know about you, but I have had about enough of this sin-filled, tragedy-laced world and all its heartbreaks. I am so ready for heaven! The Bible tells us that we need to treat this world as a temporary place. It is not our home, for Jesus Himself is preparing that place for us. And I feel strongly that it is just about time to go Home. I am not saying that we need to be unhappy and mope around while we are here on earth. On the contrary, we should be filled with Joy knowing that we are heading for a much better place, and that God has given each one of us a job to do while we are here. I think our job at this moment is to stop what we are doing and say a little prayer for the families that were devastated yesterday. It is very sad. And the scary thing is that the exact same thing could happen to us next.

Psalm 34:17 says, "The Lord hears those whom call out to Him, and He delivers them from all their troubles."

Father, please be close to those who experienced tragedy yesterday. Although we may never understand the reason why, please help us to all use this tragedy to grow closer to You. In Jesus name, Amen.

Touched By An Angel

2010-05-20T09:41:00.003-05:00

I have always loved the TV show Touched By An Angel, starring Roma Downey. It still comes on the Hallmark channel, and I set my DVR to record it everyday so I can watch it at night. Most episodes touch my heart and actually bring me to tears. But I recently noticed something peculiar about it. I have never, ever seen an episode where they talk about Jesus. They always talk about God and the Father, but they never say anything about the Son, Jesus. Don't get me wrong, the show is awesome, and I will continue to watch it. But the fact that Jesus is not mentioned really bothers me. I guess the writers of the show are trying to be politically correct since not all people who believe in God actually believe in His Son, Jesus. Is that really such a big deal? Oh yes, it most certainly is!

According to the Bible, not accepting God's Son Jesus is just as bad as being an atheist. Wow! I know that is a very strong statement, and it is sure to ruffle a few feathers. But these are not my words. I get this straight from the Bible, I John to be exact. In verse 23 of the second chapter, it says, "Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either, he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also." There are many religions around the world, and our own nation for that matter, that believe in God but not in the Son. Then according to the Bible, the people of those religions don't really have the Father like they think they do. Christ in the main theme throughout the entire Bible. I am not knocking or judging anybody's beliefs. But according to Scripture, Jesus is the only way. He said boldly, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Nobody comes to the Father accept by me." Have you accepted Jesus today?

Father, thank you for Your Son and for loving us enough to send Him to us. I pray for all those who have yet to accept Him. Teach us how to lead them to Christ. In Jesus name, Amen.

I Can See

2010-05-17T09:48:00.003-05:00

I had a real scare this weekend. On Friday, I started feeling sick. I had congestion, watery, itchy eyes, and a low-grade fever. By Saturday, my eyes were so swollen that I could barely see. I could not focus on anything. I had to cancel my radio show because I could not see well enough to drive. My eyes were as red as fire. I don't suffer from allergies, but it seemed like I had gotten into something that had caused an allergic reaction. I nearly panicked because I have an ultimate fear of going blind. Well, my eyes were better yesterday, and today, they are fine. The swelling and redness are both gone. Thank God I am all better; That truly scared me!

It made me think about the phrase I once was blind, but now I see. This phrase can be taken literally, but can also be taken as a metaphor for Salvation. When we are lost and without Christ, it is like we are blind. But once we accept Jesus, our eyes and our lives are opened. I want to take a moment to thank my mother, daddy, and grand-parents for teaching me about Jesus. They made sure I attended church regularly when I was younger, and they always talked with me about Salvation. When I was 12, God saved my soul. Looking back over all the things I have endured since then, I can't even imagine how rough it would have been if it hadn't been for Jesus. Thank God I didn't have to go through those times as a "blind" man. When I was having trouble seeing this weekend, God reminded me of what else I was not "seeing". Have we truly thanked God for our blessings?

I Thessalonians 5:18 says, "In everything, give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

Father, thank-you for reminding me of just how good you have been to me over the years. Thank-you for Your Son Jesus and for opening my eyes to Him. In Jesus name, Amen.

Nice Hair

2010-05-14T09:21:00.003-05:00

I found this on the Internet and wanted to share it. What a great devotion about attitude!

There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and saw that she had only three hairs on her head. “Great,” she said, “I think I’ll braid my hair today.”
So she did, and had a wonderful day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. “Hmm,” she said, “I guess I’ll part my hair down the middle.” So she did, and had a wonderful day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only one hair left on her head. “Wow,” she said, “today I get to wear my hair in a pony tail.” So she did, and had a wonderful, wonderful day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that there wasn’t a single hair on her head. “Thank God!” she exclaimed. “I was running out of things to do with my hair!” ATTITUDE is everything! Let’s be grateful for the things God has given us and have a wonderful day!

Father, thank-you for life. remind us to be thankful for what we have, and not sad for what we don't. In Jesus name, Amen.

The Good Shepherd

2010-05-12T09:23:00.004-05:00

I like the analogy that Jesus uses of comparing himself to a good shepherd. In Bible times, sheep were kept in a sheepfold at night. This was an area in a field that was boxed-in on three sides to help protect the flock from robbers and wild animals. The shepherd guarded this opening, known as the gate. Like a dog to its owner, the sheep would learn to recognize the shepherd's voice, and respond only to him. A hired hand was seldom a good protector, because he was only there for the money. When a wild animal came along and threatened the sheep, the hired hand would run away in fear. But not the shepherd. He protected his flock with his very life.

Jesus protects us with His very life. Like a shepherd knows his sheep, Jesus knows each one of us. He is totally aware of our flaws, weaknesses, fears, and needs...and He loves us anyway! He calls out to us and leads us on the path that is best. In Christ, we can find not only Salvation, but friendship, protection, and serenity. When we lie down at night, we can rest peacefully knowing that the Good Shepherd is guarding the gate. To me, that sounds safer than Fort Knox. I am proud to call Jesus my great Shepherd. I am so thankful that He guides and protects me every day. If you don't know Jesus in this way, I invite you to ask Him to become your great Shepherd. Why live another minute without His incredible Peace?

John 10:11 says, "I am the good shepherd; The shepherd sacrifices His life for the sheep."

Father, thank-you for leading me with Your voice. I pray for anyone who is not Your sheep today. Lord, lead them according to You will. In Jesus name, Amen.

From Faith To Fish

2010-05-11T09:35:00.003-05:00

It was sometime around dawn on the sea of Galilee. Some of the disciples had been fishing all night but had caught nothing. As they were about to row back to shore, they saw Jesus standing on the bank. He asked them if they had caught anything, but they told him no. So Jesus suggested that they cast their nets on the right-side of the boat and they would catch some. They did what He said, and the nets were barely able to hold the multitude of fish! How do you think they felt? These guys were professional fisherman, and they must have thought this man on the shore was crazy. You see, according to the Book of John, the disciples did not know that the man on the shore was Jesus...not until they had caught all the fish. They could not recognize him from their boat. What does this suggest?

If they had known it was Jesus from the start and followed His advice, then it would show that faith in Jesus is a very powerful thing. But how could it be considered faith in Jesus if they did not even know it was Jesus? This is the way I like to interpret it: Many times, Jesus leads us through someone else. When we ask Jesus for help, we shouldn't expect that help to come to us with ringing bells and flashing lights. Sometimes Jesus helps us in more simple, quiet ways...like a stranger on a shore. I think the key is that we need to remain full of faith and hope and stay open to the various ways Jesus may chose to reach us. God has used some pretty unique ways in the past to help His people. Maybe He is trying to help you today in an equally unusual way. Look around and see if you can spot Him.

2 Corinthians 5:7 says, "For we walk by faith, not by sight."

Father, please help us to remember that You answer all our prayers. Sometimes it is not in a loud way. Help us to remember that sometimes You simply whisper. In Jesus name, Amen.

Peer Pressure

2010-05-10T09:20:00.003-05:00

In the Gospels, we learn a little about Pilate, the Roman leader who sentenced Jesus Christ to death. Why did he do it when three times he proclaimed Jesus not guilty of any crime? He told the Jewish mob, which insisted that Christ should be crucified, that he could find no fault in the man. But they persisted. In fact, they persisted so much that Pilate finally gave in to their demands. I don't think Pilate believed that Jesus was the Son of God, but he did believe in Jesus' innocence, yet he ordered His death. Instead of doing the right thing, Pilate chose to appease the people. He even went so far as to blame them for the death of Christ when he told them that he was washing his hands of the matter. What a weak and flawed character! He allowed peer pressure to guide him into a decision he knew was wrong. As a teacher, I try so hard to encourage my students to always do the right thing, even if it is the unpopular thing. I used to see a poster around school that read, "Stand-up for what is right, even if you are standing alone." Pilate is a perfect example that peer pressure doesn't just affect teenagers; We adults are just as prone to it as well. Today, let's all pray for God to give us the strength to do what is right...even if everybody else disagrees.

James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man that endures temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life."

Dear Lord, please forgive me for all the times I allowed peer pressure to steer me in the wrong direction. Please give me the strength the stand-up and do the right thing. In Jesus name, Amen.

Assumption

2010-05-06T08:54:00.003-05:00

In mathematics, one way to prove that something is true is to assume that it is not true, and then show how that assumption would create a contradiction. A simple example would be to assume that the world is flat. If that assumption is true, then nobody could have ever sailed "around" the world without "falling off". Since we know Magellan sailed around the world and didn't "fall off", then the world must not be flat, which contradicts our assumption that it is flat. I know there is no way to really "prove" that Jesus Christ was the Son of God, and that we must accept it by faith, but consider this argument: Let's assume that Jesus was not the Son of God.

Then how could He have been born to a virgin? How could He have turned water into wine? How could He have healed a blind man? How could He have healed a cripple? How could He have casted out demons? How could He have walked on water? How could He have calmed a storm? How could He have raised Lazarus from the dead? How could He have endured so much pain and humiliation on the Cross? How could He have been raised from the grave? How could He have appeared to so many people after He was dead? How could His disciples be willing to die for Him (especially if they knew He was a fake)? We can continue this argument, but the point is very clear: Jesus MUST have been the Son of God. I believe it. Do you?

Luke 4:14 says, "And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, 'Thou art Christ, the Son of God'"

Father, I accept Your Son Jesus as my Savior. Thank you for choosing me to be one of His Followers. In Jesus name, Amen.

It's Official

2010-05-05T09:47:00.003-05:00

It's official; My class won the pizza party! My students ended up raising over $700 for the Child Advocacy Center. The combined total for our school was $2200. That is simply amazing! These students need to be commended for doing such an outstanding job. I hope they will always remember what they accomplished as a group. We are waiting to hear from the media, as my class will be in the Newspaper and on TV. I think they are more excited about that than they are the pizza party. Yesterday, when they announced the winning class, my kids starting hollering and clapping...we all exchanged a few high-fives! If you know any students from Dothan High, please give them a big pat on the back. Like I said before, we hear a lot of negatives about schools and students today. But not all is bad. In fact, there is still a whole lot more that is good than bad. I am so very proud to be a teacher at Dothan High School. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to know these fine students!

Deuteronomy 16:17 says, "Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which He hath given thee."

Oh Lord, thank-you for allowing me to teach. I ask you to use this money raised to help abused children. In Jesus name, Amen.

Forgiveness

2010-05-04T09:39:00.003-05:00

The question on my Devotions this week is, "Personally, do you find it harder to forgive today?" I think we can all agree that crime is at a higher rate than before, especially violent crime. When I read about the evil things that people do, I am horrified. How can people be so hateful? When it strikes close to home, the level of frustration hits at a much higher level. I know forgiveness is a process; It can take some time. I have been thinking about things, especially the mugging of my friend. I refuse to let a few thugs steal my joy! I may not forgive them today, but with God's help, I sure hope I am able to. As long as I refuse to forgive them, the Bible says God will not forgive me. And, as hard as it is to comprehend, my sins against Him is just as bad as their sins against my friend. She told me she will bounce back from this. She said she refuses to hide under her covers and allow them to take away her happiness. Good for her! By all means, if she is strong enough to do that, then I should be strong enough to forgive. After all, I have suffered nothing compared to her. God bless you, Karen!

Romans 12:4 says, "Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not."

Father, please help me to forgive every single person that has wronged me. I pray for Karen. She is a strong woman, but really needs your help right now. I know You are with her, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.

Need Your Prayers

2010-05-03T09:38:00.003-05:00

My faith continues to be shaken in a big way. Over the weekend, a friend of mine was mugged and beaten-up as she was going into her apartment. She is left with scrapes and bruises, which will heal, but mental scars which may never. God only knows why such as this continues to plague our fallen world. I know we are supposed to forgive and forget, but those little thugs...I guess I should stop there! She needs our prayers, and so do her kids. Understandably, She is having a hard time coping with what has happened. To say she feels violated is an under-statement. Her faith in her fellow-man and in God is on shaky ground right now. She is scared to go anywhere, even to her job in the middle of the day. I am frustrated and very sad for her! Please send up a special prayer today asking God to wrap His loving arms around her and hold her close. She needs God and our prayers right now more than ever.

Romans 12:21 says, "Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good."

Father, why does this happen? I don't mean to question you, for I don't have that right. But how can we continue to cope with such Evil? In Jesus name, Amen,

Awesome Kids

2010-04-30T10:03:00.002-05:00

This month is Child Abuse Prevention month, and we at Dothan High School have been collecting money for the cause. As a motivator, the class that collects the most money wins a pizza party. Because of this friendly competition, these kids have more than amazed me! Today is the final day, so I will have to give you the totals that we collected next week. But listen to this: My class has already collected over $600! And the second-place class has almost that much. As of yesterday, Dothan High students had collected almost $1700! As a teacher for 16 years, I can tell you that not all is bad in public education. We have some of the most loving and giving kids I have ever seen. Don't you know God has to be smiling down on them today?

If our kids can give spare change, so can we adults. Ask God to lay on your heart, a charity that may need your help. Has God blessed you? I know He has certainly blessed me. And giving doesn't have to only mean money; Perhaps we can donate some time to a charitable organization. There sure are many out there that need our help. Let's say a special prayer today, asking the Lord what He would have us do. And if you know any students from my school, thank them for being such a great reflection of what God wants us all to become.

Luke 6:38 says, "Give, and it shall be given unto you."

Father, thank-you for allowing me to have the most rewarding career in the entire world! Bless our students, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.

Why?

2010-04-28T09:35:00.002-05:00

Perhaps it is one of the hardest questions to answer in the universe. Why does God allow death and destruction to come to innocent people? Take this weekend's deadly tornadoes, for example. Children died! What in the world did those kids do to deserve death in such a violent manner, and worse, how are their parents supposed to cope with such incredible loss? It is not fair. We see "bad" people thriving in society, while other very "good" people have to suffer. How could a God, who is supposed to be so loving, allow such unfair sadness to happen? I am not a Bible scholar, so I don't have a satisfactory answer to that question. Perhaps, nobody does. I know it says in Genesis that because of sin, man will be plagued with hardships and heartaches. But that still doesn't seem right.

This is where the most critical aspect of our Christian life must kick in: faith. No, these things don't seem fair, and it can feel like either there is no God, or He is just not interested in helping us. But we are promised in so many places in God's Word that he is with us and that He does love us more than we could ever imagine. I know it does not always feel like that, but we must continue to believe it and have faith that God has a purpose for everything that happens, even things that are unthinkable. The Bible promises us that God will come to us in our darkest moments. Like you, I have suffered a few tragedies in my life. And I will be the first to admit that trying to stay focused on God during those times can be very difficult. But don't allow Satan to steal from your heart what you truly believe and know deep down in your heart. God cares, and He is with us, maybe even carrying us at this very minute. Pray for God to increase your faith. After all, the Bible reminds us that we can not please Him without it.

Ephesians 6:16 says, "Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench the fiery darts of the wicked."

Father, please forgive us when we question you in times of tragedy. You did not make us robots. You gave us feelings. And sometimes those feelings overcome our brains. Help us to keep faith in You. In Jesus name, Amen.

How Much More Can He Take?

2010-04-25T10:42:00.003-05:00

The Bible tells us of God's incredible amount of patience and Grace. But it also warns us that there is a day coming when His patience will end, and He will pour out His wrath upon this earth like never before in history. I certainly believe it, because as a storm researcher, I get to see the evidence of just how bad tornadoes and hurricanes have become over the past 20 years. Earthquakes are now striking in every part of the world with greater frequency and intensity just as the Bible predicted) . And worst of all, these earthquakes are generating huge tsunamis all over the world. Death and destruction have become a regular part of our daily newscasts. Unfortunately, this increase in rogue weather is only the beginning of what is still to come!

We have always believed that God has blessed this great nation. But how much longer will He bless it? Our crime rate is through the roof, marriages are ending almost before they even start, tolerance has allowed the gay lifestyle to become a normality (just last week, Action Comics introduced their first gay character), and it has become taboo to even mention the name of Jesus anywhere in public. How much longer will God bless this great country? Around the globe, we are considered a "Christian nation", but our actions imply the opposite. As we look around at how bad things have become in America, do we also see how bad things have become in our own lives? Do we live each day for God? We may not be able to stop the rest of our nation from sliding away from God, but we certainly don't need to use that as an excuse for us to slide away too. Today, let's renew our walk with Christ. Although the outlook for this world is bleak, if we have accepted Christ, I believe he will spare us from His wrath. Do you believe that?

I Thessalonians 5:9 says, "For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ."

Father, Thank you for Jesus. I pray for our country. I know that all can be better if we just put You first. In Jesus name, Amen.

That Will Be $3500, Please

2010-04-19T20:06:00.002-05:00

I have to take a moment and praise Jesus. Late last week, my air conditioning unit started acting up. It was blowing air, but it just wasn't blowing cool air. Those of you who know me know how hot-natured I am. I have to have cool air! When the repair man got there, I was hoping it just needed freon or something like that. Not! I had to buy an entire new system! I got a system that was a little bigger than the one I had, and it cost me $3500. I didn't have $3500. I started to panic but decided to at least pray for help. I want you to know God answered that prayer almost immediately, and now I have a brand-new, high-efficiency system that is blowing arctic air. Praise the Lord!

The Bible tells us that God will always help us when we ask Him. I am sure you have discovered like I have that He doesn't always help us in the way we would like. But last week, God chose to bless me just the way I truly needed it. I can't help but to jump on here and sing His praises! Thank-you Jesus!

Psalm 104:33 says, "I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being."

Father, thank-you for helping me with my air situation. Forgive me for failing to thank you for all the other blessings you have given me. In Jesus name, Amen.

Smart Board

2010-04-14T09:54:00.004-05:00

I finally got a new toy at Dothan High. Most teachers already had the interactive Smart Boards installed in their classrooms, but I just got mine late last week. I would describe it to you as a state-of-the-art, interactive white board with tons of special features and effects. It is a very nice, modern way to help teach this techno-crazed generation of high school kids. I am still learning all the bells and whistles of the Smart Board, but so far I like it...and more importantly, I think my students have clued in to it and are learning more efficiently. The display is a huge white screen about 6 feet long and 4 feet tall. The software will allow the teacher to write on the Board with a special pen. What I like about it is that it will allow the teacher to also erase on the screen without messing up the screen or leaving "eraser" marks. Unlike paper which may leave residue from an eraser, the Smart Board looks brand new no matter how many times one writes and erases on it.

As I was erasing something on the Smart Board today, a passage from the book of Acts popped into my head. The passage says that Jesus' Resurrection from the grave has the power to "blot" out our sins. In other words, Jesus does not just partially forgive us of our our sins. Rather, He completely wipes away our sins. It is like me writing the word SIN in big, bold letters on my Smart Board, and then using the special eraser tool to "blot" it out. Once I have done that, the Board still looks as white as snow, and there is absolutely nothing left behind to indicate that there was ever the word SIN on the Board. When God forgives us through the blood of Jesus Christ, that sin is gone forever, never to be brought up again! Don't we serve an absolutely incredible Lord?

Psalm 103:12 says, "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us."

Father, thank-you for loving me enough to forgive my sins and for remembering them no more. Help me to use that as an example when dealing with those whom have sinned against me. In Jesus name, Amen.

Enough Is Enough

2010-04-08T08:22:00.002-05:00

I wish I could count how many times I have lost weight, and then gained it back. I bet many of us have done that at least a few times. But enough is enough! If you know me personally and have seen me lately, you know exactly what I am talking about. I have become very unhealthy. I don't just not eat right, I eat very wrong. I don't exercise. My blood pressure is more out of control right now than it has ever been before. I find myself so tired when I get home after work, that all I want to do is lay down. So today, with the help of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I am going to start making some changes for the better. I know I need to start out slowly so maybe this time I will stick with it. But I know I must do it this time. It is not fair to my daughter for me to be unhealthy. She has enough to worry about with school and "boys" ( Lord, help me). So this morning, I took the first step to getting healthy. I ate a nice breakfast, and I walked around the block. Granted, it was only one lap, but it was a start! So let's see...if I lose 3 pounds per week...times 7 weeks..that is... 21 pounds by this summer! I knew my Math Degree would come in handy...and my calculator!

Matthew 19:26 says, "...with God, ALL things are possible."

Father, help me to Glorify You by losing some weight, getting some exercise, and lowering my blood pressure. I know I can do it with Your help. In Jesus name, Amen.

Believe It Or Not

2010-04-07T09:58:00.004-05:00

I got a reply on one of my recent devotions from a man who wrote that I was wrong for believing that a person is a fool just for simply believing there is no God. I don't generally respond to replies since they are just another person's opinion, and we all have opinions. But in that devotion, I did not write my opinion, I quoted the Bible. Psalm 14:1 says, "Only fools say in their hearts, 'There is no God'" The bottom line of the Bible is this: Do you accept Christ as Your savior? Just believing in God is not enough (actually, just believing in Jesus is not enough either). The Bible makes it clear in several passages that in order to be saved from Sin and to receive Eternal Life, one must make Jesus Christ Lord of their life. If somebody doesn't believe this, then what good is the Bible? I mean, if we are "allowed" to pick and choose what we accept as truth in the bible, then God's Word loses all validity. Whether we like it or not, we must accept the Truth, the WHOLE Truth, and nothing but the Truth. Jesus is the Truth! We can't break the Bible up into parts that we accept and parts that we don't. If we do that, then it simply becomes a guessing game. And I don't know about you, but I am a terrible guesser! Jesus is the Way, the whole Way, and nothing but the Way! Do you believe this?

Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me".

Father, I accept You as my Personal Savior. Remind me not to judge those who don't accept You, but please use me to help change their mind...and heart. In Jesus name, Amen.

Habitual Sin

2010-04-06T09:16:00.004-05:00

Oh God, this sin habit. How I hate it! It propels me into misery. I am not right with You.
Oh what can I do? It is like a dragon eating my soul, as I fall again & again in sin.
The help I seek is the power of Jesus, Oh I know it's a battle. But I want to win? Now if I do what I will, not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. Yes, it is habitual sin said the Apostle Paul in the Book of Romans. Oh! my soul grieves. Through Jesus' power, not my own power, can victory be obtained. Be Heaven bound again. It takes a greater passion to overcome another passion. We need to want a relationship with God more than with sin. When that day comes, I will ask God to shove the killing arrow into the dragon. Yes, the dragon of my sin. Am I ready to kill the dragon of habitual sin that is robbing me of Heaven ? I say no to sin! I call on Jesus' power. In prayer I ask Jesus to help, avoid the circumstances of sin and return to the peace of God.

By Frank E Henrich March 25, 2010

The Day After

2010-04-05T09:45:00.002-05:00

As millions stood in churches around the world yesterday celebrating Jesus' victory over death, it was kind of like New Years Day in that many "resolutions" were made. On Easter Sunday, we feel so close to Christ that many rededicate themselves to following Him. We decided that we are going to show more love and tolerance for others, we are going to study God's Word harder, and we are going to allow Christ to shine through us more so the whole world can see our Savior. But like resolutions, our goals soon slip away from us, and we find ourselves back to our old ways. This year, let's ask God to help us keep up the hard work for Christ. Let's ask Him to help us feel as close to Him all year as we did yesterday. Let's ask God to help us bring others to church like we did yesterday, so they, too, can learn all about His amazing Grace and perfect love. Easter comes once a year on the calendar. But with some serious praying, we can keep Easter in our hearts year-round.

John 15:9 says, "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you: continue in my love."

Father, help us to keep Easter in our hearts every day of the year. In Jesus name, Amen.

Good Friday

2010-04-02T09:01:00.004-05:00

I have often wondered why it is called "Good" Friday if it is the day our Lord and Savior was flogged, tortured, humiliated, and Crucified on a Cross. The Bible is silent on the subject of "Good Friday". I checked on the Internet and found a few "possible" reasons why it is called "Good". The reason I say "possible" is because there are so many explanations that it is hard to know which one is the truth, if any of them. The explanation that I saw the most is that it has to do with the interpretation of the word "Good". Apparently, it is only here that we call it Good Friday. Most likely, the word "Good" meant "Holy". Most Christians around the world refer to the Friday of Jesus' death as Holy Friday. But there was one explanation that I came across that I liked the most.

It was all part of God's plan that Jesus would be born of a Virgin, be Crucified, and be Raised from the grave. The whole process is what separates Christians from all others in the world. We accept that Christ was the Messiah and that His sacrifice was sufficient to save us from the death of Sin. The fact that Jesus suffered and died on this day in His Story (history) was not a good thing in of itself. But we know that not all things in the world are good, however, God promises that all things will work together for good. Perhaps we can look at it like this: Had Jesus not been killed, He could not have been Resurrected. And if He had not been resurrected, we could not have been Saved. So in the grand scheme of things, His death was a good thing, that is, a good thing for us! It is hard to think about just how much Jesus had to endure for us. But He did it all for just one thing: To save me and to save you. And that makes for a GREAT Friday!

Isaiah 25:8 says, "He will swallow up death in victory..."

Father, thank-you for this Good Friday. Please help us to never forget the incredible Sacrifice You made on our behalf. Remind us that You didn't just die for Americans, but You died for every single person in the entire world! In Jesus name, Amen.

Atheist Holiday

2010-04-01T09:06:00.003-05:00

Since the Bible claims that anyone who says there is no God is a fool in his own heart, then today must be the atheist's holiday! Since this is April Fool's Day, I wanted to write about what all the Bible calls foolish. Unfortunately, I think I fit into some of these categories. Proverbs is the Book that talks the most about fools. According to Proverbs, a fool gives full vent to his spirit, hates knowledge, despises wisdom and instruction, quarrels, rages, deceives his neighbor, despises his mother, is a grief to his father, trusts in his own mind, devours precious treasure, feeds on folly, and believes everything. Of course there are many more things in the Bible about fools. It is obvious that God does not want us to be a fool or to do foolish things.

On this April Fool's Day, let's ask God to help us to not be as foolish but instead, be more wise. God promises wisdom for everyone who asks of Him. Instead of us judging others as being fools, maybe we should consider our own foolish ways. I'm sure in the eyes of the Lord, we all look like fools. But with God's help, we can look less like a fool and more like a child of the Most High. In the end, it is not going to matter who we are, but Who's we are! I am proud that I have accepted Jesus and became a child of God. Today, I pray for all the foolish people, myself included.

Luke 10:20 says, "Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

Father, please forgive my foolish ways and help me to learn wisdom. In Jesus name, Amen.

Feed On the Source

2010-03-31T14:44:00.003-05:00

I didn't write a devotion yesterday, and I am almost embarrassed to tell you why. I have gone three days without reading the Bible, therefore my tiny mind just can't think of a devotion to write. I have to feed on God in order to write a devotion. Yesterday was a big stress-day for me. I know we all have those kinds of days, but mine seem to be worse when I don't take a little time out to be with Jesus. To me, it is kind of like eating. The better I eat, the better I feel. I just feel better and have less stress when I spend some time "feeding" on the Lord. So tonight, I am going to turn off the TV and the radio and spend some good, quality time with Him. Maybe then I can write a nice, heart-warming devotion tomorrow. My Papa used to tell me, "If you can't pay as you go, then you are going too fast." It is the same as spending time with God. If you have too much to do to spend time with Jesus, then you have entirely too much to do!

Matthew 6:33 says, "But seek first the Kingdom of heaven and its righteousness, and all things things shall be added unto you."

Father, forgive me for not stopping to spend some quality time with You. I ask You to help me study Your Word tonight. In Jesus name, Amen.

Bank Account

2010-03-29T09:52:00.004-05:00

Suppose I deposited 1440 dollars into your bank account every single day with only one requirement: You are free to spend every penny of it, but whatever you don't spend today can't be carried over to tomorrow; You would just lose it. What would you do? Well I am pretty sure you would spend every bit of it and not waste a single cent. Well God gives each of us 1440 minutes in every single day. We can choose to "spend" those minutes wisely or we can choose to waste them. Whatever is wasted, though, is gone forever. The definition of "wasting" time varies from person to person. But I would think anything that we do that doesn't glorify God would be wasting time. That does not mean that we need to spend all our time only praying, going to church, or reading the Bible. We can Glorify God with everything we do. We can Glorify Him while we are doing our jobs, while we are driving in traffic, and even while we are shopping at the grocery store. Today, let's ask God to help us find some additional ways we can Glorify Him. After all, our 1400 minutes are ticking away.

Colossians 3:23 says, "Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people."

Father, please help us to not waste anytime and to learn how to spend every minute Glorifying You. In Jesus name, Amen.

Strange Coincidence

2010-03-25T08:35:00.003-05:00

I know it was only a coincidence, but it still feels very strange. Last night as I was falling asleep, I was listening to a CD of Doo Wop music. I must have fallen asleep to a song by one of my all-time favorite singers, Johnny Maestro, because I dreamed about being at one of his concerts. Well this morning, I learned that he died late last night in Florida. I am in shock! You might remember him as the lead singer of the Crests and Brooklyn Bridge. He was the singer on the hit songs 16 candles and The Worst That Could Happen. What an awesome voice he had. The good Lord definitely blessed him with talent! And today, he is singing with the angels in heaven.

Although he had been battling cancer for the past few years, we all know that we could be promoted to Glory at any moment. Are we ready? Let me ask you a very serious question: If you died right now, would you go to heaven? I know I would because I have accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Have you also accepted Him? As confusing as the Bible can be, this is one point that is crystal clear. Look at it like this: We all carry life insurance "just in case". So how much more important is Eternal Life insurance? If you have not made Jesus Master of your life, please do so right away. And if you have made Him Master of your life, please share Him with as many people as you can today. Because today may be all the time they have left.

Jesus said in John 6:47, "Truly I say unto you, he that believes in Me has Everlasting Life."

Father, please help us to share the Good News about Christ. Thank you for offering us Eternal Life. In Jesus name, Amen.

We Must Forgive Others

2010-03-24T13:14:00.003-05:00

We all make mistakes and sin against God. We all fall way short when it comes to pleasing the Lord. Sure, we all do some good things that I am sure God likes. And some of us make less mistakes than others. But the fact is we all fail and do some really dumb things. That is why we should never judge others for their mistakes. Whenever we see others making really dumb choices, that should remind us that we are no better. What those people need is the very same thing that we need when we have failed: Love, understanding, and forgiveness. After all, isn't that what God gives each of us? Today, I am going to try extra, extra hard not to judge anyone for anything. Instead, I am going to take a moral inventory of my own life and ask God to help me remove my defects and character flaws. I know that is one tall order, but I also know I can do anything with God's help.

Psalm 86:5 says, "For thou, lord, art Good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee."

Father, forgive my sins and forgive when I judge others. Help each one of us to remember that we need You at the very center of our lives. In Jesus name, Amen.

Shipwrecked

2010-03-23T09:29:00.003-05:00

I just recently bought seasons 1 and 2 of Gilligan's Island on DVD. Bailey and I have been watching episode after episode ever since. I remember watching it as a kid, so it brings back some sweet memories for me. And now watching it with Bailey makes it extra sweet. This is the first time she has really sat down to watch it. Although it is a comedy and meant to be silly, most episodes also include a lot of drama and adventure. There are storms, diseases, various visitors, and even a ghost that visits the island. It can be a lot of fun to watch. In the end, the story revolves around 7 completely different people from all walks of life. There is a skipper of a boat, his not-so-smart first-mate, a millionaire and his wife, a professor, a movie star, and a down-home, level-headed farm girl. Through their adventures on the island, they learn to cooperate and help each other survive the horrors of being shipwrecked with little hope of rescue.

If you like action and adventure, read chapters 27 and 28 of the book of Acts. Here's the Reader's Digest version: Paul was a prisoner and was placed on a ship bound for Rome. During the the trip, a huge, 2-week-long storm blew up and tossed and battered their ship. Eventually they washed up safely on the Island of Malta. Then more trouble started. Paul was bitten by a poisonous snake but miraculously suffered no harm. God had a plan for Paul that a terrible storm, being shipwrecked, and a poisonous snake bite couldn't stop. And while Paul waited on the island to be rescued, he shared his testimony about Jesus with those around Him. In Paul's life, obstacles became opportunities to share the Good News about our Savior. Perhaps we could take on that same attitude. The next time we hit a snag, maybe we can look around and find a way to share Jesus.

I Peter 4:16 says, "Yet if man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf."

Father, help us to remember that bad circumstances in our lives may simply be opportunities that You have provided for us to share the Good News about Christ. Help us to do Your will during these times. In Jesus name, Amen.

Frustrated

2010-03-22T12:42:00.003-05:00

As satisfying as teaching is, it is almost just as frustrating at times, especially after an extended off-period like Spring Break. Trying to get some students re-oriented is like pulling teeth. Justin forgot his book, Brittany doesn't have any paper, Karen dropped her pencil somewhere in the hall, Corey is asleep, and practically none of them remembers what we did the last time we were in class. Instead of picking up where we left off, valuable class time is wasted just to get them back to where they should already be. It can be so frustrating. But I would not swap careers for anything in the world. Teaching brings me joy, even during the frustrating moments. I have some great students, and I love every single one of them...even when I feel like pinching their heads off.

I wonder how frustrated God gets with me sometimes. I am not always on-task with Him just like some of my students are not always on-task with their subject matter. Can you just imagine how frustrated God must get sometimes? He gave us His Bible that tells us just what to do and how to do it. We have learned that when we choose to not do things His way, it only leads us to pain and suffering. He can no more do it for me than I can learn for my students. I don't understand why they don't just simply do what they know they must do. But God feels that way about me, too. God wonders why I do things the hard way instead of the way He outlined for me to do. Although He may get frustrated with me, Thank God he still loves me and still tries to keep me on-task with Him. He never gives up on me. I need to always remember that lesson and never give-up on my students, either.

Psalm 32:8 says, "I will teach thee and instruct thee in the way which ye shall go."

Father, forgive me for the times I fail and frustrate You. Teach me to have patience for when my students do the same to me. In Jesus name, Amen.

Last Kiss

2010-03-18T04:38:00.003-05:00

In 1964, a one-hit wonder group, J. Frank Wilson and the Cavaliers, had a huge hit with the song Last Kiss. The song was based on a very sad , but true story. Just two years earlier, Jeanette Cook and J. L. Hancock, both 16 years-old, were out on a date only a few days from Christmas in 1962. Their car was struck by a tractor-trailer on a road in rural Barnsville, Georgia. A local gas station attendant helping with the recovery of the bodies didn't even recognize his own daughter. In the song, the girl dies in her boyfriend's arms. The lyrics are as follows: Where, oh where, can my baby be? The Lord took her away from me. She's gone to heaven so I have to be good, so I can see my baby when I leave this world.

One of the hardest things for us to comprehend about Salvation is that it has nothing to do with how good we are. Salvation is a gift from God, not something we can earn. In our society, many things we do are judged based on comparisons to other people. But no matter how "good" we are, we will simply never measure-up to the Goodness of Christ. Further, no matter how much "better" we are than other people, in God's eyes, we fail just as miserably as they do. When I took calculus in college, my professor gave the class a diagnostic test to ascertain our strengths and weaknesses. I found out later that I did better than anyone else in the class-I got two correct out of 20 while everyone else only got one correct. I may have done better than they did, but I still failed just as badly as everyone else in the class. We can't earn heaven no matter how well we do. Today, let's thank God for His incredible gift of Jesus Christ and for eternal life that comes only through Him.

Titus 3:5 says, "God our Savior saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy."

Father, thank-you so much for Your only Son Jesus. Help us to remember that it is through Him only that we are given eternal life. In Jesus name, Amen.

Mention My Name

2010-03-17T11:25:00.005-05:00

Recently, a friend of mine went to a job interview at a local company. I personally know many of the "top dogs" at that company, and I told my friend that when she got in the interview, to mention my name. She got the job! I am not sure if she ever mentioned my name in the interview or not, and even if she did, I doubt that had any bearing on their decision. My guess is that it probably didn't because she was very qualified for the job. And for all I know, maybe she did mention my name but got the job in spite of that. I encouraged her to mention my name, not because I think I am such a good person or because I have so much pull at that company. I wanted her to mention my name so in case they wanted to call me and get the "scoop" on her, I could brag about what a great person she is and how she would be such an incredible asset for their company.

I think that is what will happen to us on Judgement Day in heaven. First of all, we are all full of sin. The Bible teaches us that no human is immune from it. Further, God is a perfectly Holy God, therefore He can not even look upon sin. But when we stand before God on that day, we have a "friend" whom God loves very much. If we have accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior, all we have to do is mention His sweet name in the "interview". By doing this, God then sees us as sin-free. Wow, what a powerful name! The blood that Christ shed on the Cross was accepted by God as a ransom for our sins. My friend who got the job got it because she was qualified for it, not because she mentioned my name. But when we stand before God, we will not be "qualified", but the name of Jesus will have the Power to give us Eternal Life anyway. God is so awesome! His grace is sufficient for all of us, even for me!

Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

Father, I am in complete awe when I think about how much You love me. You sent Your only Son to die in my place. I know I can never repay You for what You have done for me. But I do accept Your gift of Jesus Christ. Thank-you, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.

That's God's Specialty

2010-03-16T11:28:00.003-05:00

Our Bible is full of bad situations in which God turns around into good outcomes. Perhaps we have seen it in our own lives. I know I hear so many people use the phrase, "it was a blessing in disguise." I know in my life, I will occasionally come against a problem to which doesn't seem to have a very good solution. But then God gets involved with it, and what I didn't see during the problem becomes so clear afterwards...and after God interjects His work into it. When we study some of the miracles that Jesus performed, we see where the situation seemed hopeless to those around at the time. The disciples worried when Jesus wanted to feed the multitude of 5000 with only 5 loaves and 2 fish. They also panicked when a huge storm blew up on the lake one day, and Mary and Martha were so sad after Lazarus had died.

Perhaps the worst situation that was turned around by God was when our Jesus was suffering and dying on the Cross. Not only did the pain have to be excruciating to Him, but the humiliation had to be awful too. The Pharisees were delighted to watch Jesus . They mocked Him. To them, life was good. But to all the Followers of Christ, not only were they heart-broken, but they were also very confused. How could this man who performed so many miracles for others not be able to help Himself? But as we all know now, had Christ intervened on His own behalf, we would not have Salvation today. No, Jesus accepted all the suffering so you and I could be free. God worked perhaps His greatest miracle that day, and especially 3 days later when Jesus walked out of the tomb. Regardless how bad a situation you and I are facing today, God is there with us holding our hand. And in just a short time, He will turn our situation from bad to good. All we have to do is have a little patience and a lot of faith!

Psalm 30:11 says, "You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy."

Father, please help us when we face what we see as a no-win situation. Help us to remember that none of our problems are greater than Your amazing Grace. In Jesus name, Amen.

Thank-You My Jesus

2010-03-14T23:34:00.005-05:00

I want to write a very personal and loving devotion to Jesus today. I don't want to just simply write about Him, I want to actually write it to Him. I started and stopped writing these words over 10 times last night and this morning. I am not a good enough writer to find all the words that are in my heart. But please know I have written about my feelings for Jesus to the best of my ability. I hope you don't mind me sharing the final product with you.

Oh Heavenly Father, thank-you for allowing me to be born into this world, and thank-you even more for allowing me to be a born-again Christian. I don't want to even begin to think about just where I would be today if it hadn't been for You. It all started with my parents and grand-parents who took me to church and taught me the Truth about You. They were simply obeying what You had placed in their hearts. You have been so good to me, Father. Actually, You have been nothing short of a miracle. And even though the miracles you have performed in my life may not be on the same scale as You walking on water, feeding 5000, or raising Lazarus from the dead, my miracles are just as awesome to me. Lord, You walk on water everyday in my life! You have given me the most perfect career in the world. If I had written out the perfect script for my life, being a teacher and touching the lives of our young people would have never been written down. After all, there are so many other careers that earn much more money. But you know what Lord? No other career would have made me as rich as I am today in my heart.

Perhaps the greatest of all my responsibilities and blessings, however is the gift you gave me of being Bailey Boo's daddy. I never really understood just how deeply I could love another person until the day she was born. As soon as I looked into her eyes, I realized You had transformed me to the ultimate level of love. Thank you so very much for allowing me to be her daddy. Lord, I know I don't deserve all these blessings, but I also know You don't make mistakes. Thank-you for loving and caring for me enough to take the time to form and shape my life around me. I want to share you with every single person I see. You are so much more than my Savior, you are my very best friend. Oh Lord, You have blessed me with some pretty awesome friends that would do just about anything in the world for me. But nobody knows just how bad I can and have been, yet unconditionally loves me anyway like You do. And though there is nothing I can ever do to repay You for touching and blessing my life so richly, please accept this small note of appreciation. Lord, You know it comes straight from my heart. At this moment, I want to completely surrender, and yield my life to Your calling. I am totally Yours, Lord. Please continue to form and shape my life as You see fit.

A Powerful Tongue

2010-03-12T00:59:00.003-06:00

It is in the middle of the night, and insomnia has struck me again. I know I will be a walking zombie tomorrow/this morning when I go to work, but I just can't sleep. I've tried warm milk, counting sheep, taking a hot shower, and even reading. Nothing has helped so far. Anyway, at least I have been constructive while I have been awake; I have been reading my Bible. Last year, I wrote a devotion called Spitting Poison. In the devotion, I compared the poison of a snake to the poison we speak with our tongues. Tonight I was reading about the untamable tongue in James chapter 3. I love the way he describes our tongue in verse 4: He says, "Look also at ships, although they are so large and driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Even so, the tongue is a little member that boasts great things."

As a teacher, I have learned how much what I say effects my students, good or bad. One little compliment can build up a student just as much as a negative comment can tear them down. Some are more effected than others, but all of them are effected to some degree. I need to be more aware of what I say and how I say it. When I think of some of the negative things I have said in the past, I feel so ashamed and embarrassed. I can always ask that person to forgive me, and they may always do it. But forgiving and forgetting are two different things. It is almost impossible to forget hurtful words that are directed toward us. James goes on to say in verse 8 that only God can tame our tongues. I pray that He will continue to tame mine by teaching me to use it for praising and not for cursing. We have power with our words. How will we choose to use that power?

Proverbs 21:23 says, "He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity."

Dear Lord, please forgive me for saying hurtful things to others. Teach me to use my tongue for building up instead of for tearing down. In Jesus name, Amen.

Hard To Stay Focused

2010-03-11T12:46:00.003-06:00

I don't know if things today are any worse than they were 20 years ago, but it sure seems like it. Crime reported in the local paper today alone included 6 robberies, 2 break-ins, 2 cases of money extortion, 1 murder, and one case of a 20-something year-old sodomizing a 9-year old. Crime was not the only bad news. There are current talks of possibly 200 people losing their jobs in the school system in which I teach. Job loss is not confined to just my school system. It is estimated that due to proration, over 3500 teachers in the state of Alabama could be unemployed by the end of the school year. I read on the Internet where the Kansas City School System is about to close half the schools in its district. Our school board here in Dothan is about to vote on combining the two high schools. And the problem is effecting more than just the education field. Almost every industry is being hit hard with unemployment and downsizing. If these are not the End Times, I sure hope I'm not here when they come.

The Bible teaches us that we are to focus on things that are cheerful, Godly, and good. We should spend our time thinking about love, kindness, and friendship. It is so hard to try to block out the bad things that are roaring around us. I could not even begin to imagine how I could get along without Christ. I find I need Him everyday. When I pray to Him, I can actually feel His loving arms around me. He is much more than just a friend to me. Jesus is my Rock and my Savior. He is like the calm eye of the worst hurricane. Not all things are good right now, but Jesus has a way of sewing all the pieces together to make something great! I have to remind myself of this fact every single day. God is with us! Satan may be winning this little battle, but we all know who will win the War.

2 Timothy 4:18 says, "And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto His heavenly Kingdom: to whom be glory forever and ever."

Father, help us to stay focused on the positive things You have made for us. Help us to remember that all things will work according to Your perfect will. In Jesus name, Amen.

You Rang?

2010-03-10T09:53:00.003-06:00

March 10, 1876- Alexander Graham Bell made the first successful call with the telephone. He spoke the words "Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you". Since then, telephones have come a long way. Once crank-style and rotary dial, now practically all phones have digital numerals. Only recently have phones come in various shapes and colors. I wonder if Mr. Bell ever envisioned cell phones? I can still remember the first car-phone I ever saw. I was living on Chincoteague Island in Virginia, and our neighbor had one in his 1974 Ford Maverick. When he had a call coming in, the car horn would beep until he answered it. I used to think he must be the richest man in the world to actually have a phone in his car. I was always puzzled, though, where he kept the phone lines.

I don't think any of us could imagine the world now without telephones, especially cell phones. It is amazing to me how one can send a text message with the simple push of a few buttons. In fact, I could write this devotion from my cell phone. Simply amazing! Although phone technology has exploded since Bell, it is still light years away from the speed and effectiveness of prayer. It doesn't matter where you are or what you are doing, you can dial up Jesus just by thinking it. One simple thought can get God and His angels dispatched to you faster than 911 can summon an ambulance. Prayer is one of the most important things we can do as Christians. Prayer is our life-line to heaven. And to pray, we don't even have to take the time to bow our head or close our eyes. I have just recently discovered the importance of prayer. I mean, I knew it was important, but recently I feel like my prayers to God are more personal and less generic. I pray many times throughout the day and night, because it helps me in my heart. Try to increase your number of prayers today. See just how much better you will feel. God's line is never busy or out of order. You never run up your "minutes" when you call Him; It's a free call. Jesus picks up His phone on the very first ring, and He doesn't need Caller ID! Have you given Christ a ring today?

Psalm 55:17 says, "Morning, noon, and night, I pray to God, and He hears my voice."

Father, thank you for prayer. Teach us how to do it more often and more effectively. In Jesus name, Amen.

Need Your Prayers

2010-03-09T10:00:00.003-06:00

We all know that money is tight right now. The coming year in the school system where I teach will see more cuts of teachers and programs than ever in the history of the State. Possible cuts include sports, ROTC, band, art, foreign languages, and scores more. It is reported that all the non-tenured teachers will be let go at the end of the school year. That is 30 teachers at just my school alone! The problem seems to be in the way education is funded in Alabama. Nobody here or there seems to know how to get more money into education without these drastic cuts. Many teachers will be unemployed in the next 2 months with very little prospects for a future job. The situation is bleak and very sad.

This is the exact situation where God seems to thrive. He knows how bad things are in our lives, but He has a plan. We may not see that plan today, but rest-assured, He will come through for us. I have 100% faith that God will intervene. I am asking for your prayers for all those whose jobs will be cut in May. There is strength in numbers. If we all say a prayer, God will surely listen. Please pray for us all. Please have faith that God will fix this problem. Look at all the miracles He has already performed. Our God is so much bigger than our problems, no matter how big those problems may be.

Hebrews 4:16 says, "Therefore let us come boldly unto the throne of the Lord, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in our time of need."

Father, bless those who are having to make the hard decisions about the future of education. Be with who are worried about their jobs. Remind us that You have the power to see us through these hard times. In Jesus name, Amen.

That's One Tough Germ!

2010-03-08T10:12:00.003-06:00

I shared this devotion awhile back and was asked to re-print it. I am very happy to do s0. The devotion is based on the product Lysol and other cleaning agents like it. On the commercial and on the bottle, it says it "kills 99.9% of household germs." What I don't get is why it is strong enough to kill all the germs EXCEPT that .1%? That must be one tough germ! Couldn't the makers put just a tiny bit more chemical in the Lysol to kill all of the germs?

Jesus died at Calvary for our sins. His blood was sufficient to wipe away 100% of our sins, not just most of them. His blood didn't leave .1%, it got it all! There is no sin that God has not or will not forgive you for. I know the Bible says that blasphemy against the Holy Ghost is the only unpardonable sin. But if you are reading this devotion, and obviously you are, you are not guilty of that sin. As long as there is still a breath in your body, Christ stands ready at this very minute to wash all, and I mean ALL your sins away. Have you asked Him to wipe away your sins? As car dealers say, now is the perfect time to ask Him. Just stop what you are doing and ask Him to save you from your sins. If you are already saved, don't let Satan lay a guilt trip on you when you sin in the future. Just confess those sins to Jesus, and He will wipe 'em clean again. Jesus' bottle of "Lysol" never runs out!

I John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness."

Father, thank-you for wiping away our sins. I pray for those who may be reading this and don't know You as their Savior. Stir their hearts Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.

Break These Chains

2010-03-05T12:42:00.004-06:00

We all have something in our lives that chain us down. Maybe it is an addiction of some kind. I don't necessarily mean drugs or alcohol, although those are some of the worst kinds of addictions. It could be pornography, swearing, lieing, working too much, losing our temper, or just about anything that is a negative aspect of our life. Those chains are so very hard to break. More than just bad habits, these "addictions" may bind us to the point to where we have no control. Maybe we have tried over and over again to break free, but we still find ourselves locked to our problems. There is good news! Although we can't break free under our own strength, there is One who certainly can!

In the 12th chapter of Acts, we learn that Peter had been placed in prison, awaiting a "trial". Not only was he locked inside, but he was also bound around the wrists by chains Further, 16 soldiers (four squads of four each) stood guard in and around the prison. But it wasn't too much for our Lord to handle. As Peter slept, an angel appeared. The angel told him to quickly get dressed and put on his sandals. Then, the part that I love the best, "the chains instantly fell off his wrists.". The angel led him out of the prison and into freedom. He was saved by our precious Lord. There is absolutely nothing God can't do! So what are the chains that bind you today? Have you all but given up hope? Don't! God is near and ready to free you. It could be only a matter of minutes before you hear those chains hit the floor. Amen!

Psalm 34:17 says, "The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles."

Father, we have chains that bind our lives. Please hear our cries and help us to break those addictions. We can do all things through Your Son Jesus Christ. In His name we pray, amen.

Wash Me

2010-03-03T16:46:00.003-06:00

Have you ever seen those dusty cars in which some joker writes "wash me" on on the side of it? Well somebody did that to my truck today. I have to admit my truck is quite dusty, and with it being black in color, it really shows. So I guess I need to wash it, and a good wax job wouldn't hurt either. Reading that "wash me" on the side of my truck today reminded me of when Jesus washed His disciples' feet. Washing others feet in those days was reserved for the lowliest servants, so they were shocked when Jesus wanted to wash theirs. Peter even spoke up and told Jesus that he would never allow Him to wash his feet. In Peter's eyes, Jesus was "too good" to ever stoop to such a lowly thing. But Jesus responded, "If I do not wash you, then you have no part with me."

Obviously Jesus was setting a good example that we can follow today. We are to serve each other. None of us are any better than anyone else, and nothing should be "beneath" us when it comes to doing or caring for others. But Jesus' words also go much deeper. If Jesus does not wash us (cleanse us from sins), then we can't have any part with Him (be saved and receive eternal life). It is only through the washing of Jesus' blood that we can truly be cleansed from all sin and receive eternal life! Our response to that should be exactly as Peter's response was to Jesus: "Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!"

Ephesians 1:7 says, "In Jesus, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's Grace."

Father, wash all of me! Help me to serve others and to tell them about Your free gift of Salvation. In Jesus name, Amen.

Doubt

2010-03-02T13:59:00.005-06:00

I think we all have periods in which we doubt ourselves, others, and maybe even God. Doubt is a normal human emotion. We all know that Thomas was a doubter, which led to his famous name of Doubting Thomas. But even John the Baptist doubted while he was in prison, and Jesus called him the greatest man to ever be born. John asked a messenger to go to Jesus and ask Him if He was indeed the Messiah. Our Lord is a very loving and caring Lord. He does not wait for us to have moments of doubt and then pounce on us like a lion. No, Our Lord and Savior knows we all have serious limitations. He still loves us!

Maybe you are doubting something right now that you have been praying about. Maybe it seems that God has put you on "hold" and you are starting to doubt that He even cares. That is a normal feeling; Don't beat yourself up about it. Just keep on praying and hoping in the Lord. He will not let you down. I know sometimes it seems like the whole world is caving in around us. But God has it completely under control. Don't give up! For all we know, God's help may already be on the way!

Mark 9:23 says, "All things are possible if you can believe".

Father, please forgive us when we doubt ourselves and maybe even You. Help us to keep the faith. We can do all things through You. In Jesus name, Amen.

It's Only In the Mind

2010-03-01T14:02:00.003-06:00

I enjoy watching TV shows about unexplained mysteries of our world. The universe in which God created is mind-boggling! This weekend, I saw a show concerning prayer. The one-hour program featured case studies of situations where prayer caused "miracles". For instance, one segment featured a 6-year old boy who was run-over by a car. He had internal injuries, and the X-rays showed his entire pelvis was crushed. His prognosis was not good. Doctors did not give him much chance for survival, and they explained that if he did survive, he probably would never walk again. His family called their minister and several friends to come to the hospital. They held a special prayer meeting for the youngster in the waiting room. God heard their prayer and responded with a miracle! Not only did the boy survive, he also made a complete recovery with absolutely no limitations on his walking ability. Doctors were stunned!

I was baffled by the discussion that followed. The doctors and "experts" tried to explain why the boy made such a turn-around. They believed that the prayer did help. But they did not believe it was a prayer to God that made the difference. They said the prayer was just a form of "positive thinking", and that positive thinking did the trick. Some brain "expert" said the positive thinking released certain healing chemicals into the boy's body. So in their estimation, prayer does help to make drastic changes in the body, but only because of the effects it has on the mind. It is so sad to me that even when God chooses to save a person's life, some people still ignore it and dismiss it as simple "Science". Prayer does change things. But it is much more than just positive thinking! It is the One and only True God that makes the difference. He is still in the miracle business. Yes, He can work through doctors and scientists, and He has given those people a lot of knowledge that helps us everyday. But let's not forget that it is God that is at the center of it all. He deserves all the Glory!

Hebrews 4:16 says, "Let us come boldly unto the throne of God, that we may obtain mercy, and find Grace to help in time of need."

Father, we thank you for miracles. As our knowledge of our world continues to grow, help us to never forget that it is You at the center. In Jesus name, Amen.

Happy Birthday Bailey

2010-02-26T09:15:00.004-06:00

I can't believe my little girl is growing up so fast. Bailey Morgan Skipper was born on this day in 1996 in Dothan, Alabama. I fell deeply in love with her then, and time has only increased my love for her. She has blossomed from a little baby into a beautiful young lady. I am so proud of the kind of person she has become. She always makes A's in school and never gets in trouble. She is respectful and caring. She has much more talent than I ever had. She plays the piano, flute, and guitar (I can barely play the radio). But do you know what it is about her that makes all those other things pale in comparison? Bailey has accepted Jesus as her Personal Savior. Hallelujah! Bailey, on your special day, I just wanted you to know that you have made me the proudest Daddy in the world. I love you all the way to the sky! Boo, always keep Jesus in the center of your life. Always pray and thank Him for your blessings. I will never stop thanking Him for bringing me the most incredible and precious daughter.

Jesus said in Matthew 19:14, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Dear Father, thank you for choosing me to be Bailey's Daddy. I ask you to keep her safe and give her great joy on this special day. In Jesus name, Amen.

The True Power

2010-02-25T10:05:00.004-06:00

I have a special request: Please pray for my students at Dothan High School who will be taking the Alabama High School Graduation Exam next week. In order to graduate, these students must pass this test. There is an alarming trend in education today of students not passing. I am sure we all have our personal opinions of why this is occurring, but none the less, we have to keep striving to overcome those barriers. What I truly want to tell the students, which I believe with all my heart will help them the most, I can't...or maybe I should say, "I'm not allowed". I want to tell them to not look deep inside themselves, but rather, look deep inside Jesus. Jesus is the only true source we have for lasting power. I have been teaching for 16 years, but I still pray before every single class and ask God to show me exactly what to do to get the most out of my students. I can't do it without Him, even if I had 30 years of teaching experience.

I did mention in my classroom today that I would be holding a special prayer meeting Sunday night where I will be praying for one hour solid, asking God to be with those students while they take the Exams. I will use that one prayer to call every single name out to God, even those students that I don't know. My kids seemed stirred by my interest in their success. By Break, it had gotten around to a couple of teachers what I had said in class. One of my fellow teachers told me I might be wasting my time because some of these kids are just too far gone. I told her that God rescued me when I was much further gone than they are right now. And if He can save a lieing, cheating, drug-addicted, gossipping, hypocrite like me, He can save anyone! Praise be unto the Father!!

Jesus declared in Mark 9:23, "Anything is possible if you believe."

My Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me these kids. I pray for Your continued guidance as I try to get them ready for their Exams. I KNOW all things are possible with You. You have shown me that first-hand. Be with these precious ones. In Jesus name, Amen.

STRESSED!!!!!

2010-02-23T14:53:00.004-06:00

If I was a cat, I think I would have already pulled all my fur out! Stress! (I would have said that I was pulling all my hair out, but God already did that for me naturally..) You know how it can be with the job, kids, bills, etc...So I decided to just stop what I was doing, say a quick prayer to the Good Lord, and read one single Bible verse. Wow, what a difference! Today was probably the shortest amount of time that I spent with Jesus in a long time. But maybe because at the moment I needed Him the most, and then put everything else down and focused on just Him, He renewed my mind and spirit. Honestly, it feels like I just took a 2-hour Power Nap! God is sooo Good to us. Are you stressing at the moment? Try completely stopping what you are doing and focusing on Jesus, even for just one minute. It worked for me. Praise my Lord!

Ephesians 4:23 says, "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind. "

Oh Father, thank you for all that You do for me. I can't help but to share it with everyone! I am on fire for you right now, Lord. Please send someone my way this afternoon that needs peace in their heart and their mind. I want to give them what You have given me. In Jesus name, Amen.