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The Bible Will Change Us......

9/26/2023

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THE BIBLE CHANGES US 
 
An elderly Christian lived in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his grandson. Early each morning the grandson observed his Grandpa sitting at the table reading from his Bible. One day the lad remarked, “Papa, I want to read the Bible like you, but I don’t understand it. What good is it to read a book that I don’t understand?”  
 
The grandfather thought a few moments, and then picked up a filthy coal basket from the coal stove and handed it to the boy. “Take this down to the river, fill it with water and bring it back as full as you can.”  
 
The boy did as he was told. However, it soon became apparent that the coal basket was not intended to hold water. Virtually every drop leaked out before he got back to the house. The grandfather laughed and said, “You’ll need to move a faster next time,” and sent him back to the river to try again.  
 
Although the boy trotted briskly on this occasion, he found that the basket was again empty by the time he returned to the house. Panting aloud, he told his grandfather, “It’s impossible to carry water in coal basket”. The old man suggested, “Perhaps you’re still not moving fast enough. Give it one more go.”  
 
Although the grandson realized that it was hopeless, he determined to give it one last try. He again dipped the coal basket into the river, and then ran with it as fast as he could back to the house. By the time he reached his grandfather, the basket was empty. Frustrated and out of breath, he gasped, “Papa, this is pointless!”  
 
 “Pointless?, the old man replied. “Take a look at the basket.” As the boy did, he realized that it was different. Instead of being filthy with coal dust, it was relatively clean and shiny. “Son, that’s what happens when you keep reading your Bible. You might not understand everything you read, but if you keep after it, it will make a difference in your life.”  
 
**********************************************  
 
"…as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it”(Isaiah 55:10-11).  
 
A Recommitted Me in 2023!  
 
Dennis




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Whatever You Do......

9/26/2023

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Don't Miss Heaven!

"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Mk. 8:36-37

A Christian man longed for his children to one day become faithful Christians. As they grew older, he looked for a way to lovingly encourage them. He eventually came up with the phrase, “Whatever you do, don’t miss heaven!”

When his children reached their teen years and became increasingly exposed to the pleasures of the world, he gently implored, “Whatever you do, don’t miss heaven!” When each child graduated and moved out of the house, he lovingly urged, “Whatever you do, don’t miss heaven!” And when each child wed, the father fervently reminded each one, “Whatever you do, don’t miss heaven!”

Many years later, as he was taking his final breaths and surrounded by family, among his last words were, “Whatever you do, don’t miss heaven!”

Did they heed their fathers' words and become faithful Christians? I don’t know, but I do know that their father aimed them in the right direction by planting the seeds of salvation in their hearts.

***********************************************************************************

Every Christian parent (or grandparent) should do the same. For if our children lose their souls, then everything else they accomplish will be pointless.

Not long ago a Christian friend beamed about his children’s athletic accomplishments. Yet not one of them has attended a church service in some time.

I try to remind my son, “The most important thing to me is to know that I'll see you in heaven.” Although he received numerous athletic awards while growing up, and is currently successful in his career, none of that compares with the condition of his soul. If he does not go to heaven, he will have gained nothing and lost everything.

Parents, always set a good Christian example to your children. And constantly remind them, “Whatever you do, don’t miss heaven!”

A Recommitted Me in 2023!

Dennis
​
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Nothing But.........????

9/15/2023

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Nothing But Jesus!
 
 “For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (1 Cor. 2:2).


In our hectic society, we sometimes experience "information overload". And no wonder - our TVs, phones, tablet, laptop and desktop computers provide us with as much information in 12 hours as some of our great-grandparents were exposed to in 12 years. Moreover, there seems to be no end to our desire to obtain more information. The current fascination with A.I. (artificial intelligence) is just one indication.


While there is nothing inherently wrong with being "informed", we must beware of allowing our faith and commitment to Jesus Christ to get "lost in the shuffle."


The Apostle Paul reminded Christians in Corinth that he was determined to know nothing among them "except Jesus Christ and Him crucified". I admire that mindset and believe that all Christians should adopt it. Although Paul also expressed concern about other issues within the church in Corinth, his #1 focus was Jesus Christ. He was obsessed with proclaiming Jesus to a lost and dying world. His overriding passion was spreading the gospel so that everyone might have the opportunity to be saved through Jesus Christ.


What about us? Are we as concerned with promoting the gospel of Christ as we are with hearing about and discussing politics, the economy, immigration, weather or our favorite sports team? Are we more focused on the latest headlines than with teaching lost souls about the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ?


It’s time that we make Jesus Christ the CENTER of our attention. It’s time we make our Lord THE reason for everything we do. It is only then that we have a real chance of winning lost souls to Christ.
 
 “…that in all things HE may have the preeminence” (Col 3:18).


A Recommitted Me in 2023!


Dennis
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Storms

9/15/2023

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Storms
 
At various times we will encounter the “storms of life" - disappointments, unpleasant events, and setbacks. These may come in the form of illness, injuries, financial issues, job or school problems, marriage difficulties, and even the loss of our beloved pets. One look at our sick list confirms that the “storms of life" abound.
 
Such trials will always be a part of living in an imperfect world, brought on by the sin of Adam and Eve. Unless we are careful, we might find ourselves counting our problems instead of our blessings.
 
In a world beset by natural catastrophes, disease, political turmoil, economic upheavals, and the threat of war, we may feel overwhelmed. However, it will help immensely if remember the following.
 
God did NOT promise to eliminate our troubles in this world. In fact, Jesus alerted His followers that they should expect trials and persecution - John 16:33. He added, however, that His disciples can have peace knowing that HE HAS OVERCOME THE WORLD.




In addition, God has promised that He will “never leave nor forsake" us (Hebrews 13:5). Moreover, we can obtain comfort and hope through His Word - Romans 15:4. Fellowship with other Christians can also be of immense help. Most of all, we are assured that NOTHING CAN SEPARATE US FROM THE LOVE OF GOD which is in Jesus Christ - Romans 8:35-39.
 
When the storms of life approach, apply the words of the apostle Peter, “...CAST ALL YOUR CARES UPON HIM; for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).


A Recommitted Me in 2023!
 
Dennis
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Look Carefully Before Leaping...

8/24/2023

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LOOK BEFORE LEAPING (TO CONCLUSIONS)

"Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you” (Mt. 7:1-2).

A Christian friend of mine attended a high school musical. As the play began, he was impressed by the quality of the singing and acting. So was everyone else. The auditorium was filled, and the applause was constant, EXCEPT for a woman sitting nearby. She just sat there, barely acknowledging that the students were acting their hearts out.

My friend then watched her on every occasion in which everyone else applauded. But she barely acknowledged the performances. He thought, "Why did this woman bother attending if she intended only to sit there like a statue? Doesn't she realize that these young people need encouragement when they work so hard to entertain?"

After this my friend became so distracted that he barely paid attention to the last act of the play. "What’s her problem?" he thought, "Perhaps she’s jealous because her children were not selected for the musical. Or maybe she’s just a mean, unappreciative person!”

As the play ended, the audience sprang to their feet and awarded the kids with a standing ovation. It was at that moment that my friend realized why the woman never applauded. As she rose, she raised a solitary hand up to show her approval. It was the only hand she possessed.

My friend felt ashamed. HE had been mean and judgmental. He silently asked God to forgive him, and then approached the woman. “Weren’t the kids great?”, he asked. She replied, "Oh yes! I thoroughly enjoyed the play." It was only then that he could honestly say the same.

*************************************************************************************************

It is easy to judge, but unless we know all the facts, we must avoid “leaping” to conclusions. It is far better to give others the benefit of the doubt, which is precisely what we desire from others.

A Recommitted Me in 2023!

Dennis

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Support Your Local VBS

8/24/2023

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​REASONS TO SUPPORT VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

1. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL IS AIMED PRIMARILY AT THOSE WHO ARE THE MOST RECEPTIVE TO THE GOSPEL – CHILDREN. According to a Barna Research Study, approximately 50% of all those that obey the gospel do so by the age of 15.
“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them…”  Mark 10:14.

2. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL IS A WONDERFUL OUTREACH OPPORTUNITY. On average, 25% of the children that attend come from unchurched homes. These youngsters (and their parents) deserve an opportunity to hear the gospel of Christ. Vacation Bible School provides such an opportunity.
“…faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God”  Rom. 10:17.

3. CHILDREN GET EXCITED ABOUT VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL. They eagerly anticipate the singing, games, prizes, classes, crafts, snacks and friends. At the same time, they learn more about God’s word, famous kings and more.
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it”  Prov. 22:6

4. VBS PERMITS OUR CHILDREN TO SPEND MORE TIME TOGETHER. As our children grow it is vital that they develop close friendships within the church. Their future faithfulness may depend upon such relationships.
“…exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching”   Heb. 10:25.

5. VBS GIVES ADULTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENCOURAGE OUR CHILDREN. Since our children are the FUTURE of the church, it is imperative that adults provide them with a affection, attention and encouragement thousands of children have been known to return to church services because one or more adults made him or her feel special!

Please pray that our 2023 Vacation Bible School will make an eternal impact on both young and old alike!

A Recommitted Me in 2023!

Dennis
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All Aboard!!

8/6/2023

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ALL ABOARD!


Speaking of his impending death, Paul wrote, “…the time of my departure is at hand..." (2 Tim. 4:6). Although our “departure date” is unknown, it may come at any moment. Are you ready to “board”? Studying the “Travel Information" below will help.

BOOKING:  Arrangements MUST be made in advance, preferably today (2 Cor. 6:2).

I.D:  Persons seeking entry will not be permitted past the desired gate unless their names are recorded in the official logbook (Rev. 21:27).

DEPARTURE DATE & TIME: The date of departure is unknown. All passengers are advised to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice (Matt. 25:13).

TICKETS:  Jesus paid the entire price when He dies on the cross. However, all prospective passengers must accept a "ticket" by believing in Jesus, repenting of sins, confessing faith in Jesus, and being baptized (Acts 2:38; Matt. 10:32; Acts 22:16). You must also securely hold on to your "ticket" (Heb. 3:6).

LUGGAGE:  No luggage is permitted (1 Tim. 6:7). Everything needed (and much more) will be furnished upon arrival (1 Pet. 1:4).

MEANS OF TRAVEL:  All passengers will be going by air (1 Thess. 4:17).

VACCINATIONS:  None required, as the desired destination will be free of death and disease (Rev. 21:4).

CURRENCY:  Only non-perishable assets can be forwarded to await the passenger's arrival. Deposits are made by giving generously and serving others (Luke 6:38; Matt. 6:20-21).

CLOTHING:  A glorious and durable wardrobe will be provided upon arrival (2 Cor. 5:2-4).

RESERVATIONS:  Tickets may be obtained at any time. However, since the departure day is unknown, everyone should obtain a ticket immediately (See “Tickets” above.). 

FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS, consult God’s word (Jam. 1:21).

A Recommitted Me in 2023!

Dennis
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Religious Athiests

8/6/2023

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"I Believe in God, But..."


As most of us are aware, atheists do not believe in God. But did you know that there are "religious atheists"? This describes those that claim to believe in God, but their actions tell a different story. Jesus said, "By their fruits you will know them" (Matt. 7: 20). Below are several examples of “religious atheists”:

"I believe in God, but...Sundays are my only day off." God says, “…not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching..” (Hebrews 10:24-25).

"I believe in God, but...Bible classes are unimportant." God says, “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42).

"I believe in God, but...it’s the preacher’s job (not mine) to visit sick, shut-in and backsliding Christians." God says, “…as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Gal. 6:10).

"I believe in God, but...I refuse to forgive ______ for what they did!" God says, " If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, 'I repent,' you shall forgive him" (Luke 17:3-4).

"I believe in God, but...my bills prevent me from giving much to His church." God says, "Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you" (Luke 6:38).

"I believe in God, but...I often lose sleep worrying about how I'll make ends meet.” God says, “do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on…” “….seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt. 6:25, 33).

"I believe in God, but...I don't need to be immersed." God says, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized (From the greek word baptizo – "to dip or immerse") in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” (Acts 2:38).

Although none of us is perfect, may we avoid becoming “religious atheists” by intentionally refusing to obey God’s commands.

A Recommitted Me in 2023!

Dennis
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Parents.....

8/6/2023

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PARENTS MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE!
 
Max Jukes, a resident of New York many decades ago, rejected the need for Christian training in his home, and married a wife of like mind. From this union, over 1000 descendants have been researched. Approximately 300 were convicted of crimes, serving an average of 13 years in prison. Nearly 200 became prostitutes, and 100 ended up alcoholics. There is no record that even one of their descendants made any notable contribution to society.
 
Jonathan Edwards, also from New York, firmly believed that Christian training in the home was imperative and married a woman of like conviction. From this union over 700 descendants have been studied. More than 250 became preachers, 65 served as college professors, 13 became university presidents, 60 authored notable books, 3 served as congressman, and one was elected vice-president of the United States.
 
It is no secret that our country suffers many ills, as evidenced by the proliferation of immoral, ungodly and violent people. Conversely, we are blessed with a substantial number of committed Christians that make a positive difference. What is the primary factor that determines whether individuals will make good or evil contributions to society? Early training in the home.
 
Never underestimate the value of teaching God’s word at home. Indeed, no preacher, elder, schoolteacher or coach can begin to approach the influence of parents in terms of instilling values in children. Since your children will only be under your direction for a few years, make the most of them by teaching your children about God every day.
 
 “And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4).
 
A Recommitted Me in 2023!
 
Dennis
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God Isn't Done....

7/11/2023

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Let God Finish His Work

 “…being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; just as it is right for me to think this of you all…” Phil. 1:6-7.

God completed His creation in six days. On the seventh day He rested, for "the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished" Gen. 2:1-2.

When we obeyed the gospel and were baptized into Christ (Gal 3:27), we began walking “in newness of life” (Rom 6:4). At that point God began a new work in us (Phil 1:6). It is a work that He fully intends to complete. And He will, as long as we refuse to give up.

The Christian life is not easy. Try as we might to resist temptation, we still give in. We occasionally pass up opportunities to serve others. Our faith sometimes wavers. Our focus tends to gravitate toward things. Our words are not always kind. Our thoughts go to inappropriate places. All in all, our lives are far from perfect. Thus we may wonder, “Does God still desire to finish the work He began in me?”

The answer is a resounding “YES!” In fact, God wants us in heaven even more that we want it for ourselves. After all, God would not have sent His Son to suffer, bleed and die a ghastly death unless our salvation was His top priority. Since we mean that much to God, how can we consider giving up?  

God is doing everything in His power to avoid leaving our souls as unfinished symphonies; He is working daily to bring each of us to a grand climax. As long as we persist in our faith, God will put the finishing touch on our souls as we prepare to enter the gates of Heaven.

Thank you, God, for not giving up on us.

A Recommitted Me in 2023!

Dennis
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