A Treasure Of Devotions From The Past

Crystal Clear of Whitedove Radio kept all the Daily Devotions I have written and submitted for use on Whitedove Radio through four years of dedication together for reaching the world with the Gospel. As time goes along and devoted time more will be posted on Challenge Of Faith Website. Some were lost due to computer glitches but all that is to be had will be posted as time goes on. You can still hear my sermons on Whitedove Radio three times a week on Whitedove Radio.

10-28-03

"LEARNING HOW TO TAKE IT - TO MATURE"
We all can testify to the fact that criticism does touch our lives every now and then. I don't believe anyone, whether in the top executive positions or lowest of the low can go through life without tasting the bite of criticism. Need I say that most of us don't take criticism very graciously, in fact, we usually take it personally and often react with a tone of resentment. Even when the criticism is justified, we are often found ready to fight back. When was the last time you criticized someone? Did you do it tactfully? The Apostle Paul had some strong words of criticism for the Body of Believers at Corinth. He wrote: "I could not write to you as to SPIRITUAL people, but as to CARNAL, AS TO BABIES IN CHRIST. I fed you with MILK and not with SOLID FOOD, for until now you were not able to receive it, AND EVEN NOW YOU ARE NOT ABLE, FOR YOU ARE STILL CARNAL. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, ARE YOU NOT CARNAL, AND BEHAVING LIKE MERE MEN? I Corinthians 3:1-3 However, it is important to note that before Paul wrote those words, in a spirit of love he wrote: "I thank my God always concerning you, for the grace of God which was given to you by Christ Jesus, that you were enriched in everything by Him, even as the TESTIMONY OF CHRIST was CONFIRMED in you." I Corinthians 1:4-5 Some people are gracious enough to tactfully criticize, others sometimes hit pretty hard, like being hit by a raging bull. However, no matter how it comes to us, we ALL can learn to accept criticism in a MATURE FASHION. We can learn to control our reactions and respond with a spirit of acceptance. After all, none of us is PERFECT and we all know there are areas in our lives that need improvement. We must never be so filled with resentment that we cannot take good help when it is sincerely given to make us stronger in our walk and service for the Lord. There is no question that there are times when the criticism is unjustified, and INTENDED TO WOUND RATHER THAN HEAL. God help and forgive those whose hearts are so hardened. "He who does WRONG, will be REPAID FOR WHAT HE HAS DONE, and there is NO PARTIALITY." Colossians 3:25 Remember, we only hurt ourselves and destroy our joy when we allow unjustified criticism to make us bitter and ready for retaliation. One thing is for sure, Nothing DEFLATES a CRITIC faster than to accept the criticism with the LOVE OF CHRIST and to truly seek to become stronger for Christ by the help that was given.
       IT'S ALL PART OF THE GROWING PROCESS TO MAKE
               US MATURE FOLLOWERS OF JESUS CHRIST.
     For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-09-03

"IT'S CHANGELESS!"
George Denny, Jr., founder and moderator of America's Town Meeting of the Air, used to tell the story of the New York newspaper reporter who went up to Maine to interview an old fellow who was approaching his one-hundredth birthday. He approached the elderly gentleman politely, and said, "Sir, you must have seen a great many changes during your hundred years." The old man gazed steadily at him, then replied, "Yes, and I've been agin' 'em all." We are living in a day when so called religious men think they know better what is TRUE, and what can be DELETED from the Bible. They think they know better than those who were eyewitnesses of the life, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They want to write their own version of the Word of God, and pardon my using the old gentleman's answer, but I must say, "I'm agin' 'em all." It's all part of the movement taking place today to build a ONE WORLD CHURCH that SETS ASIDE "ABSOLUTES," and accepts whatever you want to believe hoping it will break down barriers and build a peaceful world. Let's face it, accepting the ABSOLUTES of the Holy, Infallible Word of God, places us at odds with this man made movement, for we believe what Jesus clearly stated when He said, "I AM THE WAY THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE, "NO ONE" COMES TO THE FATHER BUT BY ME." John 14:6 "I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE." John 6:35 "I AM THE DOOR, IF ANYONE ENTERS BY ME, HE WILL BE SAVED." John 10:9 True Believer's  have a HEART OF LOVE for ALL MANKIND, that ALL might believe in Christ for their secure eternal salvation, but we stand firm on the "ABSOLUTES" OF SCRIPTURE BECAUSE: "ALL SCRIPTURE IS GIVEN BY INSPIRATION OF GOD, AND IS PROFITABLE FOR DOCTRINE, FOR REPROOF, FOR CORRECTION, FOR INSTRUCTION IN RIGHTEOUSNESS, THAT THE MAN OF GOD MAY BE COMPLETE, THOROUGHLY EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK." II Timothy 3:16-17 Revelation 22:18-19 states, "For I testify to EVERYONE who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone ADDS to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book. And if anyone TAKES AWAY from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the BOOK OF LIFE, from the HOLY CITY, and from the things which are written in the book," That is very clear isn't it? In Christ's High Priestly prayer of intercession for all believers, He prayed: "Father, I have given them Your Word, and the world has hated them because they are not of this world, just as I AM NOT OF THIS WORLD. Sanctify them by YOUR TRUTH. YOUR WORD IS TRUTH." John 17:14-17 Every believer "Has been BORN AGAIN, not of corruptible seed, but INCORRUPTIBLE, THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD WHICH LIVES AND ABIDES FOREVER. " I Peter 1:23 How long does the Word of God abide? FOREVER! IT IS CHANGELESS! God help us to be like  Abraham of old: "He did not waver at the PROMISE OF GOD through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, AND BEING FULLY PERSUADED THAT WHAT GOD HAD PROMISED HE WAS ALSO ABLE TO PERFORM." Romans 4 20-21
STAND FIRM ON THE PROMISES OF GOD. JESUS NEVER FAILS.
      For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-10-03

"TAKE THAT IMPORTANT STEP!"
"I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me one of your hired servants. And he arose and went to his father." Luke 15:18-20 When this son left his father's house, he thought, REAL LIFE, EXCITING LIFE IS OUT THERE SOMEWHERE. So off he went, well supplied with his portion of his father's inheritance. How quickly he learned that the GOOD LIFE was right there in his father's home, and NOT OUT THERE SOMEWHERE, In no time at all, he had WASTED his possessions in riotous living, and with the severe famine that touched the area, HE BEGAN TO BE IN WANT. He was so hungry that he would have eaten the pods that the swine ate, but no one gave him any food. I don't care when it happens, but it's a great moment WHEN A PERSON COMES TO HIS SENSES and makes a decision to change the direction of his life. This Prodigal Son humbly made that choice and took that first important step to return to the safety, shelter and provision of his father. A young man named Scout was raised in a home that was without any religious involvement. He lost his wife and son because she just stopped being in love, and wanted to go her own way. Disappointed and dismayed, he began trafficking in drugs and was in a deep spiritual drought. Scout, too, just like the Prodigal Son CAME TO HIS SENSES, and taking that first important step, confessed in his broken spirit, "I NEED GOD," for I am sick and can no longer make it alone. "I NEED GOD," to help me give, because I no longer seem capable of giving. "I NEED GOD," to help me be kind, as I no longer seem capable of kindness. "I NEED GOD," to help me love, as I seem beyond being able to love. When Douglas Coupland recounted this story, he said, "THAT FIRST STEP TOWARD THE LORD WAS THE BIGGEST." Once a person humbly takes that first step and turns toward the Lord, the restoration of what seemed to be lost can be restored by the grace of God. "FOR WITH GOD NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE." What happened to the Prodigal Son? "When he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had COMPASSION, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the father said to his servants, bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf and kill, and let us be merry. For this MY SON was dead but is alive again, he was lost and is found. And they began to be merry." Luke 15:21-24 O the loving and gracious heart of our heavenly Father. How forgiving - How gracious! And it is all because of the Cross of Calvary where Jesus shed His precious blood that you and I might know the complete joy of forgiveness and the assurance that we are forever His redeemed children. Yes Friend,
                        THE FIRST STEP IS MOST IMPORTANT
                IT LEADS TO THE JOY OF FULL RESTORATION!
 For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-12-03

"IT'S ONLY A SHADOW!"
"The Lord is my SHEPHERD, I shall not want. Though I walk through the valley of the SHADOW OF DEATH, I will fear no evil, FOR THOU ART WITH ME." Psalms 23: 1.4. If you were standing on the corner at a busy main street, and a huge tractor trailer was coming toward you, would you rather be hit by the truck or by its shadow. If you were hit by the truck, it would probably mean the end of your earthly existence, BUT, if only the shadow of the truck were to hit you, THE SHADOW CAN DO YOU NO HARM. Friend, when the Lord Jesus Christ is your personal Lord and Savior, even death has no fear, for we rest in the arms of the One who destroyed the sting of death and brought to light immortality. Even death is but a SHADOW, for on that appointed day of our departure that only the Lord knows, "THAT WILL BE GLORY FOR US!" Yes, "Absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." As we enjoy the assurance of our Blessed Hope, until that day when we are at last home with the Lord, we have a responsibility to cast our SHADOW for the glory of God. I once saw a SOAP ADVERTISEMENT depicting a little fellow looking at his SHADOW that fell across his pathway. Underneath the picture of the lad was a slogan that read:
              THAT'S THE ONLY THING I CAN'T WASH OUT!
As I studied this clever bit of sales promotion for this particular brand of SOAP, I was again reminded of the INDELIBLE SHADOW OF INFLUENCE we cast on others every passing day by our EXAMPLE. Wrong attitudes and actions can engrave an impression on their minds that is so difficult to erase. However, just as we can permanently cast a SHADOW that leaves a MARK OF EVIL on others, so by the grace of God, and the empowering of the Holy Spirit, we can cast a SHADOW that leaves a lasting effect for GOOD, that directs people to the Lord. When the Apostle Paul wrote about the Christians who lived in the city of Thessalonica, he made this wonderful comment: "You became followers of the Lord, having received the WORD in much affliction with joy of the Holy Spirit, so that YOU WERE EXAMPLES to all that believe. For from you sounded out the WORD of the LORD, and IN EVERY PLACE YOUR FAITH TOWARD GOD IS SPREAD ABROAD." I Thessalonians 1:6-10 We must never forget,  above all, to keep our eyes on the Lord Jesus, the ONLY PERFECT EXAMPLE. However, we must also remember, we still are the only BIBLE some people will ever read. GOD HELP US TO CAST A BIG SHADOW FOR HIS GLORY.
       O Christian, remember, you bear His dear name,
          Your life will by others be viewed.
       A living example, men praise you or blame,
          And will measure your SAVIOR by you.
  For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-13-03

"IS IT A SIN TO BE TEMPTED?"
The question is asked because we all know what temptation is all about, for It touches our lives in many different ways. James Branch Cabell wrote: "There is no memory with less satisfaction in it, than the memory of some temptation that has been resisted." The scripture speaks clearly on this issue of life. "There has no temptation taken you but such as is COMMON TO MAN. But God is FAITHFUL, who will not permit you to be tempted above that you are able, but will with the temptation also MAKE A WAY OF ESCAPE, that you may be able to bear it." I Corinthians 10:13 Friend, that is a great promise God has given to us who have become His children through faith in His redeeming work of Calvary. That's when He paid the supreme price to set us free from the guilt of our sin. "There is therefore NOW NO CONDEMNATION to them who are IN CHRIST JESUS." Romans 8:1
Well, Christian, IS IT A SIN TO BE TEMPTED? The answer from the Word of God is clearly NO! Jesus Christ was TEMPTED by Satan and DEFEATED the DECEIVER by quoting the powerful Word of God. "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weakness, but was in ALL POINTS TEMPTED as we are, YET HE WITHOUT SIN." Hebrews 4:15 "For Christ also suffered once for sins, the JUST FOR THE UNJUST, THAT HE MIGHT BRING US TO GOD." 
I Peter 3:18 "For God made Him, WHO KNEW NO SIN, TO BE SIN FOR US, that we might become the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN HIM." 
II Corinthians 5:21 To be tempted is NOT SIN, however, the main issue with this matter of TEMPTATION is, WHAT WILL WE DO WHEN WE ARE TEMPTED. What will our CHOICE BE when faced with diverse temptations that we face every day. One thing is for sure, "GREATER IS HE WHO IS IN US THAN HE, SATAN, WHO IS IN THE WORLD." If we would know peace of mind and heart, we must stand firm on the promise from our Lord, that He is FAITHFUL, and will never allow us, His redeemed children, to be tempted above that which we are able, but will with the temptation, ALSO MAKE A WAY OF DELIVERANCE, for, "We are more than CONQUERORS through CHRIST who loved us
and gave Himself for us." Christian Friend, GOD ALWAYS MAKES A WAY -  BUT WE MUST SEIZE IT! HOW PRECIOUS IS THE JOY AND PEACE OF A CLEAR AND CLEAN CONSCIENCE!
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-14-03

"IS YOUR FAITH FLOURISHING?"
Evangelist D. L. Moody once said, "Trust in yourself and you are doomed to disappointment; trust in your friends, and they will die and leave you; but trust in God, and you will never be confounded in time or eternity." When everything is going just fine, you have a good job,  you are healthy, your business is profitable, you have some faithful friends, you have a good wife or husband, and your children are obedient and responsible, it's possible to feel pretty secure in yourself, and without realizing it, you may not be FLOURISHING SPIRITUALLY, but in reality, in the midst of all these blessing, your faith may be very weak. You see, the TRIALS and TESTS of life truly reveal the STRENGTH of our FAITH! Someone has well stated, "TRIALS ARE THE SOIL IN WHICH FAITH FLOURISHES." When some of these wonderful blessings God has graciously given are suddenly taken away, HOW THEN DO WE REACT, WHAT IS THE RESULT? When a person has a strong faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, that redeemed one will say with the TESTED and TRIED Apostle Paul, "I do not speak in regard to need, FOR I HAVE LEARNED IN WHATEVER STATE I AM TO BE CONTENT. I KNOW HOW TO BE ABASED and I KNOW HOW TO ABOUND. Everywhere and in ALL THINGS, I have learned both to be FULL and to be HUNGRY, both to ABOUND and to SUFFER NEED. I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME." Philippians 4:11-13 It takes a STRONG FAITH to speak like that. So many fellow believers are hurting today, and in their pain and disappointment, some are almost ready to throw in the towel. NO, NO, FRIEND, DON'T YOU EVER DO THAT! JESUS can turn your SORROW into JOY. YES HE CAN!  Jesus never promised you would ONLY see sunshine, and He never said you would see NO rain. BUT, He promised to give you the strength, and a song to even sing ABOUT THE VERY THINGS THAT ONCE BROUGHT PAIN. Friend, give ALL your shattered dreams, your wounded heart, your broken toys to JESUS and at His feet lay them down. You will here Him say, "MY grace is sufficient, and MY strength is made perfect in your weakness." Then you will say, "Lord, YOUR WILL BE DONE IN MY LIFE, FOR WHEN I AM WEAK IN MYSELF, THROUGH YOU I BECOME STRONG, AND IN YOUR STRENGTH AND WITH YOUR VICTORY, MY FAITH WILL TRULY FLOURISH FOR YOUR GLORY.
 For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-17-03

"ARE YOU AN ENCOURAGER?"
Maybe I'm wrong when I say there are more complainers and downers than those who enjoy encouraging others, but I don't think I am. Some just seem to enjoy complaining, and others love to find fault with everything and anything. Their cup does not run over with honey, it overflows with vinegar. Did it ever cross your mind that such an attitude is sin before a Holy God? The Word of God commands all believers to "Do all things without murmuring and disputing." Philippians 2:14. When you follow the life of Barnabas in the Acts of the Apostles, you soon realize here was a man who always sought to ENCOURAGE others. When the Apostle Paul did not want to take John, called Mark on his second missionary journey because Mark had left them at Pamphylia on their first journey, It was Barnabas who took Mark under his wings to ENCOURAGE him not to give up, but to go on with the Lord and join him on his journey to Cyprus to share the Good News of the Gospel. Friend, WHICH ARE YOU? Do you bring others down and complain, or do you ENCOURAGE and lift others up to make them stronger in their faith and service for Jesus? Writing to the believers in Rome, Paul wrote, "I long to see you that I may impart some spiritual gift so that you may be established, that is, that I may be ENCOURAGED together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me." Romans 1:11-12 When Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, took a pound of VERY COSTLY OIL OF SPIKENARD, to anointed the feet of Jesus, Judas COMPLAINED, he turned into a DOWNER when he said, "Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? John 12:5
                                                         TO BELITTLE IS TO BE LITTLE!
O that we would have the spirit of Paul when he wrote to the Colossian believers, "That their hearts may be ENCOURAGED, being knit together in love." Colossians 2:2 His prayer for the Corinthian believers was, "That all may learn and be ENCOURAGED." I Corinthians 14:31 I feel sorry for those who seem to thrive on complaining and downing others. It would seem that God, Himself, can never please them, and they spend their lives totally blind to His manifold blessings. HOW SAD! In contrast, we should be saying, "Bless the Lord O my soul, and forget not all His benefits; Bless the Lord O my soul, and ALL that is within me Bless His Holy Name."
                                 DON'T LET THE LITTLENESS IN OTHERS BRING OUT
                                                       THE LITTLENESS IN YOU.
If any of us has been guilty of this sin, remember, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." I John 1:9 Friend, It's your choice:
                                 WHICH WILL IT BE, DOWNER OR AN ENCOURAGER?
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-20-03

"THEY ARE WATCHING OVER YOU"
Elisha was a prophet of Israel. One day he and his servants were found surrounded by an army of Syria riding on horses and chariots bent on destroying them all. When the servants of Elisha saw this great army that had surrounded them, one of them said, "Alas my Master, what shall we do"? II Kings 6:15 To the amazement of his servant, Elisha made a remarkable reply when he said, "Do not fear, FOR THOSE WHO ARE WITH US ARE MORE THAN THOSE WHO ARE WITH THEM." vs 16 WOW, WHAT A STATEMENT! BUT, what in the world was he talking about? Because of the enemies power and presence, did he have a stroke or some mental disorder? He and his servants were but a few compared to the army of Syria. Was he trying to give them false courage to sustain them until they were all killed by the invaders or taken captive? The answer is a definite NO! God had revealed to Elisha something of which his servant was totally unaware. Knowing full well how God was already dealing with this mammoth problem,  Elisha prayed and said, "Lord, open his eyes that he may see..."Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and HE SAW. And behold, THE MOUNTAIN WAS FULL OF HORSES AND CHARIOTS OF FIRE ALL AROUND ELISHA." vs. 16-17 THIS WAS THE ARMY OF THE LORD! The Syrian Army was struck with blindness, defeated and brought into captivity. O Friend, the Children of God, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, have resources beyond our greatest imagination. All believers in Christ have a tremendous resource in times of difficulty and warfare against the fiery darts and cunning of Satan. We do not face our battles alone, although we often forget this powerful truth. There is a mighty host of Angels whom the Lord sends to watch over His redeemed ones. "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" Hebrews 1:14 You and I will never know until we are at last home with our Savior, how many times our Heavenly Father has sent His Angels to watch over us to protect us in our times of need. Never surrender to the relentless onslaughts of Satan, for WE NEVER FACE OUR OBSTACLES ALONE. NO NEVER! Our blessed Savior Jesus Christ promised, "I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU."  Christian Friend, whenever you are overwhelmed with problems, fears, anxiety and all spiritual battles, remember, Jesus assures us, "LO, I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, EVEN TO THE END OF THIS AGE."
                    GREATER IS HE, CHRIST, WHO IS IN YOU
                    THAN HE, SATAN, WHO IS IN THE WORLD.  
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-25-03

"FAMILY TIME IS ALMOST HERE"
More people than ever before will no doubt be traveling by car, plane, bus or train heading HOME for that special FAMILY TIME we all love so much on "THANKSGIVING DAY." After all the hugs, squeezes and kisses, Mom will have everything ready for that wonderful dinner that will no doubt include turkey, filling, cranberry sauce, mashed and sweet potatoes, a variety of vegetables and to close things off, good 'ol PUMKIN PIE. Wow! I'm getting hungry just thinking about it. How about you?
As we express with a thankful heart the joy of family relationships,  let's be sure to take the time to share with each other how Thankful we are for the eternal relationship we have with the God of all Creation and the God of our Salvation, Jesus Christ the Lord. Share how He is directing your life and giving you His power and strength to walk in the center of His divine will. Take time to pray one for another! Fill the atmosphere with His precious love.
Before the death of Phillip Brooks, the former pastor of the Trinity Episcopal Church of Boston, he wrote, "The more I have thought it over, the more sure it has seemed to me that these last years have had a peace and fullness which there did not used to be. It is a deeper knowledge and truer love of Christ. He is here. He knows me and I know Him.. It is the most real thing in the world. And every day makes it more real. And one wonders with delight what it wil grow to as the years go on."
What a beautiful testimony of the joy and strength Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior provides. This eternal relationship with Christ is the only relationship that can fill our hearts with a true and lasting peace.  Yes, "The peace of God which passes all understanding that guards our hearts and minds through Chirst Jesus."
    THANK YOU LORD FOR SAVING MY SOUL
    THANK YOU LORD FOR MAKING ME WHOLE
    THANK YOU LORD FOR GIVING TO ME
    THY GREAT SALVATION SO FULL AND FREE.
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

11-28-03

 "IT'S "BLACK" FRIDAY"
"BLACK FRIDAY" is the one day of the year that retailers all across the country "HOPE" and "PRAY" the sale of their merchandise will be gobbled up by thousands of bargain hunting shoppers to insure that their bottom line will not be in the "RED." So many in the business world experienced a "RED BOTTOM LINE" the past few years, and now are hoping today's business will put them in the "BLACK." Some of the recent reports on the economy have indicated there is a growing confidence that things are turning around, and that even the opportunity to find better jobs is increasing. No one in the business world wants the BOTTOM LINE to be in the RED. Well, Friend, do you realize that is also true in the realm of the SPIRITUAL. When God speaks about SIN in the scriptures, He speaks of SIN as being in the "RED." God says, "Come now, and let us reason together. Though your SINS be as SCARLET, they shall be as WHITE as SNOW. THOUGH they be "RED" LIKE "CRIMSON" they shall be as WOOL." Isaiah 1:18 Friend, I am absolutely thrilled to know that the BOTTOM LINE of MY LIFE is NOT in the "RED" nor is it in the BLACK. The BOTTOM LINE IS ALL "WHITE." Yes, the BLOOD OF THE LAMB, JESUS CHRIST. HAS WASHED AWAY ALL MY SCARLET, RED LIKE CRIMSON SINS, AND HE HAS COVERED ME WITH HIS PERFECT RIGHTEOUSNESS SO THAT GOD NOW SEES ME THROUGH CHRIST "WHITE" AS SNOW, JUST AS IF I HAVE NEVER SINNED. THAT IS THE MARVELOUS, CHANGELESS GRACE OF GOD. "For by GRACE are you SAVED, through FAITH, and that not of yourselves, it is the GIFT OF GOD, NOT OF WORKS lest ANYONE should BOAST." Ephesians 2:8-9 "Therefore, being JUSTIFIED BY FAITH, we have PEACE WITH GOD THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST." Romans 5:1 When God says you and I have been JUSTIFIED, that means, THERE IS NOTHING THAT HE NOW HOLDS AGAINST US. "There is therefore NOW NO CONDEMNATION to those WHO ARE IN CHRIST JESUS."  Romans 8:1 Every believer reading this devotion today, whose faith rests ALONE in Jesus Christ is rejoicing with me that God has made the BOTTOM LINE of our LIVES, "WHITE" and no longer in the "RED." If perchance you are in the "RED" as the scripture states, "IN SINS RED LIKE CRIMSON," that can be changed right now if you will open your heart to Jesus Christ, and accept Him this moment as your very own PERSONAL LORD AND SAVIOR. In 1872 James Nicholson wrote the words to a hymn we often sing.        
                              MAKE THIS YOUR PRAYER! 
"Lord Jesus I long to be perfectly whole, I want you forever to live in my soul. Break down every idol, cast out every foe, NOW WASH ME AND I SHALL BE WHITER THAN SNOW. Lord Jesus for this I most humbly entreat, I wait blessed Lord at YOUR CRUCIFIED FEET. By FAITH FOR MY CLEANSING I SEE YOUR BLOOD FLOW, NOW WASH ME AND I SHALL BE WHITER THAN SNOW."
                               GETTING OUT OF THE 'RED"
                  IS A DECISION YOU WILL NEVER REGRET!
   For more new nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-01-03

Received this from a CO-laborer in Christ and had to pass this on.
 
                "THE -  U - POEM"
Before U were thought of or time had begun,
God even stuck U in the name of His Son.
And each time U pray, you'll see it is true,
You can't spell JesUs and not include U.
 
You're a pretty big part of His wonderful name,
For U, He was born, that's why He came.
And His great love for U is the reason He died,
It even takes U to spell crUcified.
 
Isn't it thrilling and splendidly grand,
He rose from the dead, with U in His plan?
The stones split away, the gold trUmpet blew,
And this word resUrrection is spelled with a U.
 
When JesUs left earth at His upward ascension,
He felt there was one thing He just had to mention.
"Go into the world and tell them it's true,
That I love them all - Just like I love U."     (anonymous)
 
                THE DAY INDEED IS BRIGHT
     WHEN THE SON SHINES IN OUR HEARTS!
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-03-03

"A QUESTION WE ALL MUST ANSWER"
In the production of "FIDDLER ON THE ROOF" a moment comes when TEVYE says to his wife, "GOLDE, DO YOU LOVE ME?" She responds, "DO I LOVE YOU?" She then covers all she has done for him over the years of their marriage. And yet, when she finishes the long list, TEVYE asks, "BUT, GOLDE, DO YOU LOVE ME?" O yes, we can do and give things to a wife or to a husband, but, that does not guaranty there is a true Love Relationship. Isn't it wonderful that Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior did not merely give things to His Bride, the  Redeemed Church, "HE LOVED THE CHURCH AND GAVE "HIMSELF" FOR HER." Ephesians 5:25 Many are content to just give "THINGS" but not "THEMSELVES" which is the true test of LOVE. When you give "YOURSELF" then giving "THINGS" takes on a new and wonderful meaning. After the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, He spoke to the Apostle Peter, the one who had denied the Lord THREE TIMES when questioned about being a follower of Christ. Now THREE TIMES the Lord asks Peter, "DO YOU LOVE ME?" After being asked the third time, Peter said, "LORD, YOU "KNOW" ALL THINGS, YOU "KNOW" THAT I LOVE YOU." Truer words could not have been spoken! THE LORD DOES KNOW ALL THINGS, and He knows our hearts and in truth how much we TRULY LOVE HIM. "After all He's done for me, how can I do less than give Him my best, and live for Him completely, AFTER ALL HE'S DONE FOR ME!" John the Apostle clarifies with these choice words, "IN THIS IS LOVE, NOT THAT WE LOVED GOD, BUT THAT HE LOVED US AND SENT HIS SON TO BE THE COVERING FOR OUR SINS" Then he follows with these precious words, "WE LOVE HIM, BECAUSE HE "FIRST" LOVED US." I John 4:10-19 Believers have often sung: "I LOVE HIM, I LOVE HIM, BECAUSE HE "FIRST" LOVED ME. AND HAS FORGIVEN ALL MY SINS THROUGH DEATH AT CALVARY." When the Apostle Paul pondered the width and  length and depth and height of the Love of Christ, he had to say, "THE LOVE OF CHRIST CONSTRAINS ME, IT MOVES ME, IT COMPELS ME." CHRIST'S LOVE DOES SOMETHING TO ME...IT SETS MY HEART ON FIRE WITH LOVE FOR HIM, WHICH MOTIVATES ME TO GIVE MY LIFE TO HIM TO BE USED FOR HIS GLORY.
               CHRIST ASKS US ALL - "DO YOU LOVE ME?"
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-03-03

"BE ON YOUR GUARD!"
I read about a plant that grows in the bush country of Australia called the SUNDEW. Apparently it is a beautiful little plant, with a slender stem and leaves that are small and round. The plant has HARMLESS attractive clusters of white, pink and red blossoms, BUT, the LEAVES which are fringed with hairs that actually shine with drops of liquid, ARE DEADLY. The leaves of this BEAUTIFUL PLANT are a constant danger to the insects that touch it. The shiny liquid found on each leaf is very sticky and when an insect touches the leaf, it cannot free itself. As it works hard to get loose, its movement causes the leaf to close tightly around it. Can you believe it, the BEAUTIFUL LITTLE PLANT that looks so HARMLESS is CARNIVOROUS and feeds itself very well on its victims. This account reminded me of how Satan works. How alluring and devouring are the works of this great DECEIVER. He is often foolishly pictured in cartoons and articles clothed in red with horns and a pitch fork, but the Word of God gives a different picture. When the Apostle Paul wrote about false apostles, deceitful workers, who transform themselves into apostles of Christ, he said, "And NO WONDER! For SATAN HIMSELF, TRANSFORMS HIMSELF INTO AN "ANGEL OF LIGHT." II Corinthians 11:13-14 What a FOX! What a DECEIVER! O yes, Satan can make things look so good, just like the fruit of the tree in the Garden of Eden that Eve looked upon, with Satanic prodding and cunning enticement. It looked so GOOD to the EYES! It was GOOD for FOOD! And above all, Satan assured Eve that she would not DIE, but instead, "In the day that you eat, your eyes will be open, and you will be LIKE GOD, knowing good and evil." Satan's "SUNDEW" flowers and leaves of temptation will always appear so INVITING, so ATTRACTIVE, with the idea strongly planted in the mind that yielding will be so FULFILLING,   BUT ALL DESIGNED TO PUT A YIELDING PERSON IN BONDAGE.
              "FORBIDDEN FRUIT CREATES MANY JAMS!"
That's when you realize, Satan is NO ANGEL OF LIGHT, but is an "ADVERSARY, who walks about like a ROARING LION, SEEKING WHOM HE MAY DEVOUR." I Peter 5:8 Friend, that is why the scripture exhorts every believer to "PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD, THAT YOU MAY BE ABLE TO STAND AGAINST THE WILES OF THE DEVIL."  Putting on the HEAVENLY ARMOR you will then Be STRONG in the LORD and in the POWER of HIS MIGHT." Ephesians 6:10-11 
GREATER IS HE WHO IS IN YOU THAN HE WHO IS IN THE WORLD.
                       "NEVER GIVE THE DEVIL A RIDE,
                      HE WILL ALWAYS WANT TO DRIVE"
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-09-03

"THE BALL KEEPS ROLLING ON" 
Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, has declared that everyone of His Redeemed Children, have become lights to the world, and that we are to "Let our light so shine before men, that they may see the works of God in us, and glorify the Father who is in Heaven." Matthew 6:12 When was the last time you heard this song sung? "Let the Lower Lights be BURNING, SEND A GLEAM ACROSS THE WAVE. SOME POOR FALTERING, STUMBLING SEAMAN YOU MAY RESCUE, YOU MAY SAVE." I must admit, it has been a long time since I heard it sung. Well, of course we know that WE CAN'T SAVE anyone, ONLY CHRIST CAN SAVE! "NEITHER IS THERE SALVATION IN ANY OTHER, FOR THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN, GIVEN AMONG MEN WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED." Acts 4:12 But we can SHINE BRIGHTLY FOR CHRIST and be the vessel He can use to point others to Him. Dwight L. Moody was invited to preach in the church whose well known Pastor was F. B. Myers. When Moody started to preach, they said that he just about KILLED THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE, and Pastor Myers felt that he might have made a mistake inviting him to his church. After Moody finished the series of meetings and had returned to America, F. B. Myers asked members of the church, "HOW ARE YOU TODAY?" One said, "Great! Since Moody has been here, I felt so constrained to speak to my Sunday School Class, and had the joy of leading all my girls to the Lord Jesus Christ." What a thrill that must have been for this FAITHFUL WITNESS. If you are a Child of God, the Savior is speaking to His Redeemed Family and saying "THE HARVEST TRULY IS PLENTEOUS, BUT THE LABORERS ARE FEW. THEREFORE PRAY THE LORD OF THE HARVEST TO SEND OUT LABORERS INTO HIS HARVEST." Matthew 9:37-38
      OUT ON THE HIGHWAYS AND BYWAYS OF LIFE
      MANY ARE WEARY AND SAD
      CARRY THE SUNSHINE WHERE DARKNESS IS RIFE,
      MAKING THE SORROWING GLAD.
           (Will you say with me:)
      MAKE ME A BLESSING, MAKE ME A BLESSING
      OUT OF MY LIFE MAY JESUS SHINE.
      MAKE ME A BLESSING O SAVIOR I PRAY,
      MAKE ME A BLESSING TO SOMEONE TODAY/
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-10-03

"DON'T STOP THE BALL FROM ROLLING"
After Dwight L. Moody's visit to F. B. Myer's church in England, F. B. Myer was invited to America and spoke to the Students at a Christian College. He challenged them TO GIVE THEIR ALL TO JESUS CHRIST. At the conclusion of his Spirit empowered message, he said, "IF YOU ARE NOT WILLING, THEN SAY TO GOD, I'M NOT WILLING, BUT I AM WILLING TO BE MADE WILLING." Sitting in the audience was a young man named William Chapman. Hearing those challenging words, he said, "THAT'S ME. I'M NOT WILLING" But then he prayerfully added, "I'M WILLING TO BE MADE WILLING." This young man surrendered his life to Christ and began a ministry to children, pointing them to "THE LAMB OF GOD WHO TAKES AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD." As Chapman grew older and needing someone to help in the ministry, a BASEBALL PLAYER, whose name was BILLY SUNDAY, joined hands in this work. Later, in the year 1924, Billy Sunday spoke at a church in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Spirit empowered message resulted in a group of men banding together to faithfully pray for their city, and that God would send his choice servant to speak at the citywide crusade. Their prayers were answered and Evangelist Nordice Ham was invited to speak. One night a 15 year old lanky farm boy was in the audience. He didn't want to sit up front, and tried to sit in the balcony as far back as possible. However, he ended up front behind the Choir. As the Word of God was shared, the Spirit of God touched this young lad's heart, and that night he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. This 15 year old lad whose name is BILLY GRAHAM, gave his ALL TO JESUS CHRIST, and has been mightily used of God to point precious souls, all over the world, to the FOUNTAIN OF LIFE, JESUS CHRIST. Friend, you never know what the result will be when you point someone to the Savior. May I repeat the words of this song once again:
EACH ONE REACH ONE AS WE FOLLOW AFTER CHRIST WE ALL CAN REACH ONE - WE CAN LEAD ONE TO THE SAVIOR, THEN TOGETHER WE CAN TELL OUR WORLD THAT JESUS IS THE WAY, IF WE EACH ONE REACH ONE.
                      "LET THE LOWER LIGHTS BE BURNING"
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-11-03

"WOULDN'T YOU LIKE TO KNOW FOR SURE"
Every one of us who has accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, have no fear about where we will spend eternity. That is because we do not have a "GUESS SO" "HOPE SO" or "MAYBE SO" SALVATION, for ours is a "KNOW SO" SALVATION. So many people go through life not knowing for certain where they will spend eternity. In fact, some have asked, "HOW CAN ANYONE BE SURE WHERE THEY ARE GOING WHEN THEY LEAVE THIS EARTHLY SCENE."  Obviously, if we are left to our own thinking and ideas about eternity, your idea would be as good as mine, and mine as good as yours, BUT, on such a basis NONE OF US COULD EVER BE SURE.
Unless the ETERNAL GOD of all CREATION reveals the answer, no one would ever be able to "KNOW" for sure where they will spend eternity. The wonderful truth about this important matter is found in the fact that GOD HAS REVEALED HIMSELF to us. First of all, our "CONSCIENCE" is a voice that says, "THERE IS A GOD BEFORE WHOM I AM ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE ACTIONS OF MY LIFE.  When Jesus was in the midst of a crowd ready to stone to death a woman taken in sin, He said,  "HE WHO IS WITHOUT SIN LET HIM CAST THE FIRST STONE. Those who heard it, being CONVICTED BY THEIR OWN CONSCIENCE went away one by one." John 8:7-9 Further, "CREATION" is a tremendous evidence of the existence of God. "THE HEAVEN'S DECLARE THE GLORY OF GOD, AND THE FIRMAMENT SHOWS HIS HANDIWORK." Psalms 19:1 Every day, Scientist grow more amazed at the vastness of the universe, and more are ready to acknowledge it could not have happened by chance. And then, ABOVE ALL, there is "CHRIST" the promised Savior, who left the eternal glories of heaven to enter into time, and walk among men as, "GOD MANIFESTED IN FLESH" 
          THAT IS WHAT "CHRISTMAS" IS REALLY ALL ABOUT. 
"In beginning was the Word and the Word was God, and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory full of grace and truth." John 1:1-14 JESUS CHRIST proved exactly WHO HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE, THE ETERNAL SON OF GOD, WHO CAME TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THAT WHICH WAS LOST. Did I hear you say, "WELL, I'M NOT LOST. I KNOW EXACTLY WHERE I AM." Friend, GOD sees things differently, and says of us: "ALL WE LIKE SHEEP HAVE GONE ASTRAY, WE HAVE TURNED EVERYONE TO HIS OWN WAY, AND THE LORD HAS LAID ON HIM (CHRIST) THE SIN OF US ALL." Jesus Christ died on that OLD RUGGED CROSS and paid the supreme price for the sins of the whole world so that every one of us who accepts Him as Lord and Savior would never have to pay for them ourselves. "THERE IS THEREFORE "NOW" NO CONDEMNATION TO THOSE WHO ARE IN CHRIST JESUS." Romans 8:1 Jesus said, "My sheep hear My voice, and I "KNOW" them, and they follow Me. And I give unto them Eternal Life, and they shall NEVER PERISH, NEITHER SHALL ANY ONE PLUCK THEM OUT OF MY HAND" John 10:27-28 To prove He can FORGIVE SIN and give the GIFT of ETERNAL SALVATION, HE ROSE AGAIN FROM THE DEAD and was seen ALIVE BY MANY INFALLIBLE PROOFS.
Friend, when the CRUCIFIED, RISEN LORD says to every BELIEVING HEART, you can "KNOW" with complete certainty YOUR ETERNAL destiny, YOU CAN BELIEVE HIM, FOR HE IS THE ONE WHO CONQUERED DEATH AND ITS STING, AND BROUGHT TO LIGHT IMMORTALITY BY HIS RESURRECTION. "THESE THINGS HAVE I WRITTEN UNTO YOU WHO BELIEVE ON THE NAME OF THE SON OF GOD, THAT YOU MAY "KNOW" THAT YOU HAVE ETERNAL LIFE. 
I John 5:13
I know down deep in your heart you would like to have this ASSURANCE about your future. Will you open your heart right now and say: Dear Jesus, I know I am a sinner, but I am so thankful that you died for sinners, and I now accept you as my very own personal Lord and Savior. I thank you for the FREE GIFT of eternal salvation,  and I now "KNOW" my ETERNAL DESTINY has been settled. and that I belong to You forever. If you prayed this humble prayer, I
     WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU AND REJOICE WITH YOU
                  IN THIS YOUR MOST IMPORTANT DECISION.
            CHRISTMAS WILL HAVE A BRAND NEW MEANING!

12-15-03

"FROM A PALACE TO A MUD HOLE!"
"Ladies and Gentlemen, WE GOT HIM!" These startling words were spoken early Sunday morning by the United States Official, L. Paul Bremer. He added, "THE TYRANT IS A PRISONER." Iraqi journalists in the audience stood, pointed and shouted, "DEATH TO SADDAM" and "DOWN WITH SADDAM." For 35 years this evil man and his sons punished, terrorized, intimidated and exploited the Iraqi people, BUT, today, it is clear, he and his now deceased sons will never return to the position of power they had so long. They built their "PALACES" and over the years enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle that has now come to an end. Saddam was captured Saturday at 8:30 p.m. in a specially prepared "SPIDER HOLE" in a house in Adwar, a town 10 miles from his home town Tikrit. The HOLE was 6 to 8 feet deep, with enough space to lie down. YES, THERE THEY FOUND THE EVIL DICTATOR WHO HAD FOR YEARS ENJOYED THE "PALACE" ONLY TO END UP IN A "MUD HOLE"
IN STARK CONTRAST, those of us who have been Redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, the Eternal Son of God, have come out of the "MUD HOLE OF SIN," and have been translated into the "KINGDOM OF GOD" with the positive assurance we have "HEAVEN'S PALACE" awaiting us when we see our Savior "FACE TO FACE." The Prophet Isaiah wrote, "In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, HIGH AND LIFTED UP, and the train of His robe filled the temple...The seraphim's cried out saying, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY IS THE LORD OF HOSTS, THE WHOLE EARTH IS FULL OF HIS GLORY." What was the response of Isaiah as He beheld the Holiness of God? He said, "WOE IS ME, FOR I AM UNDONE, BECAUSE I AM A MAN OF UNCLEAN LIPS, AND I DWELL IN THE MIDST OF A PEOPLE OF UNCLEAN LIPS, FOR MY EYES HAVE SEEN THE KING, THE LORD OF HOSTS." Isaiah 6:1-5 Friend, before a HOLY GOD, "We are like an "UNCLEAN THING", and "All" our RIGHTEOUSNESSES ARE LIKE FILTHY RAGS." Isaiah 64:6 That is a powerful declaration about our status before God. "The "WAGES" of SIN, is DEATH." Romans 6:23 O yes, Friend, SIN HAS WAGES! And to remain in this state means a Conscious and Eternal separation from God. BUT, THAT IS NOT THE END OF THE RECORD. "FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD OF MANKIND, THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, THAT WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM, SHALL NOT PERISH, BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE." John 3:16 And to '"ALL" who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, this promise is given:
"IN MY FATHER'S HOUSE, THERE ARE MANY MANSIONS. IF IT WERE NOT SO I WOULD HAVE TOLD YOU. I GO TO PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU, AND IF I GO AWAY AND PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU, I WILL COME AGAIN AND RECEIVE YOU UNTO MYSELF, THAT WHERE I AM THERE YOU MAY BE ALSO." John 14:1-6 What a contrast! SADDAM AND OTHERS WENT FROM A PALACE TO A MUD HOLE, BUT FOR THOSE WHOSE SINS HAVE BEEN WASHED CLEAN BY THE PRECIOUS BLOOD OF THE LAMB, JESUS CHRIST, IT IS "LEAVING THE MUD HOLE, TO GAIN AN ETERNAL "PALACE."
               FRIEND, WHICH DIRECTION ARE YOU MOVING?
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-17-03

IT'S NOT WHAT YOU'VE BEEN 
                            IT'S WHAT YOU ARE NOW!
When a waitress in a New York City restaurant brought an English  
gentleman his soup du jour, he was a bit dismayed. "GOOD HEAVENS," he said, "WHAT IS THIS? The waitress politely replied, "WHY IT'S BEAN SOUP." "I don't care what it's BEEN," he sputtered, "WHAT IS IT NOW?" When writing to the Ephesian Believer's the Apostle Paul wrote, "And you has He "MADE ALIVE" who "WERE DEAD" in trespasses and sins. In which you "ONCE WALKED" according to the course of this WORLD SYSTEM, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that NOW WORKS in the sons of disobedience. Among whom also we "ALL" once conducted ourselves in the LUSTS of the FLESH and of the MIND, and were by NATURE children of wrath, just as others. BUT GOD, Who is RICH in MERCY, because of HIS GREAT LOVE, with which HE LOVED US, even when we were DEAD IN TRESPASSES, made us ALIVE together with CHRIST, (by GRACE are you SAVED), And RAISED us up together and made us SIT together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus. That in the ages to come, HE might show the exceeding RICHES OF HIS GRACE, IN HIS KINDNESS TOWARD US IN CHRIST JESUS." Ephesians 2:1-7 What a powerful and transforming declaration! Dear Friend:
                        IT'S NOT WHAT YOU'VE BEEN! 
The Lord through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection can completely take care of that issue. He can "CLEANSE YOU FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS." "THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST CLEANSES US FROM "ALL" SIN." Yes, PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE.
               HOWEVER, IT'S WHAT YOU ARE NOW!
When you accept CHRIST as your LORD and SAVIOR, you become a Child of God; the recipient of the GIFT OF ETERNAL SALVATION, and the INDWELLING PRESENCE OF GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT to empower you in THE NEW LIFE YOU NOW POSSESS. You become "HIS WORKMANSHIP, (HIS POEM) CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS FOR GOOD WORKS, WHICH GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND THAT WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM." Ephesians 2:10 Have YOU accepted CHRIST as YOUR LORD and SAVIOR? Did I hear you say YES? "Then you were RAISED with CHRIST to seek those things which are ABOVE, where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God. SET YOUR AFFECTIONS (YOUR MIND) ON THINGS ABOVE, NOT ON THINGS OF THE EARTH." Colossians 3:1-2 Join with me in this prayer:"LORD LIFT ME UP AND HELP ME STAND, BY FAITH ON HEAVEN'S TABLE LAND, A HIGHER PLAIN THAN I HAVE FOUND, LORD PLANT MY FEET ON HIGHER GROUND."
For more nuggets click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-18-03

"I'LL FLY AWAY!"
Yesterday, December 17, 2003, marked the 100 year Anniversary of the first successful AIRPLANE FLIGHT. It was accomplished by the Wright Brothers, Wilbur and Orville, in the year 1903. They made this first flight in a power-driven, heavier than air machine near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. There were four attempts that day, with the first lift off lasting 12 seconds, and the longest lasting 59 seconds, covering a distance of 852 feet. Amazingly, this great achievement was practically unknown for five years, even though newsmen were present for the event. From that humble beginning in 1903, today, Aircraft Engineers are developing the Passenger Planes for the 21st Century. They will be more luxurious, have greater fuel efficiency, will be able to travel farther without refueling. Of course, because of what the Wright Brothers accomplished, we have evolved into the Space Shuttle Program with plans to reach farther and farther into outer space. AND WHAT VAST SPACE THERE IS OUT THERE ! With light traveling 186,000 miles each second, THAT MEANS A LIGHT YEAR IS APPROXIMATELY 6 TRILLION MILES. Now think of this, there are GALAXIES TRILLIONS of LIGHT YEARS AWAY. O yes Friend, "THE HEAVENS DECLARE THE GLORY OF GOD. AND THE FIRMAMENT SHOWS HIS HANDIWORK!" Friend, THE TRUTH OF THE GLORY OF CHRISTMAS IS - HEAVEN TOUCHED EARTH. It is the day when GOD entered into time and was found in the likeness of man, and through His death and resurrection provided the marvelous plan of salvation. Because of CHRISTMAS, A DAY IS COMING WHEN SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL IS GOING TO HAPPEN TO EVERY TRUE BELIEVER IN JESUS CHRIST, THE ONE "WHO IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE, THE ONE WAY TO THE FATHER ABOVE" John 14:6
                 IT'S THE DAY WHEN WE WILL FLY AWAY!!!!
How appropriate is the song "I'LL FLY AWAY O GLORY, I'LL FLY AWAY." O yes, we will travel in a twinkling of an eye farther than the telescopes of man can ever hope to reach, AND WE WON'T HAVE TO LEARN TO FLY, NOR WILL WE NEED WINGS. We will travel TO HEAVEN, right into our Eternal Home with Jesus. On that GLORIOUS DAY, "The Lord Himself, shall descend from HEAVEN with a shout, with the voice of the arch-angel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead "IN CHRIST" shall RISE first, then we who are ALIVE and remain shall be "CAUGHT UP" together with them "IN THE CLOUDS" to meet the Lord "IN THE AIR." AND SO SHALL WE EVER BE WITH THE LORD. THEREFORE COMFORT ONE ANOTHER WITH THESE WORDS." I Thessalonians 4:16-18 Are you ready to FLY?
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-19-03

"DID HE OR DIDN'T HE?"
There are many today, yes, even Clergymen, who say Jesus never claimed to be God; that He was not supernaturally born of the Virgin Mary, and that He was just a man born of human seed as all are born into this world. They will acknowledge that He did accomplish much good during his brief life, but adamantly say that Jesus, Himself, never made the claim of Deity. It is so strange to me how they can so conveniently close their eyes to the clear written word of God and make such a statement. Almost 2000 years ago, even those who were not followers of Jesus, and who strongly opposed Him, said, "HE DID" make such a claim. And because "HE DID" make this claim, they called Him a blasphemer, and took up stones to kill Him. "Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter. And Jesus walked in the Temple in Solomon's porch. Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, "How long do You keep us in doubt? If YOU are THE CHRIST, (THE PROMISED MESSIAH) tell us plainly." Jesus answered them, "I TOLD YOU, AND YOU DO NOT BELIEVE ME. The works that I do in My Father's name, they bear witness of Me. But YOU DO NOT BELIEVE ME, because you are not of My sheep. As I told you. "My sheep hear My voice and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them Eternal Life, and they shall never perish, neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father's hand. I AND MY FATHER ARE ONE."  When the people HEARD THESE WORDS, they took up stones to stone Him. NOW WHY WOULD THEY WANT TO STONE JESUS TO DEATH? WHAT WAS THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORDS HE SPOKE? NOTE CAREFULLY THE ANSWER! Jesus said to them, "Many works I have shown you from My Father. FOR WHICH OF THESE WORKS DO YOU STONE ME?" The crowds answer was very SPECIFIC! "FOR A GOOD WORK WE DO NOT STONE YOU, BUT FOR BLASPHEMY, AND BECAUSE YOU, BEING A MAN, MAKE YOURSELF GOD!" John 10:22-33 FRIEND, COULD THERE BE ANYTHING MORE CLEAR? They knew EXACTLY what Jesus was declaring! THEY KNEW HE WAS CLAIMING "DEITY!" Do you recall the words of Nicodemus who approached Jesus one night? He said, "No one can do these SIGNS that You do UNLESS GOD IS WITH HIM." This seeking man, who was a ruler of the Jews, learned that God was not only with Jesus, but that GOD WAS STANDING RIGHT THERE BEFORE HIM, "GOD MANIFESTED IN FLESH!" TRUE GOD, AND TRUE MAN!  Hundreds of years before the birth of Jesus, it was prophesied in Isaiah 7:14, "Therefore, the Lord Himself shall give you a sign. Behold, A VIRGIN shall conceive and bring forth a Son, and shall call HIS NAME, IMMANUEL. (Which being interpreted is "GOD WITH US") NEVER DOUBT IT FRIEND, FOR THE EVIDENCE IS CLEAR. - IF YOU HAVE NEVER ACCEPTED JESUS CHRIST AS YOUR PERSONAL LORD AND SAVIOR, MAKE THAT CHOICE RIGHT NOW. YOU'LL BE SO THANKFUL THAT YOU DID!
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-22-03

"IS IT REALLY NEW?"
IS the Biblical teaching of the Trinity, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit a new concept found only in the New Testament Scriptures? Jesus spoke to them saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, AND OF THE SON, AND OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER I HAVE COMMANDED YOU AND LO I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, EVEN TO THE END OF THE AGE." Matthew 28:18-20 There are many who believe this is only a New Testament teaching.  After all, the Old Testament Scripture states, "Hear, O Israel, The Lord our God, THE LORD IS ONE." Deuteronomy 6:4. "Isn't that clear," they say, "God is NOT THREE DISTINCT PERSONS, BUT AN ABSOLUTE ONE!"  Friend, before you say, "That settles the issue" THERE IS SOMETHING MORE THAT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT WE MUST NOTE! In the Old Testament Scriptures, there are TWO DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT WORDS FOR THE WORD "ONE." There is a word which means an "ABSOLUTE ONE" and there is a completely different word which means, a "UNIFIED ONE." When God spoke about the marriage relationship, He said, "For this cause shall a MAN leave his Father and Mother and shall cleave unto his own WIFE, and they shall be "ONE" flesh." Genesis 3:3 Now it's clear that Adam and Eve did not become an "ABSOLUTE ONE." They were still two distinct persons, BUT, being joined together in marriage, THEY BECAME A "UNIFIED ONE." NOW HEAR THIS! UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, MOSES WAS LED TO USE THIS VERY SAME WORD WHEN HE PENNED  Deuteronomy 6:4 which clearly means that "GOD" IS A "UNIFIED ONE." Further evidence is found in the scriptures dealing with the creation of our FIRST PARENTS, God said, "Let "US" make man in "OUR" image, after "OUR" likeness... So God created man in "HIS" own image, in the image of "GOD" He created him; MALE and FEMALE HE created them." Genesis 1:26=27 Could anything be more clear? There is PLURALITY IN THE GODHEAD, AND THOUGH GOD EXISTS IN THREE DISTINCT PERSONS, GOD IS "ONE" IN ESSENCE OF BEING, "ONE" IN WILL, AND PURPOSE. How THANKFUL we should, be that the TRIUNE GOD in complete "UNITY" WILLED THE GLORIOUS EVENT - "CHRISTMAS" - THE ENTRANCE OF THE ETERNAL SON OF GOD INTO OUR WORLD. AN EVENT THAT WOULD ULTIMATELY LEAD TO HIS DEATH AND RESURRECTION TO GIVE TO ALL WHO ACCEPT HIM AS LORD AND SAVIOR THE GIFT OF ETERNAL SALVATION. The Prophet Isaiah wrote, "For unto us a SON IS GIVEN (pre-existence) unto us a CHILD IS BORN (a moment in time) and HIS name shall be called WONDERFUL, COUNSELOR, THE MIGHTY GOD, THE EVERLASTING FATHER, THE PRINCE OF PEACE." Isaiah 9:6 Friend, THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS ARE IN COMPLETE  HARMONY, GIVING TO US THIS GLORIOUS TRUTH: "BEHOLD I BRING YOU GOOD TIDING OF GREAT JOY WHICH SHALL BE TO "ALL" PEOPLE. FOR UNTO YOU IS BORN THIS DAY IN THE CITY OF DAVID, A "SAVIOR" WHO IS CHRIST THE LORD." Luke 2:10-11 IS CHRIST, GOD YOUR PERSONAL LORD AND SAVIOR?
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

12-29-03

"IT'S COLD OUTSIDE! ARE YOU PREPARED FOR IT"
Watching the weather station, those white bits of heaven are falling gently to the ground in many states across the USA, and no doubt in many parts of the world, telling us once again that WINTER IS HERE! The official day, of course, was on Monday the 22nd day of December. As the popular song goes, "Sleigh bells ring, are you listening, in the lane snow is glistening, a beautiful sight, we're happy tonight, walking in a Winter Wonderland." With the deep, deep snow that has fallen in some areas, I hope the folks are really happy, for things do get terribly snarled up because of that beautiful white stuff!  Of course, here in sunny South Florida, which many say is really "WINTER WONDERLAND," the humidity has pretty much faded away, and the enjoyable weather will bring many "SNOW BIRDS" to the SOUTHLAND to get away from the severe cold and icy roads. We find In the BOOK OF PROVERBS, something very interesting mentioned about WINTER. A man named Agur, the son of Jaketh, made this important observation. "There are FOUR things that are LITTLE on the earth, BUT THEY ARE EXCEEDINGLY WISE; the ANTS are a people not strong, yet they PREPARE their FOOD in the SUMMER." Proverbs 30:24 Instinctively, ANTS know when WINTER is coming, so they take advantage of the warmer weather to stock up for the cold WINTER  ahead. Just have a cookout in the backyard, or on the patio or at the local park where there are picnic tables, and while you are eating all the good food PREPARED, you will find those little ANTS busy carrying off the bits of food dropped here and there on the ground or left on tables. They sure do know how to PREPARE themselves for the freezing WINTER. SAY FRIENDS, ARE WE AS WISE? There are many things in life for which we PREPARE, but, HAVE WE PREPARED OURSELVES FOR THE ULTIMATE FUTURE WHEN WE PASS INTO ETERNITY? So many people feel they have plenty of time to think about Eternity or as some say, "GETTING RELIGIOUS!" They just keep PUTTING OFF the most important DECISION they will ever make in life. There is an important WARNING for those who think this way. "Come now you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit." Whereas YOU DO NOT KNOW WHAT WILL HAPPEN TOMORROW. FOR WHAT IS YOUR LIFE? IT IS EVEN A "VAPOR" THAT APPEARS FOR A LITTLE TIME AND THEN VANISHES AWAY." James 4:13-14 "DO NOT BOAST ABOUT TOMORROW, FOR "YOU" DO NOT KNOW WHAT A DAY MAY BRING FORTH." Proverbs 27:1 Friend, that is "GOOD ADVICE." Those who are truly "WISE" PREPARE FOR THE ULTIMATE!  When you know with "ABSOLUTE ASSURANCE" your Eternal Destiny is SETTLED, your life will be filled with a "PEACE" that you cannot "BUY" anywhere, for it is "ONLY" found in "ONE" PERSON, THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, who said, "I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE, NO ONE CAN COME TO THE FATHER EXCEPT BY ME." John 14:6 Friend, HEAVEN is a PREPARED PLACE, for a PREPARED PEOPLE. Jesus Christ willingly took your place and mine on the CROSS OF CALVARY where HE paid the price for all our sins. Accepting HIM as your PERSONAL LORD and SAVIOR, HE will "FORGIVE" your sins, and give you the "ABSOLUTE ASSURANCE" you will never "PERISH" but have Everlasting Life. It is HIS "LOVE GIFT" to you when you OPEN your HEART to HIM. In that moment, FRIEND, YOU WON'T BE "GETTING RELIGIOUS" YOU WILL BE ENTERING INTO AN "ETERNAL RELATIONSHIP" WITH CHRIST WHO LOVES YOU AND WHO GAVE HIMSELF FOR YOU. TODAY IS THE DAY OF SALVATION! BEGIN THIS COMING NEW YEAR WITH CHRIST AS THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR LIFE. 
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

1-4-04

"BEGIN THE NEW YEAR WITH THE GREAT I AM"
At Mount Moriah, Moses had an encounter with God that transformed his life. God touched his life and revealed in a special way that HE is the great "I AM" THE EVER PRESENT ONE. Commissioned to go back to Egypt to deliver the Israelites from bondage, he asked, "WHO SHALL I SAY HAS SENT ME." God answered, "TELL THEM "I AM" HAS SENT YOU, "I AM" THAT "I AM." Exodus 3:13-14 Then one day, in the FULLNESS of time, God the Son touched Earth and as "TRUE GOD" and "TRUE MAN" He freely referred to HIMSELF as the great "I AM."  
When you feel you are in the "DARK" Jesus says, "I AM" the LIGHT of the world, he that follows ME, shall not walk in DARKNESS, but have the LIGHT OF LIFE." John 8:12 When you need "SECURITY", Jesus says, "I AM" WITH YOU ALWAYS EVEN TO THE END OF THE AGE." Matthew 28:31 "I will NEVER leave you nor FORSAKE you." When you are "SPIRITUALLY HUNGRY" in need of heavenly FOOD to satisfy your SOUL, Jesus says, "I AM" the BREAD OF LIFE, he that COMES  to ME, shall never HUNGER, and he that BELIEVES in ME shall never THIRST." John 6:35
When you are "LOST" seeking to find your WAY, Jesus says, "I AM" the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE, no one comes to the FATHER, but by ME." John 14:6 When you seek a "DOOR" that opens to LIFE ETERNAL, Jesus says, "I AM" the DOOR, by ME if any enter in, and he shall be SAVED, and shall go in and out and find pasture." John 10:9 When you need an abiding "RELATIONSHIP" Jesus says, "I AM" the VINE, you are the BRANCHES, he that ABIDES in ME, and I in him, the same brings forth MUCH FRUIT, for without ME, you can do NOTHING." John 15:5
When you face the issue of "DEATH" how glorious to hear the Words of Jesus who says, "I AM" the RESURRECTION and the LIFE, he that BELIEVES in ME, though he were DEAD, yet shall he LIVE. And whoever LIVES, and BELIEVES in ME, SHALL NEVER DIE." John 11:25-26 When you feel the "GUILT OF SIN" Jesus says, "I AM" the GOOD SHEPHERD, the GOOD SHEPHERD gives HIS LIFE for the SHEEP." John 10:11 Yes, Friend, Jesus, the GOOD SHEPHERD gave up His life at Calvary to pay for our sins, and HE "ONLY" the "GREAT
I AM" is able to meet EVERY NEED of your LIFE. The  Disciples  made a PROFOUND STATEMENT WHEN THEY SAID, "LORD, TO WHOM SHALL WE GO? YOU HAVE THE WORDS OF ETERNAL LIFE!" There is no greater TIME than NOW to acknowledge the SAME and RECEIVE JESUS CHRIST, the CRUCIFIED, BURIED AND RISEN LORD, AS YOUR OWN PERSONAL LORD AND SAVIOR. YOU WILL THEN MAKE THE YEAR 2004 THE GREATEST NEW YEAR EVER.
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

1-5-04

"HOW MANY TIMES DID YOU SAY IT?"
"HAPPY NEW YEAR!" I know I said it many times over to Family, Friends, and even to People I didn't know, and I'm quite sure you did the very same thing. We want everyone to have the best year ever, filled with true HAPPINESS. There is an old popular song entitled "I'LL NEVER SMILE AGAIN" that suggests a person can never smile again, and never laugh again because of a broken heart, and a broken relationship. There are many people beginning this year who have tasted a BITTER disappointment who feel their world has crumbled and that they will never be able to smile or even share a hearty laugh again. Friend, God says, "THERE IS A TIME TO CRY, and A TIME TO MOURN" and no doubt we all have shed a flood of tears over some of the difficult times and failures in our lives. The Psalmist David had a broken heart because of the sin that brought chaos into his life, BUT, he called upon the Lord and said, "I ACKNOWLEDGE MY TRANSGRESSION, PURGE ME WITH HYSSOP, AND I SHALL BE CLEAN, WASH ME AND I SHALL BE WHITER THAN SNOW. RESTORE THE JOY OF MY SALVATION! THEN I WILL TEACH SINNERS YOUR WAYS, AND SINNERS SHALL BE CONVERTED TO YOU. Friend, to have a truly "HAPPY NEW YEAR," a cleansed heart is essential, and the Lord promises, "IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS, HE IS FAITHFUL AND JUST TO FORGIVE US OUR SINS AND TO CLEANSE US FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS." I John 1:9 Further, as BELIEVERS, our "HAPPINESS" and our "JOY" is not based upon the CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES OF LIFE, but upon the UNCHANGING SOURCE OF JOY, and HAPPINESS, JESUS CHRIST THE LORD. HE CAME THAT OUR "JOY" MIGHT BE FULL AND RUNNING OVER!  Praying to the FATHER, HE prayed, "THAT THEY (BELIEVERS) MAY HAVE MY "JOY" FULFILLED IN THEMSELVES." John 17:13 Note these additional challenging words from the Word of God. "ALTHOUGH THE FIG TREE SHALL NOT BLOSSOM, NEITHER FRUIT SHALL BE ON THE VINE; THE LABOR OF THE OLIVE SHALL FAIL, AND THE FIELDS SHALL YIELD NO MEAT; THE FLOCK SHALL BE CUT OFF FROM THE FOLD, AND THERE SHALL BE NO HERD IN THE STALLS; YET I WILL REJOICE IN THE LORD, I WILL JOY IN THE GOD OF MY SALVATION." 
Habakkuk 3:17-18 What a difference it makes when we moment by moment, "REJOICE IN THE GOD OF OUR SALVATION." FRIEND, HE WILL SEE YOU THROUGH THOSE TOUGH TIMES AND WILL WALK WITH YOU THROUGH THE DEEP WATERS. HE WILL LIFT YOU UP AND HELP YOU STAND STRONG IN THE LORD AND THE POWER OF HIS MIGHT. LET THE JOY OF THE LORD BE YOUR STRENGTH, AND HE WILL BRING TRUE "HAPPINESS" INTO YOUR LIFE THAT LASTS. THEN THE WORDS "HAPPY NEW YEAR" WILL HAVE TRUE MEANING.
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

1-6-04

"PEACE OF MIND A PRIZE POSSESSION!"
Many of us have applauded the tremendous achievements of one of the great athletes ever to play Baseball whose name is PETE ROSE. My Sons and I had the privilege of meeting and conversing with him at a restaurant bearing his name. Through a lengthy, outstanding career playing with the Cincinnati Reds and the Philadelphia Phils, Rose established hitting records, was always a threat stealing bases, and was a COMPETITOR second to none. The fans loved the excitement he brought to each game he played. There is no doubt that PETE ROSE was destined to be in the HALL OF FAME, however, being a BIG TIME GAMBLER and betting regularly on baseball games that started in 1987, the DOOR TO THE HALL OF FAME WAS CLOSED. After DENYING for 14 YEARS that he was GUILTY, he has finally acknowledged that he was JUSTLY ACCUSED. 
In a book soon to be released, "MY PRISON WITHOUT BARS," Rose writes that he REGRETS LYING all those years, and says, "I WISH I COULD TAKE IT ALL BACK." "IT'S TIME TO CLEAN THE SLATE! IT'S TIME TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY! I'M 14 YEARS LATE!"  Friend, it is NEVER to late to take the RESPONSIBILITY for the WRONG CHOICES we have made over the course of time. It is NEVER to late to CLEAN THE SLATE! The Psalmist David acknowledged that EVERY SIN WE COMMIT is a SIN against God. "I ACKNOWLEDGE MY TRANSGRESSIONS, AND MY SIN IS ALWAYS BEFORE ME. AGAINST YOU, YOU ONLY, HAVE I SINNED AND DONE THIS EVIL IN YOUR SIGHT." Calling upon the Lord he said, "MAKE ME HEAR JOY AND GLADNESS, THAT THE BONES YOU HAVE BROKEN MAY REJOICE." Psalm 51 SIN BRINGS PAIN AND PIERCES THE CONSCIENCE! SIN MAKES PEACE OF MIND AN IMPOSSIBILITY! BUT, PRAISE THE LORD, PEACE OF MIND AND THE JOY OF THE LORD IS POSSIBLE! THERE IS FORGIVENESS THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. "IN HIM WE HAVE REDEMPTION THROUGH HIS BLOOD, THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS." Colossians 1:14 THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, THROUGH HIS DEATH ON THAT OLD RUGGED CROSS OF CALVARY, AND VICTORY OVER THE GRAVE. HAS MADE POSSIBLE A CLEAN SLATE TO ALL WHO WILL ACCEPT HIM AS LORD AND SAVIOR. THROUGH CHRIST ALL OUR SINS ARE COVERED BY HIS PRECIOUS BLOOD THAT HE WILLINGLY SHED. AND FELLOW BELIEVERS,  "IF WE WALK IN THE LIGHT AS HE IS IN THE LIGHT, WE HAVE FELLOWSHIP ONE WITH ANOTHER, AND THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST, HIS SON, KEEPS ON CLEANSING US FROM ALL SIN." I John 1:7 CALL UPON HIM AND HE WILL GIVE YOU A CLEAN HEART AND YOU WILL HAVE GENUINE PEACE OF MIND.
SLEEP IS SWEET WHEN YOU HAVE A CLEAN CONSCIENCE!
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

1-7-04

"ARE YOU RUNNING A GOOD RACE?"
THE "CENTER" OF GOD'S WILL IS THE PLACE OF "BLESSINGS" FAR BEYOND WHAT WE CAN IMAGINE. "Now it shall come to pass IF YOU DILIGENTLY "OBEY" THE VOICE OF THE LORD YOUR GOD, HE WILL SET YOU ABOVE ALL THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH, AND "ALL" THESE "BLESSINGS" SHALL COME UPON YOU AND SHALL OVERTAKE YOU, BECAUSE YOU "OBEY" THE VOICE OF THE LORD YOUR GOD."  Deuteronomy 29:1-2 There is no doubt so much BLESSING that God wants to shower upon us is NEVER REALIZED because we are unwilling to YIELD our "ALL" to Christ. 
HIS SUPERNATURAL STRENGTH, HEALING, AND THE ABUNDANT LIFE HE HAS PROMISED, IS WITHIN GRASP IF WE WOULD SAY WITHOUT COMPROMISE, "LORD, I SURRENDER ALL!"
After recording the tremendous list in God's "HALL OF FAME" which included NOAH, ABRAHAM & SARAH, MOSES, JOSEPH, SAMSON, DAVID, SAMUEL, RAHAB and a host of others, the Apostle Paul then wrote, "Seeing we are compassed about with so GREAT a cloud of WITNESSES, LET US LAY ASIDE EVERY WEIGHT AND THE "SIN" THAT DOES SO EASILY BESET US, and "RUN" WITH "PATIENCE" THE RACE THAT IS SET BEFORE US. LOOKING UNTO JESUS, THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH." Hebrews 12:1-2 Friend, GOD KNOWS THE BEST PATH FOR US TO TAKE TO BE ALL THAT HE WANTS US TO BE. HOWEVER, to be "ALL" that "HE" wants us to be, we must LAY ASIDE THOSE BESETTING SINS THAT HINDERS THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM WORKING IN US, AND THROUGH US. We must not allow the ENEMY OF OUR SOULS to DECEIVE US and LEAD US off the COURSE GOD HAS SET BEFORE US TO RUN. O yes, Satan goes to and fro in the earth seeking whom he may DEVOUR, and he even deceitfully presents himself as ANGEL OF LIGHT, only to lead those who follow his leading into the DARKNESS OF DEFEAT.
Some years ago, there was a track meet held at the University of Pennsylvania. Many of the top track and field athlete's from 
Universities across the USA came to compete in their special event.
In the ONE MILE RACE, one of the runners had a fairly solid lead as he came down the home stretch to the tape. However, the young man leading the pack with a comfortable lead, glanced toward the stands near the FINISH LINE, and saw a camera man from a local newspaper taking pictures. INSTEAD OF STAYING ON THE INSIDE OF THE TRACK, he cut across the track to get CLOSE TO THE CAMERA MAN THINKING HE HAD ENOUGH LEAD THAT HE COULD GIVE UP SOME GROUND. As a result of this SAD MOVE, the runner behind him who HUGGED THE INSIDE OF THE TRACK, was able to make up LOST GROUND, and before the LEAD RUNNER could recover the distance he had lost, THE RUNNER WHO HUGGED THE INSIDE OF THE TRACK PASSED HIM AND HIT THE TAPE IN VICTORY. THE ONE WHO GOT "SIDETRACKED" LOST THE RACE THAT HE ABSOLUTELY SHOULD HAVE WON. FRIEND, DON'T ALLOW SATAN TO GET YOU SIDETRACKED! Be SENSITIVE to the VOICE OF THE LORD. As the old song goes, "DON'T TURN TO THE RIGHT, DON'T TURN TO THE LEFT, BUT KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS. THAT'S THE WAY TO WIN A SHINING CROWN." THAT'S THE COURSE THAT LEADS TO DAILY VICTORY!  THAT'S THE WAY TO RUN A GOOD RACE FOR YOUR SAVIOR THE LORD JESUS CHRIST.
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org
 "THE TWELFTH NIGHT FESTIVAL"
I missed an event on the calendar that takes place on the 12th Day after Christmas. It is an event celebrated in many countries and here in the good 'ol USA as well. A church in Allentown, PA. enjoyed its 20th year celebrating the "TWELFTH NIGHT FESTIVAL" with a cast and choir of about 200. All five performances were totally SOLD OUT. Quoting the "ENCYCLOPEDIA" "the event is a prime Christian celebration commemorating the following three events: THE BAPTISM OF JESUS BY JOHN THE BAPTIST; THE VISIT OF THE WISE MEN TO BETHLEHEM AND THE MIRACLE OF CHRIST AT THE WEDDING FEAST IN CANA OF GALILEE." Note the following Scripture: "It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was BAPTIZED by John in the Jordan. And IMMEDIATELY COMING UP FROM THE WATER, HE SAW THE HEAVENS PARTING AND THE SPIRIT DESCENDING UPON HIM LIKE A DOVE. THEN A VOICE CAME FROM HEAVEN, "YOU ARE MY BELOVED SON, IN WHOM I AM WELL PLEASED." When the Priests and Levites from Jerusalem approached John the Baptist, they said, "WHO ARE YOU?" He replied, "I AM NOT THE CHRIST!" Then John said "I BEAR WITNESS, FOR I SAW THE SPIRIT DESCENDING FROM HEAVEN LIKE A DOVE, AND HE REMAINED UPON HIM. I DID NOT KNOW HIM, BUT HE WHO SENT ME TO BAPTIZE WITH WATER SAID TO ME, "UPON WHOM YOU SEE THE SPIRIT DESCENDING, AND REMAINING UPON HIM, THIS IS HE WHO BAPTIZES WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. AND I HAVE SEEN AND TESTIFY THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD." John 1:15-34 THIS GLORIOUS EVENT WAS THE DECLARATION THAT JESUS INDEED WAS THE LONG PROMISED "MESSIAH" WHO WOULD COME INTO THE WORLD TO BRING SALVATION AND DELIVERANCE TO ALL HELD IN BONDAGE TO SIN.
It was after HIS baptism that JESUS entered the Synagogue, opened the Book of the Prophet Isaiah and read: "THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME, BECAUSE HE HAS ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR; HE HAS SENT ME TO HEAL THE BROKENHEARTED; TO PROCLAIM LIBERTY TO THE CAPTIVES, AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND. TO SET AT LIBERTY THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED; TO PROCLAIM THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD." JESUS THEN CLOSED THE BOOK, SAT DOWN, AND WITH EVERY EYE FIXED ON HIM, HE said,  "TODAY THIS SCRIPTURE IS FULFILLED IN YOUR HEARING." Luke 4:16-21 WHAT A STRONG AND CLEAR STATEMENT! THERE WAS NO MISTAKING WHAT JESUS WAS DECLARING! IT WAS A DIRECT AND COMPLETE CLAIM OF HIS TRUE MESSIAHSHIP, GOD MANIFESTED IN FLESH! TRUE GOD AND TRUE MAN! UNFORTUNATELY, those hearing the words of this THIRTY YEAR OLD "SUPPOSED" SON OF A CARPENTER, could not accept HIS CLAIM and they ROSE UP and THREW HIM out of the CITY, and would have KILLED HIM for speaking such BLASPHEMY.
JESUS WAS TRUE GOD, BUT, AS TRUE MAN, HE RECOGNIZED HIS DEPENDENCE UPON THE MINISTRY AND EMPOWERMENT OF GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT. FRIEND, IS THIS EVER A "STRONG MESSAGE" FOR YOU AND FOR ME? HOW MUCH EVERY ONE OF US, WHO HAVE BEEN BORN AGAIN THROUGH FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST, NEED TO BE CONTROLLED AND EMPOWERED BY THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT. AS THE APOSTLE PAUL WROTE, "BE NOT DRUNK WITH WINE WHEREIN IS EXCESS, BUT BE YOU FILLED (CONTROLLED) BY THE HOLY SPIRIT." Ephesians 5:18 "DO YOU NOT KNOW THAT YOUR BODY IS THE TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT WHO IS IN YOU, WHOM YOU HAVE FROM GOD, AND YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN? FOR YOU HAVE BEEN BOUGHT AT A "PRICE." THEREFORE GLORIFY GOD IN YOUR BODY AND IN YOUR SPIRIT, WHICH ARE GOD'S."
I Corinthians 6:19-20 MAY OUR PRAYER EVER BE: "SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD, FALL FRESH ON ME!"
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

1-9-04

"THE TWELFTH NIGHT FESTIVAL" ( 2)
For many of us, a few days after Christmas, the TREE is taken down and the LIGHTS carefully stored away. However, even though many Christmas Trees were lying by the curb for removal, there were still many who considered the TWELFTH DAY AFTER CHRISTMAS to be the "REAL" LAST DAY OF CHRISTMAS. Those celebrating on this time schedule, were commemorating three important events: CHRIST'S BAPTISM, THE WISE MEN'S VISIT, AND THE MIRACLE AT CANA OF GALILEE. Note this Scripture: "NOW AFTER JESUS WAS BORN IN BETHLEHEM OF JUDEA, IN THE DAYS OF HEROD THE KING, BEHOLD "WISE MEN" FROM THE "EAST" CAME TO JERUSALEM. SAYING, "WHERE IS HE WHO HAS BEEN BORN "KING" OF THE JEWS? FOR WE HAVE SEEN HIS "STAR" IN THE "EAST" AND HAVE COME TO "WORSHIP" HIM." Matthew 2:1-2 Their VISIT to see the NEW BORN KING had to be long after the day JESUS was actually born. During the special event of Christmas, We often sing the Carol "WE THREE KINGS!" Well, were they KINGS? Were there just THREE who came from the East? First of all, there is no reference that there were only THREE who came to Worship JESUS. We just assume this to be so because of the THREE GIFTS GIVEN,  which were GOLD, FRANKINCENSE and MYRRH! IN ADDITION, we do not know that they were "KINGS!" All we know is that they were "WISE MEN" "MAGI" "ASTROLOGERS" and "ASTRONOMERS"  EXPERTS IN THE STUDY of the STARS. It is very "POSSIBLE" that these very "ASTUTE" Men studied the WRITINGS of the PROPHET DANIEL, WHO SPENT MUCH TIME AS A CAPTIVE IN BABYLON. In the BOOK bearing his name, DANIEL clearly "PROPHESIED" THE COMING OF THE MESSIAH, AND THE "ACTUAL TIME" THAT HE WOULD APPEAR. Daniel 9:25-27.  What MEANING then is to be found in the  "THREE GIFTS" the WISE MEN gave to JESUS? Many see in these GIFTS "SYMBOLS" of CHRIST'S "IDENTITY" and what HE would "ACCOMPLISH" during HIS EARTHLY MINISTRY.
"GOLD" A GIFT FOR A "KING!" Luke wrote: "HE SHALL BE GREAT AND WILL BE CALLED THE SON OF THE HIGHEST; AND THE LORD GOD WILL GIVE HIM THE THRONE OF HIS FATHER DAVID. HE WILL REIGN OVER THE HOUSE OF JACOB "FOREVER" AND OF HIS "KINGDOM" THERE WILL BE NO END." Luke 1:32-33 "FRANKINCENSE" A GIFT FOR "DEITY!" "FOR IN CHRIST ALL THE  FULNESS OF DEITY LIVES IN BODILY FORM" Colossians 2:10 "WHO BEING IN VERY NATURE GOD, DID NOT CONSIDER EQUALITY WITH GOD SOMETHING TO BE GRASPED, BUT HUMBLED HIMSELF, TAKING THE VERY NATURE OF A SERVANT, BEING MADE IN HUMAN LIKENESS. AND BEING FOUND IN THE LIKENESS OF MAN, HE HUMBLED HIMSELF AND BECAME OBEDIENT UNTO DEATH, EVER THE DEATH OF THE CROSS." Philippians 2:6-8 "MYRRH" A GIFT FOR A "SUFFERING SAVIOR!" "SURELY HE HAS BORNE OUR GRIEF, AND CARRIED OUR SORROWS, YET, WE DID ESTEEM HIM STRICKEN, SMITTEN OF GOD, AND AFFLICTED. "BUT" HE WAS WOUNDED FOR "OUR" SINS, BRUISED FOR "OUR" INIQUITIES, THE CHASTISEMENT OF "OUR" PEACE WAS UPON HIM, AND WITH HIS STRIPES WE ARE HEALED." Isaiah 53:4-5
They brought HIM very expensive GIFTS, WORTHY for a KING, AND  THEY "WORSHIPPED HIM!" THERE IS THE KEY, FRIEND. This is the "ESSENCE" of "TRUE WORSHIP" -  HONORING "CHRIST" FOR "WHO" HE IS AND BEING WILLING TO GIVE HIM WHAT IS VALUABLE TO YOU. IS THERE  ANYTHING MORE VALUABLE TO YOU THAN  "YOU" YOURSELF? When you give "YOURSELF" TO CHRIST, THE CRUCIFIED AND RISEN SAVIOR, HE WILL MAKE YOU A VESSEL OF HONOR, A VESSEL EMPOWERED UNTO EVERY GOOD WORK. "I BESEECH YOU THEREFORE, CHILDREN OF GOD, HAVING YOUR EYES WIDE OPEN TO THE MERCIES OF GOD, THAT YOU PRESENT YOUR BODIES A LIVING SACRIFICE, HOLY, ACCEPTABLE TO GOD, WHICH IS YOUR SPIRITUAL ACT OF WORSHIP." Romans 12:1
For more click here: www.challengeoffaith.org

1-10-04

DEAR JIM & CRYSTAL
WAS UNABLE TO REACH TRAFFIC-POWER.COM ON FRIDAY BUT WILL CALL ON MONDAY. I REALLY APPRECIATE SO MUCH WHAT YOU ARE DOING FOR THIS MINISTRY AND PRAISE GOD OUR PATHS CROSSED.
I AM FORWARDING THE LAST E-MAILS FROM TRAFFIC POWER.
DAN

1-10-04

Dear Daniel,

Welcome to PowWeb Hosting. We have received your order, and your account will be setup soon. Please keep this order confirmation number for your records.

Order Confirmation Number: P97120-A78161-P85030

You can now login to PowWeb's Member Operations Area (OPS) with the WebUser you selected during the order process. There, you can review your account status, read our FAQs and Support Pages, order additional services, setup various features, and make other changes to your account.

URL :