NEWSPAPER DEVOTIONAL ARTICLES--
JANUARY- JUNE, 1999

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

"Saturday Sermon" for Saturday, January 2, 1998

DAY OF THE DIET

    More diets begin on the second day of January than on all the other days of the year combined! Everyone wants to "pig out" during Christmas and New Year's Day but they know the dreaded "day of the diet" is coming.
    All of the exercise equipment and exercise videos they purchased for Christmas must now be put to use. With fire in their eyes and determination on their lips they begin to shed those unwanted pounds. The good news is that some people will remain steadfast for as much as a week!
    If it wasn't for people's tendency not to admit defeat, you could pick up used exercise equipment for a song in February. And I could probably clothe a third world nation with all the clothes people have in their closet that are just a little snug. They steadfastly refuse to discard them because they are going to be able to wear them one day. They eventually come in handy when you're dusting the house or changing the oil in your car.
    Let me give you some common sense advice that will help you with your diet, as well as with your spiritual life. The Bible states that it is "The little foxes that spoil the vine" (Song 2:15). Most people's pounds come from their snacks between meals and not from the meals. Go for a week without eating anything between meals and see what a difference it will make. Remember, losing an ounce a day means you lose two pounds a month; which translates into twenty four pounds a year! And that is the goal of most people.
    In the same way, you can deal with those little sins that keep you depressed and discouraged. After all, most people are not tempted to rob banks, they are tempted to talk about their neighbor or allow anger to control them or some other "little" sin. Learn to guard against these "little sins" in your life and you will find that the big ones seem to take care of themselves.
    You can lose those pounds; and you can be a victorious Christian. Simply do it a step at a time. The change in life style will lower the size of your pants and increase the size of your testimony. And isn’t that what you really want?

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, January 5, 1999

ASSEMBLING 1999

    My father in law’s television was broken so all his children decided to go together for Christmas and purchase him a new one. Unable, and unwilling, to purchase a very expensive floor model after considering how little my father in law watched TV we decided to purchase him a nice portable TV.
    This presented an additional problem, where were we going to put the new portable TV? That "forced" my wife to go shopping where she found a nice table stand that would exactly fit in the corner of his living room and be just what he needed.
    When we opened the box containing all the parts for his new table it was very confusing, and somewhat scary, to try to figure out where everything went. But we looked at the instructions, used a little common sense, and soon all those scattered pieces were assembled into a nice table for his TV.
    God, in His great mercy and goodness, has granted us a new year. As we stand at the beginning of this year and look into the future it appears a little confusing, and somewhat scary. We want this year to be filled with joy, peace, and prosperity but we don’t know exactly what to do in order for that to be accomplished.
    Just like with that TV table, there are guidelines we must follow if we would look back on 1999 and see it "assembled" into something useful and pretty. First we must have a desire to make this year the best year of our life (We would not have purchased and put that TV table together unless there was a need).
    Then we must assemble all the pieces of this year into their proper place. That means following God’s instructions, using the common sense He has given us, and expecting God to use our efforts to make something useful and beautiful. Do that and 1999 will end up being just what you need and want.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, January 6, 1999

MAKING 1999 THE BEST YEAR YET

    Do you want things to go well in your life in 1999? "When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him." (Prov 16:7). What a Promise! Life will be so good until even your enemies will stop attacking you. Sounds good to me!
    So pleasing God should be your goal for 1999. Here are several principles that will help you get a handle on what it means to live so as to please the Lord.
    Guard your heart- (1 Sam 16:7) "But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart." God is concerned about your attitude and your motivations. It pleases God when we watch what we watch so our mind and vocabulary are kept clean. It pleases God when we seek to love our neighbor as our self instead of harboring grudges and prejudices.
    Take time to build a relationship with God. My mother said over and over this Christmas that her greatest present was having her family with her. Take time to talk to God each day in prayer. Meet with God’s people each week in a house of Worship. Study God’s diary (the Bible) so you can learn, and follow, God’s plans and principles.
    Honor God’s Son. Like any parent, God is pleased when you treat His only begotten son with honor and respect. Accept Christ as your personal Savior and model your life after Christ, that is sure to please God.
    Make Pleasing God your goal and 1999 will be the best year you have ever had.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, January 12, 1999

 DECAFE OR REGULAR

    One of the local service stations has a policy that if you buy one of their mugs you can then get coffee for ten cent a cup by getting it in that mug. For a confirmed coffee drinker like me that is a deal too good to pass up.
    Recently, when I stopped by for a cup of coffee I found an interesting situation. The coffee pots in use at this station have a top and a bottom part. When I went to get my coffee I found that the top part of one pot was labeled regular and the bottom part was labeled decafe. The other pot had the top part labeled decafe and the bottom part labeled regular. I still don’t know which kind of coffee I got that day!
    The Bible states that "if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?" (1 Cor 14:8). Like these coffee pots, I am afraid a lot of Churches have duel labels and, as a result, are really confusing people about what they are getting.
    Take, for instance, the recent issue about immorality and forgiveness. The message given out by some churches is that because immorality is so prevalent among certain people then it should simply be forgiven and allowed to continue. In fact, however, the Bible states- "Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?" (Rom 6:1-2).
    Like the mixed up coffee pots, the message that comes across from many people is that sin is to be winked at instead of repented of - and we wonder why society continues to become more and more corrupt.
    Thank God for the mercy and forgiveness that God graciously gives us through Christ. But this forgiveness comes after a repentant heart and is followed by a changed life style. To teach otherwise is to mix up coffee pots and greatly confuse men about what is really the truth.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, January 13, 1999

GRACE GOALS

    He who aims at nothing has no problem hitting it! When you don’t know where you are going any road will get you there! And if you don’t have something to guide your life then you will end up with a life that has no purpose, no peace, and no progress.
    Everyone needs goals in their life. A GOAL is defined as something to aim for- something to give direction to your work and effort. Here are a few of the goals that I have set for each Member of Grace Church in 1999.
    1) BE INVOLVED -I would like for each member of the Church to be actively involved in the Church and its ministry every week. Precept must be upon precept if consistent growth is to happen. Remember, there are only 52 Sundays in a year, each one you miss cut out spiritual food you need to grow as a Christian.
    2) BE A WITNESS - Determine to share what God is doing in your Life, and what He wants to do in their life, with at least one person each week. This is the greatest good you can do.
    3) BE HOLY- Live like a Child of God in all of life’s circumstances. Don’t allow the conduct of the crowd to shape you- Be Holy because God is Holy. Make a Stand for right.
    4) BE JOYFUL - Rejoice in the fact that God has provided forgiveness for your sins, provision for your life, and a promise of Heaven. Don’t ignore life’s problems, just trust God to give you victory over anything so you can rejoice in everything!.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, January 20, 1999

THE PREACHER DIDN’T KNOW

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, January 26, 1999

WAKE UP WARNING

    The wife said that it hovered over her husband’s head like a cloud. She described it as intensely black with wing like projections protruding from the back. Suddenly, a light, like a flash of fire, projected from this "thing" and lit up the face of her husband.
    She had been sound asleep when this presence awakened her and she was about to convince herself that it was just a very bad dream when her daughter, who had been sleeping on a pallet on the floor beside the bed, popped up and said, "Did you see it, Mom? It was so black and ugly and it hovered over Dad’s face. And, Mom, I can still feel the heat on my face."
    The mother reached over, felt the warmth of her child’s face, and knew something very strange had happened that night. She did not know what she had witnessed but she did know that her husband lay in bed as if he were stunned; and everyone in that bedroom was intensely affected by something.
    Two days later the husband visited me in my office. He told me that this "wake up warning" had convinced him that something needed to change in his life. As he described the empty feeling in his heart and the overwhelming desire he had for peace and security, I knew that I simply had to introduce him to the Christ that I worship and adore. Soon we were kneeling together in prayer and tears of joy were flowing down his cheeks as pardon and peace came into his life through a relationship with Christ.
    It is extremely unusual for someone to get this kind of "wake up call" from God (I personally believe it resulted from the fact than several people were intensely praying for this young man). Most of the time when God calls it is in the form of a whisper instead of a shout. But, whatever method God uses to get your attention, I hope you will realize He is calling you to a loving relationship. A relationship that can change your nightmares into a wonderful life.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, January 27, 1999

INTEGRITY

    There has been a lot of talk in recent days about Integrity. Some people are apparently real foggy about what Integrity means.
     The Dictionary defines Integrity as "a steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code" or "maintaining a high standard of conduct in daily living".
    While most of us can not readily give a dictionary definition of Integrity; we sure do recognize it when we see it. We know that a person has Integrity when they are honest, can be trusted, and will do right in all circumstances.
    The Bible mentions many men who failed to live lives of integrity; and then shows the horrible consequences of their failures. But it also tells of several who did the right thing, all of the time, even in the midst of temptation and accusation.
    Joseph lived a life of moral purity and exemplified Integrity even under extreme temptation. Daniel "purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself". This stand enabled him to live a life of such high integrity in the midst of powerful political corruption until secret searches could find nothing wrong with his character.
    Someone has wisely stated that we reach our greatest height by staying on the level. Every day you make choices about right and wrong. Integrity bases these choices on the standards given by God. And, in the end, those are the only standards that will matter.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, February 2, 1999

STANDARDS

    A man and his girlfriend decided to have a picnic. They stopped at a local fast food chicken location and purchased a box of chicken and fixings to carry with them. When they arrived at the park and opened their box of chicken they found a box full of money instead of chicken! The manager of the store had put his daily deposits in the box to take to the bank and one of the clerks had given it to this man by mistake.
    The man told his girlfriend that he had to take the money back and so they drove back to the chicken store. When the manager saw the money and realized that this man had acted with such honesty he was overwhelmed. He told the man that he had never seen anything like this in his life and he wanted everyone to see this shining example of Integrity so he was going to call the local TV station and ask them to send out a news crew.
    The man who had returned the money quickly exclaimed, "Please don’t do that. You see, that is my girlfriend with me and my wife might see the broadcast!"
    Isn’t it amazing how some men will be extremely honest about some things while seeing nothing wrong with fooling around in other areas? It all depends on the man’s "standards" of morality.
    The word "standard" has a variety of meanings. A standard is a flag representing a nation to which soldiers rally in time of battle. A standard is a fixed unit that is used to measure all other units (So a yard stick equals a yard). And a standard is a type of conduct expected of everyone within a certain area or school of thought.
    Maybe the reason the Church is losing the battle over morals in society today is because we fail to preach, and live, Biblical standards. Someone must raise a flag of righteousness to which we all can rally. Someone must exemplify Integrity so boldly until everyone will want to use their conduct as a standard in the community. And someone must declare that if society is not going to slip into the bottomless abyss of moral anarchy then certain standards of conduct and civility must be observed.
    Someone must; maybe, just maybe, that someone is you.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, February 3, 1999

HATRED HARM

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, February 9, 1999

PRACTICAL PIETY

Miracle Message for Wednesday, February 10, 1999

WHY DIDN’T YOU CALL?

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, February 16, 1999

THE COMMUTER CHURCH

    Our Church is a Commuter Church rather than a Community Church- Instead of being built around a family or local community most of the people who attend our Church drive over 10 miles, past 10 to 15 other Churches, in order to attend our services. When they arrive at our church each week there are four areas that we try to accent.
    1) Evangelization- We try to clearly present the Gospel of Jesus Christ each week because we believe that (Acts 4:12) "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." We believe the most important thing that can happen in the life of an individual is for them to repent of their sins, believe that Jesus Christ died for them, and become a new creature through the power of the Holy Spirit.
    2) Inspiration- People need Hope, Encouragement, and Motivation. Our music, our methods of worship, and our Ministry are all geared toward causing people to leave each week with hope in their heart, joy on their lips, and the ability to face, and overcome, life’s problems.
    3) Information- Since most of our people seldom see each other except during Church services, we attempt to provide abundant and clear information about what is going on in the Church so everyone will know where we are and what we are attempting to accomplish.
    4) Participation- The Church is a body with many members. Each person who attends is shown that they have a vital part in the overall ministry of the Church. Church is not a spectator sport! Everyone is given the opportunity to use their talents for the Lord with the realization that their work has eternal value.
    Many people believe this type Church is worth commuting to each week. We hope you will believe the same thing.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, February 17, 1999

MILLENNIUM MADNESS

    The new millennium madness has begun. All sorts of prophecies and predictions are being made about what will transpire in religious circles with the advent of the year 2000. The truth about these future events is that no one knows all the answers; and most people don’t even know the questions!
    Some things, however, are crystal clear and, because of their importance, need to be examined with a clear eye and a calm spirit.
    First of all, Jesus Christ did promise that He would return for His followers one day- (John 14:3) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. But He also clearly stated that the date of His return was a secret- (Mat 24:36) But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
   The job of the Church as we await His coming is to use the talents He has given us wisely, to testify of His Love and forgiveness, and to "occupy" until He comes. And, as Sin and wickedness become increasingly active, we are to live lives of moral purity that will build our Testimony and increase our stability as we await His return- (1 John 2:28) And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, February 23, 1999

MAKING TODAY WORTH LIVING

    A friend recently sent this to me. I have no idea where it originated but I felt it was worth sharing with you. Have a GREAT day.
    I woke up early today, excited over all I get to do before the clock strikes midnight. I have responsibilities to fulfill today. I am important. My job is to choose what kind of day I am going to have.
    Today I can complain because the weather is rainy or I can be thankful that the grass is getting watered for free. Today I can feel sad that I don't have more money or I can be glad that my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste. Today I can grumble about my health or I can rejoice that I am alive. Today I can lament over all that my parents didn't give me when I was growing up or I can feel grateful that they allowed me to be born.
    Today I can cry because roses have thorns or I can celebrate that thorns have roses. Today I can mourn my lack of friends or I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships. Today I can whine because I have to go to work or I can shout for joy because I have a job to do. Today I can complain because I have to go to school or eagerly open my mind and fill it with rich new tidbits of knowledge. Today I can murmur dejectedly because I have to do housework or I can feel honored because the Lord has provided shelter for my mind, body and soul.
    Today stretches ahead of me, waiting to be shaped. And here I am, the sculptor who gets to do the shaping. What today will be like is up to me. I get to choose what kind of day I will have. So have a Great Day...Unless you have other plans?

Miracle Message for Wednesday, February 24, 1999

HOW TO LIVE RIGHT

1> Define Sin- (1 John 3:4-5) Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. {5} And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Righteous living means we do what is right and avoid what is wrong. That can only happen when we define what sin is- Whatsoever is not of Faith is sin (Rom 14:2). The thought of foolishness is sin (Prov 24:9). To him that knows to do good and does it not it is sin (Jam 4:17). All Unrighteousness is sin (1 Jn 5:17). John states that Sin is Defilement (1 Jn 1:7-9) Defiance (1 Jn 3:8), and Lawlessness (1 Jn 3:4).
    2> Decline Sin- (1 John 3:6) Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. "Sinneth Not" here means to abide in sin as a habit of life. We fail but our Failures do not bring joy; they bring frustration, fear, chastisement; and should lead to repentance. That is why we say "No" to sin; again and again.
    3> Desire Righteousness- (1 John 3:7-8) Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. {8} He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. If you have no desire to live a righteous life then you need to check your "heart". Remember, if you clean out your house and don’t replace what you threw out then something worst will come in. Long for the Right.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, March 2, 1999

MARRIAGE MEMOS

Someone recently shared a number of short sayings about marriage with me and I thought they would be helpful to others who are married, or who are contemplating getting married. Hope you have a happy marriage.
A bridegroom is a man who spends a lot of money on a new suit that nobody notices.
A deaf husband and a blind wife are always a happy couple- French Proverb
A marriage is like a long trip in a tiny rowboat: if one passenger starts to rock the boat, the other has to steady it; otherwise they will go to the bottom together- David Reuben
An ideal wife is any woman who has an ideal husband
Chains do not hold a marriage together. It is threads, hundreds of tiny threads that sew people together through the years- Simone Signoret
Don’t marry for money; you can borrow it cheaper- Scottish Proverb
It takes two to make a marriage a success and only one to make it a failure- H Samuel
Keep your eyes wide open before marriage, half shut afterwards
Let the wife make her husband glad to come home. Let the Husband make his wife sorry to see him leave.
Life is full of troubles; most of them are man-maid
Marriage halves our griefs, doubles our joys, and quadruples our expenses
Marriage resembles a pair of shears, so joined that they cannot be separated; often moving in opposite directions, yet always punishing any one who comes between them. S Smith
"My wife is an angel" said one man. The other replied, "You are so very lucky, mine is still alive"
And one final quote- When a marriage works, nothing on earth can take its place- Helen Douglas. To which I add a hardy "Amen".

Miracle Message for Wednesday, MARCH 3, 1999

ACTIVE LOVE

    One of the most haunting passages in scripture is First Corinthians 13:3 "If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing." This "flies in the face" of most people's concept of love. The scriptures here state that even extreme sacrifice doesn’t measure up if it is not motivated by genuine love.
    The Government has tried to convince us for years that if you throw enough money at a problem that it will solve the problem. All of us realize how false that is by now. A good example would be many of the housing projects the government sponsors. Instead of elevating people to a better living, many have become pockets of poverty and crime. Better housing without better hope turned to despair, disrespect, and drugs.
    This example should show us that people do not need just money, they need loving concern that will enable them to use the money they have, or receive, correctly. That takes more than programs; that takes involvement and instruction.
    The perfect example of this kind of involvement is shown in God’s Love. When man sinned, he incurred the penalty of death. God's didn't just "pay man's bill"; He actually BECAME a man in order to pay mankind’s sin debt by His death on the cross. And He didn't just tell man how to live a holy life; He came to earth and demonstrated His love in real life situations.
    This is the kind of love God offers to you today. What a difference it would make in your life if you accepted this love. And what a difference it would make in our world if we all demonstrated it.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, March 9, 1999

MAKING FAITH WORK

    I have been preaching for nearly 37 years and I still get confused sometimes about the way people react to God’s offer of pardon and forgiveness. Some people accept it readily and immediately begin to serve God with all of their heart and soul. Others hear the good news and make a sincere effort to do everything that is asked of them but for some vague reason it never seems to "click" with them. They struggle and struggle and never seem to find the peace and assurance they crave.
    Recently, I came across a simple statement by the apostle Paul that just exploded with meaning in my mind- (Gal 5:6) For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. That is the difference! The energizing force in Faith is Love. When I try to educate the mind of these people who struggle with Faith I am dealing with the wrong need. It is not that they can’t understand just as well as anyone else; the problem stems from a hindrance or blockage in their love relationship with God.
    Sometimes a person is abandoned or abused by their parents, a close friend, or a mate. Many times these people find it difficult to have the right kind of faith because they have been "burned" before by someone they trusted. Their mind will say they trust God but their heart is afraid to make that leap of trust which is the very basis of faith.
    Faith comes by education (Rom 10:17) but its motivating force is love. The hindrance to Faith is fear; fear of total commitment, fear of lack of ability, or fear of giving control to someone else. The answer to this fear is to understand fully the love of God for There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: (I John 4:18).
    I hope you will see God’s love today. And I pray that will cause your faith to work successfully and completely.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, MARCH 10, 1999

PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES

    During my devotion time recently I asked the Lord to give me several principles that people needed to practice. Almost immediately the following three principles seemed to "pop" into my brain. I believe they are very practical; but very important. Hope they will help you.
    1) DON’T WORSHIP YOUR WORK. Many people seem to get all their self worth from their work. They don’t want to retire or relax because that would mean their job could get along without them- something they just can’t conceive of!
    If you are able, you should work, and you should enjoy your work, but don’t turn your work into the only driving force in your life. Don’t serve your work, make work your servant. Work should allow you to be creative and make enough money to support your family but it should a part of life; not all of life.
    2) DON’T FORGET YOUR FAMILY. The scriptures state that (1 Tim 3:5) if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God? God recognized early, and stated often, the importance of family relationships. Yet, many people treat their family like dirt while treating the people at work (that they hardly know) with respect and dignity.
    3) DON’T BE WEARY IN WELL DOING. It is alright to get tired IN the way but you should never get tired OF the way. Don’t allow discouragement and disappointment to make you quit. Use every opportunity to do good. You’ll never regret it.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, March 16, 1999

DATE DETAILS

    Dates are very important to me this week. Today (March 16^th) is My lovely wife’s birthday- a date I had better not forget! Then this coming Friday is my Spiritual Birthday. I was born again on March 19, 1962- That is a date I don’t ever want to forget! And, of course, I have numerous meetings and activities this week that each have their own date.
    I heard about someone recently who heard a speaker use some good material and decided that he wanted to use that same material in a speech he was supposed to give. When he went to look up the date to verify when he had to give his speech he found it was the past Saturday! He didn’t get his date details right so a lot of confusion resulted.
    Most of us live under the pressure of time and date obligations. If you go to school on Saturday instead of Monday you might feel very lonesome; and your teacher may not appreciate your absence on Monday! If you are supposed to be at work at 8 o’clock in the morning and you show up at 8 o’clock that night then you probably aren’t long for that job.
    Let me give you several things about dates that you need to remember. First, This is the day that the Lord has made, rejoice in that fact (Ps 118:24). It may be a "good" day or a "bad" day but it is a day from the Lord. Use it for all it’s worth, believing God has given it to you for a purpose.
    Finally, remember that today is the day of Salvation (2 Cor 6:2). I can’t understand why anyone would want to delay accepting Christ as Savior but if someone is that foolish then they need to remember that delay can be deadly. Get that detail straight on this date; and then you, like me, can rejoice each year during this week that your sins are forgiven and Heaven is in your future.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, MARCH 17, 1999

THE NIGHT I GOT SAVED

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, March 23, 1999

WHY ARE YOU HERE??

    Years ago in Russia, a czar came upon a lonely sentry standing at attention in a secluded corner of the palace garden. "What are you guarding?" asked the czar. "I don’t know. The Captain ordered me to guard this post," the sentry replied.
    The czar called the captain. His answer to the czar’s question, "Written regulations specify a guard is to be assigned to that area." The czar ordered a search to find out why. The archives finally revealed the reason. Years before, Catherine the Great had planted a rose bush in that corner and ordered a sentry to stand guard over it that night. One hundred years later, the rose had long died, and sentries were still guarding what was now a barren area.
    Sometimes patterns in our lives begin for a very good reason but over time they harden into habits that entrap us in situations which force us to use all our time and energy guarding barren ground. Instead of using our time to enjoy life and be productive we find ourselves trapped by old hatred of people who have either died or are no longer part of our life. Or we still stand guard over bitterness about a situation that has long changed. Or we find ourselves trapped in a vicious cycle of doubt and despair as we guard a barren spot entitled "What could have been".
    God does not call us to stand guard over emptiness and barrenness. He wants our life to have meaning and victories. So He has sent changes to your orders. Leave your guard duty over that barren spot in your life and accept God’s forgiveness and pardon so you can live a life full of the goodness and the grace of God. Once you do, you will find that even the midnight watches can be enjoyable when you guard the bountiful blessings of the Lord instead of a spot of barren ground.

 Miracle Message for Wednesday, March 24,1999

6 MORE DROPS

    The story is told about a bartender who thought of himself as a "macho man". He had a standing bet of $1000 to anyone who could squeeze as much as a drop more liquid from a lemon he had squeezed. Many men were tempted by his bet and tried with all their might to squeeze just one more drop from that lemon. But all of them failed.
    One day a short man of small stature came into the bar and told the bartender that he wanted to accept his challenge about the lemon. The bartender and all the patrons broke out into laughter and ridicule at this man’s request.
    He insisted, however, and finally the bartender grabbed a lemon and squeezed with all his might. Then he handed the flattened lemon to this small man who took it in his hand and squeezed out 6 more drops!
    The Bartender gawked in amazement and finally asked this small man, "Who are you? I have had weigh lifters, strong men, and professionals in here and all of them failed. What do you do?"
    With a smile on his face, the small man replied, "I work for the IRS"
    It’s tax time again. Some of us may feel as flat broke as that flattened lemon and wonder how the IRS can get 6 more drops from us. Just remember this. God’s word commands us to pay taxes and God has promised to meet our needs. Trust Him to provide for you; even if you need 6 more drops!

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, March 30, 1999

COPIER CONFIDENCE

    Due to the wonderful generosity of several businesses in our Church we were recently able to purchase a very nice copier to use in our Outreach Ministry. We hope this will make our newsletter and Bible Study materials much easier to read while allowing us more opportunities to use pictures and other materials that we were unable to use in the past.
    The new copier is located in the Church office while my office is in the front room of the parsonage. The wonder of electronics allows me to do my writing in my office and simply tell the computer that I want to make copies and the copier at the church will go to work accomplishing that task. But I will tell you this, it is still "scary" to push a button in my office and believe that a machine in another building is copying the material I have sent it. It is mighty hard not to get up each time and walk to the church to make sure everything is copied before I erase it from my computer.
    God’s wonderful son, Jesus, came to earth one day. He lived a pure life and died on Calvary’s cross as a payment for our sin debt. They buried Him in a tomb but three days later He was resurrected and now is in Heaven interceding in the behalf of those who believe on Him. The problem is that we live on earth and He is in Heaven so sometimes this lack of sight causes our faith to falter.
    Day after day I push the button in my office and copies come out at the church. I can’t see it working until I get to the church but, so far, copies have been made every time I wanted them. And you can be sure of this, God is a lot more trustworthy and dependable than any copier will ever be. So, by Faith, I can hardly wait to get to Heaven and see the Christ I have been trying to "copy" all these years.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, March 31, 1999

THE REAL VALUE OF $30

    For the last 15 years I have been using a Mimeograph Machine to do much of the work of our Outreach Ministry. I call it our "million dollar machine". It was the prototype for a new design that A B Dick Company was going to make before they decided to close their Lake City plant. I was told that over a million dollars worth of research and tooling went into this machine to make sure that everything worked as it should when they began running off other machines from this model.
    When A B Dick closed, one of the men in our Church bid Thirty Dollars for the machine thinking he was bidding on a part that lay on top of the machine. When his bid was accepted he found that he had purchased not just a part but the entire Mimeograph Machine, 3 brand new drums (valued at $300 each), and several other items.
    This Mimeograph Machine has proved invaluable over the past 15 years in reaching people for Christ (We estimate we have printed well in excess of 7 million copies during that time). And all because a man bid $30.
    I think about that $30 when I remember that Judas sold our Lord for 30 pieces of Silver. Judas thought Jesus was just a "pile of junk on a pallet" but the world has since learned of the tremendous value of Christ. Be careful that YOU don’t make the same mistake Judas made.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, April 6, 1999 

WHAT IS YOUR SPIRITUAL TEMPERATURE???

    If you went to the "Doctor" and he checked your "spiritual temperature" what would he find? Would he find a vibrant thriving Christian who was Working for God, Walking in the Spirit, and Waiting on Christ? Or would he find a sick Saint with dirt in their mind and sin in their heart?
    The doctor almost always begins by checking your temperature. That helps him determine if anything is going on in your body that is a problem. So let’s see which temperature describes you-
A) COLD- (Mat 24:12) "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." This person has gotten so caught up in the sin that abounds in society until their heart is hardly beating and their body is about to go into shock as their temperature plunges. The doctor sees immediate danger and recommends the warmth of fellowship with other believers and a quick dose of the word of God that burns as a flaming fire.
B) LUKEWARM- (Rev 3:16) "So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." In the natural body, this would be a good situation but the doctor knows that apathy in the spiritual life is an extremely dangerous situation. He knows that this lukewarm temperature causes the person to believe all is well when in fact they give God a queasy stomach.
C) BURNING- (Luke 24:32) "And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?" Ah, a healthy Christian at last. The heart is hot as they reflect on their walk with Christ and their hearing of the word of God. And, like every well Christian, they can’t wait to go tell someone that they have been with the Master.
    How are you doing today? Let me go get my thermometer.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, April 7, 1999

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, April 13, 1999

SERMON SUBSTANCE

    A young preacher once asked me what it took to make a good sermon. I told him a good sermon was a good man with a good message about the good Lord. The messenger needs to be called of God and filled with the Spirit. The message needs to be delivered with all the abilities and effort that this God called man can deliver. And the heart of the message must be about man’s sin, Christ’s sacrifice, and God’s pardon.
    A good sermon, like a good cake, needs several ingredients mixed together in the proper proportion, with just a touch of the personality of the "cook", that is then put into the fire of public scrutiny; where it should "cook" for just the right time- too little time and it is not done, too much time and it become hard and tough instead of chewy and delicious.
    The first ingredient that a good sermon needs is Communication. A "link" must be established between those who are listening and the one who is speaking. Also, the speaker must deliver his message in words and methods that will allow the listener to understand what is being said.
    The second ingredient you need is Illustration. This greatly helps the Communication as it allows the listener to visualize what is being preached. Like yeast in flour, Illustration causes what is communicated to expand and develop as it should.
    The third needed ingredient is Inspiration. The message must speak to the "heart" of the people in the congregation if it is to change their character and destination. This is the "sugar" that transforms a bland message into a life changing sermon.
    The final ingredient needed in a good sermon is Application. Why cook a cake if you are not going to eat it? And the best cake is when it is hot out of the oven.
    I hope you will hear a good hot sermon this Sunday; and I hope it will be just what you need to fill that empty place in your heart.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, April 14, 1999

MINISTER’S MINISTRY

I recently had the wonderful privilege of preaching the ordination message for a young man for whom I had been pastor for many years. In that message I tried to share the most important principles that he needed to follows if he was to be successful as a Pastor. I hope these principles will be a part of your life also.
    1) Make Christ the Center of your Message- Men want to hear about many things but they MUST hear about Christ. He is the only source of salvation and it is only in a relationship with Him that men can find the peace and direction they seek. Expose sin, encourage people, but always preach Christ.
    2) Make Service the Center of your Ministry- The greatest of all shall be servant of all. Ask not what the church can do for you but rather what you can do for others. God does not call pastors to be lords over the flock; He calls them to be leaders by service and example.
    3) Make the Bible the Center of your Methods. Learn the Bible. Live the Bible. Preach the Bible. Fads and opinions will come at you faster that raindrops in a summer storm; and will be about as lasting. Build your convictions and principles on what God states in the Bible. You might not always be popular with men but, remember, men are not your boss; and men will not be your "paymaster" on judgement day.
    Have you prayed for your pastor this week?

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, April 20, 1999

BETTER BELIEFS

    I have noticed in the Bible, and in life, that it is better to pick the Best instead of the ordinary. I like my apples firm and crisp so I pick out the best instead of just throwing some into a bag. And who would think of going into a car lot and asking the dealer for just an ordinary plain car that cost as much as the best car he has?
    Yes, the best is better. That is a truth you need to follow in your physical life. And it is a truth you need to observe in your relationship with God. Here are a few areas in which you need to chose the best.
    It is BETTER TO OBEY GOD THAN TO SIMPLY GIVE TO GOD-(1 Sam 15:22) And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
    It is BETTER TO BE POOR AND RIGHT THAN RICH AND WRONG- (Psa 37:16) A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked
    It is BETTER TO HAVE A GOOD MARRIAGE THAN A BIG BANK ACCOUNT- (Prov 15:17) Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith
    It is BETTER NOT TO MAKE A COMMITMENT THAN TO BREAK YOUR WORD- (Eccl 5:5) Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay
    It is BETTER TO GIVE THAN TO GET- (Acts 20:35) remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
    And remember this- It is BETTER TO NEVER BE SAVED THAN TO TURN BACK FROM GOD- (2 Pet 2:21) For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
    Remember, Chose the BEST today. You will be glad you did.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, April 21, 1999

 4 QUESTIONS

    Some times questions can be life changing- Will you marry me? How long have you had that lump on your chest? Would you like to go to work at my business, we have great benefits?
    In the Gospel of Luke, chapter nineteen, we find 4 incidents that ask some very important questions. Let’s see how YOU respond to them today.
    1) How Satisfied are You? Zaccheus was a rich man who had all the comforts of a rich man’s life but he found his life was missing the key ingredient- peace. He became so dissatisfied with the way things were going until he abandoned his pride, climbed a tree, and finally found the peace he longed for when he met with Christ. How about you? Are you Satisfied, or do you still seek?
    2) How Productive is your Life? Jesus then told a parable that showed that productivity in life is tied to either fear or faith. Fear causes you to bury your talents and live in misery. Faith allows you to accomplish get deeds. What are you doing with Your life?
    3) Who Honors You? Then as Jesus entered Jerusalem he was honored by the people who really matter, the people who believed in Him. Do you spend your life seeking honor from the world or does your family think you are the greatest?
    4) How clean is Your Conduct? Finally, Jesus cleaned out the temple of money grabbing merchants. If He came to your house today would He eat at your table or turn it over?

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, April 27, 1999

COVETING CASH

    Americans gamble more money each year than they spend on groceries. Over $600 billion is wagered legally in the U.S. annually. More money is spent on gambling in Mississippi than on all retail sails combined. Over 31,000 video poker machines are spread over S.C. (That is one per each hundred people in the state- one per square mile of the state). Everyone seems to want to find an easy way to get rich NOW.
    But this is not just a modern problem. The Apostle Paul did not have a problem with lusting after ladies like has happened to so many famous preachers. Paul said that the problem that revealed his sin was the seldom preached on sin of Coveting- (Rom 7:7) "Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet."
    God realized the power and danger of coveting so He put it in His list of top ten "Thou shalt nots". Through out the Bible God tells how he hates coveting and how His people must avoid the quicksand that surrounds an unwise desire for things that others have.
    Of, if men could only see the damage done by coveting quick cash and abandoning God’s guidelines for wealth. Nearly 1 in 5 homeless people say gambling contributed to their poverty, and 75% of pathological gamblers admit they have committed at least one felony to support their habit. Nevada ranks first in suicide (One in 25 visitors who die in Las Vegas die by Suicide) and first in divorce.
    The best advice I can give you when the cancer of coveting after cash begins to control your life is to remember that coveting displeases God, destroys families, and drains your joy. (Luke 12:15) "And Jesus said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth."

Miracle Message for Wednesday, April 28, 1999

HOLY HABITS

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, May 4, 1999

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, May 18, 1999

ABOVE MEASURE

(Luke 6:38) Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
    I learned early in my Christian life that God wanted me to render my service to Him, and to others, with a cheerful heart and a willing attitude- (2 Cor 9:7) Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
    Let me assure you, having been on the receiving end of charity many times, it is much better to receive something with a cheerful attitude than to have someone grudgingly give me what I need. The attitude of the giver makes all the difference in the world.
    Recently, my doctor recommended very strongly that I take a few day off. That sounded great except for the fact that Doctor bills, hospital bills, car insurance, and taxes had all decided to come to roost at my home during the same month. My wife and I wanted the time off but we were financially challenged!
    Let me show you how the Lord worked it out. One of the members of my church came to me one day and said he had a place at the Beach he could not use right now and he wanted my wife and I to use it for a week. And then he gave the "good measure, shaken together, and pressed down", he also gave us an envelope that contained enough money for my wife and I to go to supper and enjoy our stay. What can a fellow say but, "Glory!"
    Our Scripture verse says that it will be given to you according to the way you gave to others. Remember that when your chance comes along to help someone this week.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, May 19, 1999

EXTRA MILES

(Mat 5:41) And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.
    One of the most difficult parts of Christianity is practicing it!! It preaches wonderful but it is often hard to actually put into practice in daily life. And one of the most difficult principles to put into practice is the one at the beginning of this article. It is just hard sometimes to go the "extra mile".
    But what a blessing it can be when you put the "extra mile" principle into practice. It changes a burdensome bother into a bountiful blessing. It changes a dreadful duty into a delightful demonstration of Christ living in your heart. And it changes a tiresome task into a tremendous triumph of mercy and love.
    Let me give you a quick illustration. Someone called me on a Sunday afternoon recently needing some help. It had been a very busy Sunday and I had just returned from a Funeral when this person called.
    The copier at their Church was broken and they needed a large number of bulletins printed for a conference they were hosting.. I had a choice. I could gripe and complain and hate helping these people, or I could go the "extra mile". I wanted to be a blessing as well as share a blessing so I offered to copy their bulletins on colored paper and even fold the bulletins for them. Their joy made the "extra mile" worth the extra effort. Try it today.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, May 25, 1999

    Unbeknown to my wife and I, a cat who roams the woods behind the parsonage decided to take up residence in our heating system during the winter. We found out about this cat when we were suddenly invaded by fleas and we began a prolonged battle to rid our house of these pesky critters.
    Recently I have had numerous people come to me seeking counsel about their marriage. Solving the flea problem and solving marital problems have a lot in common.
    When we found out we had fleas my wife and I could have screamed in disgust and decided to burn our house down in order to solve the problem. But that seemed a rather drastic step; besides, we didn’t think the church would approve of us burning their parsonage!
    Do you get the point? "Burning" your marriage will kill the flea problem you have but it will also destroy your home. And the marriage vows you gave were not just made to each other, they were vows to God. Be careful how you tear apart what God has joined together.
    Here is how we worked on our flea problem. We located the hole the cat was using to get under our house and we boarded it up. Remember that about marriage problems. Then we began applying poisons specifically designed to kill fleas. We didn’t try to kill everyone, or everything, in the house; we just wanted to deal with the flea problem (Get it?).
    Want to know something? A flea free house is much better to live in than one in which my wife is constantly complaining about being bitten. And dealing with the "flea" problem in your marriage using biblical principles and practices is much better than burning your home down.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, May 26, 1999

    See if you can relate to this story that someone recently emailed to me.
    Back in the days when you could still buy an ice cream cone for a nickel, there was a little boy who lived in a small town with his grandmother. Every Sunday the grandmother took the boy to church and afterwards they would go downtown for a special treat--an ice cream cone.
    One Sunday grandmother was not feeling well, and she told the boy that he would have to go to church by himself. Before he left she gave him two nickels--one for the offering plate and one for an ice cream after church.
    Now it happened that the boy needed to cross an old wooden bridge in order to get to church. As he was crossing the old bridge, he began jumping up and down, as boys will do, making the bridge shake and sway. His sharp ears picked up a small thunk, and he looked down just in time to see one of the nickels his grandmother had given him roll into a small crack on the bridge.
    The little boy fell down on all fours and put his eye to the crack. He watched helplessly as the nickel fell into the river below. Standing up and dusting off his knees, he said to no one in particular, "Oh well. There goes God's nickel."
    Does God own your "First fruit" nickel? Or your left overs?

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, June 1, 1999

FOUNDATION PRINCIPLES

    (Luke 6:47-48) Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will show you to whom he is like: {48} He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
    Rock solid foundations are very important. Society has abandoned many of the foundations principles that provided stability and security to our nation. Now we sit and grimly watch the tragic results on the nightly news. Here are four foundation principles for a good life; apply them and notice the difference in your life.
    1) Your relationship to God Through Christ is the most important aspect of life. Make all your plans accordingly. This principle applies now, and for eternity. Don’t let anyone, or anything, separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
    2) Character is more important than Cash- What you are is more important than what you have. Set your goals accordingly. (Character is what you are when no one see what you are.)
    3) To Lose FAITH is to Lose Life. Guard your heart accordingly. Loss of Faith kills your relationship to God, to others, and to loved ones. Remember, the most miserable man in the world is not the man who has no possessions or who has lots of troubles. The most miserable man in the world is one who loses faith in the transforming, Resurrecting power of God (1 Cor 15:19) If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
   4) Abundant Life is becoming what God has put into your Heart; not what others have put into your mind. Live your life accordingly. The only way to real peace and joy in life is finding where God wants you to be and then joining God at work there.
    Storms will come. Homes build on sand fall. Those built on the Rock will stand. What are you building on?

    In the aftermath of the recent tragic deaths at our public schools, one comment seemed to stand out like an island in the river of rhetoric that came pouring out of radio and TV. It expressed a sentiment that many people have wondered about for quite awhile.
    "If these kids were walking around that school in black trench coats, saying Heil Hitler, why didn't somebody pay attention? I guarantee you if little Cassie Bernall, the little girl who was asked 'do you believe in God' and she said yes and then was blown away, if she and her friends had been walking through that school carrying Bibles and saying 'Hail the Prince of Peace, King of Kings,' they would have been hauled into the principal's office." Bill Bennett on NBC's Meet the Press.
    Statements like this have has been a growing concern of many for years. Why has the law suddenly decided it is wrong to be right and right to be wrong? Why are the rights of those who spew hatred, destruction, and mayhem more important than the rights of those who seek to share love, kindness, and proper order?
    Something has happened in the past half century that has turned moral standards and common sense values upside down. At first many seemed to think it was "cool" to flaunt the wrong and rebuke the right. Now, this crazy world we live in, is learning the painful lesson that God’s "Woe" on turning right into wrong is more than just a saying- (Isa 5:20) Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
    Let me assure you that proclaiming darkness is light will not enable you to see. It will only cause you to stumble over furniture and bump into other people who are attempting to find their way in the dark. God is still light; and God is still right, regardless of what Society says.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, June 9, 1999

INTERESTING FACTS

    There are a lot of interesting "facts" for a person to learn. Here are a few that someone recently shared with me:
    **In Shakespeare's time, mattresses were secured on bed frames by ropes. When you pulled on the ropes the mattress tightened, making the bed firmer to sleep on. That's where the phrase, "goodnight, sleep tight" came from.
    **The sentence "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog." uses every letter in the alphabet. (developed by Western Union to test telex communications)
    **When opossums are playing 'possum, they are not "playing". They actually pass out from sheer terror.
    **The term "the whole 9 yards" came from W.W.II fighter pilots in the Pacific. When arming their airplanes on the ground, the .50 caliber machine gun ammo belts measured exactly 27 feet, before being loaded into the fuselage. If the pilots fired all their ammo at a target, it got "the whole 9 yards."
    **The phrase "rule of thumb" is derived from an old English law which stated that you couldn't beat your wife with anything wider than your thumb.
    Life is full of interesting things to know. But here is the most important information you will ever learn- (Rom 6:23) The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, June 15, 1999

    It had been a hot and sultry afternoon. The man came home from work and immediately began cutting his grass. As he cut he could see the storm clouds growing darker and more ominous on the horizon. Finally, the last part of the yard was cut and the mowers was parked just as the first huge drops of rain began to splatter on his driveway.
    Thankful to be through before the rain, the man went inside to shower and clean up. The cooling water felt so refreshing as it washed away the grim and sweat. Suddenly, he heard a sound that roared above the sound of the shower and this man watched in amazement as his home began to come apart right before his eyes.
    Later, as people began to emerge from their destroyed or damaged homes someone saw him standing in a nearby field. Several people rushed to his aid but it soon became evident that he was okay except for the fact that he was dazed, disoriented, and, except for some soap suds, completely nude! The tornado had literally jerked him out of his shower as it destroyed his home and then deposited him in a nearby field before continuing its reign of destruction.
    How embarrassing to be suddenly cast nude into a field surrounded by all your neighbors. I think this must be the way some people will feel on the day they face God. The scriptures declare that there is nothing hid that will not be revealed (Matt 10:26). Jesus said we would give account for every idle word we speak (Matt 12:36). And the Apostle Paul warned that there would come a day when the secrets of men would be judged by Christ (Rom 2:16).
    My advice to you. Live so an unexpected exposure will reveal only a life being cleansed by the Power of the Blood of Christ. After all, you never know when YOU might take a public shower!

Miracle Message for Wednesday, June 16, 1999

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, June 22, 1999

PANE PROTECTION

    Whenever possible, I like to go to a local fast food restaurant on Saturday morning. I can get sausage gravy and biscuit and a cup of coffee for about a dollar and a half; and, as early as I go, I get enough privacy to allow me to go over my Sunday School lesson and sermon notes one more time before I put them into their final form.
    One cold Saturday Morning I was deep in thought about my sermon when suddenly the world right beside me seemed to explode. One of the employees of this restaurant was washing the windows and he began his work by spraying water on the large pane right beside where I was sitting. I’m just glad my coffee cup was almost empty!
    After my heart finally started beating again, I looked at the water splashing against the pane only inches from where I sat and thought about how thankful I was that the cold water he was spraying was not getting to me. Just then it seemed the Lord spoke to me and told me He was my "pane protection" against many troubles in life.
    I thought about the hedge of protection that God said is around His children. I thought about how Jesus said time after time that no one could harm Him until the right time. And I thought about the innumerable times that God has diverted troubles or trials from me when it seemed they would wash right over me.
    Satan’s roar is sometimes very frightening. Troubles may seem so close until you think you could reach out and touch them. But if you are under God’s "pane protection" then you can smile at the cold water Satan sends your way as you relax with God in the warmth of His love.

Miracle Message for Wednesday, June 23, 1999

DO YOU THINK?

    Do you think your car is a "gas guzzler"? The cruise liner, Queen Elizabeth II, moves only six inches for each gallon of diesel that it burns! Remember to count your Blessings instead of complain about your troubles. There is always someone who needs your prayers more than they need to hear your problems.
    Do you think only the big difficulties are a hindrance? The world's termites outweigh the world's humans 10 to 1. Most people don’t stumble over mountains, they slip on stones. Remember, it is the "little foxes that spoil the vines" (Sol 2:15) so don’t ignore the little things that are eating away at the foundation of your life.
    Do you think your part in the work of God does not matter? McDonald Corporation paid someone to find out that there are an average of 178 sesame seeds on a McDonald's Big Mac bun! I have no idea why that is important but I do know that McDonald sells more hamburgers than anyone. Remember that the next time you are asked to be secretary of a primary Sunday School class.
    Do you think it will take a bomb or a major tragedy before you die? On average, 100 people choke to death on ball-point pens every year! Remember, it is appointed unto man once to die, and your date with death may be a lot closer than you think- Only one person in two billion will live to be 116 or older. Think about that!

Lessons for Living for Tuesday, June 29, 1999

MAKING YOUR LIFE MATTER

HELPFUL HABITS

    The Bible states that Jesus went to Church each week "as his custom was" (Luke 4:16). Jesus had a habit of going to Church.
    Webster defines a Habit as "A recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behavior that is acquired through frequent repetition; An established disposition of the mind or character, or a customary manner or practice." In plain English, a Habit is something you do so regularly until it becomes part of your life.
    Habits don’t start off as habits. They begin by doing something once. Then twice. Then it becomes a pattern. Finally, that pattern become a habit.
    Sometimes the habits you pick up are not good. They control or enslave you and cause you to do bad things, which causes you to feel bad; especially when the habit is repeated.
    Some habits, however, are a needful part of your life. A daily devotional time with the Lord that includes prayer and Bible Study is one of the most beneficial habits you can begin. And regular church attendance is a Habit that is so important until even Jesus allowed it into His life.
    Here are a few other helpful habits that you may want to acquire- Make it a habit to look for the good in people instead of trying to find fault. Make it a Habit to look for ways that you can be of service to others. And make it a habit to check every decision you make with God. That will keep you on the right road.