Today is the 96th birthday of world renowned evangelist Billy Graham. I would like to wish him a wonderful 96th and thank him for being a stalwart beacon of truth for over 70 years.
Graham has preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than any other person in history. Yet he never strayed from his roots in the mountains and foothills of North Carolina. His log home near Montreat and Black Mountain, NC, still serves as "home" for Mr. Graham. It is the same mountain log home that was built shortly after he and his wife Ruth were married. The home was to be a haven of rest for the evangelist in those brief periods when he was not traveling and preaching.
Today, Graham is a member of the First Baptist Church of Spartanburg, SC, which is located not far from the mountains of North Carolina. Two years ago, Graham's "Living Room Crusade" was billed as his last. The Graham organization blitzed the airwaves on radio, TV, and the Internet with the Gospel message as only Graham can deliver it.
Although his physical maladies have intensified due to his age, his mind is still sharp as can be. Who knows. Graham may well do another Living Room Crusade before he is forced to quit.
A very happy birthday and a hearty "thank you" to Billy Graham on this special day!
Friday, November 7, 2014
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Voices calling me...
Not all of the "voices" one hears within indicate psychosis. Only a doctor can determine such a thing by making a definitive diagnosis. Other "voices," however, can be quite legitimate, particularly when one is speaking symbolically. Often Christians will describe their spiritual experience of being led by God in symbolic terms, such as, "God told me to do thus and so..." or "God spoke to me..."
Naturally, even those "voices" need to be checked out by scripture. God speaks primarily through His word, the Bible. God is not going to tell someone to do anything that is contrary to His will and His Word. But if our experience is consistent with what the Bible teaches about God's guidance, then those "voices" within are not to be ignored.
A song came to mind the other day that loosely illustrates this concept. The composer of the song obviously was so deeply in tune with God and His will that he sensed things that many people just never quite get. So close was his walk with God, in fact, that he sensed his time on this earth would be drawing to a close in the near future.
I have thought about this song often since I first heard it in the mid 1970s. It is an old Florida Boys song, and if memory serves me it did not list the composer's name but was in the "public domain." It has the sound and feel of a haunting bluegrass melody, an old Gospel song in country style. On the Florida Boys recording, the only accompaniment they used were the bass guitar and one acoustic lead guitar. This made the words even more gripping and moving.
I don't necessarily think I am on my way to glory very soon, but I do find myself thinking about the voices of people I miss who are already there. Sometimes it seems I hear those voices clear as a bell, although it has been years, even decades since they walked on this earth. The fact that one day I will be with them in a place the Savior has prepared for us is not a sad thing. It is a glorious thing.
Here are the lyrics to the song, "Voices Calling Me."
I hear voices far off yonder calling me
Voice that I used to hear they seem to be
Then I look around and see there's no one so it must be
Voices yonder, up in glory, calling me.
Calling me, calling me, voices in that far off somewhere calling me
One of these days I'll off and fly, then I can answer here am I
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me.
Maybe friends who used to sing along with me
Who have now gone on and crossed that rolling sea
Friends from every land and sea
Joining in glad symphony
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me.
Calling me, calling me, voices in that far off somewhere calling me
One of these days I'll off and fly, then I can answer here am I
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me.
Soon I'll leave you here and join that singing band
Praising Jesus in that far off gloryland
Soon I'll spread my wings and fly
Bid my friends on earth good bye
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me.
Calling me, calling me, voices in that far off somewhere calling me
One of these days I'll off and fly, then I can answer here am I
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me....
(Special thanks to Les Beasley, Glen Allred, Buddy Liles, Derrell Stewart, and Jerry Trammell who blessed us with the vocals on this song).
Naturally, even those "voices" need to be checked out by scripture. God speaks primarily through His word, the Bible. God is not going to tell someone to do anything that is contrary to His will and His Word. But if our experience is consistent with what the Bible teaches about God's guidance, then those "voices" within are not to be ignored.
A song came to mind the other day that loosely illustrates this concept. The composer of the song obviously was so deeply in tune with God and His will that he sensed things that many people just never quite get. So close was his walk with God, in fact, that he sensed his time on this earth would be drawing to a close in the near future.
I have thought about this song often since I first heard it in the mid 1970s. It is an old Florida Boys song, and if memory serves me it did not list the composer's name but was in the "public domain." It has the sound and feel of a haunting bluegrass melody, an old Gospel song in country style. On the Florida Boys recording, the only accompaniment they used were the bass guitar and one acoustic lead guitar. This made the words even more gripping and moving.
I don't necessarily think I am on my way to glory very soon, but I do find myself thinking about the voices of people I miss who are already there. Sometimes it seems I hear those voices clear as a bell, although it has been years, even decades since they walked on this earth. The fact that one day I will be with them in a place the Savior has prepared for us is not a sad thing. It is a glorious thing.
Here are the lyrics to the song, "Voices Calling Me."
I hear voices far off yonder calling me
Voice that I used to hear they seem to be
Then I look around and see there's no one so it must be
Voices yonder, up in glory, calling me.
Calling me, calling me, voices in that far off somewhere calling me
One of these days I'll off and fly, then I can answer here am I
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me.
Maybe friends who used to sing along with me
Who have now gone on and crossed that rolling sea
Friends from every land and sea
Joining in glad symphony
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me.
Calling me, calling me, voices in that far off somewhere calling me
One of these days I'll off and fly, then I can answer here am I
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me.
Soon I'll leave you here and join that singing band
Praising Jesus in that far off gloryland
Soon I'll spread my wings and fly
Bid my friends on earth good bye
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me.
Calling me, calling me, voices in that far off somewhere calling me
One of these days I'll off and fly, then I can answer here am I
I hear voices, up in glory, calling me....
(Special thanks to Les Beasley, Glen Allred, Buddy Liles, Derrell Stewart, and Jerry Trammell who blessed us with the vocals on this song).
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Seven Things the Resurrection Proves about Christ
Good evening, my friends. The following is the outline to a recent Bible study I presented. The text is from the Gospel of John chapter 1, which you will find quoted below. After that you will find the outline. My title for the study was "Seven Things the Resurrection Proves about Jesus Christ."
You are welcome to use the outline for Bible studies, Sunday School lessons, or other programs that require you to teach the Bible. Be sure to give credit to the author in spoken or written reproductions of this outline. Other than that, there are no copyright restrictions at all. I hope you and those who hear you teach will be blessed.
John 1
King James Version (KJV)
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.
8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Seven Things the Resurrection Proves about Jesus Christ.
Christ was raised from the dead as the Bible teaches in the New Testament. In light of that fact, there are certain facts about Christ that are confirmed. Some of those facts, at least seven of them, are found here.
1. The Bible is the written word but Christ Himself is the living Word. He was with God in the beginning and participated with God in the creation of the world. As the 2nd person of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), Christ is co-equal with God the Father.
2. In Christ is the gift of life, eternal life, that begins now and extends beyond this life into the next. All who come to Him in repentance and faith are given this life.
3. Christ is the light that shines forth the word of hope into a world of darkness. The world is held hostage by darkness and spiritual death. The forces of evil, all embodied in Satan, hold sway over most of the world. But Christ shines light into that darkness wherever that Holy Name is uttered, preached, and taught. Like vermin flee when the light is turned on, evil and its darkness flee when the light of Christ is shined on it.
4. Many in their ignorance turn Christ away. Their eyes have been blinded by the forces of evil. Even Christ's own people, the Jews, turned him away, except for a few. The world as a whole continues to turn Him away to this very day. Evil and darkness hate the holiness, purity, and light that Christ brings. Thus, Satan doubles his efforts to blind the eyes and deafen the hearing of most of the people of the world. He knows that if they come into contact with that light and life, his domain of evil begins to shrink. Yet after 2000 years of this opposition, the Gospel of Christ still stands. Nothing has been able to stamp it out. This, in itself, is a miracle.
5. Christ is so powerful that anyone who comes to Him in faith, receiving His offer of life, hope, forgiveness, and love, will become sons of God, children of God, born into God's family where a different path is followed. Multimillions of changed lives through the centuries have proved the power of Christ to change lives no matter how hopeless they may seem.
6. Being "born of God" and not of man is often called in Christian circles, "the new birth." Jesus said, "You must be born again." This new birth is not a physical birth but a spiritual one. And only Christ can give it through the power of a loving God who wishes to redeem His imperfect creation.
7. This living, breathing, eternal Word (Christ, the Son of God, 2nd person of the Trinity) became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ and lived and taught among us. He was able to feel our pain, our hopelessness and despair, and the temptations we face, because He was a man. But because He was also God, the God-Man, He could show us the way to new life and hope. Further, He died for our sins, taking our punishment for us. And then He rose from the dead victorious over the grave. This way we as human beings could experience His glory, His grace and truth, up close and personal. He lived and moved among us, and we saw Him, experienced Him, and beheld His eternal glory.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
He is not here, for He's risen!
Happy Easter to all of you.
Our Lord does not remain in the grave, but He lives! He is alive. He lives forevermore. Death could not defeat Him!
Here is a treasure that captures perfectly the message of this most holy day. "Then Came the Morning" by the Cathedral Quartet, featuring the great Glen Payne.
Our Lord does not remain in the grave, but He lives! He is alive. He lives forevermore. Death could not defeat Him!
Here is a treasure that captures perfectly the message of this most holy day. "Then Came the Morning" by the Cathedral Quartet, featuring the great Glen Payne.
Friday, April 18, 2014
Good Friday, 2014
Today Christians all over the world mark the day Jesus Christ was crucified for the salvation of the world, to all that believe in Him.
Here is the story of the crucifixion from the pages of the Bible:
Luke 23: 33 - 47
33 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
35 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.
36 And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar,
37 And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.
38 And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, This Is The King Of The Jews.
39 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
41 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.
42 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.
43 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.
44 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.
45 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.
46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.
Here is the story of the crucifixion from the pages of the Bible:
Luke 23: 33 - 47
33 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
35 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.
36 And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar,
37 And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.
38 And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, This Is The King Of The Jews.
39 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
41 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.
42 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.
43 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.
44 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.
45 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.
46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Who Will Sing One Song For Me?
Oft I sing for my friends
When death's cold hand I see
But when I am called
Who'll sing one song for me?
I wonder who
Will sing for me
When I come to cross that silent sea
Who'll sing for me?
When friends have gathered round
And they look down on me
Will they turn and walk away
Or will they sing one song for me?
I wonder who
Will sing for me
When I come to cross that silent sea
Who'll sing for me?
(from an old Bluegrass gospel song by Flatt and Scruggs, written by Carter Stanley).
When death's cold hand I see
But when I am called
Who'll sing one song for me?
I wonder who
Will sing for me
When I come to cross that silent sea
Who'll sing for me?
When friends have gathered round
And they look down on me
Will they turn and walk away
Or will they sing one song for me?
I wonder who
Will sing for me
When I come to cross that silent sea
Who'll sing for me?
(from an old Bluegrass gospel song by Flatt and Scruggs, written by Carter Stanley).
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
A Little Faith
For your spiritual strengthening and hope...
The Florida Boys sing "A Little Faith."
More about this over at The Liberty Sphere.
The Florida Boys sing "A Little Faith."
More about this over at The Liberty Sphere.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
A moving personal testimony
Hello. Sorry it has been so long since I have posted here. No, I have not given up on it, the ministry still goes on, and I am still singing/teaching/preaching. The time element is the holdup, I suppose.
But I don't want this site to go belly up due to neglect. Perhaps I can find a way to tend to it more regularly.
Tonight I present a moving personal testimony which you can view at the end of this introduction.
J.D. Sumner was known around the world as the holder of the Guinness World Record as the lowest bass vocalist in the world. He lost that designation only when he became older. His claim to fame was his years with the Blackwood Brothers Quartet back in their heyday, his revival of the Stamps Quartet in the 1960s, which he continued until his death in the late 1990s, and his much noted friendship with Elvis Pressley.
Elvis had grown up in Memphis, the home base of the Blackwood Brothers. And Elvis loved Gospel quartet music. But being poor as he was back then, he didn't have the money for a ticket. J.D. once told Elvis, "If you will just meet me at the back door of the auditorium at such and such a time, I will let you in for free anytime you want to come to one of our singings. And if anybody gives you a hard time because you don't have a ticket, you tell them to go directly to J.D. Sumner about it. That should take care of it."
Elvis was but a little boy at the time. But he never forgot J.D.'s kindness. And when Elvis was a superstar, he made J.D.'s quartet, the Stamps, a permanent part of his shows. The Stamps would come out and sing three or four gospel songs, and then sing backup for Elvis.
J.D. was not always a devout Christian, and he would tell you so. He was a hard shelled, old style Pentecostal who believed that if you fell into sin you were no longer saved. During those times he would tell you honestly and upfront, "I am not saved. I am not living right. I sing Gospel music because I like it. Pray for me." And then later you may see him at another concert, and he would tell you he had been saved recently and was living for the Lord. This would go on, back and forth, for years. And during those periods when he was "not saved" J.D. was known to do all sorts of things he would later regret -- things that Gospel music fans would frown upon.
But several years before he died, J.D. had a very moving experience of spiritual renewal that I believe was the defining event of his life. I had never seen J.D. cry in public. But when he gave the following testimony during a Gather Homecoming Video event, the tears flowed freely. And, as always, there was the infamous (and humorous) J.D. honesty. He simply told it like it was.
I hope this video will be a blessing to you. Click here to view directly on YouTube.
But I don't want this site to go belly up due to neglect. Perhaps I can find a way to tend to it more regularly.
Tonight I present a moving personal testimony which you can view at the end of this introduction.
J.D. Sumner was known around the world as the holder of the Guinness World Record as the lowest bass vocalist in the world. He lost that designation only when he became older. His claim to fame was his years with the Blackwood Brothers Quartet back in their heyday, his revival of the Stamps Quartet in the 1960s, which he continued until his death in the late 1990s, and his much noted friendship with Elvis Pressley.
Elvis had grown up in Memphis, the home base of the Blackwood Brothers. And Elvis loved Gospel quartet music. But being poor as he was back then, he didn't have the money for a ticket. J.D. once told Elvis, "If you will just meet me at the back door of the auditorium at such and such a time, I will let you in for free anytime you want to come to one of our singings. And if anybody gives you a hard time because you don't have a ticket, you tell them to go directly to J.D. Sumner about it. That should take care of it."
Elvis was but a little boy at the time. But he never forgot J.D.'s kindness. And when Elvis was a superstar, he made J.D.'s quartet, the Stamps, a permanent part of his shows. The Stamps would come out and sing three or four gospel songs, and then sing backup for Elvis.
J.D. was not always a devout Christian, and he would tell you so. He was a hard shelled, old style Pentecostal who believed that if you fell into sin you were no longer saved. During those times he would tell you honestly and upfront, "I am not saved. I am not living right. I sing Gospel music because I like it. Pray for me." And then later you may see him at another concert, and he would tell you he had been saved recently and was living for the Lord. This would go on, back and forth, for years. And during those periods when he was "not saved" J.D. was known to do all sorts of things he would later regret -- things that Gospel music fans would frown upon.
But several years before he died, J.D. had a very moving experience of spiritual renewal that I believe was the defining event of his life. I had never seen J.D. cry in public. But when he gave the following testimony during a Gather Homecoming Video event, the tears flowed freely. And, as always, there was the infamous (and humorous) J.D. honesty. He simply told it like it was.
I hope this video will be a blessing to you. Click here to view directly on YouTube.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
The Christmas Story
Quoted directly from the Holy Bible, King James Version:
From Luke 2: 1-20.
3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
From Luke 2: 1-20.
1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
Merry Christmas!
May you have a meaningful and blessed Christmas.
Here is a treat for you. The incomparable Cathedral Quartet singing a cappella "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" from 1985.
Here is a treat for you. The incomparable Cathedral Quartet singing a cappella "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" from 1985.
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Christmastime is here...
Well, my brothers and sisters, Christmastime is upon us once again.
Some people dread Christmas. Perhaps it is because the expectations are high. We are "supposed" to be happy. We are supposed to act merrily. We are pressured to spend money we don't have to give people things they may not want or need.
And then others love Christmas for its fanfare. They like the hustle and bustle. They love to bask in the lights and decorations. Nothing wrong with that. But it may not suit everyone's personality.
I have to admit I took myself out of all of this years ago. I got tired of it. I dreaded the superficiality of it all, the blatant commercialism, the pressure to "put on a happy face."
Don't get me wrong. I like a certain amount of decorations if they are for the purpose of getting at the real meaning of Christmas. My church is one of the most beautiful places at this time of year. Nothing too fancy, but absolutely beautiful. The adornments seem to encourage one to look beyond this world to the spiritual realm, the realm not seen with human eye, to see the hand of God, the love of God, and He reaches down to fallen humanity, and gives us the perfect gift of His only Son.
Take some time this Christmas to focus on Christ. Contemplate Him. Meditate upon Him. And be blessed. That way, none of this world's mixed up values will drag you down during this season of the year.
Merry Christmas one and all...
Some people dread Christmas. Perhaps it is because the expectations are high. We are "supposed" to be happy. We are supposed to act merrily. We are pressured to spend money we don't have to give people things they may not want or need.
And then others love Christmas for its fanfare. They like the hustle and bustle. They love to bask in the lights and decorations. Nothing wrong with that. But it may not suit everyone's personality.
I have to admit I took myself out of all of this years ago. I got tired of it. I dreaded the superficiality of it all, the blatant commercialism, the pressure to "put on a happy face."
Don't get me wrong. I like a certain amount of decorations if they are for the purpose of getting at the real meaning of Christmas. My church is one of the most beautiful places at this time of year. Nothing too fancy, but absolutely beautiful. The adornments seem to encourage one to look beyond this world to the spiritual realm, the realm not seen with human eye, to see the hand of God, the love of God, and He reaches down to fallen humanity, and gives us the perfect gift of His only Son.
Take some time this Christmas to focus on Christ. Contemplate Him. Meditate upon Him. And be blessed. That way, none of this world's mixed up values will drag you down during this season of the year.
Merry Christmas one and all...
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Happy Thanksgiving
We gather together to ask the Lord's blessing,
He chastens and hastens His will to make known,
The wicked oppressing, now cease them from distressing,
Sing praises to His name, He forgets not His own.
We all do extol Thee, our Leader in battle,
And pray that Thou still our Defender will be,
Let Thy congregation escape tribulation.
Thy name be ever praised, O Lord make us free.
--from an old traditional Thanksgiving hymn
Read more about Thanksgiving, 2013 here.
God bless each and every one of you.
He chastens and hastens His will to make known,
The wicked oppressing, now cease them from distressing,
Sing praises to His name, He forgets not His own.
We all do extol Thee, our Leader in battle,
And pray that Thou still our Defender will be,
Let Thy congregation escape tribulation.
Thy name be ever praised, O Lord make us free.
--from an old traditional Thanksgiving hymn
Read more about Thanksgiving, 2013 here.
God bless each and every one of you.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Billy Graham speaks to the nation in historic event beginning tomorrow
Beginning tomorrow, Nov. 7, 2013 and continuing throughout the weekend evangelist Billy Graham, who turned 95 years old this month, will speak to the nation in what was being billed earlier in the year as "the living room crusade."
As time progressed, however, the name changed to "My Hope, America."
Dr. Graham has stated that this will in all likelihood be his final crusade as age and several ailments have ended his ability to travel or even speak for long periods of time. Thus, he states that "with all my heart I want to leave you with the truth."
To that end, Graham has subtitled his message as "The Cross."
Graham believes that through the Cross of Jesus Christ, God is reaching down to man with love and forgiveness to anyone who repents and receives Christ as Savior and Lord.
According to The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, special events revolving around "My Hope, America" have already been underway across the nation and around the world. These events will culminate and climax with the special broadcast featuring Dr. Graham beginning tomorrow.
Check your local listings for the channels and times the special broadcast will be shown.
Fox News will carry the event nationally. BlazeTV and TBN will also carry the event, as well as many others. This page will give you a partial listing of the networks carrying the event nationally.
Throughout his long ministry, Billy Graham has preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than any other person in history. He has personally shared the Gospel with presidents, prime ministers, kings, queens, and heads of state, including Winston Churchill, Dwight D. Eisenhower, LBJ, and Richard Nixon, along with Communist Party officials in China and the old USSR.
For tomorrow's broadcast Dr. Graham has called upon Christians everywhere to invite their friends, neighbors, and family members to gather with them to watch.
Not only will the broadcast feature a special message by Graham, along with popular Christian music artists, but rare footage from Graham's long career will be presented as well.
When Graham went to Madison Square Garden in New York City to hold a crusade as a young man, what was designed to be a two week event turned into 10 weeks as crowds swelled each evening to a point that exceeded the capacity of the arena to accommodate them. Graham agreed to continue preaching each night as long as the crowds kept showing up.
A similar thing happened in Los Angeles and in London, England.
Many Christians have stated in recent days that the thing that makes this "living room crusade" so special is that it may well be the last time Americans will get to see this living legend in public. Multimillions of Christians the world over describe Graham as the man who led them to Christ. Many people had never been in a church or heard the Gospel until they saw Graham on TV.
Our hope and prayer is that one last time during Graham's life multithousands if not multimillions will come to know Christ as their Savior and Lord through Graham's faithful proclamation of the Word of God.
But of course, an even better outcome would be that God spares him to preach yet again in the future. God works in mysterious ways.
As time progressed, however, the name changed to "My Hope, America."
Dr. Graham has stated that this will in all likelihood be his final crusade as age and several ailments have ended his ability to travel or even speak for long periods of time. Thus, he states that "with all my heart I want to leave you with the truth."
To that end, Graham has subtitled his message as "The Cross."
Graham believes that through the Cross of Jesus Christ, God is reaching down to man with love and forgiveness to anyone who repents and receives Christ as Savior and Lord.
According to The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, special events revolving around "My Hope, America" have already been underway across the nation and around the world. These events will culminate and climax with the special broadcast featuring Dr. Graham beginning tomorrow.
Check your local listings for the channels and times the special broadcast will be shown.
Fox News will carry the event nationally. BlazeTV and TBN will also carry the event, as well as many others. This page will give you a partial listing of the networks carrying the event nationally.
Throughout his long ministry, Billy Graham has preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than any other person in history. He has personally shared the Gospel with presidents, prime ministers, kings, queens, and heads of state, including Winston Churchill, Dwight D. Eisenhower, LBJ, and Richard Nixon, along with Communist Party officials in China and the old USSR.
For tomorrow's broadcast Dr. Graham has called upon Christians everywhere to invite their friends, neighbors, and family members to gather with them to watch.
Not only will the broadcast feature a special message by Graham, along with popular Christian music artists, but rare footage from Graham's long career will be presented as well.
When Graham went to Madison Square Garden in New York City to hold a crusade as a young man, what was designed to be a two week event turned into 10 weeks as crowds swelled each evening to a point that exceeded the capacity of the arena to accommodate them. Graham agreed to continue preaching each night as long as the crowds kept showing up.
A similar thing happened in Los Angeles and in London, England.
Many Christians have stated in recent days that the thing that makes this "living room crusade" so special is that it may well be the last time Americans will get to see this living legend in public. Multimillions of Christians the world over describe Graham as the man who led them to Christ. Many people had never been in a church or heard the Gospel until they saw Graham on TV.
Our hope and prayer is that one last time during Graham's life multithousands if not multimillions will come to know Christ as their Savior and Lord through Graham's faithful proclamation of the Word of God.
But of course, an even better outcome would be that God spares him to preach yet again in the future. God works in mysterious ways.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Take the name...
Take the name of Jesus with you
Child of sorrow and of woe.
It will joy and comfort give you.
Take it, then, wherever you go.
Precious Name, O how sweet.
Hope of earth and joy of heaven!
Precious Name, O how sweet.
Hope of earth and joy of heaven!
At the name of Jesus bowing
As a shield from every snare.
When temptations 'round you gather
Breath that Holy Name in prayer.
Precious Name, O how sweet.
Hope of earth and joy of heaven!
Precious Name, O how sweet.
Hope of earth and joy of heaven!
--from an old traditional Baptist hymnal
Child of sorrow and of woe.
It will joy and comfort give you.
Take it, then, wherever you go.
Precious Name, O how sweet.
Hope of earth and joy of heaven!
Precious Name, O how sweet.
Hope of earth and joy of heaven!
At the name of Jesus bowing
As a shield from every snare.
When temptations 'round you gather
Breath that Holy Name in prayer.
Precious Name, O how sweet.
Hope of earth and joy of heaven!
Precious Name, O how sweet.
Hope of earth and joy of heaven!
--from an old traditional Baptist hymnal
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
A busy month
Just a heads up on the flurry of activity here.
Beginning the last Sunday of September and continuing with the month of October, I have been super busy doing musical programs for churches and leading Bible studies.
As you know I have a part time ministry on the side. I sing, and thus, I do concerts for churches free of charge and on a love offering basis. I have never turned down a church due to their inability to pay. My last concert was very gratifying. The people were super-gracious and a joy to sing for. I love doing these things to the degree that I would do it full time if had the opportunity.
I also do Bible studies and fill in for ministers on Sundays and Wednesdays from time to time. That, too, is always gratifying.
When I get busy like this, I am unable to do what I normally do on this site. I am sorry about that.
In addition, discouragement sets in when it comes to politics. I am as troubled by what I see happening to our country as I have ever been. When Obama got reelected in November, I remember writing that I did not see how the nation could survive another four years. My view about that is that now we are in even worse shape...just within a few short months. I don't think we will make it four years if things do not change drastically.
So, I do my best to write and sound the alarm. But frankly, not many listen. When I see people turn a deaf ear to the truth, I get so distressed that I literally get sick. During those times I have to take a day or so to regroup.
Thanks for understanding, and thanks for your prayers during this time.
(Cross-posted at The Liberty Sphere).
Beginning the last Sunday of September and continuing with the month of October, I have been super busy doing musical programs for churches and leading Bible studies.
As you know I have a part time ministry on the side. I sing, and thus, I do concerts for churches free of charge and on a love offering basis. I have never turned down a church due to their inability to pay. My last concert was very gratifying. The people were super-gracious and a joy to sing for. I love doing these things to the degree that I would do it full time if had the opportunity.
I also do Bible studies and fill in for ministers on Sundays and Wednesdays from time to time. That, too, is always gratifying.
When I get busy like this, I am unable to do what I normally do on this site. I am sorry about that.
In addition, discouragement sets in when it comes to politics. I am as troubled by what I see happening to our country as I have ever been. When Obama got reelected in November, I remember writing that I did not see how the nation could survive another four years. My view about that is that now we are in even worse shape...just within a few short months. I don't think we will make it four years if things do not change drastically.
So, I do my best to write and sound the alarm. But frankly, not many listen. When I see people turn a deaf ear to the truth, I get so distressed that I literally get sick. During those times I have to take a day or so to regroup.
Thanks for understanding, and thanks for your prayers during this time.
(Cross-posted at The Liberty Sphere).
Monday, September 9, 2013
Train Up a Child
"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6).
These words from the Bible tell us of the awesome responsibility of a parent. It is a responsibility that, if taken seriously, will culminate in a vastly improved society filled with mature adults who wish to do what's right, avoid what's wrong, and lead productive lives.
But if that responsibility goes unheeded, the consequences are disastrous.
I see those very consequences at work today in America. Many if not most youth are disrespectful to their parents, grandparents, older persons, teachers, ministers, and others. No thought is given to whether something is right or wrong. Cheating in schools and in universities is raging out of control, and even the teachers and professors often secretly encourage it so that they will "look better."
Where is the breakdown? Where is the point at which there is a massive disconnect that leads to these loathsome circumstances?
Blame is easy to throw around. When a child gets old enough to know right from wrong, they have free choices to make, and they often choose wrongly. The freedom to choose is a personal responsibility, and many youths today simply decide to do the wrong thing. Further, public schools are a cesspool of anti-Christian sentiment, drugs, lack of discipline, and a failure to inculcate within each student the ability to think for themselves and an insatiable thirst to learn. This breakdown is the responsibility of teachers, administrators, school boards, and parents.
And then at church very little of the demands of Christianity are taught and preached. What we hear are nice little object lessons that never drive home the fact Jesus made some very specific and difficult demands of His followers in the realm of morality, ethics, philosophy, conduct, mindset, and the like. These are being ignored in order to avoid "turning modern people off to the Gospel." But in doing so the churches have made sure that no Gospel is presented in lessons and sermons.
But the ultimate blame goes to the parents. I see many parents failing at every juncture to teach their children in the ways of the Lord. How many homes in America today have a daily Bible study and prayer time for the whole family? At one time this was a routine staple of Christian life. Most of the time these days not only do parents fail to demand that their children sit down with them for a meal, together, but they also fail to demand that their children sit down and hear the Word read and taught. Prayer is also conspicuously absent in the home.
If we are not going to give our children and grandchildren this basic elementary opportunity for Christian learning, then it is no wonder we see the entire society going to the toilet.
We can do better.
This verse from Proverbs above says that if we train our children in the ways of the Lord, when they are older and mature they will not depart from it. Now, often they will stray and test out the waters of sinful living and experiment with the ways of the world. But if there is a solid foundation that has already been laid within their hearts in a Christian home where the Gospel has been taught each day, they will eventually be drawn back to the faith...in time.
These words from the Bible tell us of the awesome responsibility of a parent. It is a responsibility that, if taken seriously, will culminate in a vastly improved society filled with mature adults who wish to do what's right, avoid what's wrong, and lead productive lives.
But if that responsibility goes unheeded, the consequences are disastrous.
I see those very consequences at work today in America. Many if not most youth are disrespectful to their parents, grandparents, older persons, teachers, ministers, and others. No thought is given to whether something is right or wrong. Cheating in schools and in universities is raging out of control, and even the teachers and professors often secretly encourage it so that they will "look better."
Where is the breakdown? Where is the point at which there is a massive disconnect that leads to these loathsome circumstances?
Blame is easy to throw around. When a child gets old enough to know right from wrong, they have free choices to make, and they often choose wrongly. The freedom to choose is a personal responsibility, and many youths today simply decide to do the wrong thing. Further, public schools are a cesspool of anti-Christian sentiment, drugs, lack of discipline, and a failure to inculcate within each student the ability to think for themselves and an insatiable thirst to learn. This breakdown is the responsibility of teachers, administrators, school boards, and parents.
And then at church very little of the demands of Christianity are taught and preached. What we hear are nice little object lessons that never drive home the fact Jesus made some very specific and difficult demands of His followers in the realm of morality, ethics, philosophy, conduct, mindset, and the like. These are being ignored in order to avoid "turning modern people off to the Gospel." But in doing so the churches have made sure that no Gospel is presented in lessons and sermons.
But the ultimate blame goes to the parents. I see many parents failing at every juncture to teach their children in the ways of the Lord. How many homes in America today have a daily Bible study and prayer time for the whole family? At one time this was a routine staple of Christian life. Most of the time these days not only do parents fail to demand that their children sit down with them for a meal, together, but they also fail to demand that their children sit down and hear the Word read and taught. Prayer is also conspicuously absent in the home.
If we are not going to give our children and grandchildren this basic elementary opportunity for Christian learning, then it is no wonder we see the entire society going to the toilet.
We can do better.
This verse from Proverbs above says that if we train our children in the ways of the Lord, when they are older and mature they will not depart from it. Now, often they will stray and test out the waters of sinful living and experiment with the ways of the world. But if there is a solid foundation that has already been laid within their hearts in a Christian home where the Gospel has been taught each day, they will eventually be drawn back to the faith...in time.
Saturday, August 10, 2013
A Story of Great Hope
Hello, my friends. Just a word of encouragement to you for your spiritual growth.
I discovered the video below while browsing YouTube, and it brought back many wonderful memories and a story I just had to share. I will make it brief.
When I was growing up George Younce sang bass for a well-known quartet that traveled out of my hometown. That is where I first encountered him. I remember seeing him on TV and at the Gospel concerts that his group held four or five times per year in that town.
Then, suddenly, one day he was gone. Poof. Vanished. Out of sight.
I did not know what had happened to him. The group for which he sang never said a word about it. They had a new bass singer on board as soon as George left.
In just a few short years, however, I heard a Gospel song on the radio, and immediately I recognized that bass voice. It was George! But the group sounded entirely different than the one where I got to know him. In fact, this group was different, so different in fact that I remember thinking at the time, even at my young age, that this would one day be THE group in Gospel music, the standard by which all others were judged.
Two of the main reasons for my prediction were, of course, that unmistakable bass voice of George Younce, and the other was a crisp, clear, strong lead voice of someone I did not know and had never heard before. I learned later that this lead singer's name was Glenn Payne. The group, of course, was the Cathedral Quartet.
Shortly the Cathedrals came to my hometown for a program, and George gave his testimony. He said that while he was with the other group he had strayed away terribly from the Lord and turned to alcohol. He said often he sang on stage half drunk. He said that at night on the bus, he kept an open container of whiskey by his bunk in case he got the shakes in the middle of the night.
But then Glenn Payne called from Ohio and said that the Cathedral Trio needed a bass. George said he told Glenn that he was "a mess" and not a very good spokesman for the Lord at the time. Glenn said it did not matter, to come on up to Ohio and he would help him get cleaned up. And he did. Then, Glenn and George made an agreement that as they embarked on this new venture together, they would do it "the right way," the Lord's way, and whatever success they may achieve they would owe it all to Him and would give Him all the glory and honor.
George re-found the Lord and his life totally changed. At that point George began writing Gospel songs. He didn't write that many, but let me tell you when he did, they were fantastic, moving, gripping.
One of those songs George wrote is featured below. It is a song about George's testimony, a miniature story of his life. It is titled, "I've Been Wrong." And it is about a man's conversation with the Lord when he comes to Him for forgiveness. The opening line is, "Lord, you know I've been wrong my whole life long..."
But then he describes the great hope that is available through our faith in Christ. I know this song is true. I saw it in George. The final chorus of the song proclaims that great hope, "Lord, I know, I know you care, you answer prayer, hear my plea, Lord save me."
Shortly after George wrote this song the Cathedrals sang it on the old Gospel Singing Jubilee that used to come on TV every Sunday morning across America. This is one of the earlier versions of the Cathedrals with Glenn and George, and Mack Taunton on tenor, and George Amon Webster on baritone and piano. I think it is a treasure. Hope you enjoy it.
I discovered the video below while browsing YouTube, and it brought back many wonderful memories and a story I just had to share. I will make it brief.
When I was growing up George Younce sang bass for a well-known quartet that traveled out of my hometown. That is where I first encountered him. I remember seeing him on TV and at the Gospel concerts that his group held four or five times per year in that town.
Then, suddenly, one day he was gone. Poof. Vanished. Out of sight.
I did not know what had happened to him. The group for which he sang never said a word about it. They had a new bass singer on board as soon as George left.
In just a few short years, however, I heard a Gospel song on the radio, and immediately I recognized that bass voice. It was George! But the group sounded entirely different than the one where I got to know him. In fact, this group was different, so different in fact that I remember thinking at the time, even at my young age, that this would one day be THE group in Gospel music, the standard by which all others were judged.
Two of the main reasons for my prediction were, of course, that unmistakable bass voice of George Younce, and the other was a crisp, clear, strong lead voice of someone I did not know and had never heard before. I learned later that this lead singer's name was Glenn Payne. The group, of course, was the Cathedral Quartet.
Shortly the Cathedrals came to my hometown for a program, and George gave his testimony. He said that while he was with the other group he had strayed away terribly from the Lord and turned to alcohol. He said often he sang on stage half drunk. He said that at night on the bus, he kept an open container of whiskey by his bunk in case he got the shakes in the middle of the night.
But then Glenn Payne called from Ohio and said that the Cathedral Trio needed a bass. George said he told Glenn that he was "a mess" and not a very good spokesman for the Lord at the time. Glenn said it did not matter, to come on up to Ohio and he would help him get cleaned up. And he did. Then, Glenn and George made an agreement that as they embarked on this new venture together, they would do it "the right way," the Lord's way, and whatever success they may achieve they would owe it all to Him and would give Him all the glory and honor.
George re-found the Lord and his life totally changed. At that point George began writing Gospel songs. He didn't write that many, but let me tell you when he did, they were fantastic, moving, gripping.
One of those songs George wrote is featured below. It is a song about George's testimony, a miniature story of his life. It is titled, "I've Been Wrong." And it is about a man's conversation with the Lord when he comes to Him for forgiveness. The opening line is, "Lord, you know I've been wrong my whole life long..."
But then he describes the great hope that is available through our faith in Christ. I know this song is true. I saw it in George. The final chorus of the song proclaims that great hope, "Lord, I know, I know you care, you answer prayer, hear my plea, Lord save me."
Shortly after George wrote this song the Cathedrals sang it on the old Gospel Singing Jubilee that used to come on TV every Sunday morning across America. This is one of the earlier versions of the Cathedrals with Glenn and George, and Mack Taunton on tenor, and George Amon Webster on baritone and piano. I think it is a treasure. Hope you enjoy it.
Monday, June 24, 2013
If you ever look for me...
A brief devotional thought for today....
I have been in a deep contemplative mood as of late, and I have reached the point in life where eternal matters are of vast significance and claim an ever increasing amount of my free time.
Death does not scare me like it used to. I cling to "the Christian hope" that this world is but a shadow and that the real life is coming hereafter. Christ, thus, is becoming more real to me than I ever imagined, and in that place, where faith becomes sight, I shall see Him and be with Him eternally.
A line or two from a song will suffice:
If you ever look for me and don't find me here,
I'll be in heaven and I hope that I'll meet you there.
Then I thought about Mama and the songs that she used to sing.
She sang about Amazing Grace and the joy it can bring.
...words and music by Kevin Spencer.
I have been in a deep contemplative mood as of late, and I have reached the point in life where eternal matters are of vast significance and claim an ever increasing amount of my free time.
Death does not scare me like it used to. I cling to "the Christian hope" that this world is but a shadow and that the real life is coming hereafter. Christ, thus, is becoming more real to me than I ever imagined, and in that place, where faith becomes sight, I shall see Him and be with Him eternally.
A line or two from a song will suffice:
If you ever look for me and don't find me here,
I'll be in heaven and I hope that I'll meet you there.
Then I thought about Mama and the songs that she used to sing.
She sang about Amazing Grace and the joy it can bring.
...words and music by Kevin Spencer.
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Billy Graham to launch major national event this Fall
Famed evangelist Billy Graham, who turns 95 years old this year, will launch a major national event this Fall, an evangelistic campaign that he bills "The Living Room Crusade."
While Graham is no longer able physically to conduct his famous crusades around the world, he will use technological advances via video, the Internet, and other platforms, to launch a focused blitz to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who may have never heard it.
Graham will speak to America and to the world right from his living room in Montreat, N.C. He states that this may well be his very last public crusade. Advancing age and Parkinson's Disease has greatly hampered the famed evangelist in his efforts over the past 15 years. But Graham states that the spiritual decay and deterioration of America in recent years has been particularly troublesome to him. He hopes that this last crusade will do something to turn the tide and act as a major first step toward bringing America back to its spiritual roots.
Although Graham's message from his living room will be a central feature of the living room crusade, the event will also feature archived clips from Graham's ministry, including historical footage from previous crusades around the world.
In addition, Graham will be interviewed by his Pastor as part of the living room crusade.
Graham now belongs to the First Baptist Church of Spartanburg, S.C., located in the foothills of South Carolina an hour away from his home in the mountains. Until he became ill and stopped traveling, Graham had been a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas, which at the time was the largest Southern Baptist Church in America, with over 20,000 members, and was pastored by famed Baptist preacher W.A. Criswell.
So far, over 12,000 churches of all denominations have signed up to participate in the living room crusade. Graham perfected the practice of enlisting local churches in his evangelistic crusades through the years, believing that not only can the churches effectively get people out to the meetings but follow up on those who come forward and sign commitment cards at the end of each meeting. This way each person who made a profession of faith in Christ at a crusade meeting would be referred to a local church for follow-up and discipleship.
No specific date has been set for the event this Fall. But as the time draws closer, the information will be released by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
While Graham is no longer able physically to conduct his famous crusades around the world, he will use technological advances via video, the Internet, and other platforms, to launch a focused blitz to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who may have never heard it.
Graham will speak to America and to the world right from his living room in Montreat, N.C. He states that this may well be his very last public crusade. Advancing age and Parkinson's Disease has greatly hampered the famed evangelist in his efforts over the past 15 years. But Graham states that the spiritual decay and deterioration of America in recent years has been particularly troublesome to him. He hopes that this last crusade will do something to turn the tide and act as a major first step toward bringing America back to its spiritual roots.
Although Graham's message from his living room will be a central feature of the living room crusade, the event will also feature archived clips from Graham's ministry, including historical footage from previous crusades around the world.
In addition, Graham will be interviewed by his Pastor as part of the living room crusade.
Graham now belongs to the First Baptist Church of Spartanburg, S.C., located in the foothills of South Carolina an hour away from his home in the mountains. Until he became ill and stopped traveling, Graham had been a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas, which at the time was the largest Southern Baptist Church in America, with over 20,000 members, and was pastored by famed Baptist preacher W.A. Criswell.
So far, over 12,000 churches of all denominations have signed up to participate in the living room crusade. Graham perfected the practice of enlisting local churches in his evangelistic crusades through the years, believing that not only can the churches effectively get people out to the meetings but follow up on those who come forward and sign commitment cards at the end of each meeting. This way each person who made a profession of faith in Christ at a crusade meeting would be referred to a local church for follow-up and discipleship.
No specific date has been set for the event this Fall. But as the time draws closer, the information will be released by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Hello there!
I'm still here, just been overwhelmed of late with things I am into. I have too many irons in the fire perhaps, but I have to do what I have to do.
And that brings me to today's devotional thought.
I get very very tired and weary. Worn out, perhaps, is the best term for it. I know most of you can relate.
At times the fatigue is so overwhelming that I am tempted to give up. But I cannot. I know myself too well. As long as I have life, breath, my mental faculties, and the ability, I have to speak out about the things I care about. And that means I will always be involved in the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ through song, teaching, and preaching. I will always be involved in the political arena because I believe it is a fight for the good and the right against evil. And I will always be involved in music ministry through the local church as long as I have the ability. I love directing music.
None of these endeavors bring in a lot of money. If I did these things for money, I would have quit long, long ago. There is simply no money to speak of in these things, at least not for me. But I have learned that submission to God's will is the ultimate thing a person should strive for. If it is His will for me to serve Him in poverty, then so be it. But I will never be silent.
And this brings me to today's scripture verse, "And let us not grow weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Galatians 6: 8-10).
And so my friend, keep holding on. Keep on keeping on. There are people who sorely need our message. There are people who need the "touch of the Master's hand." And there is a Heaven to gain, one day.
I have a couple of videos for you today. These have been posted in recent days, but the songs are from several years ago, not that long though, and I happen to think they are fantastic.
The first is from the Florida Boys in a live performance in Charlotte, N.C. It features the man who is perhaps the finest young bass singer in Gospel Music today -- Gene McDonald. Not only is he plenty low, but he can take a lead and sing it like a lead singer. He has that mellow quality to his voice that is most pleasing. And I happen to know that Gene is a fine Christian, having spent time with him and the boys on many occasions.
This one is called, "I Can, I Have, I Will." It is a real treat.
The next selection is also from the same program in Charlotte. Here the Florida Boys sing one of my favorites called "Sing Me a Song About Jesus." It features the finest quartet baritone who ever lived, Glen Allred. Enjoy...
And that brings me to today's devotional thought.
I get very very tired and weary. Worn out, perhaps, is the best term for it. I know most of you can relate.
At times the fatigue is so overwhelming that I am tempted to give up. But I cannot. I know myself too well. As long as I have life, breath, my mental faculties, and the ability, I have to speak out about the things I care about. And that means I will always be involved in the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ through song, teaching, and preaching. I will always be involved in the political arena because I believe it is a fight for the good and the right against evil. And I will always be involved in music ministry through the local church as long as I have the ability. I love directing music.
None of these endeavors bring in a lot of money. If I did these things for money, I would have quit long, long ago. There is simply no money to speak of in these things, at least not for me. But I have learned that submission to God's will is the ultimate thing a person should strive for. If it is His will for me to serve Him in poverty, then so be it. But I will never be silent.
And this brings me to today's scripture verse, "And let us not grow weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Galatians 6: 8-10).
And so my friend, keep holding on. Keep on keeping on. There are people who sorely need our message. There are people who need the "touch of the Master's hand." And there is a Heaven to gain, one day.
I have a couple of videos for you today. These have been posted in recent days, but the songs are from several years ago, not that long though, and I happen to think they are fantastic.
The first is from the Florida Boys in a live performance in Charlotte, N.C. It features the man who is perhaps the finest young bass singer in Gospel Music today -- Gene McDonald. Not only is he plenty low, but he can take a lead and sing it like a lead singer. He has that mellow quality to his voice that is most pleasing. And I happen to know that Gene is a fine Christian, having spent time with him and the boys on many occasions.
This one is called, "I Can, I Have, I Will." It is a real treat.
The next selection is also from the same program in Charlotte. Here the Florida Boys sing one of my favorites called "Sing Me a Song About Jesus." It features the finest quartet baritone who ever lived, Glen Allred. Enjoy...
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