There are Many Deceived Church Goers - Paul Washer

Does this describe you?

You go to church, and/or you prayed a prayer at some
point in your life.  Maybe you were even baptized.
You believe you are "saved" now.

But, are you?

There are a lot of people in the church who don't understand
what the Biblical Gospel is.

There are also people who have heard the Biblical Gospel,
but they haven't truly repented and put their trust in Christ.

If you still live the same way you did before,
but you've just added church to it...
then that's a sign you do not have saving faith.

On the other hand, you may do lots of good works.

You may be doing this to please someone,
or think that your works are somehow meritorious to your
salvation.

This is also a sign that you do not have faith.

You think that you must earn your way somehow.

Does this make you wonder whether you are one of the
unsaved in the church?

Please check out the following link: http://www.needGod.com

For by grace you have been saved through faith;
and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus
for good works, which God prepared beforehand
so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 NASB

You believe that God is one. You do well;
the demons also believe, and shudder. 
But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow,
that faith without works is useless?
James 2:19-20 NASB

The one who says, “I have come to know Him,”
and does not keep His commandments, is a liar,
and the truth is not in him;
but whoever keeps His word,
in him the love of God has truly been perfected.
By this we know that we are in Him:
the one who says he abides in Him ought himself
to walk in the same manner as He walked.
1 John 2:4-6 NASB

Dating, Courtship, and Marriage - Paul Washer (Excerpt) / Romanian subti...

This post can be for both single and married people.
Love is a commitment and giving. It's easy for many of us to be selfish in looking for someone to love us and sacrifice for us. Now, some of us have disabilities that would limit what service we could do for another person, but I think giving could mean being supportive and encouraging and trying to put someone else ahead of self. That doesn't sound easy!
For myself as a single person, I need to take note of these verses:

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4 NASB

I know I have a long ways to go!



To watch the full video which is also good for married and single people, you can click the link below.
It's not what you think. I was hesitant to listen to it, because I'm an older single woman. It's often painful to listen to messages about courtship for me. This doesn't really get into it too deeply. It's about a lot more than just that. It's worth a listen anyway.

Click here for the message.

Two Christian Conferences You Might Want To Attend

There are a couple of Christian conferences coming up next year that I find interesting, even though I won't be going myself. I couldn't sit that long with my pain.   Still, they sound interesting, and perhaps someone reading this blog will want to attend one of them.  One is for single men and women and the other is for married and single women

One will be held at my old church back in California.  It is the one for unmarried men and women, but it's not about dating.
 Find out more with the link below and the video clip.

http://undividedconference.org/main.html

The other conference is a women's conference to be held in Florida.
It is called "The Gospel Coalition’s 2012 National Women’s Conference." Please click on the link below or on the ad to learn more about it.

http://thegospelcoalition.org/conferences/2012-womens/#overview

This Is Christmas (Video)

I heard this song recently, and it's really good!

  I realize that the Bible never said the angels sang, but other than that this song is great for reminding us why we celebrate.

I don't know much about the group, but this song is worth listening to.

  Merry Christmas and enjoy!

What is Christmas without Christ, indeed?!

GrokTV Event: GSPL PAC Presidential Debate - Gingrich / Santorum Parts 6 and 7

From the debate that you probably missed...


This election is very important. So far I see Rick Santorum as the best candidate on principles, even if the polls don't give him a chance to win.

Come Praise and Glorify

I enjoyed this newer video put out by Sovereign Grace Music from their conference Worship God11. It is a song which is now on their latest CD entitled The Gathering. The title of this song is "Come Praise and Glorify" as listed above, and it is upbeat and worshipful at the same time. In my opinion, it's not to the same level as "Name Above All Names" or "Behold Our God" from the album Risen which I really enjoyed immensely. This is still good though! I hope you will get a chance to watch this.

Christmas Carols To Sing Along With

Christmas is coming, and I thought I'd share a couple of fun videos of Christmas songs.The first video is a cute girl singing Away in a Manger, and the next one is a music leader who used to be at a church we went to years ago now.  You can sing along.  I hope you enjoy them!


Angels, from the realms of glory,
Wing your flight o'er all the earth;
Ye, who sang creation's story,
Now proclaim Messiah's birth.

Come and worship, Come and worship,
Worship Christ the newborn King!
Come and worship, Come and worship,
Worship Christ the new-born King!

Shepherds, in the fields abiding,
Watching o'er your flocks by night,
God with man is now residing
Yonder shines the infant light.

Though an Infant now we view Him
He shall fill His Fathers throne,
Gather all the nations to Him;
Every knee shall then bow down:

All creation, join in praising
God, the Father, Spirit, Son,
Evermore your voices raising
To the eternal Three in One.

Speaking The Truth Out of Love and Concern Part 2

This is my second posting on the Word Faith/Prosperity Gospel Movement.
Below the video are some more links focusing on this serious subject.
I am very concerned for people who are following the teachers of the Word Faith movement.
What can I do but pray and share with them teaching and information to point them in the direction of the truth?
Isn't that what real love is all about?
True Christians also can get sucked into this kind of teaching as well, because some truth is mixed in with the deceptions.  Please read the Bible and don't be confused.
The video I found is a bit edited down, so I am also sharing the link for the full sermon:

http://www.gty.org/Resources/Sermons/90-397




http://www.gty.org/resources/sermons/90-64/Does-God-Promise-Health-and-Wealth--Part-2

The following link should be helpful:
http://justinpeters.org/a-call-for-discernment/watch-an-overview/


"But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ. For if one comes and preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted, you bear this beautifully."   2 Corinthians 11:3, 4 NASB

"180—lives saved, minds changed."

Many of you have already seen "180" Movie where some people change from being "pro-choice" to pro-life.

If you still haven't seen it, you can watch it at http://180movie.com .

Here is a video with feedback they have gotten on how this documentary has affected people.

10-Year-Old Blind Autistic Boy Sings "Open the Eyes of my Heart"

How could anybody say that someone like this boy should have had his life ended by abortion? Yet many people would advocate for that. It's to their shame. Every life is created by God. Parentage, low income, gender, or disability should never be reasons to end someone else's life. Please watch this video. You may need a tissue.

If you haven't watched "180" Movie that deals with the subject of abortion, please check it out at the following link:
http://180movie.com

He's All You Need

1 John 1:9 NASB "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

I thought the video below was a nice cover of a Steve Camp song. It's not meaning that people have a license to sin as Christians, but I know what it's like to have struggles and battles with sin. It's good to know that God will not let me go, and He's ready to forgive me when I confess my sin.

Psalm 86:5 NASB "For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You."

Speaking The Truth Out of Love and Concern

Joyce Meyer & Joel Osteen are two among many dangerous teachers who are popular today. 

Yes, they are dangerous to the spiritual health and life of true believers (Christians). I know many people listen to and admire people like them, but I want to warn people because I care about fellow Christians not being deceived by heretical and deceptive teaching. Please take a look at the links below.

Joyce Meyer (Apprising Ministries)

Info. on Joyce Meyer

CARM on Joyce Meyer

Joel Osteen - Apprising Ministries

Video on Joel Osteen's wrong teaching

Joel Osteen has also said that Mormons are Christians which is completely wrong.

Ephesians 4:14-16 NASB

"As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.”

2 Timothy 4:3, 4 NASB

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.”

Christmas Song For All Year 'Round - Randy Stonehill

This is an older song that I have enjoyed listening to over the years. The lyrics are not 100% accurate though. Only those who repent of their sins and put their trust in Christ and His atoning sacrifice for their sins on the cross will have their sins forgiven. Perhaps this song was meant to be directed just for a Christian audience.
Anyway, I hope that not only children will learn about Jesus, but they are the ones being deceived about Santa by many parents. Underneath the video (which I hope you will enjoy), I will put a link to an interesting article about that subject by Noel Piper.

Christmas - A Good Time for Giving

Christmas is coming soon, and many people are focused on shopping, buying gifts, decorating, and getting together with friends and family for meals and concerts and church events. 
Sure, those of us that are Christians remember that Christmas is a time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus (not that He was born on that date really).  We can celebrate who He was and the reason He came. 

We know that it's not just about getting gifts, and certainly we know it's not about Santa...even if a guy did exist who was kind to those in need.  (There's nothing magical about that!)
God has so blessed us with His Son, and that's what we want the world to know.

One thing that some people forget (and I know that's not all of you) is that there are people who do not have as much as even some of the poor amongst us here in the U.S. and in many other countries.
I thought I'd share some links of organizations who help out needy people for those who are interested in ways to give and show Christ's love to the "least of these" this Christmas season.

I'm also including a link for people to be able to give to a project that is helping save lives and giving the Gospel as well.  That one is not about monetary poverty, but about trying to save lives in another way. 

Action International
http://www.actioninternational.org/ministries?item=61


Children's Hunger Fund
http://www.chfus.org/catalog/


Last, but not least... please do not forget the unborn children.
Giving to help give the Gospel and save the preborn babies is a way to help the least of these in a different but important way. 
"180" Movie has already been used to save lives and I think I've seen at least two postings about people who have said they repented and turned to Christ.
https://www.livingwaters.com/partner/donation180.php


“Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
‘For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’
“Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink?
‘And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You?
‘When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’
“The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’
Matthew 25:34-40 NASB

Josh Wilson - Fall Apart (Acoustic Performance)

I shared this song once before on my blog, but I thought it was worth sharing again.
This is not the album version this time though.

Even though life may seem tough and some people are facing very difficult situations, it's encouraging to me to know as a Christian that God will work all things together for the good of those that love Him. That doesn't mean escape from the trials. I'll admit that's often what I'd like. I know that God uses suffering to help me grow spiritually and become more like Christ.

Whether you or a loved one are facing trials or tragedies or persecution for the sake of Christ, I hope that this song will be an encouragement to all Christians out there.

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 NASB



Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

Just as it is written,
“FOR YOUR SAKE WE ARE BEING PUT TO DEATH ALL DAY LONG;
WE WERE CONSIDERED AS SHEEP TO BE SLAUGHTERED.”

But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:35-39 NASB

Biblically-Anemic Preaching: The Devastating Consequences of a Watered-Down Message

Churches so often have entertainment to try to bring people in. That can often water down the message to the level of watching an entertaining TV program that may make it seem ludicrous rather than serious. Some church programs and events I feel are actually are more of a turn off or lead to easy believism, and there have been some that I have actually walked out of with the bad language, etc., that upset me. Skits, plays, the social gospel or spending a lot of time on politics and Americanism in an actual church service doesn't help me or anybody else to grow spiritually.

I've been in a couple of churches where the music was so loud that I was afraid my hearing was getting more damaged...literally. It certainly didn't help me to worship better. In fact, I went outside to listen once or twice.
A lot of "worship" songs and even some old hymns out there have shallow and/or unBiblical lyrics which make me cringe.
Some song lyrics are even shallow to the point of devaluing Jesus in the minds of the singers and listeners.
I know there are some good songs out there with Biblical lyrics and tunes...don't get me wrong. The problem is that music directors in churches do not always have the discernment to know which songs are doctrinally sound and which are way off. They also don't all consider what will help the most number of people to actually think about the words instead of being annoyed by the music.

"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword,
and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and
marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Hebrews 4:12 NASB

I found the following article hard hitting and helpful on what to look for in a pastor. It's also very helpful for pastors to read as well...if you know one that you'd like to share it with.
It's about how preaching should be about God and the Bible instead of self, entertainment, and sticking on superficial bandages. Novel idea these days, huh?
Please check out the link:

Biblically-Anemic Preaching: The Devastating Consequences of a Watered-Down Message

"Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy." Proverbs 27:6 NASB

Mary, Did You Know by Jubilant Sykes in Grace Community Church Christmas...

Thanksgiving Day is over...not that we can't give thanks to God other days.
The song below is written by Mark Lowry, but Jubilant Sykes does the best rendition that I've heard.
I was once at one of the Christmas concerts at Grace Community Church, and I had the privilege of hearing Jubilant sing this song. Wow! It was years before this video that someone took, but still I think you will get the idea. We'd heard Jubilant at the church when I was younger (not during a concert), but this song I heard him sing when I was an adult was the most memorable for me.
It stirs the imagination as well as the emotions.
The lyrics are worth listening to! They help me to think not only about how Mary must have felt, but it also make me think about the greatness of God and focus on Jesus' life.
Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving Day Tomorrow!

"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NASB

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day celebrated here in the U.S. Not only did Pilgrims have reason to give thanks to God back when they had made it through tough times, but today I can also give thanks for God's provisions for us. He rescued my soul from eternal death and forgave my sins. He has provided me with food and all that I need both physically and spiritually.

Even the tough times I know He is using for my good.

This is a Petra song that is a ballad sung by John Schlitt.

180 Movie Closed Caption Languages Available On YouTube

The documentary that changed minds to being pro-life...

”180” Movie should be available with closed captioning on YouTube in 19 languages by Monday or Tuesday:

1) English
2) Spanish (Mexico)
3) French
4) German
5) Portuguese (Brazil, Portugal)
6) Russian
7) Chinese
8) Japanese
9) Italian
10) Polish
11) Albanian
12) Croatian
13) Estonian
14) Latvian
15) Norwegian
16) Romanian
17) Slovak
18) Swedish
19) Dutch

(Japanese and Chinese should be uploaded on Monday.)

To access the Closed Captions in your language Click to Watch on YouTube (lower right of video screen says YouTube...Click on that) and Click on the “CC” under the video on YouTube and find and select your language. Please share with all of your friends.

Read testimonies of people who have watched "180" Movie at the following link:

http://heartchanger.com/testimonies.php

See endorsements including John MacArthur, Randy Alcorn, etc.:

http://heartchanger.com/endorsements.php

Classic Petra Clips

This is a fun nostalgic post. Some of you have heard of Petra, and some remember back when Greg X. Volz was lead singer. I liked John Schlitt as lead singer, but I enjoyed some of the older Petra as well. Now they are both considered classic Christian rock history! I do not recommend watching TBN at all, so please don't!

Song From The Grace Card

The Grace Card has been out on DVD for awhile now, and I found it worth watching. I may have shared about it before awhile back. Forgive me if this is a repeat. It is about showing love and grace and forgiveness even in really difficult circumstances. I enjoyed this song...again...not endorsing the group. This video brings back memories of the movie. If you get the chance, you might want to try it out. I'm not saying it's perfect, but there is a good lesson to be learned, and it really tugs at emotions.

"180" Movie and Abortion

‘Remember now, that You have made me as clay; And would You turn me into dust again?
‘Did You not pour me out like milk And curdle me like cheese; Clothe me with skin and flesh, And knit me together with bones and sinews?
‘You have granted me life and lovingkindness; And Your care has preserved my spirit.
Job 10:9-12 NASB

In late September, a video that is just over 33 minutes was released online and in DVD form entitled "180" Movie. I have shared about it on my blog a number of times already, and I have given updates as well as listing ways that you could help promote it. There have now been more than 1 and 1/2 million views online by YouTube's counting method!

  Many DVDs have been distributed on college, university and high school campuses. Others have been sent by mail or have been handed out to various people around the U.S. and in other countries as well.   I gave some to waitresses, and had one each submitted to the library of the church I attend and the local public library.  I also gave some to other people including a neighbor who showed it to some co-workers.

What is so interesting or compelling about this documentary that it has taken the internet by storm and stirred up controversy? It compares the historical Holocaust with a modern day Holocaust -- namely abortion. It gives facts and then puts people in the position of imagining what they would do in a situation where they were told to do something that would cause the death of others during Hitler's day. Hitler was known to dehumanize Jews and the disabled, etc. Then the questioning turns to what people think about abortion. A number of people actually appear to do a "180" from being pro-abortion to pro-life during the course of the interviews with them.

The Gospel is also presented in this video, which encourages a person to think about whether they have broken God's commandments.   This may add to the controversy, but I find it to be the most important element. 

If you are interested in some background on the interviewer's interest in the subject of abortion, you can check the following link:
http://180movie.com/abortion.php


  Have you ever lied, stolen, lusted after someone or something that belongs to someone else?  If you have broken any of God's commandments and not believed in His Son , God is the Holy and Righteous Judge that will one day be faced. When you stand before God, will you be considered guilty? God made a way for you to be made right with Him...acquitted. He so loved the world that He sent His Son Jesus to die and take the punishment you deserve, so that if you confess your sin and turn from it and believe that Jesus died for your sin and that He rose from the dead conquering death...you will become His child and be forgiven and have eternal life.

"Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son."
 John 3:18 NASB

Below is a video of how you can distribute "180" Movie to high schools.

Story of Adoption

This is a really fantastic adoption story!  What child was more wanted than this child?  So many people want to have mothers be able to take a baby's life before she or he comes out of the womb, when there are couples out there willing and eager to adopt children and show them love.  I think that some mothers in China try to be like Moses' mother in the Bible and hope and maybe even pray that someone will rescue their child.

Elle's Story from Grace Community Church on Vimeo.

Josh Wilson "Jesus Is Alive" Live at Fandana Festival 2011

Josh Wilson's Christmas song that was released this month is available for purchase on iTunes now. http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/jesus-is-alive-single/id473465565
I found this older live video of it on YouTube. The lyrics are pretty good. I think it takes more than one listen to grow on a person, but I hope you enjoy it! It's not too early to think about Christmas, and we can think about Jesus being alive all the time anyway.

The Gathering - Sovereign Grace Music -Update

There is a new worship album put out by Sovereign Grace Music officially scheduled to come out November 15, 2011  (although I know there were problems the last time they had one come out with them not getting it downloadable on their site for awhile).  The new album is called The Gathering.   It is the same name as the conference they had when/where I believe it was recorded.  I'm interested to hear samples of the songs and see the lyrics.  They try to have sound Biblical lyrics, and I hope this one will measure up some to their last album Risen.

UPDATE November 12: You can buy The Gathering album online from now until November 14 for $5 online. You can now listen to the music:

Moral Relativism Exposed

In the 1980s, a guy named Steve Taylor wrote and performed songs with strong messages that still apply today.  This song deals with subjects like abortion, homosexuality and politicians' deceit.
Today,  there are people so far down the path of moral relativism that they make believe that all of these behaviors are okay that are mentioned in the song.  As a Christian, I know that God doesn't change.  His Word doesn't change, and one day we will all answer to Him for the sins we commit.  People lie, steal, cheat, lust, put other things before God, hate and murder.  When we repent (are sorry for and turn away from sin and to God) and believe/have faith (which He gives) in Jesus' sacrifice for our sin and in His resurrection conquering death, we receive forgiveness and the mercy and the special love and grace offered to us. It is all a gift of God, not of works. We are then saved/redeemed from the punishment that we deserve.  We have a relationship with God as His children then, and we will have eternal life full of joy in His Presence.

My First Oil Painting

This was the first and only completed oil painting I've ever done.  I started another one some years back now, but I have never completed it.  I hope to work on it someday, but it may be a bit messed up since it dried already for so long.  I have a book for helping me with the second one.  If I ever finish it, it may be my last oil.  I may use the book to just help me paint with acrylics.  It may not look quite as spectacular, but it is easier to work with.  Most of the paintings I did before were acrylic anyway and a small amount of water color ones. I watched an instructional DVD to do this one you see, but I made a little bit of a change to it. Some of you have seen it before. I hope you like it!

Alicia From "180" Movie - Full Interview

"180" Movie has been out online and DVD for over a month now, and some people question whether or not the people in it were actors. The makers of the documentary have now released a video which shares the entire interview with one of the ladies in question. Her name is Alicia (or perhaps Aliza, as a friend I had when I was young spelled her name). She obviously is not an actress, and she is a genuine intelligent person. Please watch! I once had an experience in handing out a tract to someone when I was still a teenager where the man mentioned he had a brother who was a Christian...Baptist I think. Anyway, he thought that might be especially why I gave him a tract, but then he realized that I didn't know that. Perhaps God was at work in his heart as well. He was concerned that becoming a Christian would affect his business as he sold pumpkins and such. We talked about who put the tract out and politics, etc. as well. I'm afraid I didn't know all the right things to say, but I hope that he read the tract since I asked people if they would read it (if my memory serves me right). What was in it was the true Gospel, and I hope that he has repented from sin and placed his faith in Jesus for the forgiveness of all his sins. I really hope that he became a Christian. I wonder if there will be people in Heaven that I gave the Gospel to and that God used me as His instrument in drawing them to Himself. I must admit that the internet allows me to be bolder than I am in person. I believe that Paul said something about his letters being bold. Typing things out gives me time to think and to look things up. I tend to have mental freezes in person. Sorry for my rambling. That's the way I am sometimes!

"180" Movie DVDs Given Away At Colleges / Universities

A couple of days ago copies of the "180" Movie DVD were given out in campuses/campi all over the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand. Yesterday, I learned that John MacArthur is now in support of "180" Movie. The following video is of the San Jose State University "180" Movie DVD giveaway: The following link has a list of the schools that DVDs were distributed at: http://preparingtheway.net/2011/10/25/operation-180-movie-180movie-com-school-distribution/ If you want to order DVDs, this first link is for other countries: http://www.livingwaters.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=317&Itemid=258 Here is the link for the U.S. and other countries not included in the first link I believe: http://www.livingwaters.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.browse&category_id=11&Itemid=199&lang=en Here is the link of ways to get involved (once again I want to distance myself from Kay Arthur): http://heartchanger.com/getinvolved.php

Shai Linne - Spurgeon [Christian Rap World]

While I'm not a big fan of rap music normally, this one is very interesting and educational. Many of you have heard of Charles Spurgeon and even heard or read from his teachings/books. This particular rap song is biographical. If you are game to listen, you may learn some new things!

More Updates on "180" Movie and Prayer Requests

"180" Movie passed the 1,000,000 mark night before last, and it now has had 1,037,321 views on YouTube...and counting!  You can check out http://www.christianpost.com/news/pro-life-evangelists-push-180-movie-to-1-million-views-58406/ to see a news article about it.  If you you haven't watched "180" Movie yet, please go to http://180movie.com or view it on YouTube where you can comment, share, like and favorite it.  It starts out about Hitler and then deals with the subject of abortion.
Oh, and a cool website for sharing "180" with people who have smartphones:
http://www.evangegeek.org/2011/10/06/spreading-the-word-about-180/

There have been recent updates on a couple of people that I wanted to share with you.
Please continue to pray for 2 year old (almost 3) Hailey:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/haileyschollaert
For the latest prayer request updates on a young woman named Karis who has suffered most if not all of her life:
http://kariskornfield.wordpress.com/

180 Movie Has Gone Viral On YouTube ... What Next?

If you haven’t seen this viral documentary video yet showing what changed some people‘s mind about abortion in a very short time, please watch it now. It will make you think, and it has been instrumental already in saving lives. If you like it, then you can look below the video to find some helpful links of ways to get involved in sharing about “180” Movie. Here is a link of ways to help with promoting and communicating about “180” Movie: http://preparingtheway.net/2011/10/13/180movie-com-is-now-your-viral-pro-life-tool/ On this next link you can find a sample of what you might send to radio stations, TV and radio personalities, newspapers, pro-life sites, etc.: http://preparingtheway.net/2011/10/06/180movie-com-appreciates-your-help/ If you have Facebook, you can like the 180 Movie page on there. You can also add a badge to your photo. You can change your photo to 180 by downloading the 180movie.com icon you will find on their page as a profile picture, and there is also a Cause on there that you can share with all of your friends. Also, share the video lots of times on your Wall, because not everybody will look at just one posting of it. http://www.picbadges.com/180movie/2309913/ The following link has a list of some languages that they are or have translated 180 Movie into: http://preparingtheway.net/2011/09/26/ways-to-help-180movie-com-go-viral-making-pro-choice-people-into-pro-life-people/ They are having a voice over in Spanish they are working on as well. You can go to YouTube to find “180“ Movie, and click on CC to try to find the language of your choice. The official website is: http://180movie.com They also have another website you may want to check out: http://heartchanger.com/ For a free download to show this video to others: http://www.livingwaters.com/index.php?option=com_jdownloads&Itemid=237&view=view.download&catid=6&cid=36&lang=en You can also order 180 Movie for as low as $1 a piece if you order 10 or more at: http://www.livingwaters.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.browse&category_id=11&Itemid=199&lang=en It says $5, but that’s only if you order less than 10. 180 Movie also has the Gospel in it a bit, so I hope that some people will also see the truth about their sin and repent and believe in Jesus and His death on the cross for their sin and His resurrection and be saved. Please spread the word about this!

Jordan Sekulow on CBN as Pastor Youcef's Case Transfered to Iran's Supre...

Many of you many have already heard about the Iranian pastor who refused to recant his Christian beliefs and is at risk of the death penalty for his faith. The latest information was that his case was being determined by Iranian Ayatollah Khamenei.
I'm wondering what effect the news story about the alleged terror plot to kill a Saudi diplomat in the U.S. might have on this case?

Below the video I will list some ways you can help to try to save Pastor Youcef's life.



1. Pray. I've been praying for Pastor Youcef as have many people around the world.

2. Contact your Congress person and have a look at this site. I believe you can sign a petition to Hilary Clinton still, even though that have delivered the first batch already.
http://aclj.org/iran/americans-support-pastor-youcef-overwhelming

Apparently there has been some confusion in the news that was addressed yesterday by the ACLJ (American Center for Law & Justice).
http://aclj.org/iran/media-confuses-timeline-pastor-case-still-before-ayatollah

Jim and Janet Wine and Argentina

In the past I shared with you about some friends of mine from California who are working toward going to Argentina to do church planting. I thought I'd share a video with you that they did.
Please pray for them as they continue to prepare and take steps toward this goal. If you want more information after you watch the video, you can go to the following link:
http://jimjanetwine.abwe.org/

October Baby Movie Scheduled For Next Spring

I recently learned about this movie that is scheduled to come out in 2012 with a special early release October 28th from what it looks like on their official website.
It really goes along with the subject that is in the 180 movie that I've been promoting for awhile now and still highly recommend.
It looks to be interesting, and it's been rated well by the Dove Foundation. It's about abortion and adoption. To learn more about the movie you can go to:
http://www.octoberbabymovie.net/

Hail the Day (Sovereign Grace Music)

Sovereign Grace Music has some great worship tunes with pretty sound theology in their lyrics. They have a new live album from their WorshipGod11 conference due out in November. You can check out the list for that at: http://www.worshipmatters.com/2011/08/17/song-lists-from-worshipgod11/
The one I wanted to share today with you is one that has been sticking in my mind lately from their album Risen.

hame, hame, hame- Tha Me Sgith --- by Silly Wizard

Many years ago (I believe in the 1980s) some of the members of my family used to listen to a radio show called The Thistle & The Shamrock. It was fun to listen to Irish and Scottish music and to get a taste of history as well as a different style of music. Some tunes were lively making you want to get up and move your feet, and some were interesting ballads with a story behind them. The following song was one of our favorite Scottish ballad tunes. I need something relaxing to listen to now and then with all that's going on in the world. Perhaps this is a bit melancholy, but it doesn't depress me like some songs. The person who did this video used some beautiful photos. Enjoy!

180 Movie Update & Courageous in Theaters Friday

This is an eventful week with the release of the 180 Movie / Documentary on DVD and online and the Courageous movie out in the theaters beginning Friday, September 30th. The 180 movie has 111,154 and counting so far on YouTube after being out just a short time. Wow! I'm hoping it will continue to get many views and that people will take notice! Some of my friends have said it was intense and wonderful and Wow! I watched it with my family, and although it buffered a lot for us (I realized later it would have been better to wait for it to fully load), we learned some things we didn't realize before. If you are pro-abortion or pro-life or are interested in learning the history of who Hitler was and about the Holocaust or if you are simply curious to see what others are watching, then please watch the video as I reshare it. Below the video I will make a comment about Courageous, although I haven't seen it yet! UPDATE--HERE IS THE 180 MOVIE DOCUMENTARY! I plan to watch Courageous, although I know it's crazy when I have been having so much pain. I believe it's around 2 1/2 hours long, but I have been looking forward to it for so long that I will try to get up and walk around and use a cushion and see if I can make it through. It's put out by the same people who made Fireproof, Facing the Giants, and Flywheel. It's about fathers and fatherhood this time and this time it is about police officers as well. For those who want to see what theaters it is in, I think you can click on the following banner:

180 Movie / Documentary September 26th WATCH NOW

The countdown is on for the documentary 180 to be able to be viewed online! I haven't personally seen it yet, but I have seen many comments from people who got to preview it early. For those of you who haven't read my previous posts... 180 is reported to be quite an amazing documentary including what caused 8 people to change their views on abortion very quickly. It will be out September 26th online around at midnight according to the countdown on the official site. I'm pasting the link here. http://180movie.com/ UPDATE--HERE IS THE 180 MOVIE DOCUMENTARY! I have been looking forward to this for months, and it is exciting to be able to share the experience with my blog viewers. If you want to get copies of the DVD and related items (t-shirts, caps, bumper stickers, etc.) after viewing the movie go to: http://www.livingwaters.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.browse&category_id=11&Itemid=199&lang=en

Pregnant by Rape

"For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb." Psalm 139:13 NASB
Some people think that it's okay to abort a baby conceived by rape. Please watch the young women in the video below share their experiences of being pregnant by rape. Also, please watch a highly anticipated documentary online starting from September 26th dealing with what question changed minds about abortion in a short period of time at the web link: http://180movie.com


To order 180 Movie DVDs, etc. go to: http://www.livingwaters.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.browse&category_id=11&Itemid=199&lang=en

To see some endorsements for the 180 Documentary go to: http://www.livingwaters.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=641&category_id=11&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=199&lang=en

"180" Trailer "Stop it! Stop talking like a Jew!"

It's amazing that there are people out there who deny the Holocaust. It's also upsetting to see people who are so negative towards Jews. I met a lady who was affected by the Holocaust back when she was a teenager. She has since gone to be with the Lord. How soon people forget and deny that innocent people died and were affected in a horrific way. Some of us have some German blood in us, and obviously lots of Germans don't share the views of the guy Ray Comfort interviews in the video below. So please don't take offense about that. I want to share an article link and a newer trailer about the documentary film 180 that comes out officially on September 26th and I have it from a reliable source that it will be available indefinitely online (also can be ordered in DVD form): http://www.christianpost.com/news/why-did-8-people-turn-180-degrees-on-abortion-stance-in-seconds-55970/

To go to the official 180 movie/documentary site click on the following link:
http://180movie.com

My Grandpa & I Both Painted Ocean Scenes

I mentioned in a previous post about sharing paintings. The one here on the right was done by my grandfather in 1958.   Ocean pictures and paintings are my favorite (although I've done other things as well), so it's really neat that he took a class and painted this beautiful one you see here.  I noticed it was cracking some years back, so I ended up using varnish.  I don't know if that was entirely wise, but I wanted to preserve it!  Below is a painting I did with acrylic paint back in 1998.  I often use photos or other paintings to copy or base my paintings on.

Amazing Testimony of Faith

I watched an amazing story earlier today on the On The Box show. Please don't miss this one! You can start watching anywhere from 6 minutes and 13 second in to 6 minutes and 53 seconds. It ends at about 11 minutes and 40 seconds in....so around 5 minutes of your time more or less. Mark gives his personal story about his wife's pregnancy and what the doctors told them and how he reacted. I don't want to give it all away, you'll just have to watch it!!!
Video streaming by Ustream For those of you who haven't heard about the exciting documentary movie coming out on September 26th online (also available for purchase), go to http://180movie.com

180 Prescreening is "Eye Opening" & "Jaw Dropping"

Not too long ago at a conference, some people were given a chance to watch 180. Yesterday they released the reactions on Youtube to this exciting new documentary movie. I had been able to watch some of the reactions previously and then a preview of this promotional video last week. I know some of you have had a chance to see this already, but many out there have not. For those who haven't, please visit the 180 Movie site at:
http://180movie.com

The 180 movie will be officially released on September 26. You will be able to see it online I believe, and then you can also already preorder DVDs for a $1 each (minimum 10 I think it was)from the Living Waters / Way of the Master people. Please pass this on by sharing it with all of your friends!

Where Were You On September 11, 2001?

Where were you on September 11, 2001?
I was in bed at home in California. I turned the radio on with the headphones on my ears to listen to the news, and I heard about planes hitting towers and then about them falling. It was early in the morning, but the planes had already hit the towers I believe. It reminded me of the story of the War of the Worlds, and how many people believed that to be true when it was broadcast. Only this was real!
A lot happened to my family in 2001...the death of my grandmother, a cousin hit by a van and unconscious for awhile, a family member went through a very difficult time and became unable to work, and another one left the country and got married. I had an online friendship I had to break off, and a lot of stress was involved with that. Then the attacks on 9/11. I thought at first that it was probably China, as they had threatened the U.S. Still, that was L.A. that was threatened. When I learned that Osama bin Laden was behind it, I remembered hearing about him on a radio talk show I used to listen to when Warren Duffy was on Live From L.A. There were a lot of people I believe in church the Sunday after the attacks (which we know also included the Pentagon and the other plane that was diverted by passengers into the field in Pennsylvania). Everyone is going to die someday. On this earth there will be murderers, liars, thieves, disease, and disasters. That’s because of sin. All of us are guilty of sin, although some sin affects more people than others. Every sin is against God, and all of us deserve eternal death from a just God Whose holiness demands it. I’m thankful that Jesus died and took my punishment for all my sins, and that He rose so that I could rise again and be with Him in a sin free place one day! I’m sharing a video here, but I don’t recommend the show this was performed on. As a Christian, I find too much that offends me and would offend God on it. I hope you enjoy the song (Scotty McCreery is very talented), and I would enjoy people sharing where they were in the comment section below. I have to approve them, so please don’t be disappointed if it takes some time to get on.

Lia's Pro-Life Speech on Parliament Hill in Ottawa

I watched this video recently since the 180movie.com people shared it on Facebook, and I know some of you may have already watched this as well. The video was posted at least a little over 2 years ago in July, 2009, but this girl's speech when she was 12 years old to the Canadian parliament is very good. It may stir your heart. It's just 10 minutes long. The one thing that I might would add is that people who aren't married shouldn't be having sex at all...protected or not. If they wait for marriage, then they will be more in line with the way God created things to be, and they will save themselves the extra heartache and regret and distrust that can come from not waiting. They will also be better prepared for having children with a real committed family (with a mom and a dad). Those who make a wrong decision and don't wait or are raped should still have the children. Those children can bring much joy and healing. Please watch the video and don't forget the 180 movie is out on September 26, 2011! http://180movie.com

LARRY NORMAN AND CLIFF RICHARD (RARE)

The video below is of a couple of classic rock singers. If you grew up listening to Christian music or British rock, you will know who one or both are. Larry Norman was one of the "kings" of Christian rock and Cliff the "king" of British rock. Yes, Cliff came before the Beatles and outlasted them in most of the world (although the U.S. only enjoyed a few of his hits). Cliff is still singing and has a soul album coming out soon called "Soulicious." Cliff has drifted a bit spiritually which has disappointed me, but I still love to listen to his great voice at times. Larry went home to be with the Lord some time ago now. I realize that this is not heavy on doctrine or a deep understanding of eschatology, but it's the kind of music I grew up on. I still love it!

Truth Matthers Conference Free Online September 1-4

Tonight is the first session in the Truth Matters Conference at Grace Community Church in California. You can watch it free online! It goes from September 1st through the 4th featuring John MacArthur, Phil Johnson, Jeff Williams and Don Green. Tonight's session begins at 7 PM Pacific time (10 PM Eastern). I may watch more tomorrow with the first session beginning at 9 AM Pacific with John MacArthur (noon Eastern...5 PM U.K. and 6 PM Central Europe). You can find the web video and audio (with choices for the iPhone as well) at the following website: http://www.truthmattersconference.org/ The schedule is at this website: http://www.truthmattersconference.org/Schedule.aspx

Pro-Choice to Pro-Life . . . in Seconds! 180 Movie...Please Share This!

This is the exciting official trailer for the new 180 video that has been in the works for 8 months I believe! I shared a clip of it quite awhile ago and mentioned the pre-order of it recently. I will share the official link below the video. Please pass this on...whether sharing my blog post or the video itself or sharing through the official site! They want it to go viral! The DVD will be available September 26th, and it will be online too I believe.

Heres the official site link:
http://180movie.com/
My only disclaimers are that I don't know if there will be a lot of immodesty, and I don't recommend Kay Arthur who was one of the endorsers. Randy Alcorn also endorsed this DVD, and it's likely that it will at least be good to share with women....hopefully men too!
You can order the DVDs to pass them out as well!

"Stricken, Smitten, and Afflicted" by Fernando Ortega

I heard this song mentioned in a message online (by a previous pastor I had back in California), and I decided to look it up. The words are worth reading, so I thought I'd share it here on my blog.

Hurricane Coming...What Would You Do?

A hurricane is coming. You’ve been told about it and you believe it. Your friends and neighbors are hanging around and either have not heard about it or are telling themselves that everything is going to be fine. What do you do? Do you run out and warn your neighbors, or do you tell yourself that you just need to prepare yourself and leave it to others to warn or deal with those people?
I can’t help but think about those of us who are Christians. We believe that people are headed for hell. People tell themselves that they are okay. They think that if they are good enough they will go to Heaven, or they tell themselves that all there is to this life is here and now.
What do we as Christians do about it? Do I run out and warn everybody? Do I tell them the Gospel and point out to them that the Truth is Truth whether they believe it or not? Do I tell them God’s standard by telling them the Law, so that they might see the sin that they are guilty of which makes them deserving of eternal punishment in Hell (like lying, stealing, hating, lusting)? Do I tell them that God provided a way for them to be saved from that punishment…that He loved the world enough to send His only Son to die taking the punishment for the sins that they did? Also, that He rose again, and conquered death, and that all who repent and believe can have forgiveness and a relationship with the Lord?
Well, I find that I am quite a chicken. For me I find that putting out tracts is the easiest way for me. How about you?
“But He was pierced through for our transgressions,
He was crushed for our iniquities;
The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him,
And by His scourging we are healed.
All of us like sheep have gone astray,
Each of us has turned to his own way;
But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all
To fall on Him. “
Isaiah 53:5, 6 NASB
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+53&version=NASB
"And the master said to the slave, 'Go out into the highways and along the hedges, and compel them to come in, so that my house may be filled.
Luke 14:23 NASB
‘But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet and the people are not warned, and a sword comes and takes a person from them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood I will require from the watchman’s hand.’
Ezekiel 33:6 NASB

Courageous Movie Premier Tonight & One-Eighty About Holocaust & Abortion

I have two exciting things to share with you today. The first thing (and some of you know about this already) is a link that will show live from the premier of the movie Courageous (not showing the whole movie...just what is going on outside of the showing probably). They may show a clip of the movie along with that though. I can't promise that it will be good as far as modesty goes, so I'm sorry if it turns out to be a problem that way.
It starts at 6 PM Eastern time in the U.S. and 3 PM Pacific. That will be 11 PM in the U.K. and midnight in Central Europe.
http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/courageous/
Update: To See The Red Carpet Interviews From This Screening Go To: http://mediasuite.multicastmedia.com/player.php?p=k7v7698x
The other exciting announcement that I heard this week is that the DVD of One-Eighty (not sure how they will spell that) that the people at Living Waters put together will be available September 26, 2011 (Lord-willing). I had shared a small clip from it some time back. It is available for preorder now. It is about the holocaust and abortion, and it has already had a big impact on the people who have been able to view it early. Some people have changed their minds about abortion when they hear what is shared on this. There is a minimum order of 10, and they are offering them at $1 (Update 2012: as of now $1.50 each if you get 10) each. I believe the phone number is 1-800-437-1893
You can now watch "180" Movie right here:



UPDATE:  You can also watch 180 at http://180movie.com or on another of my blog posts at: http://ktundergrace.blogspot.com/2011/09/180-movie-documentary-september-26th.html

One of My Paintings

I decided to share again some of my artwork from over the years. I'm nowhere near professional, so keep in mind that I do this occasionally for enjoyment. It's fun to have something completed, but I can't be a perfectionist too much when I do these things. It would drive me nuts! I will feature one or two at a time now and then. In the future I plan to share one done by my grandfather as well. This ocean one I did is with watercolor and perhaps some pencil and charcoal. It's been a long time since I did it at this point. I hope you enjoy it!

Separate from the World and Unified in Christ

I heard a couple of good messages about Jesus’ prayer given by John MacArthur in 1972 when he was 32 (amazing, huh?), and I decided to share some verses I looked up both from what I heard from that passage as well as others that related to my train of thought. The themes of the verses are to be different (set apart and holy) from the world, and the unity that true believers should have. I will put the links to the 2 messages underneath the verses below.

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:1, 2 NASB
“Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR MIDST AND BE SEPARATE,” says the Lord.
“AND DO NOT TOUCH WHAT IS UNCLEAN;
And I will welcome you.
“And I will be a father to you,
And you shall be sons and daughters to Me,”
Says the Lord Almighty.
2 Corinthians 6:17, 18
“I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. “I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one. “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.
John 17:13-17
Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:19-23
“The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me.
John 17:22, 23
Jesus Prays for Us, Part 1
http://www.gty.org/resources/Sermons/1568_Jesus-Prays-for-Us-Part-1
Jesus Prays for Us Pt 2
http://www.gty.org/resources/Sermons/1569_Jesus-Prays-for-Us-Part-2

Hailey's Update Link & Rhema's New Video

Today I am sharing a couple of things with you.
You may remember I shared about 2 year old Hailey who has EB (a skin disorder) and is waiting for a transplant. You can continue to see updates on her at:http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/haileyschollaert
Sorry for the huge blank space above the video. I can't seem to figure out how to get rid of it!

Deeper Conference (October 14-15, 2011)

There is a very interesting Christian conference coming up in October in Westlake Village, CA for those interested. It has a number of speakers that are familiar to me and the subject is the Word of God. I will give the link to the official site for it beneath the video.

Here is the link with more information for you:
http://www.deeperconference.com/

Don't Waste Your Life (Is Your Goal Retirement?)

I think the following video I found is a good one and could be very convicting. The key word is healthy though. Not every person young or in their 60s is able bodied. God can still use people though even if they do have to stay at home much of the time. This is about where your treasure is and your goals...even while you are young.

Witnessing Tool Link

If you are a Christian and looking for a site that has helpful answers on giving out the Gospel message to friends and/or strangers in specific situations or with specific questions or viewpoints, I have found the following site of some help:
http://www.livingwaters.com/witnessingtool/browse.shtml

It's answers from The Evidence Bible that is available from Living Waters/Way of the Master.

Beer, Bohemianism, and True Christian Liberty

Please click on the link to see the Blog that was mentioned and getting negative response from some people.
Beer, Bohemianism, and True Christian Liberty
I replied the following to criticism of the Blog post by John MacArthur(with a few minor edits for here)that someone posted online:

I found what MacArthur said as edifying. In flaunting freedom some people get into trouble and get others into trouble...sometimes freedom is actually inviting sin...like watching immodest people and lusting and filling your mind with foul language that gets stuck in your head and eventually may come out of your mouth. Is that helpful? Encouraging someone to drink isn't helpful...not that a little alcohol is a sin. I don't drink, and people shouldn't start just out of a rebellion to their elders. Some verses that might be helpful: "For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another. Galatians 5:13-15 NASB "Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul. Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation." 1 Peter 2:11-13 NASB "Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God. Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king." 1 Peter 2:16-17 NASB
I respect John MacArthur.

Wayside (with one of my Sunday School girls)

One of the girls in the video below was in my Sunday School class for awhile many years ago (when she was in the 4-6 year old age group). She's become a beautiful accomplished young woman! She had great grandparents who were in entertainment...one co-wrote some of the Leave It To Beaver shows and the other was a dancer. If she should ever decide to marry one day, any guy who gets her would be blessed. She's the girl in the back in the video...her name is Mary and she's beautiful! The name of the group is Bremen Town.

One of the boys in one of my Sunday School classes is a really talented cello player and headed to Jiullard School of music. It's really fun to find out these kinds of things, and that they still seem to be interested in things of the Lord.

Lessons from Heidi

I finished reading Heidi recently, and I found it very interesting that Klara’s grandmother encouraged Heidi to pray to the Dear Lord. Even when Heidi didn’t get what she wanted ( which was to go home) the grandmamma encouraged her to keep praying with the idea that the Dear Lord may have a better plan. She said that if you forget the dear Lord that He will forget you. Okay, well, if you are a Christian I know you are not forgotten and God doesn’t forget the sins of the unbelievers as He is a just and righteous judge…only puts the sins of His children away from Him (who have repented and believed …but they aren‘t as close to Him when they sin until they repent). He will bring His children to repentance through chastisement and love. Still, the story had a good message in showing how God was working it out that Heidi didn’t get to go home when she wanted to. In the story God had a reason for this and a better plan. Klara likely wouldn’t have come to visit and wouldn’t have learned to walk again if Heidi had not stayed longer. Heidi helped others with what Klara’s grandmamma taught her which was confirmed to her by her own experience in praying and seeing God work things out in a way she didn‘t expect. She also got to read hymns to Peter’s blind grandmother having learned to read at Klara’s home (also something that Klara’s grandmamma encouraged her to do…to learn to read). Peter (a boy in the Alps) destroyed Klara’s chair out of jealousy while she was visiting Heidi, and his conscience tormented him. He was later forgiven after admitting to it, and even in this God was working in the story. The wheelchair having been destroyed made it so that Klara had to get up and try walking to see the beautiful place that Heidi was enjoying amongst the flowers.
In the story Heidi was sent home through the kindness of a doctor and Herr Sesemann. In the end, Heidi had the affection of the Sesemann family and the doctor and her grandfather. The grandfather was to share her with the doctor with them having separate quarters from the doctor, so that Heidi could be a help as the doctor aged. Peter and his mother and grandmother also were blessed through Heidi in the story. If you are willing to read a simplistic but interesting children’s story with an uplifting message, then I would encourage you to read Heidi by Johanna Spyri sometime. It was written in the 1880s and set in Switzerland and the Swiss Alps.
In my own life many times I have prayed for things, but often they don’t turn out the way I want them to. I know that God’s plans are far better though -- and His timing. I just have to wait and see. Perhaps I won‘t know all the whys until Heaven. Right now I am suffering with bad back pain which has kept me in bed most of the time for weeks (more than even my normal fibro. Pain does) I don‘t know for sure what is causing it to be like this. Some dreams for my life haven’t ever come to anything at this point. They might never be anything more that just daydreams, but I hope that in some way God uses me for His glory (which is more important) …and that even now through my blog and Facebook that He is using this “broken vessel”. This life is fleeting. We can’t be certain of what we will be able to do the way most people think…you could end up disabled or dead tomorrow or tonight. Are you ready?
“Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.” James 4:14 NASB

Please Pray for Hailey

I learned about this girl through a Christian website, and I thought that some of you might want to pray for this little girl too. She has something called epidermolysis​ bullosa. Men, please don't look too closely at the video.

Hailey from Cornerstone Church of Knoxville on Vimeo.

Hailey had a website link you can look at:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/haileyschollaert
For a news article on Hailey go to:
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2011/jul/29/family-makes-move-of-faith-to-help-child-with/

On The Box: Maybe If We Had Been Muslim or Jewish

You might find the blog link from On The Box interesting to think about. I know that some policemen are nice and some are rude (they are human and not the way I imagined they were when I was young). We are to respect and obey authority, so long as they don't tell us to disobey God. Also, as Americans we have the privilege to use the proper channels and question or if need be to challenge in court when authority is exceeded and the law is not applied correctly or is misunderstood by the officers meant to uphold the law... You can click on the blog title to read the rest.
On The Box: Maybe If We Had Been Muslim or Jewish: "Our time at Comic Con on Saturday was amazing. It made an afternoon of evangelism on Hollywood Boulevard seem like a quiet afternoon at th..."

Soldier Surprises Brother

My Mom shared this video with me recently (she discovered it online), and I thought it might be nice to share this with you as something positive compared to a lot of the unhappy things that we hear about in the news these days. I thought it was something upsetting and noisy when I first heard some of it from another room without watching it, but it turned out it was a good story...a little emotional if you are the emotional sort. The boy is what they called "disabled" and they said he "really relies on his older brother."

My Analysis of Anders Behring Breivik

I spend quite a bit of time yesterday reading things that Anders Behring Breivik put on a site called Document.no and some from an edited diary as well as some other info on the man that I found online.
I’m a curious person, and I was interested to try to figure out where this guy was coming from and if there were hints of what he might do in his writings. You can see some of his upbringing online on the wikipedia or some such site (parents divorced I think when he was one, grew up mostly in West Oslo, and his mother was a nurse, etc.)
From what I read, Anders was against “multicultural” supporters and called himself a “cultural conservative” and a “Protestant.” Apparently he was baptized (which doesn‘t mean much when you aren‘t really a Christian), and he wants the Protestant church to become Catholic…which shows he doesn‘t understand the Reformation. Other things make it clear he doesn’t know what a Christian is, and when he mentioned praying (in the diary) which he hadn’t done in a long time, it seems it was only for his own selfish purpose. He was one of those in name only kind of people…no true relationship with the Lord….just thinks of Christianity as part of a culture.
Well, his idea of a “cultural conservative” is completely different than those of us who are Americans that are social conservatives. When I think of cultural conservative or social conservative as an American it means that we are for traditional marriage between a man and woman, that we are pro-life for the unborn, and for traditional family values. As a Christian, I believe these values come to us from God through His Word.
When Anders says “cultural conservative” it is all about keeping the culture of a country and being nationalistic. He isn’t against other races per se, but he doesn’t want people (especially Muslims) to take over and swallow them up culturally or politically. He doesn’t like open immigration and the loss of sovereignty. He feels that the areas that are predominately Muslim are dangerous crime areas with jihadists. He sees Muslims as more a cultural and political group, and it seems he doesn’t focus on it as stemming from a religion much of the time. In one thing he has a point…in that Islam has taken over some countries. It is part of jihadist Islam to attack enemies (which are people who do not hold to their form of religion).
Anders is actually against Nazis and he calls “multiculturalists” “ Marxists” as well.
I wondered if it was a hint of him turning from just the idea of a newspaper and what I would call a political action type of group to something more sinister when he mentioned the possibility of him being one of the “martyr-ideologues” and changing to becoming more like the people he considers his enemies (my take/paraphrase of what he said). Clearly he was planning for at least a year and writing and focusing on his views for a long time to what would seem like the point of obsession.
Anders has now done the very thing that he fears from others and abhorred. He is deceived and twisted in his thinking. He accomplished nothing but terror and murder. Last I saw the guy could only get 21 years as a maximum punishment…for all of them or one? One thing I know God is the judge.
As I am a real Christian, I find what Anders did as shocking and incomprehensible and evil. He doesn’t know Jesus at all.
I believe that the Gospel of Jesus should be advanced in the world. Jesus told us to love even our enemies. He is the only judge of the world. There is a spiritual battle going on, and we are to pray and proclaim the Gospel to the people lost and sinking down in sin. We don’t need to isolate ourselves from other people. Jesus died for the sins of the world…not just one cultural group. The real battle in life is spiritual not cultural. Anders was following Satan’s twisted thinking, and many people are now suffering because of him. I can pray for those who lost loved ones. I’m sorry this is so long!

Norway Massacre

Deliver those who are being taken away to death,
And those who are staggering to slaughter, Oh hold them back.
If you say, “See, we did not know this,”
Does He not consider it who weighs the hearts?
And does He not know it who keeps your soul?
And will He not render to man according to his work?
Proverbs 24:11, 12 NASB
Do not fret because of evildoers
Or be envious of the wicked;
For there will be no future for the evil man;
The lamp of the wicked will be put out.
Proverbs 24:19, 20 NASB
The LORD tests the righteous and the wicked,
And the one who loves violence His soul hates.
Psalm 141:10 NASB
Doing wickedness is like sport to a fool,
And so is wisdom to a man of understanding.
Proverbs 10:23 NASB
http://nasb.scripturetext.com/psalms/10.htm
The Norway massacre was not the act of a Christian. The guy saying that he was a Christian doesn't make it so anymore than saying he was actually a policeman just because he was dressed up as one. I read that many in Norway call themselves Christians. I think that is like people here in the South of the U.S. who go to church just for a social life (not that I'm saying that people like that are a bunch of murderers of course!).
I'm just afraid that people are going to stereotype all Christian conservatives as being like this guy. Christians are not to be against other races...as we are all equal. As far as other religious people, we are to love the people and proclaim the Gospel to them. We are not better than other people. True Christians are a forgiven people saved by God's mercy and grace and goodness. We want all people to come to a saving knowledge of the truth.

The Kirk Story w/ John MacArthur

The video below is Kirk Cameron’s testimony. I remember the first time I heard of Kirk Cameron. I was at a church school in junior high school, and the students were all excited about some guy who was in the book shack. His name was Kirk Cameron, and I had to ask who that was. Our family didn’t have a TV from the time I was about 3 to sometime when I was 17 years old, so I didn’t know about the show Growing Pains. The story was that he was a new Christian and was returning a tape for a friend. The only person I could see darkly through the glass looked like a woman with a lot of curly hair. The person might have had sunglasses, but I can’t remember for sure. I went to the church John MacArthur is pastor of when I was young (off and on as we moved to another county and also tried a different church even before we moved, but I still was going at night then). The only time I wasn’t invisible to him (which seemed the norm even when I was close up) was at that school when he asked me once why I was sitting by myself, and I think he asked if I had friends or something. I was a bit intimidated by the question(s), but I will always remember it in the kind sense I believe it was intended. I wasn’t as awed by him as some people, because I saw him around so much. I kind of have some awe now as an older person, but I think of Pastor “Johnny Mac” as almost a friend when I hear his voice. My sister had his daughter in a class for a semester (his daughter was a grade younger than her and a grade ahead of me). Kirk Cameron was in another TV show that didn’t last very long as well as in the Left Behind movies. The TV show had a little bit of language problems when we tried it. Below the testimony video I will put a link to the new documentary that Kirk Cameron is involved with that hasn’t been released yet…

http://www.monumentalmovie.com/synopsis/