28 Jul, 2006
Let's Go Bowling
105-YEAR-OLD BOWLER LEAVES HIS MARK
At 105, Hargrove is the oldest bowler certified by the United States Bowling Congress.
His eyesight has deteriorated dramatically during the past year and he can no longer see the pins. But after more than 80 years of bowling - he started in 1924 - Hargrove has a mental picture of the pin configuration. He knows where to throw his red and blue marbled 10-pound ball when told which pins remain.
Hargrove bowls two mornings a week in two senior leagues, one of which is named after him. He has a 106 average.
Though he is competitive, his friends said, he never fails to support a teammate or opponent, offering his trademark encouragement, "Best I ever saw."
Bowling isn't the only thing that gets Hargrove out of the house. Almost every Sunday, he makes the nearly 1 1/2-hour trip to Atlanta, where he lived for nearly 70 years, to attend Grace United Methodist Church. Until he was about 100, he made the drive on his own, but now gets a ride from his daughter or a friend. He is the church's oldest active member and is in charge of the ushers and greeters.
"Our present minister isn't going to see it any other way," Hargrove said. "I've had that job all these years, and he isn't going to relieve me of it, not while he's still there anyway."
The church held a party for Hargrove's 105th birthday, and he sang for the congregation. A few weeks later the congregation presented him with an album of photos from the event. He recently brought it to the bowling alley.
"That album is the story of my life at the church that day, and I'm real proud of it," he said.
photo & story courtesy foxsports.com, 7/16/06
Leviticus 19:32
32 “You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story teach us about how we should treat the elderly?
God gave the Israelites a direct command to show respect for the elderly, because this brings honor to them and to God. This instruction is timeless, meaning we must also apply it today.
A lot of jokes are made about the elderly in our culture. It's often easy to ignore them and not spend time with them. When their memory fades, their hearing goes, their eyes fail, and their ideas are different than ours - we often disregard their opinios and God's command to give them honor.
Every old geezer (see what I mean - no, make that every old) person, is precious in God's sight. If we spend time with them, we will learn from their life experience and wisdom. And it will make their day!
I love today's story about Bill, the 105-year-old bowler! My favorite part is that even though he can't see the pins anymore, he remembers the pin configuration in his mind. If I were bowling in the lane next to Bill, I would stand to honor him and then watch him beat me!
Think of the stories he could tell. Wonder what his story is?
How can you connect today's scripture (God's Story) to your life?
- First of all, be very honest. How about you and your friends? Do you show respect for the elderly like God's Word teaches?
- Talk to God through prayer right now. Thank Him for His instruction for us to care for and respect the elderly. Pray for one elderly person (other than a relative) you know. Ask God to show you how to encourage this person. Now thank God for your grandparents and remember to pray for them every day.
How can you connect God's Story and your story to others?
- Once a month, help out an elderly person in your neighborhood.
- Write a letter of appreciation and love to your grandparents, even if they live nearby or you see them quite often. They love letters and email. If you don't have living grandparents, do this for another older couple or single.
- In your small group or youth group, develop a plan to reach out and honor the elderly in your community. It might involve visits to a nursing home or the homes of some older folks in your church or community.
27 Jul, 2006
Make Good Choices
TEEN DIES AFTER CAR FULL OF FRIENDS CRASHES
With a good-night message to deliver, Dale Mozena walked out his back door in Kimball, Minn., about 10:30 p.m. Tuesday and over to the large tent where his daughter Krysta, 13, had practically been living this summer.
"[Krysta] said, 'Good night. I love you, Dad,' " Mozena said. "I said, 'I love you, too.' And that was the last that I heard from her."
About sunrise the next morning, Mozena got the news that Krysta had died, not long after she had sneaked out of the tent with a friend and gotten into a car with four other teenagers.
The car, which had been headed south on County Road 35 in nearby Wright County, veered off the road at about 2 a.m., hit an embankment and rolled over at least once in the ditch.
Everyone was taken to area hospitals, and all but Krysta suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Krysta was pronounced dead at Hennepin County Medical Center just after 5 a.m. Wednesday.
"She had a long life ahead of her," her father said.
Authorities had yet to determine exactly why the young people had been out at that time or where they were going. They said they believe alcohol was a factor in the accident, although it was too early to know what, if any, charges would be pursued.
Mozena said he couldn't remember a time when Krysta had sneaked out before.
Since the accident, the father learned that Krysta had met a teenage boy, also in the car accident, a few weeks before and that she was interested in him. He wishes his daughter hadn't made a mistake.
Said Mozena: "It's just a young kid experiencing something different who made a wrong choice."
story courtesy startribune.com, 7/21/06
Proverbs 3:21-26
21 My son, do not lose sight of these—
keep sound wisdom and discretion,
22 and they will be life for your soul
and adornment for your neck.
23 Then you will walk on your way securely,
and your foot will not stumble.
24 If you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
25 Do not be afraid of sudden terror
or of the ruin of the wicked, when it comes,
26 for the Lord will be your confidence
and will keep your foot from being caught. (ESV)
What does today's scripture teach us about our need for Godly wisdom?
First of all, keep in mind that the word "son" does not mean this isn't for girls. (Sorry, ladies, this is one of those cultural deals where the word really does include everyone, even though it wasn't translated this way.)
Wisdom is one of the megathemes of Proverbs. One reason God gave us this book and this passage is because He wants His children to be wise.
Every day we can choose one of two paths. We can be independent, rebellious, or just ignore God and stumble along the path of the fool. Or, we can choose God's way and He will give us wisdom. God's wisdom comes to us through His Word made clear to us through His Spirit living in us.
This is what abiding in Christ is all about. Staying connected to Jesus provides us the Godly wisdom we need to live right, have right relationships, and make right choices.
Please understand that I do not know the spiritual perspective of the teenage girl killed in the car accident, nor am I judging her. But her father said she "made a wrong choice". Heartbreaking. If only she could have made the right choice.
Godly wisdom can be the difference between life and death.
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- Remember that choosing Godly wisdom must be daily. If you find yourself wandering over to the path of "the fool" during the day, then choose God's path of wisdom hourly, every 15 minutes, or....
- Stay on the path of Godly wisdom by staying connected to Jesus through time in His Word, praying, and spending time with others who desire to abide in Christ.
- Keep a written journal. Record your Godly choices and foolish choices. After one month, review your journal to see if you have been walking the path of Godly wisdom.
- Talk to God right now in prayer. Spend a few minutes in complete honesty with Jesus. He will show you where you've been making unwise choices and how to make Godly ones...
How can you connect today's God's Story and your story to others?
- Pray for the family and friends of the girl killed in the car accident. Ask God to give them His loving comfort.
- Pray for your friends or family members who are making wrong choices. Ask Jesus to show them His love and to use you to be an example of Godly wisdom.
- Pray every day for Jesus to give you the courage you need to make Godly choices in front of others who don't know Jesus. Walking the path of wisdom can be very lonely.
25 Jul, 2006
Planning a Picnic in Thirty Years?
Japan plans 30-year supercomputer forecasts
Officials: Earth Simulator will predict all types of inclement weatherA simulation image of a typhoon approaching Japan, created by the Earth Simulator supercomputer. Harnessing the supercomputer, one of the world's fastest, Japan will next year begin 30-year weather forecasts that will predict typhoons, storms, blizzards, droughts and other inclement weather, an official said Tuesday.
Psalm 135:5-7
5 For I know that the Lord is great,
and that our Lord is above all gods.
6 Whatever the Lord pleases, he does,
in heaven and on earth,
in the seas and all deeps.
7 He it is who makes the clouds rise at the end of the earth,
who makes lightnings for the rain
and brings forth the wind from his storehouses. (ESV)
This one is so easy, yet so hard for people to understand. GOD CONTROLS THE WEATHER! It’s not “mother nature”, or “old man winter”, or “the rain gods”, or even your beloved or hated weathercaster on TV.
God is sovereign (in control) over all of nature, meaning that He ultimately directs, preserves, and maintains His creation.
This Truth should remind us that He also has the ultimate control over each of our lives. He loves us so much. Even the detailed parts of His creation (like good weather and bad weather), should remind us of His power in every aspect of our lives. God cares about us. He created us in His image! Trust His purpose and plan for your life.
Where did the smart people who invented a supercomputer to predict weather for next 30 years get their brains? GOD! Do you think He might have a few surprises that won’t be tracked on some software program?
- Ask Jesus to remind you every day that He is in control, not people or technology.
- Keep a written journal where you keep track of how God is affecting the details in your life with Him.
- In your journal, write a thank you note to God, expressing your praise and willingness to trust Him with every part of your life.
- Whenever you watch the weather reports on TV this week or you’re outside feeling the weather, talk to God about His control over nature and your desire for Him to control your life.
- Talk to God right now by letting His Spirit help you know what words to pray….if you’re not sure…just wait and listen….
- Get together with friends and/or family for a picnic. During the meal, bring up today’s story about the supercomputer that Japan is going to use to predict the weather in 30 years. Have everyone check their schedules and plan another picnic in 30 years, but make sure the weather will be good! Seriously, this topic could be lots of fun and it could open up an opportunity for you to share part of your story or part of God’s Story.
- You know how weather is usually just small talk or chit chat when there’s nothing else to talk about? The next time the subject of weather comes up, use it as a way to talk about what you learned in today’s DailyBide.
21 Jul, 2006
Do What I Say, Not What I Do
Beer executive Pete Coors arrested on suspicion of DUI
DENVER (AP) — Do as Pete Coors says, not as he does.
The beer company executive, chief commercial pitcher and former Senate candidate confirmed Thursday he was cited in May for driving under the influence of alcohol.
“I made a mistake,” Coors said in a prepared statement. “I should have planned ahead for a ride. For years, I’ve advocated the responsible use of our company’s products. That’s still my message, and our company’s message, and it’s the right message. I am sorry that I didn’t follow it myself.”
Coors was driving a 2004 Jaguar after leaving a friend’s wedding celebration when he was stopped by a Colorado State Patrol trooper just before midnight May 29. He had rolled through a stop sign a block from his home and was stopped by the officer in his driveway.
Photo courtesy images.google.com & story courtesy cantonrep.com, 7/14/06
Proverbs 23:29-35
29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow?
Who has strife? Who has complaining?
Who has wounds without cause?
Who has redness of eyes?
30 Those who tarry long over wine;
those who go to try mixed wine.
31 Do not look at wine when it is red,
when it sparkles in the cup
and goes down smoothly.
32 In the end it bites like a serpent
and stings like an adder.
33 Your eyes will see strange things,
and your heart utter perverse things.
34 You will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea,
like one who lies on the top of a mast.
35 “They struck me,” you will say, “but I was not hurt;
they beat me, but I did not feel it.
When shall I awake?
I must have another drink.”
(ESV)
What is Solomon’s Godly wisdom on the use of alcohol?
It’s pretty clear isn’t it? (Well at least more clear than the head or eyes of the person that Solomon is describing!)
The bottom line is that with the use of alcohol comes risk and consequences. In fact, today’s passage lists seven consequences of drinking. Can you name three or four without going back and looking?
Alcohol may provide some taste and comfort for awhile…but then what? Anyone who tries to find relief from whatever is wrong with life may find out that there’s now more wrong with life.
In the words of Paul in Ephesians 5:18, “Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, let the Holy Spirit fill and control you.”
Decide to listen to God’s Word rather than the media. Movies, TV, music and ads all promote drinking as the way to experience fun, excitement, better romance, more sex, more friends, and “hot” or “cool” nights, depending on your mood. God wants you to experience His ultimate adventure for you, which comes through the control of the Holy Spirit in you. (This is another way to remember what it means to abide in Christ!)
- If you’ve been struggling with drinking, talk to your youth leader or pastor. If you don’t have one, ask someone who loves Jesus to help you find help.
- Whenever you see a commercial or ad for drinking, pray for the courage to say no to alcohol abuse and pray for the courage to help someone who is struggling.
- Pray right now. If you have been able to say no to the drinking scene, thank God for His strength. If you’ve been struggling with drinking, ask God for the strength and the courage to talk to someone to help you and hold you accountable.
Remember that Mr. Coors had too many of his Coors. Look again at his quote: “I’ve advocated the responsible use of our company’s products. That’s still my message, and our company’s message, and it’s the right message. I am sorry that I didn’t follow it myself.” If we’re going to be messengers of God’s Story to Their Stories, we must live out the message of Jesus, because He has changed our lives.
- Make a list of friends and family who are messing with alcohol or are messed up already. Every day, pray for them to be able to say no and to get help and/or be held accountable. Maybe you’re the one to help and hold them accountable?
- Use this Dailybide as a source for study in your youth group or small group. Some interesting questions to discuss would be: WHY DO Y0U THINK MOST TEENAGERS DRINK? DO YOU SEE MUCH DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE HABITS OF CHRISTIAN AND NON-CHRISTIAN FRIENDS WHEN IT COMES TO DRINKING? WHY? WHY NOT? HOW CAN WE BE LIKE JESUS IN THIS CHALLENGE?
19 Jul, 2006
Extreme Peace for Extreme Days
ISRAELI AIR STRIKES ON LEBANON KILL 42
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Israeli air strikes killed 42 people across Lebanon on Monday, including 10 civilians hit on a southern bridge, on the sixth day of a bombardment that has wreaked the heaviest destruction in Lebanon for over 20 years.
Rescuers also pulled nine bodies from the wreckage of a building in the southern city of Tire that was bombed on Sunday, raising the death toll since Israel's offensive began to 204, all but 14 of them civilians.
The fighting was triggered when Hizbollah, the guerrilla group which is backed by Syria and Iran and is part of Lebanon's government, seized two Israeli soldiers and killed eight in a cross-border raid on northern Israel on July 12.
photo & story courtesy news.yahoo.com, 7/17/06
Psalm 31:21
21 Blessed be the Lord,
for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me
when I was in a besieged city. (ESV)
What does today's scripture teach us about God's love and the peace it brings to His children?
David, the psalmist, received his inspired words from God's Spirit. The context of today's verse is that David is expressing his conviction that God is in control no matter how difficult life's circumstances might be.
Does this mean that God always keeps His children from experiencing stress, harm or death? Obviously not. But it does mean that adversity in life is more bearable when we recognize that we have a personal relationship with the sovereign God. Even when it seems that hard times or enemies are winning, don't panic or lose hope. For those of us who know Christ as our Savior, remember....in the end, we win! Jesus gives us courage today, because our loving Father will save our lives for eternity.
How can we connect today's verse (part of God's Story) to our story?
To help you think about this, please read part of an email I (Byron) received from a missionary friend in Beruit. After you read the email, spend a few mintues in prayer. Listen to Jesus as He shows you how to apply today's verse in your own life....
Dear Friends,
There’s a song by tobyMac that goes, “These are extreme, extreme days. We’re livin’ in extreme days.” You can definitely say that about Lebanon at the present time.
When bombing is happening down in Beirut, I do hear it and I can hear the Israeli jets when the fly over. I was able to see the fires and smoke rising from the airport the last three days. One location destroyed was a bridge that I must use when I do school programs in the Bekaa Valley. So, while I’m not living in the middle of the bombing yet, I am hearing about many places that I am familiar with.
The offensive has virtually shut down the country and landlocked its people. The air and sea ports are closed and the US Embassy is saying to stay put since there’s no way to leave the country right now. There is talk of military evacuations, but no timetable for when.
On Monday we will make a decision on whether we can go ahead and hold our camp which is to start next Friday and for which 96 kids have already registered. Is it too risky to do a camp? Will parents be willing to send their kids? Will the camp location give us the green light to use their facilities considering the circumstances? Will our camp speaker be able to get into Lebanon from Jordan? All of these issues need wisdom and discernment.
Despite all that is going on, I am personally experiencing the peace that passes human understanding. God placed that peace in me when I first came to Lebanon and it’s never left.
Please pray for us and for Lebanon. Pray that God would bring an end to these extreme days. Pray that the advice of cooler heads would be heard around the tables of decision makers who are raging this war. Pray for the believers in this country to remain strong and full of grace as they represent the Lord Jesus.
Always grateful for your prayers,
(name withheld for his protection)
Psalm 31:21 – “Praise the Lord, for he has shown me his unfailing love. He kept me safe when my city was under attack.”
- Pray for peace in the Middle East and for Jesus, the focus of God's Story, to be seen by the world.
- Pray for the youthworker missionary in Beruit...for safety, courage, and wisdom and they continue to share the love of Christ with students who need Jesus.
- As you have conversations with others about the Middle East conflict, look for an opportunity to use the emailed story of the youthworker missionary as a way to talk about the peace that Christ gives you.
17 Jul, 2006
Don't Fall
GIRL TALKS ABOUT CARNIVAL ACCIDENTBreanna Larsen was riding the Zipper carnival ride with her best friend when witnesses said the door opened and the girls tumbled 25 feet to the ground Saturday afternoon in Hinckley, Minn.
On Sunday, Larsen, 14, talked from her hospital bed in Duluth, Minn. about the accident.
"I remember us looking at each other, trying to hang on somehow, but (we) flew out and that's all I remember after that," Larsen said. "I was knocked out ... I didn't know what to think."
Larsen's body is bruised and her broken elbow now has two metal pins holding it in place. Larsen does not remember how she got to the hospital in Duluth, but she knows it could have been much worse.
"I think I do feel kind of lucky because, you know, everyone keeps telling me 'Breanna, you're lucky, you're lucky,'" Larsen said.
Larsen's friend, also 14, is being treated at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis. The girl's name is being withheld, but her aunt said the girl had brain surgery Saturday after the accident, and said the next 72 hours are critical. The aunt said the girl also has a broken back.
Larsen said she had been on the ride about 30 times before. She thought the operator had closed the door correctly.
"I wasn't really worrying about how the door was being shut," Larsen said, but she was thinking the ride was not as safe as it should be.
"I thought it should have seatbelts on the seats, you know, because something like that could have happened to somebody else," Larsen said.
photo & story courtesy rideaccidents.com, 7/10/06
Jude 1:24-25
Doxology
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. (ESV)
According to today's scripture (God's Story), why can we trust God to keep us from "falling"?
God's Spirit gave Jude the words to write in this letter. God wants us to know that we don't have to be afraid of falling prey to false spiritual teachers if we trust Him and keep connected to Jesus (abiding in Christ - John 15).
Jude wrote to people like you and me - they were vulnerable to false "religious" ideas and to temptations to live an immoral lifestyle. Think about our culture. Every which way we look, we are bombarded with spirituality, most of which is from Satan, our enemy, not from God's Holy Word.
The basic philosophy of the secular world is that you should believe anything you want to believe about God, regardless of truth. If your belief is true for you and feels good to you, then you will be happy. If there is life after death, your chances are good.
That sounds like a thrill ride that guarantees you a fall that lasts forever.
Following Jesus every day can be a wild ride but you can be assured that God won't let you fall from His grace. When you receive His forgiveness through Christ's death and resurrection you become one of His children. The Father takes care of His kids! As we abide in Christ, He empowers us to remain faithful no matter the temptations and false teachings that the enemy throws at us. The real thrill of this Christian life ride comes at the end - when we come into Christ's presence forever!
How can you connect today's scripture (God's Story) to your own life?
- Stay buckled up in "the belt of truth" (Ephesians 6:14). Remember how the girl in the carnival ride accident thought they should have been wearing a seat belt? It's the same for us spiritually. God keeps us from "falling" as we remain in Christ. We remain in Christ by knowing and obeying His Truth - God's Holy Word. Is your time in God's Word sort of hit and miss? You need His "seat belt of truth" all the time. If you're spending time with Jesus in His Word every other week, try for weekly. If once a week, try three times a week. Soon, it will be every day, because Jesus knows your struggle and will help you.
- Pray right now for Jesus to help you. Thank Him that because He is the Way, the Truth and the Life, you can count on God's promise to keep you from "falling". Confess any way in which you have recently been trying to "ride" life's ups and downs on your own, rather than with Jesus. Praise Jesus for His promise of you being able to see Him face to face some day, when you will be like Him, and live with Him in everlasting joy!
- If you go on a ride at an amusement park this summer and find yourself spinning around, let Jesus take that moment to remind you of the scriptural truth we looked at today. God won't let you fall!
- Read the book of Jude (it's short) for a deeper understanding of today's scripture.
- You could go to an amusement park and hang out (but don't fall). Seriously, if you've been having any kind of spiritual discussions with someone and you go on a thrill ride together - it would be pretty natural for you to use this as an illustration to share more of your faith story with them.
- Make abiding in Christ (John 15) your constant discipline. As you stay buckled in the seat with Jesus, then connecting to Their Story will be natural, because Jesus is in control of the ride.
14 Jul, 2006
Keep Your Head!
INSULTS PROVOKED ZIDANE TO HEAD-BUTT ITALIAN
In his first, highly awaited comments since the World Cup final, the France captain only partly explained what caused him to head-butt Italy's Marco Materazzi: Repeated harsh insults about his mother and sister.
Relaxed and soft-spoken, Zidane repeatedly apologized to fans - especially to children - in several interviews on Wednesday, three days after the abrupt, violent act prompted his sending off in extra time of the final won by Italy.
The 34-year-old midfielder said he didn't regret the head-butt which marked the end of his 18-year professional career.
Zidane and Materazzi exchanged words after Italy broke up a French attack. Seconds later, Zidane lowered his head and rammed Materazzi in the chest, knocking him to the ground.
Zidane was sent off, reducing France to 10 men. Italy went on to win in a penalty shootout while Zidane - an excellent penalty-taker - was in the locker room.
The act of aggression scarred the end of the World Cup, with many warning it would tarnish Zidane's formidable legacy. He retired after the tournament, and he said his decision was definitive.
President Jacques Chirac has had only kind words for Zidane since the match - reassuring him that France still "admires and loves him." Many in France have already pardoned Zidane. A poll published in Le Parisien newspaper on Tuesday showed 61 percent of the 802 people questioned forgave Zidane.
photo & story courtesy foxsports.com, 7/13/06
Proverbs 16:32
32 Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty,
and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. (ESV)
Having patience is more important than having power, because if you lose your temper, you’ll probably lose your position. Self-control is key to being successful. Anyone who loses control of his or her temper can not continue to be successful in school, at home, or on the job. God intends for us to keep our heads, no matter the situation.
So, it is a personal victory when we control our temper. Whenever you feel so upset that you could “head-butt” someone, remember that losing control may cause you to lose what you want the most.
Just ask the star soccer player who lost the World Cup. Well…if you do, you might want to keep your distance.
- Memorize today’s verse as a reminder to trust God’s Spirit for self-control.
- Read Galatians 5:22-26 for more on this challenge.
- Write down the challenges or circumstances in life that often make you feel angry. Once a week, give this list to Jesus in prayer and experience His control and power at work in you!
- Talk to God right now….thank Him for the power of His Spirit in you. Confess the ways in which you sort of lose control with your emotions. Thank Jesus for His forgiveness and patience to help you get a grip.
- Whenever you see or play soccer, let Jesus remind you that He can help you keep your head.
- This is the most important – if you have lost your head and blown up at someone, go and apologize and ask for forgiveness.
- When someone insults you or blows up at you, keep your head. Respond like Jesus would, because Jesus is living in you. (Hint: the only way this is possible, is if you are abiding in Christ every day. Check out John 15 to really get a grip on this essential truth.)
- Be ready for surprised reactions if you apply the first two ideas – Jesus may use these moments to open up some great conversations.
13 Jul, 2006
United Against Terror
ANNAN, BUSH CONDEMN MUMBAI BLASTS WASHINGTON: United States President George W Bush, United Nations chief Kofi Annan were among several world leaders who expressed outrage over the Mumbai bomb blasts and urged urgent coordinated action against the scourge of terrorism.
Sending his deep condolences to the friends and families of the victims of the "brutal attacks", Bush said the United States stood with India in the war on terrorism.
"Such acts only strengthen the resolve of the international community to stand united against terrorism and to declare unequivocally that there is no justification for the vicious murder of innocent people," he said.
The U N Secretary General Kofi Annan has said that he was "appalled by the brutal and callous bombings" of trains in Mumbai.
In a statement issued through his Spokesman, Annan said that the bombings in Mumbai and the grenade attacks in Srinagar "increase the urgency of coordinated action by all countries to defeat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, committed by whomever, whenever, wherever and for what ever purpose".
Photo & story courtesy timesofindia.indiatimes.com, 7/12/06
1 Peter 5:8-11
8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. (ESV)
What does God’s Word teach us about fighting our spiritual enemy?
In today’s scripture, Peter is warning believers (anyone who knows Christ as Savior and follows Him) to watch out for Satan, the enemy of God and His family. Satan, our worst enemy, is like a terrorist, who can pull a surprise attack at any time, any place, and against anyone.
Have you been feeling alone, weak or helpless, and not hanging out with other followers of Jesus? LOOK OUT!
Maybe you’ve been harassed for your faith in Christ or you’ve been going through some other suffering? BE ON GUARD!
Perhaps you’ve been focused on your own desires? Not spending time focusing on your relationship with Jesus? HIGH ALERT! HIGH ALERT!
Today’s story about the bombings in India is a reminder that terror is on the increase around the world. The United Nations and the US are challenging other world leaders to unite together to fight the war against terror.
There is a spiritual parallel. Satan attacks all followers of Jesus everywhere. We must remember to unite together in praying for each other to be alert and to resist the Devil.
Be encouraged! In Christ, “you are complete through your union with CHRIST. He is the LORD over every other ruler and authority in the universe.” (Colossians 2:10)
How can you connect today’s teaching from scripture to your life in Christ?
- Begin each day by praying for Christ’s protection and victory as you will face attacks from Satan.
- Unite together with other Christ followers by starting an accountability group in your neighborhood, at school, at church or maybe even at your place of work. Get together once a week with at least 2 other Christian friends for the purpose of praying together and helping each other to resist Satan and live for Christ.
- Pray every day for your brothers and sisters in Christ all around the world. Like you, they face attack from our worst enemy – Satan.
- Talk to God right now…..Thank God for His loving protection. Confess any way in which you have been letting your guard down and losing battles to the enemy. If you have been a victim and have suffered in some way for Christ, ask Jesus to give you strength while you trust Him to get you on your spiritual feet again. Praise Jesus that He will give you victory over Satan!
- Whenever you see news reports about the global war on terror, let Jesus use that moment to remind you to unite with His followers and stay alert.
How can you connect your story and today’s God’s Story to others?
- Use today’s devo to encourage other followers of Christ. Share your story with them, by being vulnerable about how you’re doing in facing Satan’s attacks in your life.
- In your ongoing friendships with those who don’t know Christ yet, ask them how they’re doing. Do they have a need or a struggle you could help meet? Depending on their vulnerability, you may have the opportunity to tell more of your story, by being real about how Jesus is helping you face the tough times in your life.
12 Jul, 2006
A Treasure for Pirates
Have you seen the movie? Here's the basic story:
Plot Summary for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Once again thrown into the world of the supernatural, Captain Jack
Sparrow finds out that he owes a blood debt to the legendary Davey
Jones, Captain of the ghostly Flying Dutchman. With time running out,
Jack must find a way out of his debt or else be doomed to eternal
damnation and servitude in the afterlife. And as if this weren't
enough, the Captain's problems manage to wreck the wedding plans of a
certain Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann, who are forced to join Jack on
yet another misadventure.
photo & text courtesy imdb.com
Colossians 2:13-15
13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. (ESV)
Why is this truth like discovering a treasure chest?
Our debt for our sins has been paid in full by Jesus Christ! The
penalty for our sins (eternal damnation and servitude in Hell) was
taken care of by Jesus when He sacrificed His perfect life on the
cross. Christ's resurrection from death proves that He is the Savior.
He offers us a priceless treasure - forgiveness from God the Father!
In a sense, we're all pirates from birth. Every one of us have stolen away the relationship that God intended us to have with Him when He created us. We have sold our soul to hell to gratify our own self-centered desires. Only a blood payment will forgive the debt we owe, because we have broken God's law.
This is where the essence of God's Story comes in - He sent Jesus to rescue us! He frees us from being trapped in a "dead man's chest" of sin. Jesus paid the "blood debt". He invites us to experience true adventure with Him now and forever! Yo ho ho!
- If you have never let Jesus rescue you, now is the time. With time running out, Captain Jack Sparrow had to find a way out of his debt or be eternally doomed. Every breath you take brings you closer to the end of your earthly life and/or Christ's return, whichever happens first. You can open up and receive God's treasure of forgiveness right now by telling Him you want the relationship He offers you....Dear God, I know that my sin has separated me from You. Thank You that Jesus Christ died in my place and rose again to be my Savior. I turn from my sin and trust Jesus to forgive me. Come into my life and lead me. Thank You for giving me a relationship with you forever. In Jesus' name, Amen. If you have received Jesus into your life just now, please contact us so that we can help you learn to follow Jesus every day.
- If you are a follower of Jesus, evaluate if you are living like a "dead man or dead woman" or someone who is alive in Christ? Are you living as a "slave" to your old sinful nature or are you trusting Jesus to give you victory in life's daily battles? Write a note to Jesus that honestly expresses your struggle and your desire to let Him use your new nature to glorify Him.
- For more on the difference between your new life in Christ and your old life, read Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 4:23-24, and Colossians 3:3-15.
- Whenever you see media promo on the new Pirates movie, stop and thank God for His treasure!
- If they are followers of Christ, send them this devo or sit down with them at a computer and look at today's God's Story together. Be real about how Jesus is working on you and in you. Don't try to teach them - just listen.
- If they are not followers of Jesus and you both like movies, go see the new Pirates movie together and then hang out and talk. A simple question to use could be....Did you think there were any spiritual themes or messages in the movie? Remember not to preach. Love and listen....
11 Jul, 2006
Take a Look and Worship
ASTRONAUTS IN SPACEWALK 'BALLET'
TWO space shuttle Discovery astronauts performed a spacewalk "ballet" overnight to repair hardware critical to the completion of the International Space Station, a day after their spaceship was cleared to return home.
Astronauts Mike Fossum and Piers Sellers, who arrived at the ISS last week aboard Discovery with five colleagues, floated up on the ISS to install a spare pump and replace a broken cable reel, according to NASA television images.
Sellers and Fossum, who a day earlier said the spacewalk would be "quite a ballet", moved to another spot on the ISS to install a spare pump module to an external stowage platform.
"Good job guys, slightly ahead of time. It's a pleasure to watch," mission control capsule commentator Julie Payette said from the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas after they placed the pump.
Before replacing the part, the astronauts took a moment to admire the view about 350km above Earth.
"It's like standing in an all-around Imax (3D movie theatre). It's just beautiful," Sellers said.
*Story courtesy news.com.au & photo courtesy images.google.com, 7/10/06
Psalm 19:1-4
The Law of the Lord Is Perfect
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.
19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
2 Day to day pours out speech,
and night to night reveals knowledge.
3 There is no speech, nor are there words,
whose voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them he has set a tent for the sun, (ESV)
What does today's scripture teach us about God's creation and how we should view it?
In this psalm, David is meditating on God's power and our limitations. God's ultimate power is displayed all around us through His incredible handiwork! God's creation is all about His Space, not myspace!
When you look at the heavens (sun, moon, stars), you are seeing dramatic proof of God's existence, His power, His love, and His care for you and me. Anyone who says that the universe just happened by chance has their head in outerspace. God's "gihugic" creation and His attention to design and detail just scream out the truth of a Creator Who is personally involved in our lives.
The Discovery astronauts are enjoying a thrill of a lifetime as they walk in space while looking at earth from a far away perspective. God wants us to make a discovery - our daily walk with Him will take on His perspective if we take a look at His creation and worship Him. His power and care are undeniable.
How can you connect God's Story today to your story?
- Talk to God right now about His power and care in your life. Confess the times that you take His creation for granted. Praise Him for His amazing display of His creative power and personal care in your life. Thank Him that His creation reveals the Truth about Him to you and the world.
- Try to take a walk every day when you talk to Jesus about your walk with Him. Take a couple of minutes to look at God's creation and then listen to His Spirit at work in you.
- In your journal, write a daily example of how you are amazed by God's creative power.
- Let the continuing news coverage of the Discovery astronauts remind you to enjoy God's creation and perspective.
How can you connect the truth of today's story and God's story to others who need to know Jesus?
- Remember, that even though the psalmist is telling us that part of God's Story is being told to the world through His creation, we still need to do our part. God's creative handiwork communicates His existence and power, but His story of salvation through Jesus Christ is found in the Bible. Jesus has told His followers to tell God's Story to "the ends of the earth".
- So....pray, show others Christ's love, and listen to their stories. Look for those moments when you can talk about God's creation with others. Look for those moments when you can share your story of how Jesus gave you a personal relationship with the Creator.
10 Jul, 2006
This will make you sick!
WIENER-EATER WINS 6TH STRAIGHT CONTEST!
By VERENA DOBNIK, AP Writer
NEW YORK - A 160-pound wonder from Japan set a new record by devouring a sickening 53 3/4 frankfurters in 12 minutes to win the annual Independence Day hot dog eating competition on Coney Island.
The feat earned Takeru Kobayashi, 27, his sixth straight title in the event, held at the original Nathan's Famous hot dog stand on Brooklyn's seashore.
He broke his own record of 53 1/2 hot dogs, set at the same competition two years ago.
Thousands of raucous spectators jammed the streets in front of the hot dog stand, a block from the famed Coney Island boardwalk, to watch the competition and Kobayashi — a top-ranked eater who once ate 17.7 pounds of pan-seared cow brains to win $25,000.
His strongest competition was Joey Chestnut, a 220-pound civil engineering student from San Jose, Calif., who set an American record by eating 50 hot dogs during a qualifying tournament in Las Vegas.
photo & story courtesy news.yahoo.com, 7/4/06
Proverbs 23:19-21
19 Hear, my son, and be wise,
and direct your heart in the way.
20 Be not among drunkards
or among gluttonous eaters of meat,
21 for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty,
and slumber will clothe them with rags. (ESV)
What do you think today's scripture is teaching us?
That hot dogs are bad for you? Yes, they may be processed and unhealthy, but I think if Jesus were walking planet Earth today, He would love to come to your place for some hot dogs and onions on the grill!
Actually, I think there are several truths for us to think about: God has a path that He wants His children (Christ's followers) to stay on.
Overeating is a problem, just like drinking too much.
Getting drunk and being a glutton are signs of a lack of discipline, which lead to poverty, which is more than just a lack of resources - it's being bankrupt of the peace that comes with being on the right course with God.
- Be honest with yourself and God (even though He already knows your real story) about anything in your life that shows a lack of discipline. It might be food, drinking, or____________?
- Be careful about judging others. Teenagers and alcohol is a serious problem, but let's remember that way too often, food is the "fix" or "party" for many of us who follow Jesus.
- In your journal, write down anything that is getting you off of God's path. Let Him help you make needed changes.
- Whenever you eat hot dogs this summer, let it remind you of the truths in today's scripture.
Talk to God right now... Thank Him for the right course He has for you... for His Spirit to give you the discipline you need to stay on it... confess any struggle you are having with food or alcohol... ask Jesus to build intimacy into your life so that you will be satisfied in Him and Him alone.
- Invite them over to your place and grill lots of hot dogs! Seriously, always look for the opportunity to deepen your relationships. Jesus often hung out with people and got to know them while they ate together.
- Use the hot dog eating contest story as a conversation starter with your friends. Ask them what they like to fill up on or what makes them sick when they do? Then, do a gentle nudge with their thinking and ask them what fills their heart or soul? This may be an opportunity for your to share part of your story. You can talk about how you have discovered that only Jesus can really satisfy your soul.
6 Jul, 2006
Look at that Tree
June 28, 2006—An elderly White House resident is among the casualties of the massive rains that struck the mid-Atlantic U.S. this week.
A century-old elm tree planted by President Theodore Roosevelt toppled over (left) onto the curving driveway of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue on Monday, according to the Reuters news agency.
The tree, which stood near the north door to the residential part of the White House, caused no structural damage. It was removed and sent to the chipper the following day.
The north lawn of the White House and its elm trees have been featured on the reverse side of the U.S. 20-dollar bill since 1929. ~ Nancy Marion (Photo & story courtesy news.nationalgeographic.com)
Colossians 1:19-20
19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. (ESV)
Why is the cross of Christ the most famous tree ever?
Without Christ’s cross, God’s Story would not have a happy ending for us. No blood….no forgiveness. No sacrifice….no salvation. No Savior….no hope.
The old tree that fell by the White House last week was very historic and famous. It was pictured on a twenty-dollar bill. It’s gone.
The old tree that Christ died on is still a picture of life. Jesus’ blood paid the bill for our sin. His cross provides a way to God’s house.
How can you apply today’s part of God’s Story to your life?
If you have never received the gift of forgiveness made possible through Christ’s death and resurrection, tell God right now that you want Jesus to forgive you and take over your life. Let Him know that you are willing to follow Jesus and live for Him. (If this is you, contact us at the 3Story site so we can help you get started in your new relationship with God).
If you are a follower of Jesus already, grab a picture representing Christ’s cross off the internet and use it as your wallpaper for a month to remind you to reflect every day on Christ’s sacrificial love for you.
Pray right now… God, I praise you for the wonderful cross of Jesus. I don’t deserve such love and forgiveness, but your grace is so amazing! Help me not to take Christ’s cross for granted, but let your Spirit cause me to remember the most famous tree ever, every day.
How can you connect today’s story, God’s Story, and your story of faith with someone who needs Jesus?
Pray every day for the loving heart and listening ears of Jesus. Pray that Jesus will show you who to reach out to with the truth of today’s devo.
Use the story today about the White House tree to start a conversation with this friend about Christ’s “tree”.
5 Jul, 2006
Fireworks Yesterday. Tears Today.
2 Chronicles 7:14
14 if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. (ESV)
After a time of worship and dedication, the LORD appeared to Solomon to tell him the conditions for His people to experience His forgiveness. God was promising His people His blessings if they would follow His plan for them.
Our country has been greatly blessed by God, but Israel was God's chosen people. 2nd Chronicles 7:14 was written for Israel, but 1st Peter 2:9 says that those of us who follow Jesus Christ are also God's people! So, as "God's people", we should apply the instructions in 2nd Chronicles 7:14 in our own lives. We should also use the truth of this verse to pray for America, because it's obvious that our country, as great as it is, has drifted away from God and is in need of forgiveness and spiritual revival.
If we’re honest, we will admit that the problems in America begin with each of us. We must personally respond to God’s Story by getting right with God and then modeling a life of following and abiding in Jesus to those around us. Imagine if every follower of Jesus lived out the truth of today’s scripture! Maybe God’s plan is for you – the young people of America – to lead the way?
- For yourself and for America, pray that we would....
- HUMBLE ourselves before God
- ADMIT to God our need for Him to forgive us for our sins
- SEEK Him continually
- TURN from our sinful behavior
- Finish by thanking and praising Him for His blessings on you and our country.
- Pray for our country every day for one month. Watch how God uses your prayers. Write a list of ways that God has blessed America and save it as a reminder to keep praying for our nation.
- Memorize 2nd Chronicles 7:14 as a reminder to pray for America.
Remember that the best way to connect your story and God’s Story to Their Story is to start by praying for others and then learning Their Story. When the subject of America’s problems come up or political issues get personal, look for those moments when you can talk about personal needs rather than what is “politically correct”.
4 Jul, 2006
"Dependence" Day Celebration!
As the DCLA 3Story Event ends today in Washington DC, over 12,000 students will celebrate with fireworks on the Washington Mall along with about a million people!
Joshua 24:14-15
Choose Whom You Will Serve
14 “Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. 15 And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (ESV)
Today's scripture is the story of Joshua challenging the Israelites to choose to always honor, obey and serve God. Though they talked like they would always follow God, they soon started worshiping other "gods" and idols. As a result they faced God's judgment. ?
When our country was first founded, our leaders declared a dependence on God. Now our culture is following many other "gods" and idols.
We have the incredible privilege of celebrating our nation’s birthday today, but God wants us to stop declaring our independence from Him and live in dependence on Him in every way.
The best way we can connect to God’s Story in today’s scripture is to daily declare a personal dependence on God. Each of us must choose between living for ourselves or for Jesus Christ.
Make a written list of how you practice independence from God and confess it to Him. Keep it where you will see it every day for the next month. Let Jesus make the necessary changes. As you abide in Him, He will abide in you. Depending on Jesus will become a great habit!
If you see fireworks tonight, thank God for your freedom in America and pray that she will come back to a dependence on God.
Pray…..God, thank you for our freedom in this country. Thank you for the freedom from sin you have given me. I confess the ways I have been living in independence from you. Jesus, help me to stay connected to you every day…that’s when the real “fireworks” will be displayed to this world! Amen….
When you go see fireworks tonight, do all the “oohs and aahs”, but you might have an interesting conversation with someone by asking them:
- Do you think God is watching fireworks? How many?
- What do you think God wants from us – independence or dependence?
