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26 Jan, 2007
Super in the spotlight!
Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith are shining out the Light.
Super Bowl Coaches Dungy, Smith, Known For Christian Testimony  MIAMI (BP)--Super Bowl XLI will feature two teams making their first super game appearance in two-plus decades, two Midwestern teams separated by only a couple hundred miles, but most importantly two coaches who are strong believers in Jesus Christ.
Head coaches Tony Dungy of Indianapolis and close friend and fellow Christian Lovie Smith of Chicago gave credit to God following their respective teams' victories in the conference championships Jan. 21.
“The Lord set this up in a way that no one would believe it,” Dungy said following the Colts' win over New England. “The Lord tested us a lot this year, but He set this up to get all the glory.”
The news that two witnesses for their personal faith in Jesus Christ would have a two-week international spotlight for their beliefs thrilled Christian leader William Pugh, executive director of sports ministry Athletes in Action, a branch of Campus Crusade for Christ.
“We are so excited to see the Bears and Colts in the Super Bowl,” Pugh, a close friend of both head coaches, said. “We could not have picked two better coaches to represent all that is good about sports.”
Smith is in his first tenure as a head coach and hasn’t had the public opportunities to share his faith like Dungy, but he has told the Chicago media he believes in Christ, listens to Christian music when driving his car and does not smoke, drink or curse. “I’m so happy for Lovie who does things the right way, without cursing and shows things can be done differently,” Dungy said of Smith. “We give God all the credit.” Dungy has served as the cover spokesman for a special Super Bowl witnessing video and tract. Several of his players, including star tight end Dallas Clark, put out a special faith-based DVD titled "Power to Win" about their faith in Christ and their need to honor Him in all that they do.
While the media will concentrate on the game itself, the men in charge of leading their teams to the big game plan on sharing the most important things in their life, something that has nothing to do with runs or passes or even the final score. story courtesy bpnews.net & art sticklin, 1/22/07, photos courtesy images.google.com
Matthew 5:14-16 - (NLT) 14You are the light of the world--like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. 15Don't hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all. 16In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. In today's God's Story scripture, what is Jesus teaching us about being like a light in this world? I can't say it any better than the study notes in Tyndale's Life Application Study Bible: If we live for Christ, we will glow like lights, showing others what Christ is like. We hide our light by (1) being quiet when we should speak, (2) going along with the crowd, (3) denying the light, (4) letting sin dim our light, (5) not explaining our light to others, or (6) ignoring the needs of others. Be a becaon of truth - don't shut your light off from the rest of the world. The two coaches in this year's Super Bowl are in the spotlight big time! While their football teams may put on quite a show next week, these guys are showing Jesus to the world.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Praise your Heavenly Father for shining the light of Christ into your life. Confess any way in which you have been hiding the light of Christ in your life. Ask His Spirit to make you willing to humble yourself so that your life will shine out Christ to your world. Review the LAB study notes above and be honest about one way you tend to hide Christ's light. Pray about this every day until you see this part of your life light up! Make it your weekly goal to shine Christ's light toward one person who is in spiritual darkness...this might be a friend at school, at work or a family member.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others? - Pray that God will use coaches Dungy and Smith to impact millions of people who will follow all the Super Bowl stories.
- If you have friends in your storysphere who like sports, ask them if they have seen the media coverage about the faith of the two Super Bowl coaches? Talk about it together and ask for their impression? Listen carefully, because it will help you understand their stories better.
- Use this DAILYBIDE in your small group or youth group discussion this next week. Send it as an encouragement to another friend who is a follower of Jesus.
25 Jan, 2007
Do you want to be a hero?
Mitchell helped rescue his friend and another boy held captive.
Teen of few words gets hero's salute  BEAUFORT, Mo. (AP) Mitchell Hults is a young man of few words. But when it mattered most, he talked late into the night, giving authorities the information they needed to rescue his friend and another boy held captive.
In a matter of days, Mitchell, 15, has gone from a quiet country boy to a teenager hailed as a hero on national television and in his hometown. Mitchell was with classmate Ben Ownby just minutes before Ben disappeared Jan. 8, after getting off their school bus in this rural Missouri community. Mitchell spotted a white pickup fleeing the scene, and his detailed description led police in suburban St. Louis to spot the truck Thursday. A day later, Ben was freed from an apartment where he was held captive. More astonishingly, so was 15-year-old Shawn Hornbeck of nearby Richwoods, who disappeared in the fall of 2002. Their alleged captor, Michael Devlin, 41, was arrested and charged with kidnapping. During a surprise ceremony honoring Mitchell at Union High School Tuesday, investigators said they never could have broken the case without him. "It all comes down to the assistance and support from the public," said FBI special agent Roland Corvington, who helped lead the hunt for Ben. Corvington handed Mitchell an FBI baseball cap, and said the youth's eagle eyes might come in handy again some day. "I hope that as you grow older, you would consider law enforcement as a career option," Corvington said. Mitchell smiled sheepishly. In typical fashion, Mitchell didn't talk a lot during the special assembly. Dressed in a camouflaged jacket and jeans, the only statement he made came from one of his favorite comedians, Larry the Cable Guy. "Git 'er done!" Mitchell cried into the microphone. The crowd of students and teachers in the school gymnasium roared with applause. Mitchell got several standing ovations from the crowd of students, who hollered at the top of their lungs almost every time his name was mentioned. Back at home with his family Tuesday, Ben said he hasn't had a chance to talk to Mitchell,, but he was grateful for his vigilance. "I'm glad for the description he got of that truck," Ben said with a smile. Mitchell said he was amazed his tip led not only to Ben's rescue, but the Shawn. Franklin County Sheriff Gary Toelke said Mitchell's description of the white Nissan pickup was remarkably detailed. Friends and family say that's because Mitchell is a truck fanatic. "He was so accurate in what he told us, we kind of wondered if he made it up," Toelke said. "So we interviewed him until about 2 in the morning. He got to know us pretty well." Mitchell's parents, Michael and Sheri, said all the attention has been a little overwhelming. The phone has been ringing off the hook and Mitchell has done numerous television interviews. Mitchell isn't too long winded when it comes to talking about his role in bringing the boys back home. Has he had a chance to think about the impact of his actions? "It's all going on. It's crazy." Does he think he might go into law enforcement, as Corvington suggested? "I might." How does it feel to be hailed as a national hero? "Good." photo courtesy AP & story semissourian.com/news, 01/16/07
Hebrews 11:1
By Faith
11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:32-40
32 And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets— 33 who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 34 quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. 35 Women received back their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. 36 Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. 37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated— 38 of whom the world was not worthy—wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
39 And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, 40 since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the quality needed to be a hero in God's sight? Hebrews 11 has often been called the Bible's "Hall Of Fame". The names listed have one quality in common - FAITH IN GOD! These heroes were not super in their own right, but only because they trusted the supernatual God to lead them and empower them! Basically they were ordinary people doing extraordinary acts because their faith pointed to the Almighty God! Our world today is in need of God's kind of hero. It needs to see ordinary people letting God do something extraordinary through them... ...like 15-year-old Mitchell who proved that you don't even have to talk much to rescue a friend. It starts with faith. Within ourselves, we don't have what it takes. We must ask God to give us the faith we need to be able to believe Him for Who He is and what He wants to do in our lives and through our lives.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? - Read Hebrews 11:1-31 for more stories of God's "heroes".
- Pray every day for God to help you live by faith.
- Spend a couple of minutes in prayer.... Thank God for the stories of faith He has provided in His Word. Ask Him to use these examples to show you how to live by faith. Thank Him and praise Him for the extraordinary ways He has worked in your life. Let Him know that you're willing to honor Him by serving Him even in the "ordinary" details of life.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to the lives of others? - Remember that this whole 3Story way of living will become more and more natural for you as consistently make yourself available to our extraordinary God. He will lead you into opportunities to build relationships with people who need to know Jesus. Focus on knowing Jesus and you'll get to know Their Story.
- Look for a weekly opportunity to be a "hero" in someone's life by helping them in some way that seems very ordinary to you. Your faith in God may seem quite extraordinary to them!
- Use today's story about Mitchell helping rescue the kidnapped boys to have a conversation with someone in your storysphere who needs Jesus. Ask if they heard about Mitchell's story? Ask if they ever think about the idea that everyone in life is in need of being rescued? Listen....remember that you don't even have to talk very much to help rescue someone.
22 Jan, 2007
Does anyone wanna be like Mike now?
Basketball yes....marriage no.
 Michael Jordan and Wife File for Divorce
Michael Jordan's wife, Juanita, have filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences after 17 years of marriage. The couple met at a Chicago restaurant during his second season with the Bulls and were married Sept. 2, 1989, in Las Vegas. They have three children: Jeffrey, 18, Marcus, 16, and Jasmine, 14. The Jordans, who have lived separately since February, will share custody of their children, according to court documents. "The co-petitioners acknowledge that although their marriage is ending, they desire to resolve all of the issues surrounding the dissolution of marriage in the most amicable, expeditious and private fashion possible, for the benefit of themselves and their children," the documents read. Jordan is one of the richest athletes in the world. He was paid more than $30 million in his final season with the Chicago Bulls. Jordan, a part-owner of the Charlotte Bobcats, led the Bulls to six NBA titles and was a five-time league MVP. photo courtesy images.google.com & story digg.com, 01/12/07
Matthew 19:3-12 - (NLT) 3Some Pharisees came and tried to trap him with this question: "Should a man be allowed to divorce his wife for any reason?" 4"Haven't you read the Scriptures?" Jesus replied. "They record that from the beginning `God made them male and female.' 5And he said, `This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.' 6Since they are no longer two but one, let no one separate them, for God has joined them together." 7"Then why did Moses say a man could merely write an official letter of divorce and send her away?" they asked. 8Jesus replied, "Moses permitted divorce as a concession to your hard-hearted wickedness, but it was not what God had originally intended. 9And I tell you this, a man who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery--unless his wife has been unfaithful." 10Jesus' disciples then said to him, "Then it is better not to marry!" 11"Not everyone can accept this statement," Jesus said. "Only those whom God helps. 12Some are born as eunuchs, some have been made that way by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone who can, accept this statement." What does today's God's Story scripture tell us about Jesus' teaching on the life issue of marriage and divorce? The answer to this question is pretty obvious isn't it! In our culture, divorce is not only legal and accepted, but expected by most people. But Jesus makes it very clear that marriage is to be a lifetime commitment. Jesus explained that God permitted divorce in Moses' day because of the people's hard hearts. God led Moses to set up some laws to help the victims of divorce, especially women who needed protection in the culture of that day. Jesus also explained that divorce is permitted when one spouse is unfaithful to the other. For years, kids wanted to be like Mike, because he was probably the best basketball player to ever play the game. But Michael Jordan's talents, riches, and fame were not the answer to the question of how to have a successful marriage. What is the answer? Be like Jesus.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Pray right now...thank God for His plan for marriage. Thank Him for His Word which gives clear instructions for a successful marriage. Thank Him for His Holy Spirit which alone can provide the power and unconditional love that couples need to experience the beauty of a lifetime commitment. Pray for your parents' marriage and the marriage of others you know. Pray every day for God to help you keep His Holy command on marriage in mind as you consider and experience relationships with the opposite sex. Ask God to help you trust Him with whatever His plan is for you and a potential marriage partner in your future. During the next month, write down the number of times you see a "marriage doesn't really matter" attitude in songs, movies, and on television. Write down any examples you see in people around you of God's perspective on commitment in marriage. At the end of the month, write down the lessons you learn.
How can you connect today's story, God's story scripture, and your story to others? Whenever you are with friends who need Jesus and the topic of marriage comes up in music, movies, television, or in the news, ask them what they think about marriage? Ask them why they think Michael Jordan and his wife couldn't work out their differences? Ask Jesus to help you share His perspective on His Truth about marriage and divorce.
17 Jan, 2007
"Happyness" or joy?
What would Will Smith say about Philippians 4:11-13?
The Pursuit of Happyness  Set in San Francisco in the wealth-obsessed 1980s, The Pursuit of Happyness (the misspelling is addressed in the film) tells the true story of Chris Gardner (Will Smith), a salesman striving to support his family by selling high-tech bone-density scanners, into which he ill-advisedly poured his life savings, to doctors who are less than interested.
When his wife Linda (Thandie Newton) walks out leaving Chris to support their five-year-old son Christopher (Jaden Smith), things take a turn for the worse and father and son are evicted from their home and forced on to the streets where they spend their nights in homeless shelters and public restrooms.
Inspired to try his luck at becoming a stockbroker in a bid to secure a better life for his son, Chris talks his way into a competitive six-month internship at Dean Witter. The trouble is there is no pay and only one of the 20 students on the programme is offered a permanent job at the end.
With a son to take care of, no income and no home, the odds are stacked against Chris as he toils to finish his work before his fellow students so he can pick up his son from the day care centre in time to queue for a place in the local shelter. But in this inspiring tale of triumph against adversity he somehow manages to pull through and finally find his own happiness.
Action hero Will Smith leaves the guns and fast cars behind to star alongside his own son, seven-year-old son Jaden, in what is by far his most conservative film so far. Famed for his previous roles in movies such as Independence Day and Men in Black, Smith delivers a beautiful and understated performance that proves he can do more than just action and comedy.
photo & story courtesy inthenews.co.uk, 01/12/07
Philippians 4:11-13
11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about how to experience joy even when we don't feel happy? The apostle Paul understood and lived out an amazing truth about abiding in Jesus Christ. Happiness is based on experiencing good circumstances, but joy is what we have through Christ in spite of life's circumstances. Paul was content in any circumstance he faced because he could see life from God's point of view. The key was to draw on Christ's power for strength whether he had plenty or whether he was in need. Paul was full of joy, because his perspective was, "I'll trust God, no matter what." In the movie, The Pursuit Of Happyness, Will Smith's character demonstrates incredible inner strength to keep striving in the middle of awful circumstances.
For you and me, the only way to be sure we have inner strength is through abiding in Jesus continually. In Christ, we can be full of joy even when we don't feel happy. How about you? No matter what life's circumstances you face, can you trust Christ to give you His joy?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Confess to your heavenly Father any way in which you need to admit discontent. If you struggle with often wanting more, ask His Spirit to remove that desire and give you contentment in all circumstances. Thank Him for loving you, meeting your needs, and providing lasting joy! This next week, every time you feel unhappy, stop and ask yourself why? If it's about some expectation that isn't being met, pray for strength to face your disappointment and get ready for God's joy.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others? Go see the movie, The Pursuit Of Happyness, with some friends or family members who need to know Jesus. In the conversation following the movie, you will not only learn more about their stories (and view of happiness), but you will probably find it easy to talk a little bit about your story in Christ. Explain the difference between "happyness" and joy.
10 Jan, 2007
Winning one for eternity!
A new champion is thinking about another kind of glory.
Something more important than football for this national champion
Florida QB Tim Tebow makes a final TD near the end of the game in Florida's victory over Ohio State with a score of 41-14. (Bill Ingram/The Post)
Getting to the heart of what matters in life Tim Tebow, quarterback/running back for the Florida Gators had a huge game on Monday for the new college football champions! Tebow scored one touchdown and threw for another to help Florida win the national championship in his freshman season. Tebow was home-schooled, yet he was allowed to play football for his local high school. His parents are missionaries to the Philippines. At the beginning of this championship season, Tim Tebow was asked about the most important part of his life and his response was: "Winning games is great, but that doesn’t last because there’s always another ballgame. When you win a soul for Christ, though, that’s for all eternity." photo courtesy palmbeachpost.com & text sportspectrum.com, 01/09/07
Psalm 115:1
To Your Name Give Glory
115:1 Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory,
for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness! (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about bringing honor and glory to God? Here's some insight from Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes: 115:1 The writer asked that God's name, not the nation's, be glorified. To often we ask God to glorify his name with ours. For example, we may pray for help to do a good job so that our work will be noticed. Or we may ask that a presentation go well so we will get applause. There is nothing wrong with looking good or impressing others; the problem comes when we want to look good no matter what happens to God's reputation in the process. If we do everything in humility, knowing that we owe everything to God, He will be glorified whether or not we win or become the best at anything. Right now, Tim Tebow, who is getting lots of glory for his big game in winning a national championship, understands that the ultimate glory must always go to God.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Praise God for His unfailing love and faithfulness! Thank Him for gifting you and giving you the privilege of honoring Him with your actions and abilities. Confess any way in which recently you may have been seeking glory for yourself. Ask Jesus to use you every day to bring honor and glory to God. Pray every day for a Christ-like humility in all that you say and do, so that your life will honor and glorify God. Memorize today's verse as a way to remember to live your life every day so that God will be glorified through you.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others? - Remember to tell God every day that you want to honor Him with the opportunities He gives you to demonstrate your talent and abilities. This might be at school, in sports, in the arts, at your job....
- Use today's DAILYBIDE to encourage other followers of Jesus to honor God with their abilities and actions.
- Remember Tim Tebow's words about what's really important for eternity. Let this motivate you to learn the stories of others and make the connections to your story and God's Story.
- Pray for Tim Tebow to use wisdom and discernment in his life as his championship status will now highlight all of his actions and words.
8 Jan, 2007
Looking good!
Find out how you can always wear the right thing!
Fashion Trends for 2007 
Looking forward in fashion is looking back in time - this is exactly how we feel and what happens in fashion too. We are looking for a new balance in a confused world. History is our new toy for inspiration.
This (fashion) world is overflooded with look-alikes, which are earlier on the market than the originals, and which give more and more power to only a few players. It is time for a moment of resignation, a fashion pause instead of real innovation, to go deeper instead of going one step further, to see a more contemplative vision than quick trends, cults and hypes. The memory fever, the nostalgia trend of today, we have to take it serious. Just like in politics, a neo-conservative wave of ‘good old values, norms, discipline, class and style’ is clearly visible in fashion too. Chanel’s motto inspires us now: Style is never out of fashion! photo & text courtesy dorlastan.com, 01/02/07
Colossians 3:10-14
10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. 11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.
12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. (ESV)
After reading today's God's Story scripture, why do you think Paul's words are like telling us to "clothe ourselves with a brand new nature"? Think about it this way - is there a designer label you like to wear? Our loving God, the master designer, has a clothing line for His children to wear. The look is not seasonal or trendy, just holy. According to Paul, it means that our actions should match our faith. If we claim to follow Christ, our "look" should be like Jesus. This means that we won't always be in style with this world. Christ-like clothing will not match the world's "look", but Jesus calls us to make a fashion statment. Besides, why not start a new trend?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Thank God for the new nature He has given you through your faith in Jesus Christ. Ask God's Spirit to daily help you clothe yourself with Christ's holy wardrobe. Memorize Colossians 3:10 as a reminder of what to wear every day. In today's passage, Paul mentions 7 items of Christ-like clothing. Pick out the one you have trouble "fitting into" right now and make it a daily prayer focus until you look Godly in it.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others? - This next week, every time you stand in front of your closet trying to decide what to wear, briefly pray for Christ-like character. Jesus will use these moments to make you very aware of His presence when you are learning the stories of people around you.
- Since the topic of clothes comes up in conversation almost every day, trust Jesus to show you when to use this as an opportunity to talk about the new wardrobe God has given you - it's part of God's Story and your story.
5 Jan, 2007
Be careful where you hang out!
Wrong place at the wrong time?
Williams dies after limo is sprayed with bullets 
DENVER -- Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams was killed early Monday when his white stretch Hummer was sprayed by bullets after a nightclub dispute following a New Year's Eve party. Police have no motive and no indication the 24-year-old Williams, a former Oklahoma State star, was targeted in the drive-by shooting of the limousine. The burst of violence occurred hours after the Broncos were eliminated from playoff contention. A little after 2 a.m., the limousine was fired on from a vehicle that pulled up along its side, hitting three people, police spokesman Sonny Jackson said. He stated that there was a dispute at a nightclub several blocks from the shooting where Williams and his group had attended a party. The club -- variously called Shelter or Safari -- is on the second floor of a building in a once-seedy stretch south of downtown that has a growing number of trendy bars, clubs and restaurants. Anthony Criss, Williams' high school football coach in Fort Worth, Texas, said: "When he was younger, he always gravitated to the wrong crowd. I remember he went to church and the minister was talking to him about needing to pray and stop hanging around with the wrong people, and he started straightening up and doing the right thing." In December, Williams spoke of returning to his hometown this offseason to talk to youngsters about staying out of gangs. Williams, who has two young children in the Fort Worth area, recently talked to Criss about establishing a free football camp for youth players. "He wanted to be a good parent, a good father, a good example for his kids," Criss said. "He will be missed." photo & story courtesy espn.go.com, 01/02/07
Proverbs 4:13-17
13 Keep hold of instruction; do not let go;
guard her, for she is your life.
14 Do not enter the path of the wicked,
and do not walk in the way of the evil.
15 Avoid it; do not go on it;
turn away from it and pass on.
16 For they cannot sleep unless they have done wrong;
they are robbed of sleep unless they have made someone stumble.
17 For they eat the bread of wickedness
and drink the wine of violence. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about hanging out with the wrong crowd? My heart goes out to the family of Darrent Williams. I don't know where his heart was at spiritually the night of his murder, but it's pretty obvious that Darrent Williams would still be alive if he had not been partying at that club in Denver on New Year's Eve. The wrong crowd, wrong place, and wrong time, all led to a wrong ending to a young man's life. If Darrent Williams had read today's scripture and applied it on December 31, the rest of his story would be very different. Read carefully the study notes from Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE: 4:13-17 Even friends can make you fall. It is difficult for people to accept the fact that friends and acquaintances may lure them to do wrong. Young people want to be accepted, so they would never confront or criticize a friend for wrong plans or actions. Many other people can't see how their friends' actions could lead to trouble. While we should be accepting of others, we need a healthy skepticism about human behavior. When you feel yourself being heavily influenced, proceed with caution. Don't let your friends cause you to fall into sin. If you go to the wrong places with the wrong people to do the wrong things, you may not get killed, but you will be missing God's best.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Thank God for the simple, but practical Truth of His Word. Confess any way in which you have been straying down the wrong path with the wrong crowd. Thank Jesus for His forgiveness. Ask His Spirit to give you the courage to walk with Him every day rather than giving in to wrong influences. Memorize Proverbs 4:14-15 to help you remember and apply today's important truth from God's Word. In your journal, keep a written weekly evaluation of whether you are being more influenced by friends, or if you are having a Godly influence on them?
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others? - Pray for the family (especially his two little children) of Darrent Williams to experience God's love and comfort and hope for the future.
- Pray that God will use this tragic story to affect the many teenagers whose life stories are at a dangerous edge.
- Use this story of Darrent Williams to talk with your friends about making good choices. This may lead to them asking you why? Let Jesus help you make the 3 story connection.
- Use this DAILYBIDE as a topic for study and discussion with your youth group or small group.
4 Jan, 2007
Does death mean goodbye forever?
For followers of Jesus, there are no final farewells to each other.
Family, Friends, Bid Former President Ford Farewell 
The family and friends of President Gerald Ford bid farewell to the former chief executive last Friday, in the first of a series of memorial services. Mr. Ford, the 38th US president, died last week at the age of 93. Five days of commemorations began in California, near Mr. Ford's retirement home. President Ford's casket arrived mid-day at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church in the town of Palm Desert, where Mr. Ford and his wife worshipped. A military honor guard led the procession into the church, as a clergyman received the casket. "With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our brother, Gerald, for burial," said the minister presiding over the service. Mrs. Ford and her family took part in a private prayer service. Then, close friends and guests arrived for a visitation, and later in the day, the church would open to members of the public.  Saturday, the casket was flown to Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, and arrived at the U.S. Capitol early evening. The body lay in repose in the Capitol, in recognition of Mr. Ford's long service as a congressman, followed by an evening funeral in the Capitol rotunda. President Bush declared Tuesday a day of national mourning, and funeral services were held that day at Washington's National Cathedral. President Ford was buried near his presidential library in Grand Rapids, Michigan, following a final memorial service onWednesday. Mr. Ford represented the Michigan district in Congress for 25 years. pictures & story courtesy voanews.com, 12/29/06
Romans 8:35-39
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written,
“For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (ESV)
Why is today's God's Story scripture so comforting for anyone who is a follower of Christ? Paul says that God promises His children (those who have trusted Jesus Christ as their Savior) His ongoing presence. All of us who are followers of Christ face some hardships in life. It might be illness, suffering, persecution for our faith in Christ and for some around the world - imprisonment! The final hardship is death, BUT (this is one of the most powerful words in Scripture!) it is impossible to be separated from Jesus Christ! His death and resurrection for us proves His ultimate power which means that He keeps all of His promises to us. The Heavenly Father gives this promise of unending love to us so that we will feel secure in Him. His children are assured of eternity in Heaven. There's no need to be afraid. ARE YOU ONE OF GOD'S CHILDREN? THIS IS DIFFERENT FROM BEING ONE OF GOD'S CREATION. If you are, there's no need to say farewell to another believer. We can grieve with hope and say, "See you later!"
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? - Thank God for His love which never fails. Thank Him for His promise to never let you be separated from His love for you.
- Memorize Romans 8:39 to make this eternal hope in Christ a permanent part of your thinking and feelings.
- If you have never trusted Christ to be your personal Savior, you can do so right now. Simply admit to Him that your sin separates you from Him. Let Him know that you believe Jesus died on the cross and rose again from the dead to pay the penalty for your sins. Trust Him to be your Savior and take over the controls of your life. (Be sure to contact us at 3Story.org so that we can pray for you and send you some materials to help you grow in your relationship with Jesus.)
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others? - Pray for comfort for the family and friends of President Ford.
- Thank God that you don't have to fear death or the loss of someone who knows Jesus as Savior. Ask Jesus to show you how to share this incredible hope with others who need to know what God offers beyond the grave.
- The next time you are connected as a friend or family member to someone who dies, ask Jesus to give you a caring attitude, listening ears and the right words as you may have the opportunity to make a 3Story connection. Remember that when others see your love and perspective, they may ask you about the source of your hope.
- Though most of you as readers are too young to remember President Ford, you may have conversations with others about how there were 5 day's worth of ceremonies to honor him in death. You might use this as an opportunity to tell others that an earthly farewell is nothing compared to the Heavenly welcome for anyone who is a follower of Jesus.
3 Jan, 2007
Justice for Saddam
Saddam Hussein will face another judgment day.
Saddam Hussein dies on the gallows
Baghdad — Saddam Hussein struggled briefly after American military guards handed him over to Iraqi executioners. But as his final moments approached, he grew calm. He clutched a Quran as he was led to the gallows, and in one final moment of defiance, refused to have a hood pulled over his head before facing the same fate he was accused of inflicting on countless thousands during a quarter-century of ruthless power. A man whose testimony helped lead to Mr. Hussein's conviction and execution before sunrise said he was shown the body because "everybody wanted to make sure that he was really executed." "Now, he is in the garbage of history," said Jawad Abdul-Aziz, who lost his father, three brothers and 22 cousins in the reprisal killings that followed a botched 1982 assassination attempt against Saddam in the Shiite town of Dujail. U.S. President George W. Bush said in a statement issued from his ranch in Texas that bringing Mr. Hussein to justice "is an important milestone on Iraq's course to becoming a democracy that can govern, sustain and defend itself, and be an ally in the war on terror." But people in the Sunni-dominated city of Tikrit, once a power base of Mr. Hussein, lamented his death. "The president, the leader Saddam Hussein is a martyr and God will put him along with other martyrs. Do not be sad nor complain because he has died the death of a holy warrior," said Sheik Yahya al-Attawi, a cleric at the Saddam Big Mosque. picture & story courtesy globeandmail.com, 12/30/06
1 John 4:15-17
15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. 17 By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world.
Ezekiel 33:11
11 Say to them, As I live, declares the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways, for why will you die, O house of Israel? (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture mean when it uses the words, "day of judgment"? Here's the answer from the notes in Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE: 4:17 The day of judgment is that time when all people will appear before Christ and be held accountable for their actions. With God living in us through Christ, we have no reason to fear this day because we have been saved from punishment. Instead, we can look forward to the day of judgment because it will mean the end of sin and the beginning of a face-to-face relationship with Jesus Christ. No matter how anyone feels about the execution of Saddam Hussein, the truth is that he will now face Christ's judgment. Saddam's false god "Allah" can not save anyone. Saddam is already experiencing the beginning of his eternal separation from God. But if you carefully read the verse from Ezekiel, you know that God is so loving, He takes no pleasure in Hussein choosing Hell rather than Christ. Are you ready for that day of judgment? Are you spreading the Good News so that others will be ready?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? If you know Christ as your Savior, thank God that you don't have to fear the day of judgment. Praise Him for your salvation in Christ, who took your judgment for sin when He died on the cross for you. If you do not know Christ as your Savior, admit to God that your sin keeps you from Him. Receive God's forgiveness at this very moment by trusting Jesus Christ to forgive you and take over your life. Thank Him for giving you a relationship with God that will carry you through the day of judgment into an eternal home in Heaven! If you prayed to receive Christ as your Savior, your story has now been connected to God's eternal story. Email us at 3Story.org, so that we can send you some materials to help you grow in your faith in Jesus. - Whenever you hear the word "judgment", let it remind you that you have nothing to fear according to the words of John in today's scripture. Let Jesus empower you to abide in His love every day.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others? - Whenever you see ongoing reports about Saddam Hussein's execution, let God remind you to pray for one person you believe is not ready for the day of judgment. Ask Jesus to give you the opportunity to share your story and God's Story with him or her.
- As you have conversations with others about Saddam's execution and how it affects world events, ask Jesus if the time is right to talk about future events after death. Depend on Jesus to help you communicate His love as you share your story of faith and why you do not fear death or the day of judgment.
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God's Story
is brought to you by Youth for Christ. YFC works with young people on campus and in the community in over one hundred countries around the world so that they might have an opportunity to become a follower of Christ and be a part of a local church.
Our writer, Byron Emmert, has been with YFC for over 30 years and has served as Campus Life Staff, in leadership for DCLA, and as an author and speaker. Byron is available for speaking at youth or adult events and conferences. For booking, write to byron@3Story.org.
Byron and his wife Linda live in Minnesota and their family includes two married sons and daughters-in-law, a grandaughter, and a daughter in college. He loves sports, deep dish pizza, and spending time with his family.
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