3Story.org | God's Story


	31 Oct, 2007 God doesn't "trick or treat" Are you putting on a mask today and going to a costume party? Today, children will change their appearance... ...to get treats picture courtesy images.google.com Isaiah 52:13-15 (NLT) The Lord’s Suffering Servant 13 See, my servant will prosper; he will be highly exalted. 14 But many were amazed when they saw him. His face was so disfigured he seemed hardly human, and from his appearance, one would scarcely know he was a man. 15 And he will startle many nations. Kings will stand speechless in his presence. For they will see what they had not been told; they will understand what they had not heard about. Today, remember that Jesus changed His appearance... ...to give His life so that we could become children of God. Jesus has treated us to His loving grace! There is no trick to getting to Heaven - it's a gift from the loving Holy God. photo courtesy images.google.com How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Take a few minutes to worship our crucified, risen Savior. Thank Jesus for suffering to pay the penalty for your sins. Meditate on the incredible truth that His sacrifice has provided you with complete forgiveness. Praise Jesus for the privilege of abiding in Him now and looking forward to eternal life in Heaven. Write out Isaiah 52:14 in your journal, organizer, school notebook, or on a post-it to stick on your computer as a reminder of what Christ did for you on the cross. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others? When you see children (or yourself) in costumes, let it remind you to be thankful to God that you don't have to hide the real you - to be treated to His grace - He loves and accepts you the way you are. Then ask Jesus to help you take off your "mask" and be real with others. Ask Him to give you the opportunity to share with others how Christ changed His appearance so that we might see and understand God's Story. Permanent Link 30 Oct, 2007 Pumpkin power! Check out the world record for the most lit up pumpkins. Boston holds the record with 30,128 pumpkins! Bostonians are celebrating their latest World Series Championship and they still hold the record for pumpkin lights. In October of 2006, 30,128 pumpkins were lit up on Boston Common, shattering the world record for the most jack-o'-lanterns lit in one place. The old record of 28,952 lit pumpkins had been held since 2003 by Keene, N.H. It took an estimated 100,000 people crowded onto the Boston Common to slice, scoop, and sculpt pumpkins and to savor pumpkin pie and pumpkin soup. photo & story courtesy images.google.com; twincities.com, 10/24/06 Matthew 5:14-16 14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (ESV) What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about being light? Light is very interesting. It is noticed and it shows the way. This is true of a big building full of lights that sits on a hill or of a small candle on a table. And when you put candles inside of 30,128 pumpkins, you set a record and get lots of attention for a city! Regardless of impact, light is something that Jesus said should characterize our lives. Is there anything in your life that is hiding Christ's light in you? Sometimes we hide our light by not speaking up when we should, by going along with the crowd when we shouldn't, by letting sin dim our light, or perhaps by ignoring opportunities to meet the needs of others. How can we be a light in the dark world around us? Remember, we don't have to be a major spotlight or searchlight or even thousands of pumpkins lit up. Just being a candle of God's Truth will be noticed by someone and show them the way. By consistently living out the life-changing Truth of Christ-like love, we are letting a little bit of His light into our world. It could help change someone's life forever! How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? In today's story about the record-setting pumpkin light, did you notice that the participants had to carve and empty the pumpkins before they were filled with candles? Let Jesus help you see how your life may need to be cleaned out by his forgiveness before He replaces it with His light. Ask His Spirit to help you recognize the ways that you may have been hiding your light. Ask Jesus to help you be faithful to the little opportunities He gives you to be a light. Thank Jesus for always being the light to show you your next step in life as you serve Him. Using a Bible study guide (usually in the back), look up ten verses that use light as an analogy for living for Christ and following Him. For one month, write down every opportunity that Jesus gives you to be a light to someone. At the end of the month, evaluate what you have learned and make any needed lighting adjustments. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to the lives of others? Pray every day for Jesus to show you one opportunity to bring His light into some one's life. It might be as simple as a friendly smile at school or at work to someone who is lonely. It could be the affirmation of "way to go" to someone! It could be (you fill in the blank). Have a pumpkin carving party and use it as an opportunity to be Christ's light as you laugh and talk. Write a note of appreciation to another follower of Christ who has been "lighting it up". Permanent Link 29 Oct, 2007 What's your picture of wealth? It may be tossed like trash. Painting Found in Trash Worth $1 Million It’s hardly a place you would expect to find a $1 million painting. But one March morning four years ago, Elizabeth Gibson was on her way to get coffee, as usual, when she spotted a large and colorful abstract canvas nestled between two big garbage bags in front of the Alexandria, an apartment building on the northwest corner of Broadway and 72nd Street in Manhattan. “I had a real debate with myself,” said Ms. Gibson, a writer and self-professed Dumpster diver. “I almost left it there because it was so big, and I kept thinking to myself, ‘Why are you taking this back to your crammed apartment?’” But, she said, she felt she simply had to have the 38-by-51-inch painting, because “it had a strange power.” Art experts would agree with her. As it turns out, the painting was “Three People,” a 1970 canvas by the celebrated 20th-century Mexican artist Rufino Tamayo that was stolen 20 years ago and is the subject of an F.B.I. investigation. Experts say the painting — a largely abstract depiction of a man, a woman and an androgynous figure in vibrant purples, oranges and yellows — is in miraculously good condition and worth about $1 million. On Nov. 20 it is to go on the block at Sotheby’s as one of the highlights of a Latin American art auction. photo & story courtesy news.aol.com, 10/23/07 Ezekiel 7:18-20 (NLT) 18 They will dress themselves in burlap; horror and shame will cover them. They will shave their heads in sorrow and remorse. 19 “They will throw their money in the streets, tossing it out like worthless trash. Their silver and gold won’t save them on that day of the Lord’s anger. It will neither satisfy nor feed them, for their greed can only trip them up. 20 They were proud of their beautiful jewelry and used it to make detestable idols and vile images. Therefore, I will make all their wealth disgusting to them. What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about a Godly perspective on possessions? Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes explain: 7:19 God's people had allowed their love of money to lead them into sin. For this, God would destroy them. Money has a strange power to lead people into sin. Paul said that "the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" (1 Timothy 6:10). It is ironic that we use a gift of God - money - to buy things that separate us from Him. It is tragic that we spend so much money seeking to satisfy ourselves and so little time seeking God, the true source of satisfaction. Someone in New York didn't recognize treasure (the painting) when they saw it and threw it away as trash. Do we take a close look at the "treasures" God has given us? If we're pursuing worldly possessions rather than Godliness we're trashing the relationship and blessings that are part of being a follower of Jesus. If we're willing to let God help us picture His perspective on possessions, we will clearly see that we are rich beyond description. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Thank God for giving you, His child, the treasures of Heaven. Confess any way in which you have been trashing your relationship with Him. For two weeks, keep a written journal of how you spend your time and what you are focusing on each day. Let Jesus use this evaluation to help you see if there are any changes needed? Whenever you hear news reports about the expensive possessions of the wealthy, let Jesus remind you that you're already rich! How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others? Use today's story about the expensive painting found in the trash to start a conversation with others about the pursuit of possessions in this life. If your friend is pretty open to God's Story and your story of faith, you could talk about the fact that though much of the world likes to trash Jesus, you know that He has made you rich. Permanent Link 25 Oct, 2007 Like a fire! Is your tongue out of control? "We Can't Stop It" - Officials all but concede defeat to wildfires as estimated 1 million evacuate SAN DIEGO - Faced with unrelenting winds whipping wildfires into a frenzy across Southern California, firefighters conceded defeat on many fronts Tuesday to an unstoppable force that has chased an estimated 1 million people away. Unless the shrieking Santa Ana winds subside, and that’s not expected for at least another day, fire crews say they can do little more than try to wait it out and react — tamping out spot fires and chasing ribbons of airborne embers to keep new fires from flaring. “If it’s this big and blowing with as much wind as it’s got, it’ll go all the way to the ocean before it stops,” said San Diego Fire Capt. Kirk Humphries. “We can save some stuff but we can’t stop it.” photo & story courtesy msnbc.com, 10/23/07 James 3:5-10 (NLT) 5 In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. 6 And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. 7 People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, 8 but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. 9 Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. 10 And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about our tongues being like a raging fire? Interesting. James compares the damage our tongues can do to a raging forest fire! Maybe this is the basis for "hot gossip or the hot talk"? The problem is that gossip is often like fire - hard to stop! Perhaps James uses the fire metaphor because he says that hell is the source of the tongue's wickedness. When our tongue/mouth/words are not under God's control, Satan uses them to get people upset and hurt. Gossip behind the back or verbal put downs to the face spread hate and destruction very quickly. When we're careless with our words, we can destroy a friendship. When we speak what is not true about someone, we can destroy reputations and lives. Even if we apologize later, the effects have spread like a forest fire out of control. Our talk can be a problem or it can be pleasing to God. What's it going to be for you? How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Talk to God right now. Confess the ways that your words have been so not like Jesus. Ask God's Spirit to give you the faith and discipline you need to abide in Jesus every hour of every day. Thank Jesus that He will help your mouth to be a tool of praise and love rather than a weapon of pain and destruction. Keep a written journal every day for thirty days that records the good and the bad use of your mouth. This exercise may seem like too much work, but Jesus will use it to change your speech patterns for the better - guaranteed! Whenever you see reports about the California fires in the next few weeks, let Jesus remind you to let His power control your tongue. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others? Ask Jesus to help you recognize situations in which you have hurt someone with your words. It might be a friend, someone at school, a co-worker, or a family member. Go to them and apologize and ask for forgiveness. Their response might be anger, pain, or it may be forgiveness, or a combination! No matter what, you will have done the right thing and you may have the opportunity to communicate your story and God's Story without using more words. This one may be just as hard or harder to do. When someone hurts you with words or gossip, don't fight "fire" with "fire". Let Jesus douse your anger, calm your spirit, and help you speak only Christ-like words, which can include no words at all. You will be communicating love rather loudly. Permanent Link 24 Oct, 2007 A consuming fire! The power is undeniable! California fires consume hundreds of homes SAN DIEGO - Walls of wind-whipped flames consumed hundreds of homes across tinder-dry Southern California on Tuesday, and authorities ordered people in more than 350,000 homes to flee the fires. The blazes bedeviled firefighters as fires roared from mountain passes to the edges of the state's celebrated coastline, spreading so quickly that even hotels serving as temporary shelters for evacuees had to be evacuated. Two people have been killed. By day three, the dozen wildfires had burned more than 1,300 homes and businesses, and the destruction may only be the start for the region. With temperatures rising and wind gusts remaining fierce, the flames were proving nearly impossible to fight. Since they began Sunday, the fires have burned at least 373,000 acres, or 583 square miles. Fully a quarter of the California coast was ablaze. Flames climbed halfway toward the Nevada line, chewing through chunks of seven counties and devastating numerous communities. At least 346,000 homes — roughly one in three, according to census data — were ordered to evacuate in San Diego County alone, sheriff's officials said. State officials were still struggling to estimate how many people had fled. photo & story courtesy AP & news.yahoo.com, 10/23/07 Hebrews 12:28-29 (NLT) 28 Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. 29 For our God is a devouring fire. What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the ultimate fire? Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes explain: 12:29 There is a big difference between the flame of a candle and the roaring blast of a forest fire. We cannot even stand near a raging fire. Even with sophisticated firefighting equipment, a devouring fire is often beyond human control. God is not within our control either. We cannot force him to do anything for us through our prayers. He cannot be contained. Yet, he is a God of compassion. He has saved us from sin, and he will save us from death. But everything that is worthless and sinful will be devoured by the fire of his wrath. Only what is good, dedicated to God, and righteous will remain. The consuming fire in California causes people to shake in fear. We need a holy fear of our unshakable God who is like a consuming fire, but full of compassion beyond our understanding. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Spend some time in worship and holy awe of our God...the consuming fire. Write a note to God expressing your love and dedication to Him as He brings a sense of calm to life, which can often seem like a fire out of control. Then throw it in a fire, thanking Him for being the ultimate fire. Whenever you see news stories about the California fires this week, stop and give God a moment of your worship. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others? Every time you see reports of the California fires, stop and pray for those affected and that God will use this to draw people to His love. Use the news stories about the California fires to start conversations about the truth that God is still in control, even when life and circumstances on earth seem out of control. Permanent Link 23 Oct, 2007 Rock on! This is something you've done...but how many times? Pennsylvania man skips stone a record 51 times (not actual photo of competition) FRANKLIN, Pa.—A Pennsylvania man cast a stone that skipped on water a whopping 51 times, shattering the old world record of 40. Russell "Rock Bottom" Byars' feat happened July 19, where the Allegheny River meets French Creek in Franklin, about 70 miles north of Pittsburgh. He estimated his stone traveled about 250 feet. Before declaring him a record-holder, Guinness World Records experts analyzed film of Byars' toss, checking the concentric circles in the water by each skip. "I actually threw 40 stones that day, but that was the first skip that I threw," Byars told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, which confirmed the record with Guinness officials. photo courtesy images.google.com & story twincities.com, 10/6/07 Colossians 3:17 (NLT) 17 And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about doing our best? The apostle Paul was all about honoring Jesus Christ. His challenge to us in this verse is that we strive to bring honor to Christ in everything - whatever we do, wherever we go, and in whatever we say. The rock bottom line is that we must represent Christ at all times. This means that by doing our best, we can glorify Christ. This does not mean that we have to "be the best" or set any records, but simply giving it our all adds to the way God's Story and our story have connected. I have no idea what the Guinness World Record stone skipper believes about Christ, but I hope he knows about the One who moved that big stone in front of a certain tomb. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Pray every day for God to empower you to simply do your best in a way that brings honor to Him. Memorize today's verse to remind you of the most important motivation in everything you do. Be honest. What impression do others have of Christ when they see or talk with you or watch the way you do your thing? What changes do you need to make in order to honor Christ? Go skip some stones and think about the truth in today's God's Story. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others? Go stone skipping with a friend who needs Jesus. Tell him or her about the Guinness Record breaking stone skipper. Share what you learned in today's DAILYBIDE. Let Jesus show you if this is the right time to talk about the stone being removed from the front of Christ's tomb and why this is essential to God's Story and your story and their story. Permanent Link 22 Oct, 2007 What were they thinking? They weren't! Arrests made in bowling ball drop that left trucker injured FAIRMONT, Minn. — Four boys and an 18-year-old man were charged recently for an incident in which someone dropped a bowling ball off an Interstate 90 overpass onto the freeway in August, seriously injuring a truck driver from Montana. A 17-year-old Fairmont boy was charged with first-, second- and third-degree felony assault and first-degree criminal damage to property, along with conspiracy to commit for allegedly dropping the bowling ball that hit truck driver Theodore Maki, 54, of Missoula, Mont. Andrew J. Fellersen, 18, of Fairmont, told authorities he was with the boys when they stole a bowling ball off a fence post from a backyard in Fairmont and drove to the overpass, where they were rolling the ball around in the early morning hours of Aug. 26 as Fellersen told them about someone who had thrown a cinder block off the bridge and hit a trailer. According to Fellersen’s statement, the group then dropped the bowling ball off the bridge onto Interstate 90 to see if they could make the ball crack. He said they went down and retrieved the bowling ball and returned to the overpass, where they were going to try to drop it on the trailer of a semi. Fellersen told authorities they saw a semi approaching and tried to time the drop, but the 17-year-old dropped the ball too early. Maki was hit in the head by the ball and knocked unconscious. His truck crossed the median and westbound lanes before going through a fence and crashed 200 feet into a cornfield. Maki was airlifted to St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, but has since recovered. The defendants were placed on house arrest with electronic home-monitoring, with school attendance being the only exception. They are not allowed to have more than incidental contact with each other, and are not allowed to drive a vehicle. photo courtesy images.google.com & story lacrossetribune.com, 10/6/07 Proverbs 22:3-4 (NLT) 3 A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. 4 True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life. According to today's God's Story scripture, what is the key to avoid making stupid choices? This is real clear but often hard to do. If we have an attitude of humility because we know that God is holy and commands us to live in obedience to His instructions, then we will make good choices. Today's story about the boys dropping the bowling ball on the truck driver and almost killing him is sort of unbelievable, but then again - it's understandable. The peer pressure to do something wild and crazy took over! Though there had to have been many moments when at least one of these guys realized that they were being stupid, no one had the courage to stop the foolishness. Now they face serious consequences. They key for us to make wise choices is to walk step by step in humility, always depending on God to help us honor Him in the way we think and act. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Every day, humble yourself before God and thank Him that He will fill you with His character and lead you to make wise choices. Keep a written journal for one month. Daily, list your wise choices and foolish ones. At the end of a month, look back and see what God has taught you. Whenever you go bowling, let Jesus use this to remind you that there are consequences for not choosing wisely. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others? Use today's story about the bowling ball arrests to talk to your friends about the stupid choices that we all make. Trust Jesus to help you share from your story how you are trying to learn to trust God to help you make wise choices. Permanent Link 19 Oct, 2007 Don't take God's name lightly! Comedian Kathy Griffin Dissed the Name of Jesus. Make Fun Of Faith? Sure. Jesus? Uh, No. Comedian Kathy Griffin has built her D-list career on telling A-list Hollywood celebrities -- to "suck it." So when she told Jesus to "suck it" after winning an Emmy for her reality show, "My Life on the D-List," it was meant as another swipe at someone who gets invited to better parties than she does. But as she quickly learned, dissing Jesus, even in left-leaning Hollywood, carries more risk than poking fun at the Lindsay Lohans of the world. Griffin's remarks -- "I want you to know that no one had less to do with this award than Jesus. . . . So all I can say is, suck it, Jesus. This reward is my god now!" -- were censored when the E! Network broadcast the Creative Arts Emmy Awards show. The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences said the remarks were struck because they were "offensive." It wasn't clear whether they disliked the vulgar "suck it" part or the blasphemous "this reward is my god now" part. Either way, one thing is clear: Poking fun at religion in general is fine. Taking jabs at hypocritical religious leaders is even encouraged. But when it comes to Jesus, Hollywood still gets squeamish. Some conservatives smell a double standard. Audiences laugh when Griffin insults the Christian messiah, but she could never get away with telling Muhammad to do the same, they say. "She wants to stick it to Christians," said Kiera McCaffrey of the Catholic League civil rights organization. Atheists see a more sinister plotline at work in the network's decision to muzzle Griffin. It's not about decency, they say. "It was about protecting belief in Jesus," said Ellen Johnson, president of American Atheists. "You're not allowed to say anything that ridicules belief. . . . What's next? Punishment for that?" photo courtesy images.google.com & story washingtonpost.com, 9/22/07 Exodus 20:7 (NLT) 7 “You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name. What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the dishonoring of God's name? Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes explain: 20:7 God's name is special because it carries His personal identity. Using it frivolously or in a curse is so common today that we may fail to realize how serious it is. The way we use God's name conveys how we really feel about Him. We should respect His name and use it appropriately, speaking it in praise or worship rather than in curse or jest. We should not take lightly the abuse or dishonor of His name. God tells us that He will punish those who misuse His name. This truth should strike fear in the heart of Kathy Griffin, but my guess is that it doesn't when you consider what she said about Jesus. How about us? We know that God is loving, but do we remember that God is also holy and punishes sin....including the abuse of His name? How can we apply today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Do an honest evaluation of your use or abuse of God's (or Jesus') name. Maybe you never say what Kathy Griffin said, but do you use the phrase "Oh God!" as an expression? In Jesus' name, you can confess any misuse of God's name and He will forgive you completely because His grace is real. When you hear someone abusing the name of God or Jesus, stop and pray for that person and say a word of praise or thanks to God for Who He is in your life. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others who need Jesus? Ask Jesus to show you how to respond when others abuse His name. Sometimes, the best thing may be to say nothing and sometimes the best thing would be for you to humbly ask the person to not misuse the name of God. Use today's story about Kathy Griffin as a conversation starter with friends and family who need Jesus. Tell them the story and ask them what they think? Trust Jesus to give you the right timing and words to share why you believe no one should misuse God's name. This may give you the opportunity to learn more of their story and share more of your story and perhaps the story of what Jesus did for us on the cross. Pray that Kathy Griffin will come to recognize that Jesus is the Son of God and the only way to receive forgiveness and eternal life. Permanent Link 18 Oct, 2007 Do you smell good? We need to smell like Jesus. Bad Smells Linked To Fatigue And Other Complaints Common physical symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain and lower back pain are related to the perception of everyday smells, University of Nottingham researchers told delegates at a health psychology conference on campus last month. The researchers investigated how stress, intense odours and personality combined to explain everyday physical symptoms that appear to have no medical basis — such as abdominal pain, fatigue, chest pain and lower back pain. They studied 194 individuals, who completed a structured diary twice a day for eight days, recording their experiences of common physical symptoms, odours, sounds and stress. Seventy different odours were reported with hot food, paint, smoke/fire, coffee, and chemicals the most frequently mentioned. Professor Eamonn Ferguson said: “These results highlight the importance of everyday odour with respect to the experience of common physical symptom, showing that common environmental experiences, rather than stress, predict symptoms over short intervals. It may be that people come to associate particular odours with symptoms and the experience of the odour 'triggers' the experience of symptoms.” Professor Ferguson and Dr Helen Cassaday, with colleague Dr Jane Ward of the University of Loughborough, described their findings to fellow academics from all over the country at a British Psychological Society (BPS) event. photo courtesy images.google.com & story sciencedaily.com, 9/17/07 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 14 But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. 15 For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, 16 to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? 17 For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ. (ESV) What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the important issue of how we smell? Paul lived in the day of the Roman Empire. When the Roman army would return from another battle victory, the Roman general would show off their prisoners and loot in a parade of triumph. The streets would be lined with people burning incense to honor their false gods. This aroma was sweet for the victors, but it was a foul stench for the captives because they faced slavery and death. When we (followers of Christ) talk about God's Story and our story, it smells great to some and to others - it stinks! Other believers will like the fragrance of Christ in us, unless they're not living to please Jesus at the time. For those who are not followers of Christ, it may smell like death at first, because deep in their souls, the Holy Spirit will convict them of their eternal destination without the forgiveness of Christ. But this is good - it's part of God's Story - His Spirit is pointing out their need for spiritual rescue and will attract them to the sweet smell of life in Christ! Today's story reports that bad smells can make people sick and tired. So how do you smell to your peers? If we not living for Christ, others will be turned off to our story and God's Story by our "smell". But if we are full of His grace and love, Jesus will use our lives to be like a sweet aroma to others. Be honest. How do you smell? How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Remember today's story - bad smells can make people sick and tired. Be honest and do a little evaluation. Does your relationship with Jesus stink or is it like a sweet perfume to others? Talk to God right now. Praise Him for the sweet aroma of Christ's forgiveness which keeps you from the stench of eternal death! Confess any way in which you have been smelling more like the decay of this world rather than new life in Jesus Christ. Ask God's Spirit to keep pointing out anything unclean in your life so that you will give off the fragrance of Christ to others. Thank Jesus for keeping you spiritually fresh every day! Memorize 2nd Corinthians 2:15 as a daily reminder of the need to smell good! Whenever you put on perfume, cologne, or some body spray, pray that God's Spirit will empower you to give off the aroma of Christ to others. How can you connect today's story, God's Story scripture and your story to the lives of others? Use today's *DAILYBIDE* as a resource for your next youth group meeting or small group time. (Be sure to start off the discussion with some bad smells and then you can pass around the perfumes and air freshner.) The next time you're hanging out with friends at school, at work, or with your family, talk about the study in today's story. Have fun discussing bad and good smells. You can follow this up by asking the others, "How would you describe the smell of people who claim to be Christians?" This should create some interesting discussion which may give you the opportunity to share how God's Story affects your story. Permanent Link 16 Oct, 2007 Has Paris changed enough to help change the world? Jesus shows us how to make a difference. Paris Vows to 'Leave a Mark on the World' LOS ANGELES -- Meet Paris Hilton, grown-up. The 26-year-old socialite has vowed to change her party-girl image after serving a 23-day jail sentence in June for violating probation in an alcohol-related reckless driving case. "There are a lot of bad people in L.A. Before, my life was about having fun, going to parties — it was a fantasy," she tells Newsweek magazine in its Oct. 22 issue, now on newsstands. "But when I had time to reflect, I felt empty inside. I want to leave a mark on the world." Hilton says she is now committed to using her celebrity status for the greater good. Next month, she plans to pack her bags for Rwanda to bring attention to the African country. "I'm scared, yeah. I've heard it's really dangerous," she says. "I've never been on a trip like this before." Hilton, accompanied by a children's charity called Playing for Good, will visit schools and health-care clinics as part of a five-day charity mission. The trip will be filmed — not surprising, given Hilton's love of the camera. "I love having everything documented," says Hilton, who hopes to turn the footage into a film. "It shows people what everyday life is like for me, how hard I work. There are a lot of misconceptions about me." photo & story courtesy msn.com, 10/15/07 Mark 10:42-45 42 And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (ESV) In today's God's Story scripture, what does Jesus teach us about making a difference in this world? Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes provide some great insight: 10:42-45 James and John wanted the highest positions in Jesus' Kingdom. But Jesus told them that true greatness comes in serving others. Peter, one of the disciples who had heard this message, expands the thought in 1 Peter 5:1-4. Businesses, organizations, and institutions measure greatness by personal achievement. In Christ's Kingdom, however, service is the way to get ahead. The desire to be on top will hinder, not help. Rather than seeking to have your needs met, look for ways that you can minister to the needs of others. I don't know Paris Hilton's real story or her current spiritual perspective, but you have to admit that her recent comments about doing something positive in the world (for a change) is a good sign. Very few of Christ's followers will ever be famous or achieve greatness according to the world's perspective. But Christ-like servants always achieve greatness according to God's perspective. Let's do what Jesus taught about taking action and serving others! How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Thank Jesus for being the essence of greatness through service. Confess any way in which you may have been striving for worldly success rather than greatness in God's Kingdom. Ask Jesus to empower you with the humility needed to be great for God's glory. Memorize today's passage as a reminder of how to be a Christ-like servant. Read Peter's teaching on this subject in 1 Peter 5:1-4. How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others? Get together with other Christ-followers (maybe your youth group or small group) and write a "Top Ten" list of people you see as Christ-like servants. What are they doing that you think makes them great? Let this list motivate you to come up with a plan to serve others as a group and individually. It might be a missions project or sponsoring a needy child or....... Every day, ask Jesus to show you how He wants you to serve someone. Strive to serve one person every day right where you live. Invite friends and family who need Jesus to get involved in a service project with you. This will give you a great opportunity to learn more about their stories and you will be demonstrating an important part of God's Story. Permanent Link 15 Oct, 2007 Are you equipped for battle? There are many kinds of weapons... Mother Bought Weapons for Pennsylvania Boy Charged With School Plot NORRISTOWN, Pa. — A troubled teenager accused of plotting a school attack built up a stash of weapons with the help of his mother, authorities said. Michele Cossey, 46, was arrested Friday on charges of illegally buying her home-schooled son, Dillon, a .22-caliber handgun, a .22-caliber rifle and a 9 mm semiautomatic rifle with a laser scope. The parents were indulging the boy's interests because he was unhappy, not knowingly aiding a school assault, Montgomery County District Attorney Bruce Castor said Friday. The parents didn't know of the teen's plans, but "by virtue of her indulgence, she enabled him to get in this position," Castor said. Authorities have said they do not believe an attack was imminent and are not even certain one would have occurred. "This was a smart kid that clearly believes he was picked on and was a victim," Castor said. "He had psychological issues and began to act out on those feelings." Dillon Cossey, who was arrested Wednesday, felt bullied and tried to recruit another boy for a possible attack at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School, authorities said. The teen previously attended middle school in the district, but had been taught at home for more than a year after voluntarily leaving school. photo & story courtesy foxnews.com, 10/13//07 Ephesians 6:10-20 (The Message) The Whole Armor of God 10-12 And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. 13-18 Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out. 19-20And don't forget to pray for me. Pray that I'll know what to say and have the courage to say it at the right time, telling the mystery to one and all, the Message that I, jailbird preacher that I am, am responsible for getting out. After reading today's God's Story scripture, why would you say every follower of Christ needs to use God's weapons all the time? If you are a regular reader of the DailyBide, you know how important it is for believers to wear "God's armor". I have used today's scripture several times to remind us about the spiritual battle we face every day. Letting God's Spirit equip us with His weapons (His power and protection) is the only way to win the fight against Satan. Today's story is shocking and sad - a mom actually helped her 14-year-old son secure weapons - evidently to use in some sort of Columbine attack at his school, because he had been bullied. That is making a commitment to do evil. What about us? Are we dedicated to using God's weapons to fight evil? As followers of Christ, we know we're in a battle. Satan is hell bent on defeating us every day. When we believe that we're pretty tough on our own and we either "forget" or ignore God's armor, we can plan on some serious sin in our lives. Paul, the writer of today's scripture, understood the spiritual battle that all of Christ's followers face as individuals. But he is calling not only each of us, but the entire Body of Christ to unite together in our war with Satan and his fallen angels. To win the the victory in spiritual battle, all of us must wear all of God's armor all the time. These weapons are essential for victory! How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Thank God that you can be protected against Satan by using God's weapons every day. Right now, confess to God any way in which you have not been using His armor. Has this affected your thought life? How about your relationships with friends, your parents, or boyfriend or girlfriend? Is pride or jealousy defeating you? Is your focus on worldly possessions rather than serving Christ? Confess your struggle and He will forgive you! Thank Jesus that He will help you suit up and win the battle tomorrow! Read the entire passage of Ephesians 6:10-20 again. Read through Paul's list of armor and ask God to help you focus on the piece you need most this week. His Spirit will help you put it on. How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others? If your lack of using God's weapons has affected your relationships with others, go apologize to them and make it right. You will strengthen Christ's "army" when you admit your weakness. If you aren't already in a prayer/accountability group, start one with two others at your school, church or work place. Did you notice that in Ephesians 6:19-20, Paul points out that wearing God's armor and using His weapons will result in God's Spirit giving him the right words and the courage to tell his story and God's story to others. Remember this as you trust Jesus to help you learn the stories of others this week. Permanent Link 12 Oct, 2007 Happy Birthday Chelsey! Meet a teenage girl who continues to praise the Lord even though her circumstances are very difficult. Chelsey Junker is 19 years old this weekend! God has given me the privilege of a friendship with Chelsey. I say this because she has taught me a lot about faith, God's grace and God's purposes. The fact that she is alive to celebrate her birthday is another one of God's miracles! In January of 2005, Chelsey, 16 at the time, was severly injured in a snowmobile accident. (This first photo is of Chelsey before the accident.) Surviving the trauma of major brain injuries and a severed spinal chord, Chelsey returned home after almost seven months in a hospital. She has continued to make some improvements, but Chelsey is paralyzed from the chest down and is unable to see. She has made incredible progress in areas of speech and the use of her arms. Her sweet spirit, sense of humor, and most of all - her love for Christ -blesses everyone who meets her! Chelsey is teaching everyone who meets her about what it means to trust God and praise Him, no matter what. My favorite quote from Chelsey is "I praise God that I'm alive!" (Chelsey is in the middle here with her family.) Psalm 104:31-34 31 May the glory of the Lord continue forever! The Lord takes pleasure in all he has made! 32 The earth trembles at his glance; the mountains smoke at his touch. 33 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live. I will praise my God to my last breath! 34 May all my thoughts be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the Lord. What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about praising God? The psalmist points out that God alone is worthy of praise, because He has made everything, is in complete control, and deserves all glory! Notice that the earth "trembles" when He looks at it. The psalmist sings praise to God just for having "being" which means that God determines our very breath and when we will take our last breath. Chelsey shares the heart of the psalmist. When she says in her quiet voice and with all her heart, "I praise God that I'm alive", it grabs your heart with God's love and His Truth. Through God connecting His Story with Chelsey's story, we are reminded that God loves us and has a perfect plan and purpose for each of us. He alone is worthy of all our praise! What do you need to praise God for today? What problem do you need to trust God with? Even though life is often hard to understand and you can't see the future...God does. How can you connect today's God's Story scripture with your story? Pray right now. Take a couple of minutes to talk to your loving Heavenly Father...He already knows your problems and needs, but He is waiting to listen to you pour your heart out to Him...now thank Him for His love, His sovereign plan and purpose in your life...finish by praising Him.... Pray every day for Jesus to give you the faith you need to trust God, no matter what, and to praise Him for "just being alive"! Write down a list of reasons to praise God in your life, no matter what. Keep this where you will see it regularly. Let it be a reminder to you of God's love and faithfulness to you. How can you connect today's story, God's Story scripture and your story to others? Pray for Chelsey and her family. Pray for God to do another miracle by restoring her eyesight. Send Chelsey a birthday greeting and let her know that you're praying for her. You can email her at: chelseyj@frontiernet.net Use today's story as a way to encourage someone else who is facing a difficult time. But be careful to express it as an example of God's love and power, without making the other person feel that he or she must immediately respond with the same faith that Chelsey has. It's always best to show that we care and then ask questions and then listen....before we start talking like we have all the answers. Here's a recent journal entry from Chelsey: Journal Wednesday, August 29, 2007 7:13 AM CDT Hey ya'll I wanted to tell everyone that my summer went Great!!!!!!! My family and I went up north to Park Rapids for vacation. I loved basking in the rays of the sun and going to fire works where I actually saw the light flashes from the fire works,that was Grrreat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Kala's wedding was a blast of a great time. The dresses were even my favorite color which of course is blue. The day after Labor Day I'll be going to start working at the D.A.C.(Developmental Achievement Center) in Windom. I'm looking forward to working there and saring my faith with others there. I hope it will go well. I'm not looking forward to getting up so early, Grrrr. I'll have to be in town by 7:30 and they'll bring me back home around 2:45 Thanks for all your Prayers and E-mails, I love them Bye bye. Chels Cor. 12:9 "My grace is all you need. My Power works best in weakness". So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses,so that the power of Christ can work through me. Permanent Link 10 Oct, 2007 We don't know each of their stories... ...but God does. One Shooting Victim Was A High School Freshman CRANDON, Wis. — The victims of an off-duty deputy's shooting spree were students or graduates of the same high school, and had gathered for pizza and movies on homecoming weekend. Here is a look at the youngest victim: LINDSEY STAHL Lindsey Stahl's mother let her daughter sleep over at a friend's house Saturday night — it was homecoming weekend. The 14-year-old, a freshman and the youngest of the those killed, was a vegetarian, said her mother, Jenny Stahl, 39. "She didn't eat meat," Stahl said. "That is what a lot of people know her for. She was an animal rights activist." She also was interested in global warming, said her half-brother, Ryan Coulter, 12. "She probably would have changed the world, you know," he told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. The family moved to northern Wisconsin about 10 years ago from Kenosha, in the southeastern part of the state. photo & story courtesy foxnews.com, 10/9/07 Daniel 12:1-2 (NLT) The Time of the End “At that time Michael, the archangel who stands guard over your nation, will arise. Then there will be a time of anguish greater than any since nations first came into existence. But at that time every one of your people whose name is written in the book will be rescued. 2 Many of those whose bodies lie dead and buried will rise up, some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting disgrace. What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the reality of eternity for everyone? First of all, look at the insight from the study notes found in Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE: 12:1 Great suffering is in store for God's people throughout the years ahead. This way of describing the future is also used by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 30:7) and Jesus (Matthew 24:21ff). Yet the great suffering is tempered by a great promise of hope for true believers. 12:2 This is a clear reference to the resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked, although the eternal destiny of each will be quite different...This reference to a bodily resurrection of both the saved and the lost was a sharp departure from the common belief of the Israelites at that time. Here's the deal - these prophetic words remind us that everyone has an eternal soul. Anyone who receives God's gift of salvation (forgiveness for our sins) through the sacrificial death and resurrection of His Son Jesus will have their name written in God's "book of life". Those who do not become followers of Christ will not be rescued from eternal separation from God in hell. Yeah....sobering...and cause for joy for followers of Christ! At this moment, the loving, living God knows whose name is written in His book of eternal life in Heaven. God created and loved everyone who died at the hands of the angry young deputy sheriff in Wisconsin last weekend and He loved the killer too. I don't know the stories of those who died or what they believed about Jesus Christ, but God does. His heart breaks for the lost.... His arms have welcomed His children... He continues to comfort and draw people to Jesus... How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? If your name is written in God's "book of eternal life", take a moment right now to thank God and imagine what it will be like to live forever in Heaven with Jesus and all of God's family. If you are not a follower of Jesus, you can become one right now. Let God know that you realize your sin keeps you from Him. Thank Him that Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty for your sins and that He rose from the dead to prove that He alone is the Savior! Ask Jesus to be your Savior. Tell Him that you want to follow Him every day and live to please Him. (If this is you, email us at 3Story.org so that we can help you in your new relationship with God.) Read Matthew 24 and Revelation 21 to learn more about the future of everyone - those whose names are written in the "Lamb's Book of Life" and those whose names are not. How can connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others? Continue to pray that the families and friends of those connected to the Wisconsin shootings. Pray that they will experience God's comfort and the hope that is found only in Jesus Christ. Ask Jesus to give you great wisdom and sensitivity in talking to your friends and family who need Jesus. It may be very difficult for them to think about the eternal reality of every soul while thinking about the young people killed in Wisconsin. Focus on God's compassion, grace and answers found in Christ. As more info becomes available about the victims in the Wisconsin shootings, be ready to use this as a conversation starter with others about the idea of everyone having a story. Let Jesus lead the conversation as you connect their story, your story and God's Story. Permanent Link 9 Oct, 2007 Are we guilty of "murder"? An angry deputy sheriff kills six young people. Wisconsin shooter was calm, ‘very sorry’ after killing 6, friend says This is an undated photo of the shooter, Tyler Peterson, taken from the Crandon High School yearbook, made available by WJFW-TV and the AP. CRANDON, Wis. - A young sheriff’s deputy who opened fire on a pizza party and killed six people reportedly flew into a rage when he was rebuffed by his old girlfriend and others at the gathering called him a “worthless pig.” A longtime friend told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Monday that 20-year-old Tyler Peterson came to his door in the hours after the rampage and calmly explained what he had done. “He wasn’t running around crazy or anything. He was very, very sorry for what he did,” Mike Kegley told the newspaper, adding that he gave Peterson coffee and food and later called 911. Peterson told Kegley that he had gone to his ex-girlfriend’s house early Sunday morning in hopes of patching up the relationship after a recent breakup. But, he said, Peterson lost control when the meeting ended in an argument and other people started ridiculing him as a “worthless pig.” Police, who declined to provide details of the argument, said Peterson stormed out, retrieved an AR-15 rifle from his car outside and burst back into the house firing 30 shots that killed all but one of the people at the party. “We had no idea, obviously, that anything like this would ever occur,” Crandon Police Chief John Dennee said at a news conference Monday. Peterson, a deputy and part-time police officer, later died after exchanging gunfire with law enforcement officers. Whether Peterson was shot by police or took his own life was unclear. photo & story courtesy msnbc.com, 10/8/07 Matthew 5:21-22 (NLT) Anger 21 “You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ 22 But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell. In today's God's Story scripture, what is Jesus teaching us about the connection between murder and anger? In His 'Sermon On The Mount', Jesus gives us insight into the problem with anger. Killing someone is a horrible sin, but anger is also terrible, because it breaks God's command for us to love others. In this teaching, Jesus is describing a dangerous emotion that is always on the brink of getting out of control. This anger is a bitterness toward others and life. It stems from a spiritual problem and leads to emotional pain, stress, and violence. Sometimes we may feel pretty good about ourselves because we exercise self-control and don't lash out at someone in anger. Christ wants us to practice self-control, but He also wants us to allow His Spirit to control our thoughts as well. He said that we will be held accountable for our attitudes toward others. Today's story is one of unbelievable tragedy and irony. A young man hired to uphold the law and protect others gets angry and destroys many lives including his own. Most of us read this story and wonder how it could have happened? What about you and me? Are we angry? Unless our emotions are under control.......? If we are abiding in Jesus, His Spirit will be in control of our lives. When His Spirit is in control, our thoughts and actions toward others will be Christ-like. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our story? Pray every day for God's Spirit to be in control of your thoughts toward others. Write down a list of situations with other people that tend to make you angry. Pray through this list every day, inviting Jesus to help you, change you, and love them. Whenever you find yourself feeling anger toward someone, take several minutes to worship Christ. It's hard to remain angry when your focus is on Jesus. Pray right now....Thank God for the work of His Holy Spirit in your life. Confess any struggle you have been having with angry thoughts and actions. Ask Jesus to fill you with His love every day. Ask His Spirit to give you a Christ-like, unconditional love for others. Ask His Spirit to help you see others and treat others just like Jesus would. How can you connect today's story and God's Story scripture and your story to others? If you have treated anyone with angry actions and/or attitudes, go to them and ask for their forgiveness. If they refuse, that's OK. Be humble like Jesus. If they ask why, this could be a great opportunity for you to talk about your story and/or God's Story. Pray for the hurting families represented in the Wisconsin shootings. Pray for God to comfort the family and friends of those who were shot. Pray that people will come to understand God's love and forgiveness through Christ. Look for opportunities to use Today's Story in conversation with others to talk about the problem of anger. Permanent Link 8 Oct, 2007 Blessed Britney? God's Story describes a godly woman. Spears Loses Custody of Her Kids LOS ANGELES -- Britney Spears' continuing downward spiral took a devastating turn last week when she was ordered to relinquish custody of her children by a judge who had cited her drug-and-alcohol-fueled lifestyle. Superior Court Judge Scott M. Gordon ruled that that ex-husband Kevin Federline will take Sean Preston, 2, and Jayden James, 1, beginning Wednesday "until further order of the court." The order stemmed from an unspecified oral motion made by Federline's lawyers and was handled in a closed-door hearing. The judge's order did not state the reason for the change in custody and he ordered all transcripts of the proceedings sealed. photo & story courtesy msn.msnbc.com, 10/1/07 Proverbs 31:26-31 (CEV) 26Her words are sensible, and her advice is thoughtful. 27She takes good care of her family and is never lazy. 28Her children praise her, and with great pride her husband says, 29"There are many good women, but you are the best!" 30Charm can be deceiving, and beauty fades away, but a woman who honors the LORD deserves to be praised. 31Show her respect-- praise her in public for what she has done. What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about a godly woman? Check out these study notes from Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE: 31:10-31 Proverbs has a lot to say about women...This woman is an excellent wife and mother...Her strength and dignity do not come from her amazing achievements...they are a result of her reverence for God. In our society, where physical appearance counts for so much, it may surprise us to realize that her appearance is never mentioned. Her attractiveness comes entirely from her character...the woman in these verses may not be one woman - she may be a composite portrait of ideal womanhood...her fear of God leads to enjoyment, success, honor and worth. Proverbs is practical for us because it shows us how to become wise, make good decisions, and live according to God's ideal. Celebrity Britney Spears is currently missing God's plan for a woman to be praised and called "blessed". Her life is a vivid illustration of why each of us must have a reverence for our loving God and trust Him to help us make wise choices every day. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Thank God that part of His sovereign plan included Moms! Thank God for your mom even though she isn't or wasn't perfect. Pray for her to seek God in everything she does. For two weeks, keep a daily journal in which you write down a list of your choices - good and not so good. At the end, evaluate what you have learned about seeking godly wisdom every day. If you are a girl, let today's scripture be a motivational reminder of the woman that God wants you to be. If you are a guy, affirm your female family members and friends for the godly character qualities you see in them. Read the rest of the passage in Proverbs 31:10-31. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others? Pray that Britney Spears and her ex will come to see their need for Jesus. Pray for God's protection for their children. Email today's *DAILYBIDE* to your friends and family who know Jesus. Use it as an encouragement for all of us to live every day according to God's wisdom. Use this latest Britney story to talk to your friends who need Jesus. Ask them if they think she should have any custody of her children? Ask them what they they it would take for Britney to get her life together? Be ready to share your story - how you need Jesus every day and how you must depend on Him to make good choices. Permanent Link 5 Oct, 2007 Truth Is Revealed Another champion will lose her 'crown'. Jones admits doping prior to Olympics Marion Jones admitted using steroids before the 2000 Olympics in a recent letter to close family and friends, The Washington Post reported Thursday. Jones, a triple gold medalist in Sydney, said she took "the clear" for two years, beginning in 1999, and that she got it from former coach Trevor Graham, the newspaper reported. Graham told her it was flax seed oil. "The clear" is a performance-enhancing drug linked to BALCO, the lab at the center of the steroids scandal in professional sports. Until now, Jones had steadfastly denied she ever took any kind of performance-enhancing drugs. Jones is scheduled to appear in U.S. Southern District Court on Friday to plead guilty to charges in connection with her steroid use, a federal law enforcement source told The Associated Press. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing, and would not provide specific details about the plea. The admission could cost Jones the five medals she won at the Sydney Olympics. Though she fell short of her goal of winning five gold medals, she came away with three and two bronzes and was one of the games' biggest stars. photo & story courtesy msn.foxsports.com, 10/4/07 2 Timothy 2:5 5 An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. (ESV) What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about living out the truth? Rules in athletic competition exist for several reasons. They make the competition fair and protect the athletes from injury. Most kinds of games include penalties or fouls as consequences for players when they don't play fair or when they are trying to harm someone from the other team. In today's verse, Paul makes it clear that we must follow the commands or rules that God has given us. His commands are given to us because He loves us and wants us to win the race He has given us to run. How are you doing at following the "rules" given to us by God, found in His Holy Word? Marion Jones has admitted her illegal drug use and then lying about it when she had the opportunity to tell the truth. Even if the truth about Marion Jones breaking the rules had never come out....she and God would have known....eventually the whole truth about each of our lives will be revealed. If we ignore or break God's instructions, our integrity in this earthly life will be questioned and our eternal crown will be tainted. Obeying God's rules not only leads to victory, but it demonstrates our love for Him now and forever. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? As you read God's Word, write down at least one command every week that you know God wants you to keep. This will be your personal list of God's guiding love that you know will help you be victorious in this life and receive a crown of reward in Heaven. Pray every day for Jesus to help you live out God's Truth in your life. Memorize today's verse as a reminder to stay motivated while you strive to serve God with integrity. How can you connect today's story and God's Story scripture and your story to others? Talk to your friends about Marin Jones admitting her use of drugs to help her be an Olympic champion. Ask them if they believe it matters? Look for the moment that Jesus may give you to talk about the truth that only Christ can give us a "clean record" before God. Use today's *DAILYBIDE* as a resource in your small group or youth group to talk about the importance of following God's "rules" in His Word. Be a good listener to others as you try to learn their stories. When you hear them talk about the rules or restrictions in their lives, use this opportunity to share more about your story as it relates to God's guiding love in your life. Permanent Link 4 Oct, 2007 A look at Godlessness Do you love God or pleasure more? Diddy's Decadent Lifestyle It's no secret Diddy has a soft spot for the finer things, but is he enjoying a lifestyle so extravagant even Caligula would tip his toga in admiration? A woman who claims to have spent some quality time with the mogul is yapping to the London Sunday Mirror about the many, many minions his high-maintenance ways apparently require. "Sean's life has to be seen to be believed. He calls himself The King -- and even Prince Charles cannot be any more demanding than he is," alleges one Nai Bacha, who tells the paper she had a "torrid 10-month affair" with the so-called potentate. "He has a cast of thousands to ensure his life is perfect. They hang on his every need ..." And just what are some of Diddy's needs, besides the personal umbrella holder that was once in his employ? It turns out his given name -- Sean Combs -- may be more than apt given the care he takes with his coiffure. The chatty Bacha marvels that he travels with a personal barber: "That's the only man on the planet who can trim his hair or give him a shave. Sean never shaves himself." Then there's his wardrobe, which is as extensive as you'd expect from a guy with his own fashion line. "Sean is always immaculately dressed and that takes military precision," she yammers to the paper. "He has one guy in charge of his wardrobe, another who's responsible for putting different outfits together. When he came to London he had wardrobes filled with suits. There were about 80 from the biggest designers in the world -- but only in black or white. The cheapest cost about $4,000." Other staffers on hand are said to include: a personal mixologist with the cushiest gig ever ("There was someone whose sole job for the day was to mix Sean's favorite cocktail -- Patron Silver tequila with ice. He wasn't allowed to make drinks for anyone else"); DJ ("Sean also has someone whose only job is to play his own records wherever he goes. I never heard him listening to anyone else's music"); and bling security ("He has about four security guards for the jewels alone"). But Bacha says Diddy also likes to spread the wealth around. He supposedly showered her with "diamonds and designer clothes" when they were dating and sometimes dropped up to $200,000 on a single night out by buying "the most expensive champagne and tequila for the whole club -- he's extremely generous." photo & story courtesy msn.com, 10/3/07 2 Timothy 3:1-4 Godlessness in the Last Days 3:1 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, (ESV) What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about godlessness in the last days? The "last days" that Paul wrote about refer to the days after the resurrection of Jesus and will continue until Christ's second coming. This means that not only are we living in the "last days" now, but every day that passes in 2007 brings us closer to the return of Christ. Paul says that "people will be lovers of self...of pleasure rather than lovers of God". It's pretty obvious that superstar Diddy is pretty messed up. When you consider his perspective on material possessions, women, sex, and his self given title "The King", there's no doubt that he loves himself and godless pleasure rather than God. But before we get real righteous by bashing Diddy, we need to take a look at ourselves. We claim to be followers of Jesus. But what do we seek more often, pleasure or God? Worldly pleasures are easily obtainable, while God is uncontainable. The pleasures available in this life seem to benefit us now, while the benefits of loving God are often in the future. Loving God rather than loving pleasure means we must let go of our pride, selfish desires, and accomplishments. Loving God with all of our heart, strength and mind requires complete surrender to God in every part of our lives. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Honestly answer these questions to yourself and to God: On a daily basis, are you choosing to love pleasure or to love God? Is there anything you love more than God? Are you guilty of anything on Paul's list in today's scripture? Let God forgive you. He loves you. Rather than giving in to culture's pressures, stand up against secular perspectives by abiding in Jesus every day. Keep a written journal to track your spiritual growth. Pray right now for Jesus to point out to you the changes that are needed in your life for you to love God with "all of your heart, strength and mind". Ask Jesus to give you the courage to stand up for God's Truth in our culture every day. Thank Jesus for His love for you which is beyond human understanding. How can you connect today's story and God's Story scripture and your story to others? Pray for Sean 'Diddy' Combs to encounter Jesus. Pray that someone who knows Jesus will have the opportunity to learn his story and share their story of faith and God's Story with him. The topic of loving pleasure rather than God is illustrated every day in our culture and especially in the media. Look for those conversational moments with others when you can be real about your own struggles in this area. This would be a great way to share part of your story. Permanent Link 3 Oct, 2007 Are you a big baby? Read about a kid who has a head start on growing. 17-pound baby born! Nadia, who weighs 17.1 lbs in the old scale, was delivered by cesarean section in the local maternity hospital in the Altai region on September 17, joining eight sisters and three brothers, local reports say. "We were all simply in shock," said Nadia's mother, Tatyana Barabanova, 43. "I ate everything, we don't have the money for special foods so I just ate potatoes, noodles and tomatoes," she said, adding that all her previous babies had weighed over 5 kg. The Guinness World Records lists a 10.2 kg baby boy born in Italy in 1955, and a 10.8 kg baby boy who was born in the United States in 1879 but died 11 hours later. The average weight for most healthy newborn babies is around 3.2 kg, according to World Health Organisation figures. photo & story courtesy news.com.au, 9/27/07 Hebrews 5:11-14 (NLT) A Call to Spiritual Growth 11 There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don’t seem to listen. 12 You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. 13 For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. 14 Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong. What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about spiritual growth? Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes make it very clear: 5:12-14 In order to grow from infant Christians to mature Christians, we must learn discernment. We must train our conscience, our senses, our mind, and our body to distinguish good from evil. Can you recognize temptation before it traps you? Can you tell the difference between a correct use of Scripture and a mistaken one? Our capacity to feast on deeper knowledge of God ("solid food") is determined by our spiritual growth. Too often we want God's banquet before we are spiritually capable of digesting it. As you grow in the Lord and put into practice what you have learned, your capacity to understand will also grow. If we're not growing spiritually, we might have to admit that we're a bunch of big babies! How can we apply today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Thank God for His Word and His Spirit which give us the insight to understand it and the power to do what it teaches. Ask His Spirit to keep you on a daily nourishing diet so that you can grow up spiritually. If you have not been in God's Word, ask His Spirit to get you going on His milk diet. It you have been on "milk only" for too long, ask His Spirit to introduce you to "solid food". Whenever you drink milk (the real stuff) this week, let it remind you to let Jesus get you beyond the "big baby" phase of your spiritual life. How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others? With your friends and family who follow Christ, use today's big baby story to have a discussion about spiritual growth. Remember to be vulnerable and real about your own need to grow. With your friends and family who are not followers of Christ, use today's big baby story to find out more of their story. Ask them how big they were when they were born? You could ask them how they want to grow as an individual? Share more of your story by being vulnerable about ways you hope to grow as a person. Permanent Link 2 Oct, 2007 Did you meet at the pole? God has used 'SEE YOU AT THE POLE' for 18 years! Nationwide, students gather at 'See You at the Pole' to pray NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--Students across the nation took advantage of their freedom of speech and assembly Sept. 26 as they gathered around flagpoles to pray, share testimonies and worship God with songs. Chad Childress, director of student evangelism at the Southern Baptist North American Mission Board, described See You at the Pole as "empowering to students because it gives 3 million students throughout the United States an opportunity to gather in a cross-denominational setting and see other students who believe as they do -- that there's something greater." In Mississippi, even the governor took part in the annual student-led event. "It's powerful and very emotional when children pray for you," Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour said. "When they were praying for me and Marsha, they were praying for the state and the future." In Georgia, Jeff Jackson was one of several pastors who showed up for See You at the Pole in order to show his support of students. "We participate in See You at the Pole events at several Forsyth County middle and high schools every year...," said Jackson, adult education pastor at First Redeemer Church in Cumming, Ga., a Southern Baptist congregation. "Not only did we have 50 or so students involved today, we had more than a dozen of our lay youth ministry leaders to show up at each school," Jackson added. "We want our First Redeemer students to know that their youth leaders are behind them and proud of their stand." Mark Hall, lead singer of the Christian group Casting Crowns, told the Associated Press that students who gather around their school flagpoles for prayer before classes "are changing the world for the better." See You at the Pole started with a group of youth in Burleson, Texas, in 1990 and has taken root nationwide as students proclaim their faith publicly and ask God to intervene in circumstances they face together. The event's official website, www.syatp.com, has set up a forum for reporting what God has done at rallies this year. photos courtesy images.google.com & story bpnews.net, 9/26/07 Acts 1:8-11 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” (ESV) What does today's God's Story scripture about Jesus returning to Heaven have to do with us? About 2000 years ago, 40 days after Christ's crucifixion, the apostles looked up in the sky as they watched Jesus ascend into Heaven. Some of God's angels passed on a promise from God that really motivated the early disciples to get busy for the sake of Christ! God spoke through His messengers that Christ's followers should plan on Jesus returning in the same way He went - bodily and visibly! Every day, we are getting closer to the return of Jesus to judge and rule over the earth. We are to work hard to share the Good News of Jesus so that others will be able to share in God's eternal blessings. So you're wondering how the 'See You At The Pole' events connect with the future event of Christ's return? (Even if you're not, allow me to make the connection.) Immediately after Christ returned to Heaven, the disciples had a prayer meeting (Acts 1:12-14) to begin relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to enable them to do what Jesus told them to do - to tell God's Story - all around the world! When a multitude of students all around the world gathered together around school flag poles, they were doing much more than looking up into the sky. They were calling upon the power of the Holy Spirit to move in their hearts and in their lands. Perhaps you were one of them! God's Spirit is moving in the hearts of Christian youth to spread the Good News of Christ to the hearts of people all over "to the end of the earth". This is part of the ongoing process of telling God's Story. How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives? Thank God for the Good News of Christ that brings forgiveness and eternal life in Heaven. Praise Him for the power of the Holy Spirit which gives you the love and courage you need to help spread God's Story all over the world. Pray for the ongoing effect of the 'See You At The Pole' events to be powerful in every nation. Ask God's Spirit to show you how to be involved in some way in the ever-widening circle of Christ's life-changing message. Every day, ask Jesus to show you how to learn the stories of others and then connect your story and God's Story to their stories. Whenever you see a school flag pole, pray for the story of Jesus to be told and understood in your own world and all around the rest of the world. Memorize Acts 1:8 as a reminder of the power and the mission that God has for you. How can you connect today's story and God's Story scripture and your story to others? If you are not in a prayer group for the purpose of encouraging each other to abide in Jesus (grow spiritually) and share His Story, then pray about the possibility of starting one with some school friends, your co-workers, or through your church. To be encouraged and challenged, learn more stories from 'See You At The Pole' by going to www.syatp.com. Permanent Link 1 Oct, 2007 This means trouble! Conflict in relationships is common...now what do we do? Teacher, student trade blows after spat PALM SPRINGS, Calif.—A teacher and a 14-year-old student were arrested after trading blows during an argument over taking out trash at the desert's Riverside County Community School. Teacher Thomas Silva, 61, was arrested and booked for investigation of willful cruelty to a child, while the teenager was arrested for battery on a school employee, Sgt. Mitch Spike said Thursday. Both were released. "Neither one of their actions were justified," the sergeant said. Silva, who wasn't available for comment, has worked for the Riverside County Office of Education since 1979, spokesman Rick Peoples said, adding he was unable to discuss the incident because it was a personnel matter. Silva asked the student to throw out the trash and the teen refused, Spike said. They argued and the student shoved Silva, who then slapped the student, the sergeant said. The student then s