" HOW'S YOUR MORALS, VALUES "

Good Morning,

I feel so blessed to be able to share with you again this week. This week the Lord has put on my heart Morals, have you thought about your values lately and how you come across to others.

We must be on the alert, and realize if we're in the furnace, it's easy to catch on fire. We live with neighbors whose values may be completely different from ours. We are called to maintain a life-style that shows our faith. Our lives ought to show that we put obeying God before doing what is praised and accepted by society. Be careful about what you allow to form your opinions. The Bible is the only standard of truth. Evaluate all other opinions in light of its teachings. We need to be careful about the input we allow to form our beliefs. Given TV, Music, and the rest of the media often presenting sinful life-styles and unwholesome values. We find ourselves constantly bombarded by attitudes and beliefs that are totally opposed to the Bible.

No matter who you are, moral laxness will cause problems. Just because you have won a battle with temptation does not mean you will automatically win the next one. We truly need to be vigilant against temptation. Sometimes Satan's strongest attacks come after a victory. Consider carefully the things that you cherish. Now, if you value anything more than God, it becomes your golden calf and will one day drag you down. Let go of anything that interferes with your relationship with God, the source of morals. Many people claim to believe in God while refusing to give up attitudes and actions that God denounces. Now, God cannot be added to the values we already have. He must come first, and His Word must shape all our actions and attitudes.

God's plans frustrate the " Way of the wicked " because his values are opposite of society's. Don't be surprised when others don't understand your Christian values, but don't give in to theirs. Jesus contrasted heavenly values with earthly values when he explained that our first loyalty should be to those things that do not fade, cannot be stolen or used up. and never wear out. We should never be fascinated with possessions, lest they possess us.

People don't usually fall into immorality and evil suddenly - they slip into it a bit at a time until, hardly realizing what has happened, they are irrevocably mired in their wicked ways. Any person who allows sin to take root in his or her life can find himself or herself in this predicament. Temptation entertained today becomes sin tomorrow, then a habit the next day, then death and separation from God forever. To think you could never become this evil is the first step toward a hard heart. Acknowledge your need to to confess your sin before God.

Until Next Time...

Jim,

" THE GOOD SHEPHERD "

Howdy, This week we're touching on the Good Shepherd, none other than " Jesus Christ " Himself. Have you ever wondered why you keep making the same mistakes in life? Do you seem to be going round and round over the exact same ground? Well it's time for you to start following Jesus. We are likened to dumb sheep and if you're honest with yourself you just might grasp the reality that we are. In the sheepfold, the shepherd functioned as a door, letting the shepherd in and thus protecting them. Jesus is the door to God's SALVATION for us. He offers access to safety and security. JESUS CHRIST THE LORD IS OUR PROTECTOR. Some people resent that Jesus is the door, the only way of access to God. But Jesus is God's son - why should we seek any other way or want to customize a different approach to God? Just as a shepherd protects his sheep, Jesus protects his people from eternal harm. While believers can expect to suffer on earth, know that Satan cannot harm you or take away your eternal life with God. There are many reasons to be afraid here on earth as this is the devil's domain. But if you choose to follow Jesus, he will give you everlasting safety. Jesus came to be the shepherd, the one who can show people how to avoid life's pitfalls. " SEEING THE PEOPLE, HE FELT COMPASSION FOR THEM, BECAUSE THEY WERE DISTRESSED AND DISPIRITED LIKE SHEEP WITHOUT A SHEPHERD " (Matt 9:36). As the Lord Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd, we better understand that we're his sheep. Not to be passive, frightened animals, but obedient followers, wise enough to follow the one who will lead us to the right places and in the right ways. Those of us who sincerely recognize Jesus for who he truly is, and are fighting the good fight will be with Him in Paradise. Until Next Time... Jim,

" CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM "

Good day to you, I wish to thank you for dropping by. This week we will be discussing criticism and how it should be dispensed. Before criticizing another we must pause long enough to discover our own motives. Failing to do this can bring disastrous results. What is often labeled as " Constructive Criticism " may actually be destructive jealously, since the easiest way to raise our own status is to bring someone else down. Are you willing to question your motives before you offer criticism? Does the critical finger you point need to be pointed first toward yourself? Any time I point I'm reminded that three other fingers are looking my way. To criticize is to judge as a critic: to evaluate; to find fault; or to just express criticism. Have your facts straight before you criticize. Now,if you hear of a friend who has wandered from the Lord or of entire congregations that have fallen away, we should check the facts and find the truth before doing or saying anything that could prove harmful. There are times, of course when God wants us to take action - to rebuke a head strong fractious acquaintance, to discipline a child, to reject false teaching - but first we must always be sure we have all the facts correct. When the need arises and you are very sure of your facts proceed with love face to face. Sometimes sincere Christians,yes even christian leaders blunder. And it may take other sincere Christians to get one back on track. Now if you are assured that someone is doing harm to themselves or the church, try the direct approach. There is no place for backstabbing in the Body Of Christ. When the time comes to rebuke another it must be drawn with caution. The purpose of any rebuke, confrontation, or discipline is to help people, not hurt them. Be affirming let them know that you appreciate them and therefore you feel led to speak up. When we must correct another, it helps to begin by affirming what God has already accomplished in them. Your words may need to be firm but motivated by love - like the love that a good father has for his children, you parents know what I mean. Until Next Time... Jim,

" SELF-CONTROL SHOWS WISDOM "

Top of the morning to you, today I would like to share with you on the subject of self-control. This will only take a moment of your time. First I want you to know that I walk by faith, you see by living in this manner there's no stress. By doing this it's easier for me to be under self-control in all situations. Now with that being said, I know that Satan is real, he is called "the god of this world" and "the prince of the power of the air". We must be vigilant and ask God to examine us, believing that He will forgive our sins and clear our record according to his mercy. Each morning my wife and I approach the throne of Grace, we ask for forgiveness and we give the day to the Lord. Now that's being in self-control to me. God wants to produce his character in us. But to do this, he demands our discipline and effort. As we obey Christ who guides us by his spirit, we will develop self-control. If you want to be self-controlled begin with your tongue. You have not mastered self-control if you do not control what you say. Words can cut and destroy. If you wish to be self-control led, begin with your tongue. Stop and think before you react or speak. " A FOOL GIVES FULL VENT TO HIS ANGER,BUT A WISE MAN KEEPS HIMSELF UNDER CONTROL " (Prov.29:11). When someone irritates or aggravates you, it is natural to retaliate. But this solves nothing and only encourages trouble. Instead, answer slowly and quietly. Your positive response will achieve positive results. Remember that a kind word turns away another's fury. Self-Control Shows Wisdom. Until Next Time... Jim,

" OUR THOUGHTS "

OK, just what's on your mind? Today's thought is on the subject of thoughts. From the very first moment that we open up our eyes we are taking in and processing information. Our next task is learning what to do with the information we're taking in. What we put into our minds translates into what comes out in our conversations and our actions. Now, let's talk turkey, do you have problems with impure thoughts and day dreams? Be acutely aware of what you're putting into your spirit via television, the internet, books,movies and yes even through our conversations. In order for you to be the Strongman in your home, you must replace harmful input with wholesome material. In other words you must read and study God's Love Letter to us daily. We fall into trouble when we dwell on the few things we don't have rather than on the countless things God has given us. The next time you are feeling sorry for yourself for what you don't have, consider all that you do have and thank God. Then your doubts won't lead you into sin. Your thoughts reflect your character so be mindful of evil thoughts at night and as you just might rise in the morning to do them. What do you think about as you lie down to sleep? Do your desires involve greed or stepping on others to achieve your goals? EVIL THOUGHTS LEAD TO EVIL DEEDS. We must always be mindful of where our thoughts go. Have you ever been truly angry with another, that seething, brooding bitterness that we can possess against another, when we've been hurt? Anger is an emotion that can leap out of control, leading to violence, emotional hurt, increased mental stress, and spiritual damage. Animosity can keep us from developing a spirit which is agreeable to God. Self-Control is good, but the Lord wants us to practice thought-control as well. Listen, we will be held accountable even for our attitudes. Everything we do has consequences. It is vital to think before acting, to consider the effects of our choices. Think of your plans for today and consider what their long-range results will be. As we deal with others, we should keep the principles of these laws in mind. We should act responsibly and justly with all people - friends and enemies alike. LAST POINT: Think before you speak; the righteous weigh their answers: the wicked don't wait to speak because they don't care about the effects of their words. It is important to have something to say, but it is equally important to weigh it first. Do you carefully plan your words or do you pour out your thoughts without concern for their impact? Until Next Time... Jim,

" MISTAKES " I'VE MADE A FEW

This week the Lord has robustly put this subject on my heart. Have you ever misspoken or just did the wrong thing? None of us are perfect least ways me, I fail at one thing or another from time to time. I truly believe that it's alright to blunder in this life, just as long as we learn from our mistakes. Have you ever made a mistake, do you attempt or say somethings that you're just not sure about? Mistake is defined as: a wrong judgment: Misunderstanding (2) a wrong action or statement: Error. to make a wrong judgment of the character or ability of. to confuse with another; Misinterpret. Mistakes, it's always important to admit them, now, how do you react when someone suggests you have done something wrong? Do you move to correct the mistake or deny that you need to correct it? Listen, the next time someone suggests you are wrong, take an honest look at yourself and choose God's way instead of yours. Something in each of us strongly resist admitting we are wrong. But I admire people who openly and graciously admit their mistakes and sins. People who can do this have a strong self-image. This person does not always have to be right to feel good about themselves. Be willing to reconsider to admit you are wrong and to change your plans when necessary. Oh, and remember, the first step toward forgiveness is confession. THE LAST TIME A PARENT OR A PERSON IN AUTHORITY REBUKED YOU, WERE YOU HURT, ANGRY, OR MAYBE DEFENSIVE? BE SILENT AS THIS CAN BE A TEACHABLE MOMENT. A WISE MAN ONCE SAID " PRAY TO THE LORD FOR ME ". NOW, IF YOU'RE REBUKED FOR A SERIOUS INFRACTION, IT IS FOR YOUR GOOD. ADMIT YOUR ERROR, REPENT QUICKLY AND ASK FOR PRAYER. When we make ridiculous statements, it is difficult to admit we are wrong. Sticking to the story, just to save face, only compounds the problem. It takes more courage to admit a mistake than to hold resolutely to an error in judgment. Reviewing our past helps us understand how to improve our behavior. It shows us the pattern to our spiritual growth. Learn from your past so that you will become the kind of person God wants you to be. Now, charting our spiritual progress helps to avoid re-visiting mistakes of the past. Question, have you any progress lately? Recording your thoughts about God and lessons you have learned over a period of time can be a valuable aid to our Spiritual Growth. A record of your spiritual pilgrimage will let you check up on your progress and avoid repeating past mistakes. How many times have you said, here we go again. Until Next Time... Jim

" TEMPTATION "

Welcome Aboard, Today's message is one that I believe will touch each and everyone of us. This week we will be looking into " Temptation ". My dictionary defines Temptation: as the act of tempting: The state of being tempted: something that tempts. My Bible says: Testing, trial being enticed to do wrong or enticing someone to do wrong. The Bible firmly states that God cannot be tempted by evil and that He himself does not tempt anyone (James 1:13). Temptation is something that all of us must battle against. I believe that we're all aware of Satan's attempt at testing Jesus while in the wilderness. If we're honest with ourselves we must acknowledge that we are tempted often during a 24 hour period. James was able to resist all of the devil's temptations because he not only knew scripture, but he also obeyed it. Now don't you think that if we followed his example then we might be better off? You see God's word is a sword to use in spiritual combat. Don't be like Satan, he memorized scripture but failed to apply it to his life. Knowing and obeying the word of God is an effective weapon in our arsenal of weaponry against temptation. Temptation in our lives will almost always come after a high point in our spiritual lives or our ministries. Satan is the master of sneak attacks, so we must be vigilant even during times of victory, as well as in times of discouragement. When facing trials, first make sure that you haven't brought them on yourself through sin or unwise choices. Please note that Satan tempts when we're vulnerable. After examining your conscience and you find no sin to confess or unwise behavior to change, then ask the Father to strengthen you from your test. LAST POINT: Satan will often disguise sin as good, pleasant, and desirable. We tend to choose wrong things because they have a certain appeal to us we crave it just because. Listen, our sins do not always seem ugly to us, and the pleasant sins are the hardest to avoid. Temptation often begins by simply seeing something you want. Are you struggling with temptation because you have not learned that looking is the first step toward sin? We are to run from those things that produce evil thoughts. Until Next Time... Jim