Taking a short Break

I am taking a short break from the Blog and will start writing devotions again on January 1st I hope everyone is having a great time during the Holidays and that you are all looking forward to a great 2010 and all that God has planned for you and for Anchor Baptist Church

God Bless You All

Jeff

Merry Christmas

You Are Invited

Luke 2:4-8
Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,
5in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.
6While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. 7And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Joseph and Mary were invited, the shepherds were invited, the wise men were invited, to witness the story of God becoming flesh. Becoming one of us so that He could show us how much He loved us. Not by just being born but by giving His life so that we could have life.

You Are Invited

to Anchor Baptist Church

Tonight Thursday December 24th

at 6:00pm

to celebrate the Birth of Christ

We will have a candle light service that includes Christmas songs, The Christmas Story, and The Lord's Supper.

300 Futch Creek Rd in the

Porters Neck area off Highway 17

( The service will last about 35 minutes. For Information call 547-0404)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKk9rv2hUfA

12 Days of Christmas

Check this out turn up the speakers and enjoy it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kYEK-pxs_A&feature=channel

Smart Young Man

Matthew 6:19-21
19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.
20"But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal;
21for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

One day , the father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the express purpose of showing him how poor people live.
They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family. On their return from their trip, the father asked his son, "How was the trip?"
"It was great, Dad." "Did you see how poor people live?" the father asked. "Oh yeah, " said the son. "So , tell me , what did you learn from the trip?" asked the father.
The son answered: "I saw that we have one dog and they had four. We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end. We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night. Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon.
We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight. We have servants who serve us, but they serve others. We buy our food, but they grow theirs.
We have walls around our property to protect us; they have friends to protect them." The boy's father was speechless..

Then his son added, "Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74CNUExD4I8&feature=fvw

Thanks to J.R. Hatcher for sharing this article with me

Santa Claus is Coming to Town

Oh I know Christmas is not about Santa it's all about Jesus but I love the picture and it reminds me that we all need to be careful during the Holidays. People, including Santa, are driving recklessly and not using very good judgement. So have a great Christmas and let's make sure we are all here in 2010 to see what God is going to do in our lives.

Judges 13:4 "Now therefore, be careful not to drink wine or strong drink...

In 2008 over 37,000 people died on our highways 37% of those were from drunk drivers. North Carolina ranks 5th in the nation in drunk driving fatalities. So even though this is a funny picture this is no laughing matter. It is not enough that we take care of ourselves this Christmas Season but if you see someone who has had too much to drink at a party DO NOT LET THEM DRIVE. Oh they might be a little mad but at least they will be alive. Please be very careful. Click the link below and watch and then share it with every teenager you know.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZsla5HGoFE

Do You Know What I Know?

Luke 2:15

When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."

God has made this story known to us just as the angels made it known to the Shepherds. He has made it known through His Word and also through our personal experience with Christ. Now we, like the Shepherds, must make it known to the world. This is the best time of the year to share the story of Christ. People are thinking about it and if they do not attend Church any other time they will go at Christmas. Invite everyone you know and share this life changing and Eternity altering truth with someone Today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYGAd4pd2vg

Don't Let Them be Alone

Matthew 25:35-40 (New American Standard Bible)
35'For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in;
36naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.'
37"Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink?
38'And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You?
39'When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?'
40"The King will answer and say to them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.'

I believe that says it all. During the Christmas season take time to visit someone who is sick or lonely. If you don't know someone call the local nursing home and ask if they have someone with no family to visit them. You will be surprised to find how many are alone on Christmas day. It will be your greatest Christmas blessing to visit them. This video takes 39 seconds to watch but will bless your heart for days.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkKRypB6me0

Don't be Fooled

John 1:14

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.

A lady thought this would be a great gag. She used this as her Christmas decorations. A staged scene of a man hanging from a house with the fallen ladder. Well, it backfired and there were so many 911 calls that the police made her take it down. People even drove up in her yard to try and rescue the poor guy. One man hurt himself trying to put the ladder back up. Just remember Christmas is about Christ. All the other stuff is fun and it is great to get together with family, open presents, drink hot chocolate, sing Christmas songs. Nothing is wrong with any of that as long as we keep our priorities in order. We invite you to our Christmas Eve service at 6:00pm at Anchor Baptist Church, 300 Futch Creek Rd. in the Porters Neck area off of Highway 17. We will have a Candle light service and observe the Lord's Supper. I hope you and your family can come and join us for this very special Christmas tradition that reminds us of the real reason to celebrate Christmas. Click on the link and enjoy a great Christmas Classic.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFirYXLoP5Q&feature=related

Talk About Hard to Buy For.

Matthew 2:11

After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

We all struggle trying to find that perfect gift. It is so hard but what do you get for the Lamb of God, Redeemer of mankind, Creator of the Universe, Savior and Lord, after all it is His birthday. I know what not to get...gold, frankincense, and myrrh. He already has those. Oh I know they are great gifts and you can give some frankincense to others on your Christmas list but not to Jesus. You know what He wants, He wants YOU. He wants more of your time. He wants to spend more time with you this year. He wants to share his plan for your life, to give you direction and peace for 2010. He wants you to allow Him to make your life more of what it was intended to be. To help you with your relationships, job, finances. To start good habits and put aside bad ones. Why not give Him what He wants, after all He did give His life for you.

If this video does not bring a tear to your eyes you are a much stronger person than me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fKI50MhzVM

Christmas Wish for You

Colossians 3:15

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.

This a picture of the State Room at the White House decorated for Christmas. Amazing what a few million dollars can do for a room. Many are making out a wish list for Christmas. Folks are decorating and shopping. It is hard to buy something for everyone especially in this economy. But here is my Christmas wish and prayer for you. Where you ask? I checked the mail no card, no packages have arrived. Well, you are looking in the wrong place. Look at the passage again. I am praying that each one of you will have Peace in your hearts this Christmas and that we are all thankful for the blessings of God. The only way to find this peace is to find Christ. If you already have Him then share Him with others this Christmas season.

Carol and I always have trouble deciding how to decorate our house for Christmas so this year we have done something a little different. Click on the link and see our Christmas lights It was a lot of work but worth it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCmNJJ49sxU&feature=rec-LGOUT-exp_fresh+div-1r-1-HM

How Do You LIke Me KNow?

Galatians 6:7-8

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that naturewill reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

What a great picture of what appears to be a very happy couple. The picture we have of Tiger and family today is not nearly as appealing. It was not long ago I heard many people say, " I would love to have his life." I don't think I have heard that phrase this last week at all. The verse above speaks for itself. Sin will always be found out. If not by the media certainly by God. This is not a tabloid devotional meant to bash Tiger and his actions. Obviously they were wrong, very wrong and have led to a lot of heartache and pain. These are some of the consequences of sin. Everyone has an opinion of what Tiger ought to do. Get a really good lawyer, pay everyone off including his wife, go on Oprah and apologize, redo the prenuptial agreement, just go back to playing golf. What Tiger really needs is God. He needs to give his life to God, to ask for forgiveness, to know that God still loves him and can do something with this messed up life he is now living. Don't get me wrong there are going to be serious consequences, his actions were reckless and hurt the people he says he loves a great deal. But, according to the Bible he can ask for and receive forgiveness and God can help him put his life back together. I know everyone is talking about Tiger and his family and these women but how many of us , especially Christians, are praying for him, and them? Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.

Be sure to watch and listen to the video. Click on the link below

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRScqMewlD0

He Came to Die so You May Live

Warning:

This video may change your life. The reality of it changed mine years ago. It is graphic but so is life day to day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiKx6MGUfqA

Sailing and Other Spiritual Lessons

Colossians 3:2

Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.

It has been said that you can not control the wind but you can set the sails. As human beings we can not control all the events that blow our way but we can decide how we will respond to them. As Christians we are encouraged to set our minds on things above and not on earthly things. Well, that is a little hard to do sometimes but you can develope a "mindset". Try to see things from God's perspective and not through your limited vision. A perfect example is David and Goliath. From a human perspective Goliath looked very frightening indeed, but David saw him through God's eayes and he did not look so big then. Whatever you are facing try to set your mind on a heavenly perspective. Consider God's vantage point and then ask Him to help you deal with the day to day Giants

Ever Met This Person?

Proverbs 15:1

A gentle answer turns away wrath,But a harsh word stirs up anger.

You may not have met her but you have met people who were angry about something. When you confront such a person returning anger for anger will accomplish nothing. But, if you return a kind word it may serve to calm them down. Often times they are not even angry with you, but just angry and you happen to be the outlet for their emotions. Try this... when you are confronted by an angry or upset person maintain your composure. Talk in a normal tone and let them know that you are willing to listen but not to argue. Have them sit down with you, and don't be defencive. If you are wrong apologize, but if you feel you are right say so gently and move on. Do not allow things to escalate . The Bible has a great deal to say about how to deal with one another. We are teaching a series on this subject at our Church this month in morning Bible Study. Love conquers a great many battles.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xdgJN0quK4&feature=PlayList&p=4E989AB65DC57965&index=0

It's Your Move

Hebrews 10:25

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

We have just celebrated Thanksgiving and we have so much to be thankful for. This Sunday at Anchor Baptist I will begin an Advent sermon series. The first message this Sunday is on HOPE. I hope you will attend and worship with us. If you can not find a place to worship with other believers this Sunday. Many people give thanks on Thanksgiving in their prayer before the meal but then do not take time to express our love and devotion by attending a Church and Worshipping our God and Savior. It's all lip service for some instead of Life Service. How disappointed were you this Thanksgiving to hear that some of your loved ones would not be coming home. Maybe they are sick or overseas or just strain financially and could not make the trip. I wonder how disappointed our Heavenly Father will be this coming Sunday to see that we could not make the trip to Worship. It's your move.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-UdyDGCXNA

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving

Be Sure to Give Thanks to God

for

His Many Blessings

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtxmSAqMtDA

One Step at a Time

Romans 5:3

And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance;

Both of my daughters took dance growing up. But my youngest got very interested in Point. This is where you have to raise yourself up on your toes and dance on them. Who came up with this torture I have no idea but in order to do it, it requires hours and hours of practice. I remember her taking off her shoes crying and her toes would be bleeding. Then she would tape them up and put the shoes on and practice some more. Perseverance. God encourages us to persevere through trials and troubles. Never give up. If you fall down, get up. If you make a mistake ask for forgiveness and move on. If you do not succeed the first time, try again. The race does not always go to the swift but to the one who keeps on going when everyone else drops out. Remember it is always too soon to quit. The first link is a video I hope everyone watches. The second link is a youtube video by Lee Ann Womack. It is not necessarily a Christian song but a song that encouraged me when I was going through a very difficult time. If you don't like country music don't listen to it. I think the song contains a powerful message. Have a great Thanksgiving

http://www.bestwayout.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KFAa40kZ30

Make a Joyful Noise

Psalm 100:1

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

When we think about that verse I think we all apply it to singing. That we go to Church and sing praises to God with a joyful heart. The singers in this picture are doing that but there is always one who is not joyful, and refuses to join in. I think the verse refers more to day to day activities, conversations, and interaction. There are some people you just like being around because they are full of Joy but there are others that you avoid like the plague because you know there is no Joy in them and if they find some they will try and destroy it. The real question, the heart of the matter is...which one are you? It's amazing that each day we get to decide which one we will to be. Someone who spreads Joy and that people love to be around, or a Joy assassin looking to kill it wherever they find it. Which one will you be today? So, wherever you go today make a Joyful Noise.

Check this video out

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2X-M3Og-YhE&feature=fvw

God is in Control

Isaiah 41:10
So don't worry, because I am with you. Don't be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you.

Recently, at our Church, I have encouraged the congregation not to watch the news for 30 days. Why? Some might say, "We can not be like an ostrich and stick our head in the sand." Others chime in, "We must be informed." Both statements have merit. However let me ask you a question. Because you are well informed about our economic plight, and irresponsible actions of political and business leaders how has that helped you to change things? What have you done to straighten out the world situation in the last 30 days? When the prices go up at the pump do you immediately call a board meeting with the petroleum giants and demand an explanation? Have you been able to curve the the irresponsible waste in Government spending? Have you worked out a peace agreement in the middle east? The answer to all of these questions is NO. But, what you have done is stress yourself out, raise your blood pressure, lose sleep, slip into depression, because you have little or no control in those arenas. So I would encourage you to follow the simple advice of the serenity prayer.

God grant me the serenity

to accept the things I cannot change;

courage to change the things I can;

and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;

Enjoying one moment at a time;

Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;

Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is,

not as I would have it;

Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will;

That I may be reasonably happy in this life

and supremely happy with Him Forever in the next.

Amen.

--Reinhold Niebuhr

Click on the Link to Hear Twila Paris, God is in Control

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQHlKc8DrB4&feature=fvw

Is This Really God's House?

Acts 17:24

"The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands;

People many times refer to a church as the "House of God". In reality God does not live in these buildings. He resides inside each one of us who have received Him as our Lord and Savior. He takes up residence in our hearts. Sadly this picture represents many Church buildings today. Empty. In America we have more large churches than ever and fewer people attending them. Here is a poem we used to say as children but it is revised to reflect accurate Theology. We used to say this with hand motions, maybe you remember.

Here is the building

Here is the steeple

open the doors

The Church is the People

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aB9t2p6ii6k

The Seperation of Sin

Isaiah 59:1-2 59

Behold, the LORD'S hand is not so short That it cannot save; Nor is His ear so dull That it cannot hear. 2But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, And your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear.

Many times people wonder why their prayers are not heard. The Bible is clear that if we practice sin it separates us from God. Now everyone sins and when we do we can ask God for forgiveness and He will forgive. This passage is talking about continuous, rebellious conscious sin. Knowing our actions or attitudes are wrong and continuing in them anyway. People have a few sins they think of but as the sign posts in the picture indicate there are all sorts of sins. We must take the time to examine our life and ask God to reveal any sin that may be hindering our relationship with Him.

You Are My All in All

Psalm 42:1

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.

A young man was following an evangelist listening to his messages with great interest. Each service he would ask the man to please baptize him. The Evangelist said I don't think you are really ready yet. Finally he agreed and they walked out into the water. The evangelist lowered him beneath the water and then as the young man started to come up the preacher held him down. Then he began to struggle and the evangelist held him down. Then suddenly he pulled him up out of the water and the young man was gasping for air. After he caught his breath he asked why the man had done that. The older man said,"When you were under that water what did you want more than anything else?" AIR, was his reply. The evangelist looked at him and said when you want Christ that much you can become a follower of His. Click on the link below and have a Great Day!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zC617kE1maU

The Unknown Soldier

James 5:13 Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise.

In the first picture I am assuming that these soldiers are praying. I am pretty sure it is not a boot inspection and because I do not see any prayer rugs I am also assuming it is a Christian prayer. I am not sure what this administrations policy is concerning Christian prayer in the military but I assure you when your life and the lives of your friends are on the line you will pray regardless of policy. Why are they praying you ask? Well, the second picture is one of the reasons they are praying. This week I was in an airport and saw a soldier in uniform come home and he was greeted by his three sons and wife. It was very emotional...hugs and happiness mixed with tears of joy. But, for thousands of men and women in the military their homecoming has been quite different, as you can see in the second picture. So, these soldiers are not only praying for their own safety but also for their friends who have given their lives fighting for their country. No matter what your opinion of the war is or your feelings towards this administration our responsibility is to join these soldiers in praying for their safety and for the families who have been part of homecomings like the one in the second picture. They may be unknown to us but they are known to God and missed by loved ones every single day.


Jeff

Do You Care Enough?

Psalm 54:6

Willingly I will sacrifice to You; I will give thanks to Your name, O LORD, for it is good.

Want to have some real fun today, make a difference in the world, help to make someones day brighter. Well then here is what you do. Go and get a card and write something nice in it to someone you know but don't sign it. Just tell them what a difference they have made in your life. How being around them makes your day better. Come on do it. We all like to get mail. Think how it will encourage them. It may be just what they need. The name that came to your mind is the one God wants you to send the card to. Well?

Click on the link below and decide who to send it to as you listen to the song:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EN3D0Carn3U&feature=related

Things Are Changing

Psalm 44:8

In God we have boasted all day long, And we will give thanks to Your name forever. Selah.

Things are changing. So much negative news. People are discouraged, jobs are not secure, fiances are in jeopardy, trust in our Government and those who make decisions is diminishing. In a world filled with negative news be a positive voice today. Share what Christ has done for you and give thanks with a grateful heart.

For the next few days I am going to give you an opportunity to give thanks and to read what others also write. You might just include one line or a short story. Do not pass up this chance to say Thank you to a loving God who has given us so much to be thankful for. In order to write your message just click on comment below, then type in your comment and the security word and click on anonymous and publish your post. Others can then read it on the site. You can include your name if you like, that is up to you. Each day I will also include a picture and verse but this is really about you having a chance to says thank you. Just as we like to hear our children say "thank you", I am sure our heavenly Father will be pleased by our recognition of some of His many blessings. If you have trouble posting just send it to
nc_jeff@hotmail.com and I will post it for you. Click on the song link below and think about all the things you have to be thankful for, then post your comment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGWQJ4heXS8&feature=PlayList&p=0D530B7901A78A3F&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=1

Give Thanks Now

Psalm 30:12 That my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent

O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.

Every day I hear so many people complaining. Why don't we take a few minutes to write down 5 things you are thankful for. After you list them stop and pray and thank God for His many blessings. It may be the best 5 minutes of your day.

I am going to give you an opportunity to give thanks and to read what others also write. You might just include one line or a short story. Do not pass up this chance to say Thank you to a loving God who has given us so much to be thankful for. In order to write your message just click on comment below, then type in your comment and the security word and click on anonymous and publish your post. Others can then read it on the site. You can include your name if you like, that is up to you. Each day I will also include a picture and verse but this is really about you having a chance to says thank you. Just as we like to hear our children say "thank you", I am sure our heavenly Father will be pleased by our recognition of some of His many blessings. If you have trouble posting just send it to
nc_jeff@hotmail.com and I will post it for you. Click on the song link below and think about all the things you have to be thankful for, then post your comment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvXidiQdSHc

So. Let Us Give Thanks

Psalm 9:1

I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonders.

We all have so much to be thankful for and just like the cartoon says,

" One day a year hardly seems adequate." So for the next few days I am going to give you an opportunity to give thanks and to read what others also write. You might just include one line or a short story. Do not pass up this chance to say Thank you to a loving God who has given us so much to be thankful for. In order to write your message just click on comment below, then type in your comment and the security word and click on anonymous and publish your post. Others can then read it on the site. You can include your name if you like, that is up to you. Each day I will also include a picture and verse but this is really about you having a chance to says thank you. Just as we like to hear our children say "thank you", I am sure our heavenly Father will be pleased by our recognition of some of His many blessings. If you have trouble posting just send it to

nc_jeff@hotmail.com and I will post it for you. Click on the song link below and think about all the things you have to be thankful for, then post your comment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xPzTSpbYmk

Just Call Out my Name

Jeremiah 33:3

'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'

Many times we find ourselves in a situation where we don't know what to do. When that happens we usually call someone and ask for help. God tells us in his word we can always call on Him and He will provide the answers and direction we are seeking. Because in God we always have a Friend. Click on the link below for a musical reminder.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wftbahypdAA

The Real Transformer

2 Corinthians 3:18

Standard 18But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.

I am sure most everyone has seen the transformer toys magazines and movies. These machines are able to change into other objects. God is Transforming us into the image of Christ. He does that as we study His Word, spend time in Prayer, Fellowship with other believers and, Share our Faith. Check out this video by clicking the link below. And you thought your Halloween costume was good.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC08Lx-zkhI&feature=related

I'll Tell You What's Really Scary

John 3:16

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

A friend sent me this picture and the story that goes with it. The mans name is Chito and this is his friend. A 17 foot 1000 pound crocodile in Costa Rica. He found the Crocodile when it weighed 150 pounds and it had been shot. Chito nursed it back to health and they became good friends. Each day they swim and play together. I don't know about you but I don't think I would be so brave. But I will tell you this. I would rather face 10 crocodiles this size that were hungry than Eternity without Christ. What could be more Scary than that? For it is only in Christ that we find Eternal Life and Peace. Click the link for a Great Song

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JU5E4fBXObg

What Will You Make of it?

James 4:7

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Halloween is this weekend. What will we make of it? Many Christians have a hard time with Halloween and and mark it as a very dark and Satanic time. A holiday to stay away from. Well I think it's what you make of it. You could take this pumpkin and carve a very scary face in it or you could make pumpkin pie. Or if we use our imagination we could carve good things into it. Halloween was originally a Celtic festival that marked 'summers end" . This divided the light days from the dark days. They believed the divide between the living and the dead was very thin and on that night and bad spirits could pass into this world. They dressed up in costumes to confuse the spirits so they would not attack them. Pope Gregory the III and Gregory the IV moved the observance of "All Saints Day" to November 1st making October 31st All Hallows Evening shortened to Eve. They did this to give the Christian Church something positive to celebrate. So, in all we do we should seek God and resist Satan according to James 4:7. The holiday is what you make of it. I would not give it any special attention but use it as a time to remember those Saints who have gone on before us. Honor their memory and examine our own commitment to Christ. It will be what you make of it.

Anchor Baptist Church will be celebrating Homecoming this Sunday

November 1st. We invite you to come and Worship with us on this very special day. After the service we will serve a meal. You are invited to be our guest. We are located at 300 Futch Creek Road, in the Porters Neck area. If you need directions you can go to our website...http://www.anchorbaptistwilmington.com/ If you would like to stay and eat with us please call and make reservations before Saturday at 4:oo pm 910-547-0404. We hope to see you there.

Services start at 10:30 am

Can't See the Forest for the Tree

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

At first glance what do you see? Probably the single Red tree. There is a whole forest of trees in the background but this one stands out because it is different. Joshua stood out because he was different. We live in a day and time when everyone is just trying to blend in, be accepted, keep your opinions and beliefs to yourself, and yet God calls us to stand out. We are not to be afraid to stand up for what we believe. To share the life changing reality of Christ with those we come in contact with. We do not have to be obnoxious to do it just different. The tree is very beautiful because it is different. Don't be afraid to tell others about Christ.

We Are All Ears

Revelation 2:7
7 "Every person who has ears should listen to what the Spirit says to the churches....

We have ears but that does not mean we listen. Many times we miss what people say to us or hear and forget right away. I think we are also that way with God. He is speaking, are we listening? Sunday I preached on this subject at our Church. I said that God speaks to us in many ways but the main 4 ways , I believe , are

1. His Word

2. The Holy Spirit

3. People

4. Circumstances.

God is speaking . Are we listening? Check out this Amazing song by Mandisa.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wn7sn6RjoY0&feature=related

What Does Your Lifesong Sound Like?

Psalm 107:22 .... tell of his works with songs of joy.

This is Chad and Sarah Cates. I met Chad at a Youth Camp in Florida a couple of years ago and since that time I have had the opportunity to spend time with him and get to know him better. Most recently this week at Campbell University where he was ministering to the students through his music and life. Chad is a song writer in Nashville. Whenever I am around him I am always encouraged by his music and the truth of his lyrics, his passion for music and concern for people. God uses music to speak to us and each day, believe it or not, we are singing a Lifesong. As people hear us what do they hear? Words of encouragement and praise or complaining and a negative spirit. Think about that today as you interact and speak to people. What are the lyrics and what is the message of your lifesong? Chad was a co-writer of the song "Lifesong", recorded by Casting Crowns. I am including a link to the song and also the Chad's web-site. Keep he and Sarah in your prayers as they minister to folks through music.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaia32TsPq0

http://www.chadcates.net/ChadCates/Liner_Notes.html

The Start is Important

Psalm 5:3

Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.

I am not a huge race fan but I do know that the winner of the last two Indy 500s started from the Pole Position. I remember running track in high school and in the sprints the start was always very important. The same is true for us each day. We are starting a new week and this is the start of a new day. The best way to start each new day is with prayer. Pray for God's wisdom for each situation you face this week. Also pray for others that God will guide them and protect them each day. How we start each day is every important. If you did not start today with prayer why not stop right now for just a moment and ask pray to God for all your concerns this week. I know it will make your day, your week, and your life much better.

Psalm 88:13 (English Standard Version)
But I, O LORD, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1i6DhKUkySc&feature=related

On The Other Side

Luke 10:20
But don't be happy because evil spirits obey you. Be happy that your names are written in heaven!

PLEASE

Do your self a big favor and click on the link below and listen to this song. Close the door, turn off the cell phone, fix a cup of coffee and just close your eyes and listen. Each week I deal with life and death and people have many questions about heaven. The Bible has a great deal to say about it but sometimes music speaks louder than a theological discourse. We all have friends and family there and as I listened to this song I pictured them and me one day. Share it with a friend, maybe someone who really needs to hear this today. You can really minister to them as someone shared this with me today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=556E2_S52i4

Good Question

Malachi 3:8-10

8 "Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing Me! But you say, 'How have we robbed You?' In tithes and offerings. 9 "You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing Me, the whole nation {of you!} 10 " Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this," says the LORD of hosts, "if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows.

Does the passage or the cartoon really need any commentary? The question is not , "What does the passage say?", but rather "Will I obey?" God has blessed us with so much and yet we purchase things we do not need and then wonder why we have nothing to give back to God.

Front Page News

Lamentations 3:22-24

The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. 23They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. 24"The LORD is my portion," says my soul,"Therefore I have hope in Him."

A friend of mine called me yesterday and told me to turn on the TV. This is what I saw. A balloon, supposedly with a six year old passenger on board. All of America was focused on this News. It turns out, to every ones relief, that the boy was not on board but at home hiding. Front Page News. But, maybe this did not make your front page yesterday. The big news for you could have been , loss of a job, financial woes, break-up of a marriage or relationship, foreclosure, doctors report, broken promise, a million things the world is not concerned with but it was on your Front Page. The verse today tells us that God is with us through everything, good and bad. His love for us is renewed every morning His promises never fail, His compassion sustains us. He is not concerned with temporary happiness but Eternal Joy. Here is some News, Good News, God loves you and regardless of what news grabs the headlines your concerns grab His heart.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ef9jKHwHueQ

Things Happen for a Reason.

Hebrews 10:36

Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.

How would you like to be in this traffic jam? Sometimes we get very frustrated because things do not go our way. When I was four years old my mother and I were supposed to catch a plane leaving North Africa to meet my dad in England. We were running behind and got caught in a traffic jam. My mother tells me we just missed it and she was so disappointed because there would not be another plane for a few days. Later that day we learned that the plane we missed crashed and everyone on board died. So, today if things do not go your way have patience there just might be a reason for the way things are happening.

What do You See?

James 1:23-24

Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.

Many people read the Bible and use it as a Microscope to examine other peoples lives. When really it should be used as a mirror to examine our own life and see what changes God would like to make is us. When you read the Bible ask yourself,"what is this passage saying to me, and how can it help me to be the person Christ desires for me to be?"

Just like New

Psalm 51:12

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation And sustain me with a willing spirit.

The car in the picture is a 1929 Ford. It takes not only knowledge but talent, passion , time, commitment, and great expense to restore a car to this condition. We have a couple of men in our Church that restore cars and they are passionate about it. When you go to their house they show them to you but really looking at the finished product you can not imagine all the time and effort and sometimes frustration that it took to get the car restored. God is in the restoration business. he is working on all of us. Also for Him it takes time, patience, passion, and great cost to get us in original condition. Restored to a redeemed relationship with our Creator and Savior. It cost Him His life. In addition to the Redemptive project God is trying to restore us many times after we have taken a fall, gotten banged up, bruised, rejected, disappointed. He loves each one of us and wants us to be the best we can be. I am sure sometimes He points to someone on earth and the angels say they are doing great, they look good, they are fulfilling your purpose for their life and God replies, " Yes but you should have seen them before the restoration."

Now I Know

Ephesians 6:10

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.

Do you believe in God? There is a Big difference between believing and knowing. A young boy believed his father was very strong. he told everyone how strong he was. Then one day the boy climbed a tree and got stuck and was afraid. His father stood below the tree and told his son to jump and that he would catch him. The young man was afraid and not sure his dad could do that. Just then the limb broke and the father caught his son. At that moment he Knew how strong his father really was. What about us? Do we just talk about how strong God is or have we tested that faith and moved beyond believing to knowing.

Which Road Are You On?

Romans 12:2

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

I read an article that 80% of Americans never leave the office. You say, "that can not be true." We go home at the end of the day to the peace and quiet and tranquility of our home PC, e-mail, voice mail, blackberry updates, face book obligations, text messages that must be read and answered, even at dinner,and in the movie. There is no sacred time anymore. We are mentally engaged from the time we get up until we go to bed, where many times we don't sleep we simply pass out. Some don't even make it to the bed they find themselves asleep on the couch or in the chair, again. Try this...for 24 hours do not get on the computer, answer the cell, no texting no news, no fax, just 24 hours of living and talking to the human beings around you. You remember them don't you, your family. You are now completely stressed wondering how you can survive for 24 hours without that stuff aren't you? You are killing yourself and cheating those you love. I dare you , take the challenge 24 hours. Can you do it? Let me know.

I welcome your comments and ideas. Also every once in a while I like to check and see if people are reading the devotions. Could you do me a favor and click on the comment link below and simply type yes. This will let me know if I am using my time wisely. Have a great weekend.

Jeff

How Will They Hear Without a Preacher

Check this out I think it is amazing to listen to this man preach . There are a lot of ways to involve and engage the congregation I think this was one of the best I ever saw. Enjoy Click on the link below

http://www.tangle.com/view_video?viewkey=4ce7f62c8fa7541273d6

Nothing Can Seperate Us

Romans 8:38-39 (New American Standard Bible)
38For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,
39nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

You are looking at a picture of a portion of the Great Wall of China. It is one of the seven man made Wonders of the World. The wall was constructed over 2000 years ago before the time of Christ. It stretches for about 4000 miles. That would be the distance across the United States from east to west coast and half way back again. The average height is 25 feet. The wall is 15-25 feet wide. If you could drive a car the length of the wall traveling at 100 mph it would take you 40 hours to drive it. The passage today tells us that NOTHING can separate us from the love of God. Not time or space or mistakes we have made, wrong decisions, past failures, rebellious behavior, bankruptcy, divorce, prison, disease, foreclosure, addictions, depression, NOTHING can separate us from God's love...except our unwillingness to receive it. The prodigal son separated himself from his father but not his fathers love. When he came home his Father was waiting and willing to receive him as if he had never left. Do you know someone that needs to hear this message today? Share it with them it could change their life.

Where is Your Treasure?

Matthew 16:26 (New American Standard Bible)
26"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

People spend their whole life trying to accumulate wealth. The more they have the more they want. In the end you can not take it with you. In 30 years of ministry I have stood beside the bed of many people who were in their last hours of life. never once did I hear one of them say, "I wish I would have worked a little harder, spent more time at the office, made more money." I have heard many people say, " I wish I had spent more time with my family, or traveled more, enjoyed life, served God." At that point it is impossible to change the past but today you can change the future. As we have seen recently things you work so hard for can disappear over night. The real treasure is a relationship with God, spending time with your family, and having a few really good friends who love you for who you are not what you can do for them. If you are going to spend then spend time with family and friends and building your relationship with God. If you are going to invest then invest in your Eternal future and not this temporary existence. I promise it will pay very big dividends

Help Wanted!

Hebrews 6:10 (New American Standard Bible)
10For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints.

Latest statistics report that almost 10% of Americans are unemployed. In the Church the statistics are that 20% of the people do 80% of the work, 30 % of the people do 20% of the work, and 50% do nothing at all. Every Church should have a help Wanted Sign out in front. We need help to get everything done. To minister to people. It is surprising to learn that even though unemployment is up volunteering is down. We all need to pray for our country and God will convict people of their greed and dishonesty which is what got us in this situation. Each one of us need to ask God, "What is it that you want me to do to help others?"

In helping others ,many times, we find that we are really helping ourselves. Read today's verse again because it says what I am trying to say so much better. God is looking for people to answer His help Wanted sign. The work is rewarding, the benefits are peace of mind, and the retirement program is out of this world.

Jeff

Feel Like Giving Up?

Then check this out.........

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbEKUeMnibw&feature=related

Have a great weekend


Jeff

Period

Romans 10:9-10 (New American Standard Bible)
that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;
10for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.

See the little dot to your left? It is a period. You place it at the end of a sentence. Webster defines it this way; used interjectionally to emphasize the finality of the preceding statement . You find one at the end of verse 10 in the passage above. Paul describes in this passage what is required for Salvation. To this the Church has added, over the centuries, long lists of do's and dont's. An elaborate list of external criteria so we could observe a person and tell if they were a Christian or not. The only problem is that God does not look at the outward appearance but the heart. Another important thing to remember; God is not so concerned with where you have been as much as where you are going. God is not as interested in what you have done as much as what you are going to do. Paul ,or Saul, had hunted down Christians, arrested them, participated in their executions but Jesus saw something in him others could not see. He called him to follow Him and he was the greatest missionary of New Testament times. A great contributor to the New Testament writing almost half of it. Now when a person becomes a Christian God then transforms them while the church many times is simply interested in a person being conformed to their expectations and Rules. Yes, God loves you just as you are, but loves you too much to leave you that way PERIOD

Now That's Faith

Hebrews 11:1 (The Message)
Hebrews 11
Faith in What We Don't See 1-2The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It's our handle on what we can't see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

We go to a Doctor whose name we can not pronounce and get a prescription we can not read, to take to a Pharmacist we do not know, to put pills in a bottle we have never heard of, with side affects such as stroke and heart failure, and then we take it as directed....Now that is Faith my friends. The Bible tells us to place our trust, our faith in God. The same God who gave his life on a cross for our sins, and who is returning one day to take us to heaven. In all the Bible I find no mistakes no variation. I have trusted the words on those pages for 30 years and never been mislead or disappointed. God deserves our trust and He requires Faith if we are ever going to accomplish anything in this life. If you trust that Dr. and Pharmacist and drug manufacturer surely you can trust God. Open the Bible read it and take as directed.

Pay Attention

Proverbs 4:1
Hear, O sons, the instruction of a father, And give attention that you may gain understanding,

Here is a guy who is not paying attention and because of that he fell.

Of course being able to read might help. We can read and God wants us to pay attention to His Word and Instruction. If we do we would probably suffer fewer falls and missteps in life. It has always been our problem ever since the garden of Eden. If we don't pay attention, then we suffer the consequences. But for those who fail and fall God is there to pick us up forgive us and set us back on the right path.