February 20, 2010
Affirming Words 2/20/10-Saved and Gay is OK Parts 5 & 6 of 6
While a large portion of the country is upset that many gays want the right to be married, this Pentecostal preacher who is gay delivers a message of love and acceptance to Raging Fire Ministries in Bluefield, West Virginia. The sermon is high spirited and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Affirming Resource 2/20/10-The Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists
Gay-affirming Baptists? No, this is not an oxymoron!
Ten years ago, after the lgbt community had been dealt yet another blow by members of their denomination, a group of American Baptist pastors decided that it was time to stand up and declare their affirmation of glbt people. The network of churches they founded, the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists (AWAB), has now grown to more than 60 churches and organizations. AWAB members are Baptist churches, organizations, and individuals who have gone on record as being welcoming and affirming of all persons, without regard to sexual orientation.
We know that much abuse of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons has been fostered and encouraged by the rhetoric of the church, leaving many people feeling that they must choose between their faith and their sexuality. AWAB members have joined together to advocate for inclusion of lgbt persons within Baptist communities of faith. Initiated at a gathering of pastors in 1991 at the American Baptist Biennial Meeting in Charleston, West Virginia, the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists was formally organized at the 1993 Biennial in San José, California. (For more on our formation and developments within the ABC, read our brief history.)
Currently, the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists consists of 48 congregations, several local support chapters, church groups and pastoral counseling centers, an international ministry, and individuals. See our current membership list for a list of Welcoming & Affirming congregations and ministries.
Click here to find out more.
Ten years ago, after the lgbt community had been dealt yet another blow by members of their denomination, a group of American Baptist pastors decided that it was time to stand up and declare their affirmation of glbt people. The network of churches they founded, the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists (AWAB), has now grown to more than 60 churches and organizations. AWAB members are Baptist churches, organizations, and individuals who have gone on record as being welcoming and affirming of all persons, without regard to sexual orientation.
We know that much abuse of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons has been fostered and encouraged by the rhetoric of the church, leaving many people feeling that they must choose between their faith and their sexuality. AWAB members have joined together to advocate for inclusion of lgbt persons within Baptist communities of faith. Initiated at a gathering of pastors in 1991 at the American Baptist Biennial Meeting in Charleston, West Virginia, the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists was formally organized at the 1993 Biennial in San José, California. (For more on our formation and developments within the ABC, read our brief history.)
Currently, the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists consists of 48 congregations, several local support chapters, church groups and pastoral counseling centers, an international ministry, and individuals. See our current membership list for a list of Welcoming & Affirming congregations and ministries.
Click here to find out more.
From the SNN Library 2/20/10-Cure For the Common Life
We ALL have gifts, skills God gave us when he made us. If you aren't clear on what yours are, this book can be a good starting point for finding that out.
Amazon.com user ratings: 36 of 37 reviewers gave it at least 4 out of 5 stars
SNN rating: 4 stars
Bestselling author Lucado (Come Thirsty) dedicates his latest book to helping readers discover their "sweet spot"—the job or life calling they were created for. He guides readers on their search to find the unique abilities God may have built into them. First step: "read your life backward" to see where you've been successful and what you've loved in the past. Readers are directed to find their personal "S.T.O.R.Y."—strengths, topic, optimal conditions, relationships and "Yes!" moments. This acronym originates with People Management Inc., whose theories helped Lucado find his own strengths and form much of the foundation for this book. For Lucado, discovering one's life purpose is really about honoring the God who gave the unique abilities in the first place, so he instructs readers not to make decisions based on greed. Instead, he exhorts them to "make a big deal out of God" rather than worrying about their own reputation and to trust God to use their "small beginnings" in his overall purpose. The book contains a "Sweet Spot Discovery Guide" with detailed exercises from People Management to help readers uncover their own personal "S.T.O.R.Y."—though some will want further guidance. As always, evangelical readers will appreciate that Lucado is easy to read while still substantive and orthodox, and many struggling to find the work that's right for them will find this book very helpful.
Click here to read customer reviews or purchase the book at Amazon.com.
Amazon.com user ratings: 36 of 37 reviewers gave it at least 4 out of 5 stars
SNN rating: 4 stars
Bestselling author Lucado (Come Thirsty) dedicates his latest book to helping readers discover their "sweet spot"—the job or life calling they were created for. He guides readers on their search to find the unique abilities God may have built into them. First step: "read your life backward" to see where you've been successful and what you've loved in the past. Readers are directed to find their personal "S.T.O.R.Y."—strengths, topic, optimal conditions, relationships and "Yes!" moments. This acronym originates with People Management Inc., whose theories helped Lucado find his own strengths and form much of the foundation for this book. For Lucado, discovering one's life purpose is really about honoring the God who gave the unique abilities in the first place, so he instructs readers not to make decisions based on greed. Instead, he exhorts them to "make a big deal out of God" rather than worrying about their own reputation and to trust God to use their "small beginnings" in his overall purpose. The book contains a "Sweet Spot Discovery Guide" with detailed exercises from People Management to help readers uncover their own personal "S.T.O.R.Y."—though some will want further guidance. As always, evangelical readers will appreciate that Lucado is easy to read while still substantive and orthodox, and many struggling to find the work that's right for them will find this book very helpful.
Click here to read customer reviews or purchase the book at Amazon.com.
Encouraging Words 2/20/10 Truly Living the Christian Life
From: Love Worth Finding
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.” Colossians 3:17
The sign over the church door where I attended as a boy read, “The Lord is in His holy temple. Let all the earth keep silent.” I mistakenly took that to mean that I had just entered the holy temple and had better start acting religious.
We are the temple of God, not a building made of brick and mortar. Wherever we go, whatever we do, we are to be doing all in the name of Jesus.
The secular is to be sanctified so that Jesus will be glorified in everything. Because He lives in you, every day is a holy day, not just Sundays. The spiritual life is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all eternity.
Have you ever had a home appraised? Get a trusted friend or loved one to give you an appraisal of the home where the Holy Spirit dwells — you! Are there areas that need repair, restoration, or removal?
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.” Colossians 3:17
The sign over the church door where I attended as a boy read, “The Lord is in His holy temple. Let all the earth keep silent.” I mistakenly took that to mean that I had just entered the holy temple and had better start acting religious.
We are the temple of God, not a building made of brick and mortar. Wherever we go, whatever we do, we are to be doing all in the name of Jesus.
The secular is to be sanctified so that Jesus will be glorified in everything. Because He lives in you, every day is a holy day, not just Sundays. The spiritual life is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all eternity.
Have you ever had a home appraised? Get a trusted friend or loved one to give you an appraisal of the home where the Holy Spirit dwells — you! Are there areas that need repair, restoration, or removal?
February 19, 2010
Affirming Words 2/19/10-Saved and Gay is OK Part 4 of 6
While a large portion of the country is upset that many gays want the right to be married, this Pentecostal preacher who is gay delivers a message of love and acceptance to Raging Fire Ministries in Bluefield, West Virginia. The sermon is high spirited and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Matthew 25 Resource 2/19/10-Hawaii Food Bank (Nonolulu)
"The people of Hawaii are one ohana. The Hawaii Foodbank provides food so that no one in
our family goes hungry. We work to gather food and support from our communities. We then
distribute food through charitable agencies to those in need. Our mission is from the heart,
and we will fulfill our mission with integrity, humanity and aloha."
The Hawaii Foodbank is the only nonprofit 501(c)(3) agency in the state of Hawaii that collects, warehouses and distributes mass quantities of both perishable and non-perishable food to 250 member agencies as well as food banks on the Big Island, Maui and Kauai.
The Hawaii Foodbank forms a vital link between the food donors and our member agencies by providing services in collecting, sorting, salvaging and distributing food. The Hawaii Foodbank also supports its member agencies through financial and educational assistance.
Click here to find out more.
Affirming Resource 2/19/10-WeHoChurch, West Hollywood, CA
How does a church touch people? Especially people who are busy, active or may not want to be "touched" by a church in the first place. For centuries the church simply erected buildings, established rules and expected people to acquiesce. Often they did.
Today however, people are smarter and more independent. Thanks to the Internet, people are able to find answers to life's questions on their own. For a church to touch people today, its message must be personal and relevant, yet delivered with innovation and technology.
WeHoChurch exists for just such a purpose. Committed to the West Hollywood community, the leaders of WeHoChurch seek to share God's unconditional love with those who might otherwise feel unwelcome or uncomfortable in a church setting.
At last, the so-called "unchurched" have a place to call home; a place where people look beyond sexual orientation, a place where people seek to express God's love, a place where you can belong. Whether you attend weekly, monthly, twice a year or online, WeHoChurch.com wants to be your church home.
Click here to find out more.
Today however, people are smarter and more independent. Thanks to the Internet, people are able to find answers to life's questions on their own. For a church to touch people today, its message must be personal and relevant, yet delivered with innovation and technology.
WeHoChurch exists for just such a purpose. Committed to the West Hollywood community, the leaders of WeHoChurch seek to share God's unconditional love with those who might otherwise feel unwelcome or uncomfortable in a church setting.
At last, the so-called "unchurched" have a place to call home; a place where people look beyond sexual orientation, a place where people seek to express God's love, a place where you can belong. Whether you attend weekly, monthly, twice a year or online, WeHoChurch.com wants to be your church home.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT Helping Hands 2/19/10-Sunserve (Ft. Lauderdale, FL)
Our Mission
Recognizing that everyone has the right to quality services and care, our mission is to reach out to those in need with an emphasis on the economically disadvantaged, marginalized youth, senior adults, people of differing abilities and those with life-challenging health conditions in the greater South Florida metropolitan area.
Our Goals:
* SunServe will be a model social service agency, serving the gay* community with compassionate and progressive care that understands and respects the individuality of each client, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identification.
* SunServe’s services will be of the highest quality for all clients served, especially those in financial need, minorities, youth, seniors, people of differing ability, and those with life-challenging physical, behavioral and emotional conditions.
* SunServe will help build a stronger, healthier community one person at a time, reaching beyond race, ageism, ethnic differences, sexual orientation and socio-economic classes.
* SunServe will meet the unique needs of the South Florida LGBT community through collaborative partnerships with individuals and agencies from the greater South Florida area.
Click here to find out more.
Recognizing that everyone has the right to quality services and care, our mission is to reach out to those in need with an emphasis on the economically disadvantaged, marginalized youth, senior adults, people of differing abilities and those with life-challenging health conditions in the greater South Florida metropolitan area.
Our Goals:
* SunServe will be a model social service agency, serving the gay* community with compassionate and progressive care that understands and respects the individuality of each client, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identification.
* SunServe’s services will be of the highest quality for all clients served, especially those in financial need, minorities, youth, seniors, people of differing ability, and those with life-challenging physical, behavioral and emotional conditions.
* SunServe will help build a stronger, healthier community one person at a time, reaching beyond race, ageism, ethnic differences, sexual orientation and socio-economic classes.
* SunServe will meet the unique needs of the South Florida LGBT community through collaborative partnerships with individuals and agencies from the greater South Florida area.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 2/19/10 Flourishing in Body, Soul, and Spirit
From: Love Worth Finding
“…dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves…” 2 Corinthians 7:1
You were created to know three worlds — the spiritual, psychological, and material worlds. These can be considered the world above us, the world within us, and the world around us.
These worlds are related to the three parts of our human nature — spirit, soul, and body. When you are rightly related to the material world with your body, you are healthy. When you are rightly related to the psychological world with your soul, you are happy. And when you are rightly related to the spiritual world in your spirit, you are holy. God’s aim is that ultimately you are to experience all three realities: health, happiness, and holiness.
Take a snapshot inventory of your life. Where do you need to start making changes to live a healthier lifestyle?
What is your emotional barometer telling you about how you see others and yourself?
Do you know of any area in your life where you are not living in obedience to the call of holy living?
“…dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves…” 2 Corinthians 7:1
You were created to know three worlds — the spiritual, psychological, and material worlds. These can be considered the world above us, the world within us, and the world around us.
These worlds are related to the three parts of our human nature — spirit, soul, and body. When you are rightly related to the material world with your body, you are healthy. When you are rightly related to the psychological world with your soul, you are happy. And when you are rightly related to the spiritual world in your spirit, you are holy. God’s aim is that ultimately you are to experience all three realities: health, happiness, and holiness.
Take a snapshot inventory of your life. Where do you need to start making changes to live a healthier lifestyle?
What is your emotional barometer telling you about how you see others and yourself?
Do you know of any area in your life where you are not living in obedience to the call of holy living?
February 18, 2010
Affirming Words 2/18/10-Saved and Gay is Ok Part 3 of 6
While a large portion of the country is upset that many gays want the right to be married, this Pentecostal preacher who is gay delivers a message of love and acceptance to Raging Fire Ministries in Bluefield, West Virginia. The sermon is high spirited and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Matthew 25 Resource 2/18/10-World Hunger Relief
World Hunger Relief, Inc. is a Christian organization committed to the alleviation of hunger around the world.
God calls us to:
•Train individuals in holistic ministry that equips them to work with communities in developing sustainable farming techniques
•Educate those with an economic abundance on methods of conserving and sharing resources
•Participate in local and international sustainable development programs
Our philosophy . . .
is to live simply, helping those who struggle to meet their basic needs by sharing and investing in others what God has given to us .
Click here to find out more.
God calls us to:
•Train individuals in holistic ministry that equips them to work with communities in developing sustainable farming techniques
•Educate those with an economic abundance on methods of conserving and sharing resources
•Participate in local and international sustainable development programs
Our philosophy . . .
is to live simply, helping those who struggle to meet their basic needs by sharing and investing in others what God has given to us .
Click here to find out more.
Affirming Resource 2/18/10-Open Door Community Fellowship, Louisville, KY
Mission/Vision Statement
Our mission is to go into all the world bringing the love of God to ALL people through the sharing of His Living and active word, so that ALL may know the love of Jesus Christ.
Our vision is to glorify God by being a people led by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, walking in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; allowing ourselves to be used by Jesus to take His healing, saving, forgiving, unifying power to ALL people.
Living Out the Vision
We will love the Lord our God with all of our heart, all of our soul and all of our mind, and love our neighbor as ourselves.
We will make every effort to walk in unity and peace with one another through the power and work of the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ.
We will fellowship with one another, playing, working, praying, worshiping and growing together in the name of Jesus.
Our church will be lead by and alive to the Holy Spirit, being a house of prayer and praise and worship, where Jesus Christ is our leader.
We will strive to live a life worthy of the calling we have received, being completely humble, gentle, and patient, bearing with one another in love.
Click here to find out more.
Our mission is to go into all the world bringing the love of God to ALL people through the sharing of His Living and active word, so that ALL may know the love of Jesus Christ.
Our vision is to glorify God by being a people led by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, walking in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; allowing ourselves to be used by Jesus to take His healing, saving, forgiving, unifying power to ALL people.
Living Out the Vision
We will love the Lord our God with all of our heart, all of our soul and all of our mind, and love our neighbor as ourselves.
We will make every effort to walk in unity and peace with one another through the power and work of the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ.
We will fellowship with one another, playing, working, praying, worshiping and growing together in the name of Jesus.
Our church will be lead by and alive to the Holy Spirit, being a house of prayer and praise and worship, where Jesus Christ is our leader.
We will strive to live a life worthy of the calling we have received, being completely humble, gentle, and patient, bearing with one another in love.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT Helping Hands 2/18/10-The LGBT Network (Grand Rapids, MI)
Mission Statement
Serving the LGBT communities of Western Michigan through networking, referrals, and resources .
Statement of Guiding Principles
We seek to improve the lives of all people in the greater community so that each, with no discrimination, may live in an environment that is welcoming, healthy, safe, and respectful of the differences that are present in a diverse society. Every person is called individually to develop these qualities, even when opposed by the majority, in the continuing work of finding our commonalities while celebrating our diversities.
As a community who knows the harm that prejudice and hatred can cause, we support efforts aimed at ending abusive and unjust treatment based on differences and availability of resources.
We recognize that support is not only spoken but also involves action. Therefore, each person, according to their individual gifts and talents, is encouraged and asked to become involved and involve others in the issues that affect our LGBT community, including the realities of oppression that face other minority or marginalized groups of people.
Click here to find out more.
Serving the LGBT communities of Western Michigan through networking, referrals, and resources .
Statement of Guiding Principles
We seek to improve the lives of all people in the greater community so that each, with no discrimination, may live in an environment that is welcoming, healthy, safe, and respectful of the differences that are present in a diverse society. Every person is called individually to develop these qualities, even when opposed by the majority, in the continuing work of finding our commonalities while celebrating our diversities.
As a community who knows the harm that prejudice and hatred can cause, we support efforts aimed at ending abusive and unjust treatment based on differences and availability of resources.
We recognize that support is not only spoken but also involves action. Therefore, each person, according to their individual gifts and talents, is encouraged and asked to become involved and involve others in the issues that affect our LGBT community, including the realities of oppression that face other minority or marginalized groups of people.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 2/18/10 The Chief Tool of the Devil
From: Love Worth Finding
“Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord…” Psalm 25:15
There’s a story about the devil auctioning off his tools. He had a high price on pride, laziness, arrogance, hate, envy, and jealousy.
But there was one tool that had a sign under it that read, “Not For Sale.” Someone said, “What is that tool? and why isn’t it for sale?” “Well,” he said, “I can’t afford to get rid of that one. It’s my chief tool, discouragement. With this tool, I can pry open a heart and once I get in I can do most anything I want.”
Do you want me to tell you why you get discouraged? I’ll give it to you in a nutshell – you’ve taken your eyes off God!
Are you discouraged? If not, praise God! And find someone who is so that you can give them the encouragement they need in Jesus Christ. Maybe it’s your next-door neighbor. Maybe it’s a co-worker. Maybe it’s your spouse.
“Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord…” Psalm 25:15
There’s a story about the devil auctioning off his tools. He had a high price on pride, laziness, arrogance, hate, envy, and jealousy.
But there was one tool that had a sign under it that read, “Not For Sale.” Someone said, “What is that tool? and why isn’t it for sale?” “Well,” he said, “I can’t afford to get rid of that one. It’s my chief tool, discouragement. With this tool, I can pry open a heart and once I get in I can do most anything I want.”
Do you want me to tell you why you get discouraged? I’ll give it to you in a nutshell – you’ve taken your eyes off God!
Are you discouraged? If not, praise God! And find someone who is so that you can give them the encouragement they need in Jesus Christ. Maybe it’s your next-door neighbor. Maybe it’s a co-worker. Maybe it’s your spouse.
February 17, 2010
Affirming Words 2/17/10-Gay and Saved is OK Part 2 of 6
While a large portion of the country is upset that many gays want the right to be married, this Pentecostal preacher who is gay delivers a message of love and acceptance to Raging Fire Ministries in Bluefield, West Virginia. The sermon is high spirited and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Matthew 25 Resource 2/17/10-Gospel Rescue Mission (Tuscon, AZ)
You see them practically every day. Standing on street corners, huddling in groups, walking down the street with backpacks, plastic bags near bursting, worn dufflebags, or shopping carts overflowing with stuff. Meager possessions, remnants of all that's left in their lives.
What do you feel? Do you shake your head and ask why? Do you turn your head and ignore? Do you wonder - 'will it ever get better for them?'
Imagine... What if you could help them out? Could You? Would you? What if it was you? Most of us could be in that same situation - easily. It's been said that many are one paycheck away from just this very scenario. Are you?
Not just food, shelter or clothing...
It's what the Gospel Rescue Mission does. Not just food, shelter or clothing... But much more. For over Fifty years the Rescue Mission here in Tucson has been a relief for those caught in the shackles of homelessness and addiction. Cutting through the chains of circumstances binding these men and women and reestablishing them on the road of freedom and hope.
Each day the Rescue Mission houses, feeds and ministers hundreds of men, women and children in Tucson. Through faithful ministers, volunteers, and the facilities God has provided through faithful contributions just like yours, we are able to not only meet the physical needs of these precious souls, but also to meet their spiritual, educational and job related needs also.
Click here to find out more.
What do you feel? Do you shake your head and ask why? Do you turn your head and ignore? Do you wonder - 'will it ever get better for them?'
Imagine... What if you could help them out? Could You? Would you? What if it was you? Most of us could be in that same situation - easily. It's been said that many are one paycheck away from just this very scenario. Are you?
Not just food, shelter or clothing...
It's what the Gospel Rescue Mission does. Not just food, shelter or clothing... But much more. For over Fifty years the Rescue Mission here in Tucson has been a relief for those caught in the shackles of homelessness and addiction. Cutting through the chains of circumstances binding these men and women and reestablishing them on the road of freedom and hope.
Each day the Rescue Mission houses, feeds and ministers hundreds of men, women and children in Tucson. Through faithful ministers, volunteers, and the facilities God has provided through faithful contributions just like yours, we are able to not only meet the physical needs of these precious souls, but also to meet their spiritual, educational and job related needs also.
Click here to find out more.
Affirming Resource 2/17/10-Raging Fire Ministries, Bluefield, WV
Hello and welcome to Raging Fire Ministries. Raging Fire Ministries is a non-denominational church for ALL people! We are an open, affirming and inclusive ministry based in Southern West Virginia. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or sexual orientation. We believe the gospel of Jesus Christ is for EVERYONE. It is the purpose of this ministry to be, ( not just a flame of God's love, hope, and compassion to others), but a raging fire....reaching the wounded, hungry, believers and non-believers. No matter who you are, what you have done, who you love, or where you have been you are welcome to be a part of God's family.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT Helping Hands 2/17/10-LGBT Aging Project
The mission of the LGBT Aging Project is to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender elders have equal access to the life-prolonging benefits, protections, services and institutions that their heterosexual neighbors take for granted.
Today’s LGBT elders are a generation that came of age before the gay civil rights movement. Explicit discrimination from their families, employers, neighbors, landlords, faith communities, and government was accepted as part of the “homosexual experience.” Their most successful survival strategies were to remain invisible and secretive, and to distrust the mainstream institutions that many heterosexual people assume are in place to help them (healthcare, government agencies, faith communities). To be gay has meant to live in shame and fear, and most of all in secret. Given these life experiences invisibility and reluctance to trust the "straight world" is understandable.
As a result many LGBTs are wary of revealing their sexual orientation or gender identity to helping professionals and would rather go without, even when sick, rather than turning to aging service providers for help.
Click here to find out more.
Today’s LGBT elders are a generation that came of age before the gay civil rights movement. Explicit discrimination from their families, employers, neighbors, landlords, faith communities, and government was accepted as part of the “homosexual experience.” Their most successful survival strategies were to remain invisible and secretive, and to distrust the mainstream institutions that many heterosexual people assume are in place to help them (healthcare, government agencies, faith communities). To be gay has meant to live in shame and fear, and most of all in secret. Given these life experiences invisibility and reluctance to trust the "straight world" is understandable.
As a result many LGBTs are wary of revealing their sexual orientation or gender identity to helping professionals and would rather go without, even when sick, rather than turning to aging service providers for help.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 2/17/10 In the Face of Discouragement and Ridicule
From: Love Worth Finding
“…He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6
One evening I overheard my father and a friend of our family talking. The friend said, “What’s Adrian going to do when he gets out of high school?” My dad replied, “Well, he wants to go off to college and study to be a preacher.” That man just laughed and said, “He won’t make it. He’ll never stick it out. He’ll quit.”
This was a man that I admired and respected very much. I almost felt like crying. That’s what the world says about Christians, “They won’t stick it out. They won’t make it.” You see, the devil hasn’t changed his tactics. He’s still mocking and throwing cold water on our walks with the Lord.
Get ready. If you don’t feel the flames of ridicule now, just wait.
Have you ever told someone that they wouldn’t amount to anything? Has anyone ever told you that? Send those lies back to the pit of hell and rest in the promises of His Word that you are deeply loved and bought with the price of the Savior’s own blood.
“…He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6
One evening I overheard my father and a friend of our family talking. The friend said, “What’s Adrian going to do when he gets out of high school?” My dad replied, “Well, he wants to go off to college and study to be a preacher.” That man just laughed and said, “He won’t make it. He’ll never stick it out. He’ll quit.”
This was a man that I admired and respected very much. I almost felt like crying. That’s what the world says about Christians, “They won’t stick it out. They won’t make it.” You see, the devil hasn’t changed his tactics. He’s still mocking and throwing cold water on our walks with the Lord.
Get ready. If you don’t feel the flames of ridicule now, just wait.
Have you ever told someone that they wouldn’t amount to anything? Has anyone ever told you that? Send those lies back to the pit of hell and rest in the promises of His Word that you are deeply loved and bought with the price of the Savior’s own blood.
February 16, 2010
Affirming Words 2/16/10-Gay and Saved is OK Part 1 of 6
While a large portion of the country is upset that many gays want the right to be married, this Pentecostal preacher who is gay delivers a message of love and acceptance to Raging Fire Ministries in Bluefield, West Virginia. The sermon is high spirited and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Matthew 25 Resource 2/16/10-America's Second Harvest of the Big Bend (Tallahasse, FL)
Our mission is to fight hunger by obtaining and distributing food through our partner agencies for those in need. We also educate and inform the public about the problems of and solutions to hunger.
Established in 1982 as the Food Bank of Tallahassee, we began by picking up prepared and perishable foods at local restaurants and grocery stores (“food rescue”). We continue that today through our Second Helpings Program, but have continued to expand our services as we work to feed the hungry.
In 1986 we joined America's Second Harvest – the Nation’s Food Bank Network, now called Feeding America, which enabled us to obtain and distribute non-perishable donations. Feeding America is the network of 206 food banks in the country that each have a defined service area. Feeding America solicits donations from national manufacturers and companies, such as Kellogg’s, ConAgra, and Kraft, but also works on national public awareness and advocacy issues.
Our defined service area includes the ten counties of the Big Bend, including Leon, Jefferson, Taylor, Wakulla, Gadsden, Jackson, Liberty, Calhoun, Franklin and Gulf Counties. We deliver to our partner agencies in each of these counties to ensure they have the food needed to distribute and serve their clients.
Click here to find out more.
Established in 1982 as the Food Bank of Tallahassee, we began by picking up prepared and perishable foods at local restaurants and grocery stores (“food rescue”). We continue that today through our Second Helpings Program, but have continued to expand our services as we work to feed the hungry.
In 1986 we joined America's Second Harvest – the Nation’s Food Bank Network, now called Feeding America, which enabled us to obtain and distribute non-perishable donations. Feeding America is the network of 206 food banks in the country that each have a defined service area. Feeding America solicits donations from national manufacturers and companies, such as Kellogg’s, ConAgra, and Kraft, but also works on national public awareness and advocacy issues.
Our defined service area includes the ten counties of the Big Bend, including Leon, Jefferson, Taylor, Wakulla, Gadsden, Jackson, Liberty, Calhoun, Franklin and Gulf Counties. We deliver to our partner agencies in each of these counties to ensure they have the food needed to distribute and serve their clients.
Click here to find out more.
Affirming Resource 2/16/10-Open Arms Community Church, Tacoma, WA
Where the healthy, the hurting, the depressed, the frustrated, the confused and the whole, can find love acceptance, help, forgivenes, guidance, and encouragement.
Where the good News of Jesus Christ will be shared with all who will listen.
Where we will welcome members into the fellowship of our church family - loving, learning, laughing, and living in harmony together.
Where people will develop into spiritual maturity through Bible studies, small groups, seminars, retreats, and through community gatherings.
Where people will become equipped for a significant ministry by helping them to discover the gifts and talents God gave them.
Click here to find out more.
Where the good News of Jesus Christ will be shared with all who will listen.
Where we will welcome members into the fellowship of our church family - loving, learning, laughing, and living in harmony together.
Where people will develop into spiritual maturity through Bible studies, small groups, seminars, retreats, and through community gatherings.
Where people will become equipped for a significant ministry by helping them to discover the gifts and talents God gave them.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT Helping Hands 2/16/10-Rainbow Outreach Metro Omaha (NE) GLBT Center
Headquartered in Omaha, the Rainbow Outreach GLBT Center proudly serves the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender community and our allies across the metro area as well as the regional queer-allied population in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa.
The GLBT Center is a registered nonprofit 501c(3) organization dedicated to providing education, information, and social services in a safe, neutral environment.
The GLBT Center strives to foster understanding, personal growth, and development for all people, specifically (but not limited to) those persons aligned with and/or directly involved in the GLBT community.
The GLBT Center is the hub that links individuals and programs to each other and to the general public. Metro Omaha is rich with organizations and agencies serving specific needs of the GLBT community; and the GLBT Center connects them to provide a more unified, holistic approach. Instead of duplicating existing services, the GLBT Center works to enhance and promote them, fostering connections among service providers and ensuring that people in need can find them. Through the scope of its mission and resources, the GLBT Center has a distinct role to strengthen both individuals and institutions in Metro Omaha's GLBT community. Center programs encourage peer leadership and focus on empowering individuals to be active participants in building a shared community.
Click here to find out more.
The GLBT Center is a registered nonprofit 501c(3) organization dedicated to providing education, information, and social services in a safe, neutral environment.
The GLBT Center strives to foster understanding, personal growth, and development for all people, specifically (but not limited to) those persons aligned with and/or directly involved in the GLBT community.
The GLBT Center is the hub that links individuals and programs to each other and to the general public. Metro Omaha is rich with organizations and agencies serving specific needs of the GLBT community; and the GLBT Center connects them to provide a more unified, holistic approach. Instead of duplicating existing services, the GLBT Center works to enhance and promote them, fostering connections among service providers and ensuring that people in need can find them. Through the scope of its mission and resources, the GLBT Center has a distinct role to strengthen both individuals and institutions in Metro Omaha's GLBT community. Center programs encourage peer leadership and focus on empowering individuals to be active participants in building a shared community.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 2/16/10 The First Step to Setting Things Right
From: Love Worth Finding
“With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26
The Lord Jesus said, “Moreover if thy brother trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault” (Matthew 18:15). You say, “He’s the one that did wrong. If he wants forgiveness, let him come and ask for it.” But Jesus said, “No, you go to him.” Whether you are in the right or whether you are in the wrong, as a child of God, you are to go to that individual.
Isn’t that what God did in the Garden of Eden? Adam and Eve had sinned against God, and the Bible tells us that God came looking for them. “Adam, where art thou?” That was not the voice of a detective. That was the voice of a God Who pursues us to forgive us.
Stop right now and ask God to show you if you have an unforgiving spirit toward someone. Then, in His power and strength, call that person and ask his or her forgiveness. It’s going to be impossible in your strength, but remember, God does the impossible.
“With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26
The Lord Jesus said, “Moreover if thy brother trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault” (Matthew 18:15). You say, “He’s the one that did wrong. If he wants forgiveness, let him come and ask for it.” But Jesus said, “No, you go to him.” Whether you are in the right or whether you are in the wrong, as a child of God, you are to go to that individual.
Isn’t that what God did in the Garden of Eden? Adam and Eve had sinned against God, and the Bible tells us that God came looking for them. “Adam, where art thou?” That was not the voice of a detective. That was the voice of a God Who pursues us to forgive us.
Stop right now and ask God to show you if you have an unforgiving spirit toward someone. Then, in His power and strength, call that person and ask his or her forgiveness. It’s going to be impossible in your strength, but remember, God does the impossible.
February 15, 2010
BCF Praise Report 2/15/10
"Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God"
Ephesians 5:1-2
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
We're so grateful that the snow has cleared up enough that we were able to gather for worship service at Tyco Park yesterday. Lauren and Melissa led us in worship and Josh Weiberg preached a powerful message about what it actually means to be a Christian. We will have his sermon posted on podcast before too long and you'll be able to listen to it, you should! Did you know that just because you may go to church on Sunday doesn't mean that you are a Christian? Perhaps some of you are under that impression, but it is certainly not true. Being a Christian means to be a FOLLOWER of Jesus and to pattern your life exactly after His- and not just one day a week, but 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year! THAT's the pattern He modeled and gave us the command to imitate Him under!
Our culture is desperately searching for a God that is REAL and who demonstrates His real-ness through signs and wonders and MIRACLES coming forth at the hands of His disciples! So as we go forth into this week- be Christ-conscious! Be mindful of who and what you represent, and remember that the way we treat others will certainly be how others treat us! Let's re-commit to being "imitators of God, as dearly loved children of God!"
We want to remind everyone that BCF will be hosting our "Spring Spiritual Energizer Weekend" Fri-Sun, March 19th-21st, 2010!!! It's going to be an empowering weekend with great worship, great special music ministry, and power-packed, energizing preaching of God's WONDERFUL Word! We will also be having a Saturday afternoon workshop by Brenda & Jim Johnson (StraightNotNarrow.org) entitled "Going Deeper: Further Healing for Damaged Emotions." This is a deliverance weekend and an EMPOWERING gathering for all of us. If you are able and would like to come to DC for this gathering and need housing, please let us know- but otherwise we HOPE AND ENCOURAGE YOU to join us live and together online as we uStream broadcast the entire weekend. The Cyber Church is gathering and the Lord will be sending out streams of Living Water all over the earth and into the dry places!! So please mark your calendar and join us- AND TELL OTHERS ABOUT THE EVENT, too! Praise God!
Have a most blessed and wonderful week in the Lord. We are praying for you and always loving you in the Lord Jesus.
Shalom and in Christ's love,
Ap Dale
Ephesians 5:1-2
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
We're so grateful that the snow has cleared up enough that we were able to gather for worship service at Tyco Park yesterday. Lauren and Melissa led us in worship and Josh Weiberg preached a powerful message about what it actually means to be a Christian. We will have his sermon posted on podcast before too long and you'll be able to listen to it, you should! Did you know that just because you may go to church on Sunday doesn't mean that you are a Christian? Perhaps some of you are under that impression, but it is certainly not true. Being a Christian means to be a FOLLOWER of Jesus and to pattern your life exactly after His- and not just one day a week, but 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year! THAT's the pattern He modeled and gave us the command to imitate Him under!
Our culture is desperately searching for a God that is REAL and who demonstrates His real-ness through signs and wonders and MIRACLES coming forth at the hands of His disciples! So as we go forth into this week- be Christ-conscious! Be mindful of who and what you represent, and remember that the way we treat others will certainly be how others treat us! Let's re-commit to being "imitators of God, as dearly loved children of God!"
We want to remind everyone that BCF will be hosting our "Spring Spiritual Energizer Weekend" Fri-Sun, March 19th-21st, 2010!!! It's going to be an empowering weekend with great worship, great special music ministry, and power-packed, energizing preaching of God's WONDERFUL Word! We will also be having a Saturday afternoon workshop by Brenda & Jim Johnson (StraightNotNarrow.org) entitled "Going Deeper: Further Healing for Damaged Emotions." This is a deliverance weekend and an EMPOWERING gathering for all of us. If you are able and would like to come to DC for this gathering and need housing, please let us know- but otherwise we HOPE AND ENCOURAGE YOU to join us live and together online as we uStream broadcast the entire weekend. The Cyber Church is gathering and the Lord will be sending out streams of Living Water all over the earth and into the dry places!! So please mark your calendar and join us- AND TELL OTHERS ABOUT THE EVENT, too! Praise God!
Have a most blessed and wonderful week in the Lord. We are praying for you and always loving you in the Lord Jesus.
Shalom and in Christ's love,
Ap Dale
Affirming Words 2/15/10-"Romans 1:21-28 not about Gay people."
Enjoy this video that systematically dismantles the arguement that Paul was condemning LGBT people in this scripture:
Romans 1:21-28 (NIV) For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools 23and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.
24Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. 25They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.
26Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. 27In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.
28Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done.
Romans 1:21-28 (NIV) For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools 23and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.
24Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. 25They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.
26Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. 27In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.
28Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done.
Matthew 25 Resource 2/15/10-Kansas City (MO) Rescue Mission
Whether they turn to us because of bad choices, bad breaks or both, we welcome the poor, homeless, hungry and hurting. Through a proven path from RELIEF to RECOVERY to RE-ENTRY, KCRM offers freedom from the past and hope for the future.
We believe that the love of Jesus Christ can change lives. We see it happen here every day.
Good food, safe shelter, comfortable beds, clean facilities. Case management, a proven recovery program, job and life-skills training. All these things and more are why hundreds of people come through our doors each year.
The ministry provided to people who turn to Kansas City Rescue Mission for help is categorized into three avenues of assistance: Relief, Recovery, Re-Entry.
Each of these phases contains vital, practical steps targeted to restore the lives of precious people. Woven together, these avenues of assistance work as a rebuilding process to return these people back into society whole and filled with hope.
Click here to find out more.
We believe that the love of Jesus Christ can change lives. We see it happen here every day.
Good food, safe shelter, comfortable beds, clean facilities. Case management, a proven recovery program, job and life-skills training. All these things and more are why hundreds of people come through our doors each year.
The ministry provided to people who turn to Kansas City Rescue Mission for help is categorized into three avenues of assistance: Relief, Recovery, Re-Entry.
Each of these phases contains vital, practical steps targeted to restore the lives of precious people. Woven together, these avenues of assistance work as a rebuilding process to return these people back into society whole and filled with hope.
Click here to find out more.
Affirming Resource 2/15/10-God's Remnant Ministries, Maryville, TN
Praise God! You have found Us !
This wasn't by accident. We believe that everything happens for a reason. We are a church that believes in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. We are a part of God's Remnant. A "Remnant" means that which remains of an original body of substance. A leftover so to speak. God's definition of a Remnant is, "Those who are faithful to His original truth despite oppositions." We are a people keenly aware that we are saved by grace and not any merit of ourselves. We are a church that accepts all people no matter their race or who they chose as their life partner. As I was writing on the Remnant, it was so clear to me that in this world the community is a "leftover". God has a special eye of favor and kindness on His Remnant. We want the whole world to know that Jesus Christ is the lover of our soul.
We Are Called by God Almighty!!!
June and I first of all, are honored to be called by God Almighty to serve and minister to this community. We know that God has placed us together for His glory. We believe that there is no greater joy than to be in His will. If you live in or near East Tennessee and would like to stop in please feel free. Contact us in any way that you feel led. We are certain that you will never be the same as the presence of The Holy Spirit is life altering in our little church.
Sincerely,
Pastor Pam and June
Click here to find out more
This wasn't by accident. We believe that everything happens for a reason. We are a church that believes in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. We are a part of God's Remnant. A "Remnant" means that which remains of an original body of substance. A leftover so to speak. God's definition of a Remnant is, "Those who are faithful to His original truth despite oppositions." We are a people keenly aware that we are saved by grace and not any merit of ourselves. We are a church that accepts all people no matter their race or who they chose as their life partner. As I was writing on the Remnant, it was so clear to me that in this world the community is a "leftover". God has a special eye of favor and kindness on His Remnant. We want the whole world to know that Jesus Christ is the lover of our soul.
We Are Called by God Almighty!!!
June and I first of all, are honored to be called by God Almighty to serve and minister to this community. We know that God has placed us together for His glory. We believe that there is no greater joy than to be in His will. If you live in or near East Tennessee and would like to stop in please feel free. Contact us in any way that you feel led. We are certain that you will never be the same as the presence of The Holy Spirit is life altering in our little church.
Sincerely,
Pastor Pam and June
Click here to find out more
LGBT Helping Hands 2/15/10-Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line (Ontario, Canada)
The Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line is a toll-free Ontario-wide peer-support phone line for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, 2-spirited, queer and questioning young people. The Youth Line also provides its peer-support service online through messenger and e-mail response. TTY service is available.
Confidential, Free, and Non-Judgmental Peer Support.
Our Vision
We strive for a time when all youth can express their diverse sexual and gender identities without compromise or fear.
Our Mission
The Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line exists to provide service for youth, by youth that affirms the experiences and aspirations of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, 2-spirited, queer and questioning youth in Ontario. Working within an anti-oppression framework, we provide leadership opportunities, outreach, confidential peer support and referrals by telephone and online.
Click here to find out more.
Confidential, Free, and Non-Judgmental Peer Support.
Our Vision
We strive for a time when all youth can express their diverse sexual and gender identities without compromise or fear.
Our Mission
The Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line exists to provide service for youth, by youth that affirms the experiences and aspirations of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, 2-spirited, queer and questioning youth in Ontario. Working within an anti-oppression framework, we provide leadership opportunities, outreach, confidential peer support and referrals by telephone and online.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 2/15/10 God's Provision for Your Life
From: Love Worth Finding
“Give us this day our daily bread.” Matthew 6:11
A philosopher once said, “To whom little is not enough, nothing is enough.”
What most people want is to have some money in the bank — to have something there so whatever tomorrow brings, they’ll not have to worry about it. We call that security.
Question: Is that really security? Who is more secure — the man who has a warehouse full of stale bread that the rats or thieves can get or the man who has a father who is a very, very rich baker?
Begin your prayer time today with the Lord’s Prayer and ask Him to help you to be content. Bow before Him in humble adoration of His provision in your life. Then share the Bread of Life with someone who is hungry today.
“Give us this day our daily bread.” Matthew 6:11
A philosopher once said, “To whom little is not enough, nothing is enough.”
What most people want is to have some money in the bank — to have something there so whatever tomorrow brings, they’ll not have to worry about it. We call that security.
Question: Is that really security? Who is more secure — the man who has a warehouse full of stale bread that the rats or thieves can get or the man who has a father who is a very, very rich baker?
Begin your prayer time today with the Lord’s Prayer and ask Him to help you to be content. Bow before Him in humble adoration of His provision in your life. Then share the Bread of Life with someone who is hungry today.
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