SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – A LIFE WITHOUT WORRY!

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? - Matthew 6:25.

We can have a wonderful start to a New Year, if we understand that God provides beauty to the flowers, and life to the grass.

In the majestic design of things, these are fleeting and unimportant.

He sent His Son from Heaven to save us. So, He most certainly is going to give us what we need, until we go home to live with Him forever!

Loving Father, forgive my distraction over worldly things. I do believe that you have given me everything I need in Jesus, and in the gracious abundance of your blessings. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

CHRISTMAS.

We are talking about the birth of a child, Not the revolutionary act of a strong man, Not the breathtaking discovery of a sage, Not the pious act of a saint.

It really passes all understanding. The birth of a child is to bring the great turning around of all things, is to bring salvation and redemption of the whole human race.

What kings and statesmen, philosophers and artists, founders of religions and moral teachers vainly strive for, now comes about through a newborn child.

- Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – THE APPEARING OF GRACE!

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. - Titus 2:11-14.

In a world that has no absolutes, in a world in search of moral standards, salvation by the costly grace of God, beckons us to change our lifestyle in response to God's grace.

Anyone who receives grace, and refuses to pursue righteousness, demonstrates his/her ignorance or hardness of heart.

In our day, in our time, to be saved means to pursue righteousness, not so that we may earn our salvation, but so that God's saving grace will not be fruitless in us.

Loving Father, because you have been so gracious with me, may my life today, reflect the righteousness you gave me through Jesus. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit, to pursue righteousness, so that I may bring glory to your name. I ask this in the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus, my Lord and my redeemer. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG - THE MAKER OF HEAVEN AND EARTH!

I lift up my eyes to the mountains where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. - Psalm 121:1-2. TNIV

In a world of breathtaking beauty, and a universe of amazing variety, our hearts are to be drawn back to the One who made it, and now sustains it.

He knows us, and will help us if we will believe what he has tried in so many ways to say: “I love you as my child and I care what happens to you and those you love.”

To the world I say, there is no help for me but in my God; and I expect it from no other provider.

Loving Father, it absolutely bewilders and delights me, to know that you care for me. With all the things of such vast importance, I find your desire to know and love me humbling and assuring. By the power of the Holy Spirit I will worship, work, and witness, while being aware of your presence and care. I thank you, in the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

POLITICALLY CORRECT SCROOGE STRIKES AGAIN!

CHRISTMAS TREES CHOPPED

CHRISTMAS decorations have been banned from three out of four workplaces - because they might offend other faiths.

Law firm Peninsula said a "wave" of political correctness was affecting festive traditions.

A survey of 2300 employers found that 74 per cent had banned decorations because of other faiths, while half thought they made offices look unprofessional.

Peter Done, managing director of Peninsula, said: "Although employers who are enforcing the ban are sceptical and dismayed by this trend, they feel that they have little choice in the matter due to the threat of litigation. "They have to protect themselves, their reputation and their livelihood."

Meanwhile, another report shows many workers have to spend their own money at office Christmas parties. A survey of 1200 adults by supermarket chain Somerfield showed only a third got a completely free night at the annual office bash.

Bah Humbug!

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG - GOD'S DETEST LIST!

The LORD detests those whose hearts are perverse, but he delights in those whose ways are blameless. - Proverbs 11:20. TNIV

Phew! I surely wouldn't want to be on God's “I detest” list! Such people are a disgrace to Him.

But what is a perverse heart? It is a heart that allows what is evil, poisoned, perverted, greedy, deceitful, and vicious, to have control over a person's attitudes, views, and opinions. Ultimately, Jesus reminds us, that such a heart shows up in a person's outward actions.

How is our heart changed? By coming to God in repentance, confessing our association with what is evil and sinful, and asking God to cleanse us by the precious blood of Jesus, and refresh the Holy Spirit’s presence in us.

Loving Father, generate in me a new heart, and renew your Holy Spirit's presence in me. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

JAMES BOND 007... ROYALE FAMILY.

A HOST of stars came out in force last night for the premiere of the long-awaited James Bond film Casino Royale.



Looking as suave as his character, controversial new 007 Daniel Craig greeted screaming fans during a short walkabout.


But it was his co-star Eva Green who stole the show in London's Leicester Square. She plays Vesper Lynd, the first Bond girl penned by 007's creator Ian Fleming. Eva turned heads despite an array of stars including singer Rachel Stevens, Sarah Harding of Girls Aloud and Dame Shirley Bassey. Other big names at the premiere included Sir Elton John and partner David Furnish and the Osbournes.


Craig, 38, was joined by his film producer girlfriend Satsuki Mitchell, 29. Speaking outside the premiere, he said: "I can't explain how this feels. It's fantastic. "I'm just very excited. These sort of things happen once in a lifetime and I'mjust trying to enjoy it."


The successor to Pierce Brosnan plays a tougher and grittier Bond in the 21st movie of the series. Asked how he compares with predecessors, he replied: "It's not up to me. Casino Royale is still a Bond movie and there's a love story."


When asked how it felt to be one of Hollywood's newest sex symbols, he said: "I don't think about that."


Craig raised eyebrows among die-hard fans of the secret agent as he has blond locks and contrasted with the image of the screen hero.


When quizzed on whether he had answered his critics, the actor replied: "I didn't try to do that. I tried to make a good movie."


I can't wait to see it!

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – PRAISE YOU JESUS!

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole."- Galatians 3:13.

Cursed! Not just in the sense that he was mocked and his detractors cursed at Him, but in the sense that He received the curse of death because of our sin.


He did what was hideous and scandalous; He died on a Cross, hung to a tree in front of a jeering mob, executed like sub-human scum. But the beauty of His shame and disgrace is that God made it our redemption. Jesus' ridicule and curse bought us freedom from the curse of our own sins.


Praise God! Praise Jesus! Praise His wonderful and mighty name!


Loving Father, I thank you that Jesus died for me that would be set free from the curse of sin. Help me Holy Spirit to make my thoughts and words, convey the gratitude of my heart, as He intercedes for me now. Thank you! Praise you! May my life truly honor you! In the mighty name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS ON TANTALIZING TITTLE-TATTLE...

In my days it was just rain, now it's weighed!
Who said crime doesn't pay? Looks like it does here!
This $5 bargain could be a $50 million dart board!
One man's meat, is another mans life!

I get so many of these, that my computer is starting to look like Derryn Hinch!

"I'll be back!" and he came back!

This is not the way to get a discount!

That's all folks!

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – ONE FOR ALL, AND ALL FOR ONE!

He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" "Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. - Acts 9:4-5.

When Paul teaches that the Church is the Body of Christ, he isn't being theoretical. The Church is Jesus' presence, His Body in this world.

What is done to the Church as a collective group of people is done to Jesus. What is done to individual Christians is done to their Saviour. Jesus is present in the world through us!

This saying is true: The only Jesus many will see today is the Jesus they see through you and me.

Loving Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to show others, Jesus in me. Help me to show His love, compassion, mercy, peace, joy, gentleness, kindness, and that others may benefit from seeing Him in me. I ask this in the wonderful and mighty name of my Lord and Saviour. Amen.

Be encouraged!

GBYAY

THE SILLY SATURDAY JOKE !

Two Scots, Erchie and Tyrone, were on a trip to London. Walking down the street, Erchie's attention was suddenly grabbed by a sign in a shop window. It read: "Suits £5. Shirts £2. Trousers £2.50."

Erchie said to his mate: "Tyrone, see that, man! We could buy a load o' claes, an' when we get back hame, we could make a b***** fortune."

"Noo, ye've heard whit these London sharks are like. When we go into the shoap, you keep shtum, eh? Leave a' the talkin' tae me, 'cos if they hear wir accents they'll try and rip us aff."

"Sure thing, man," said Tyrone. "Ye'll no' hear a peep oot o' me."

They went in, and Erchie started off his patter: "Good morning, my man. I'll take 50 suits at £5 each, 100 shirts at £2 each, and 50 pairs of trousers at £2.50. I'll just bring the car to the door and..."

The shopkeeper interrupted him: "Well lads, first time in the big city, is it?"

"Well... aye it is," said a surprised Erchie. "How the hell did ye ken?"

The shopkeeper sighed. "This is a dry cleaners," he said.

Be encouraged!

GBYAY

WEEKEND ENCOURAGEMENT #1.

It's the weekend in Australia, and we have a bit of time to do things we normally wouldn't. So I thought that I would use some of my time to encourage intermittent Bloggers to blog more, and at the same time encourage myself to blog more.

Brodie McGregor of "View From The Basement" brought up these 7 thoughts in March 2005 that encouraged me greatly, as a new Blogger, (this is my other blog,) so I thought that I would like to share with you what he shared, that encouraged me greatly...

What's a blog for?
TallSkinnyKiwi, recently posted on the bloggers 7 deadly sins. This got me thinking afresh about what a blog is for, why I blog and read blogs. So here's my humble 7 thoughts on blogging;

(1) Blogs are a place for sharing, be that about what's going on in your life, the world or resources you want to make available to others.

(2) Blogs are a place for giving - so if you make something available don't charge for it. Johnny Baker's, worship tricks are a fabulous example of giving on the blog.

(3) Blogs are a place to be vulnerable - ok there needs to be an appropriateness and some sense here. If I was having a problem with some one my blog is not the place to vent this. But if there is to be a genuine sharing and giving then that does mean there's a vulnerability. We're all vulnerable to people commenting on what we post, and vulnerable to people misappropriating what we give.

(4) Blogs should be places of encouragement - I think it's good to if you regularly read a blog post a comment every so often, even if you don't particularly connect with that post. I think it's particularly important to encourage those who don't get many comments and yet are doing good stuff.

(5) Blogs should be varied - it's good to have a mix of serious stuff and fun things to.

(6) Blogs should enrich - it's easy to be negative, and takes more effort and creativity at times to be positive. Also it's good to keep a balance between spending time with friends I can have a meal with and "do coffee" and friends whom I may never meet except on the blog.

(7) Blogs should be regular.

I believe the thoughts that Brodie shared were excellent , (not just because he's Scottish!) :-) Maybe you would like to add to them and encourage others!

GBYAY and have a great weekend!

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – JESUS IS FAR MORE…

Or haven't you read in the Law that the priests on Sabbath duty in the temple desecrate the Sabbath and yet are innocent? I tell you that one greater than the temple is here. - Matthew 12:6.

What is the greatest construction project built by human hands? Jesus is greater still!

What is the most ‘holy’ place you have been? Jesus is far holier still!

What is the most awe-inspiring site you have visited? Jesus is far more awesome!

What is the most inspiring event you have ever attended? Jesus is far more...

Jesus is the One Who Is Greater! Nothing else, no one else, can hold a candle to Him. As John the Baptist said… none of us are even worthy to untie His sandals.

Loving Father, I thank you that by the power of the Holy Spirit, you revealed to me Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Forgive me for the times I may have misused His name or underestimated His glory. Restore in me the child-like sense of joyous wonder that I need to have in His presence. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!

GBYAY

SATURDAY'S SILLY JOKE!

Three golfing partners died in a car wreck and went to heaven. Upon arrival they discover the most beautiful golf course they have ever seen. St. Peter tells them that they are all welcome to play the course, but he cautions them that there is only one rule: Don't hit the ducks.

The men all have blank expressions, and finally one of them asks "The ducks?"

"Yes", St. Peter replies, "There are millions of ducks walking around the course and if one gets hit, he squawks then the one next to him squawks and soon they're all squawkin to beat the band, and it really breaks the tranquility. If you hit the ducks, you'll be punished, otherwise everything is yours to enjoy."

After entering the course, the men noted that there was indeed a gaggle of ducks everywhere. Within fifteen minutes, one of the guys hit one of them. The duck squawked, the one next to it squawked and soon there was a deafening roar of duck quacks.

St. Peter walked up with an extremely homely woman in tow and asked "Who hit the duck?" The one who had done it admitted "I did."

Immediately, St. Peter pulled out a pair of handcuffs and cuffed the man's right hand to the homely woman's left hand. "I told you not to hit the ducks," he said. "Now you'll be handcuffed together for eternity.

The other two men were very cautious not to hit any ducks, but a couple of weeks later, one of them accidentally did. The quacks were as deafening as before and within minutes St. Peter walked up with an even uglier woman than before. St. Peter determined which one had hit the duck by the fear in his face, and cuffed the man's right hand to the homely woman's left hand.

"I told you not to hit the ducks", he said. "Now you'll be handcuffed together for eternity."

The third man was extremely careful. Some days he wouldn't even move for fear of even nudging a duck. After three months of this he still hadn't hit a duck. St. Peter walked up to the man at the end of the three months and had with him a knock-out gorgeous woman, the most beautiful woman the man had ever seen. St. Peter smiled to the man and then, without a word, handcuffed him to the beautiful woman and walked off.

The man, knowing that he would be handcuffed to this woman for eternity, let out a sigh and said "What have I done to deserve this?"

The woman responded "I don't know about you, but I hit a duck."

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN!

The thief had nails through both hands, so that he could not work; and a nail through each foot, so that he could not run errands for the Lord; he could not lift a hand or a foot toward his salvation, and yet Christ offered him the gift of God; and he took it. Christ threw him a passport, and took him into Paradise. - D. L. Moody.

Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.' – John 3:6-7.

In his book, An Anthropologist on Mars, neurologist Oliver Sacks tells about Virgil, a man who had been blind from early childhood. When he was 50, Virgil underwent surgery and was given the gift of sight. But as he and Dr. Sacks found out, having the physical capacity for sight is not the same as seeing.

Virgil's first experiences with sight were confusing. He was able to make out colors and movements, but arranging them into a coherent picture was more difficult. Over time he learned to identify various objects, but his habits--his behaviors--were still those of a blind man. Dr. Sacks asserts, "One must die as a blind person to be born again as a seeing person. It is the interim, the limbo . . . that is so terrible."

To truly see Jesus and his truth means more than observing what he did or said, it means a change of identity.
-------------------
When a person works an eight-hour day and receives a fair day's pay for his time, that is a wage. When a person competes with an opponent and receives a trophy for his performance, that is a prize. When a person receives appropriate recognition for his long service or high achievements, that is an award.

But when a person is not capable of earning a wage, can win no prize, and deserves no award--yet receives such a gift anyway--that is a good picture of God's unmerited favor. This is what we mean when we talk about the grace of God. - G.W. Knight.
------------------
London businessman Lindsay Clegg told the story of a warehouse property he was selling. The building had been empty for months and needed repairs. Vandals had damaged the doors, smashed the windows, and strewn trash around the interior.

As he showed a prospective buyer the property, Clegg took pains to say that he would replace the broken windows, bring in a crew to correct any structural damage, and clean out the garbage.

"Forget about the repairs," the buyer said. "When I buy this place, I'm going to build something completely different. I don't want the building; I want the site."

Compared with the renovation God has in mind, our efforts to improve our own lives are as trivial as sweeping a warehouse slated for the wrecking ball. When we become God's, the old life is over… Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! - 2 Cor. 5:17. He makes all things new. All he wants is the site and the permission to build. - Ian L. Wilson.

“Lord Jesus, I thank you for dying on the cross for my sins, forgive me for my sins, fill me with your Holy Spirit. I open the door of my heart and receive you as my Lord and Saviour, and I thank you that I am born again. Help me to follow you all the days of my life, in your mighty name I pray. Amen"

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

TERRY BUTCHER... DEAD MAN WALKING?

Well it looks like the knives are out and the backstabbing of Terry Butcher has begun. It also looks like the B-grade movie actors and furniture salesmen have done a great job of destablising Sydney FC.

It's just another setback for soccer in australia, as we keep on doing the same old things... allowing inexperienced boards to keep paying out enormous money for second rate players who have seen their used by dates. They are ok for a couple of games and then the niggling injuries that have plagued their playing careers start to surface.

Let's face it, Sydney FC were pretty ordinary last year, even though they won the the Grand final. Then they did a good thing by getting rid of the clinical Littbarski, a (seen the best of) playboy player, who isn't doing too well for Sunderland, but grinning all the way to the bank!

Enter, an experienced, hard working, adventurous coach, who has inherited Littbarski's team of big screen watchers, and has to try and bring out their potential, which means trying to get them to act like professional players, instead of trying to look like York and Carboni wannabees.

It must be difficult for Butcher who want's to build a great Australian soccer team on true and tried methods, whilst sitting on a plastic chair, on the sideline of someone else's stadium.

It must be difficult to build a team of professional players for the season's ahead, that will showcase Australian soccer, and show that we are not going to be bullied by Anthony LaPaglia, an ex-goalkeeper who couldn't make the grade here, and boardroom members who have no experience in soccer, and will continue to lose money for the clubs, as they did in days gone past, with their 'marquee' and archaic players.

It must be difficult for Terry Butcher to see so many of Australia's talented youngsters, having to take a back seat to foreign imports and soccer relics of days gone by.

It must be difficult to try and bring the best out of these boys, having only been in charge for a few games, and having to put up with all the off-field antics of boardroom prima donnas.

It must be difficult for Terry's wife and family, who have moved half way across the globe, to support her husband's endeavours to bring about some professionalism to Australian football.

It isn't difficult to have some patience, and give Terry Butcher some time to prove his vision for Sydney FC, and for sake of Australian soccer.

THIS GUY SHOULD DISAPPEAR... "Without A Trace!"

Although I am a Queensland Roar supporter, this kind of verbal garbage doesn't help Sydney FC, or Australian soccer. He should stick to what he knows best... bad acting!

THE future of Sydney FC coach Terry Butcher hangs in the balance today after the Englishman survived a shock bid to oust him from Hollywood star Anthony LaPaglia.

The multi-millionaire Without A Trace actor, who owns seven-and-a-half per cent of the club, arrived in Australia on Friday just in time to catch Sydney's latest loss against Melbourne.

Beforehand, he attended an informal meeting of several board members at the Sydney Art Gallery with chairman Edmund Capon, and directors Peter Fitzgerald, representative of the all powerful Lowy clan, part owner Peter Turnbull and new CEO George Perry among those in attendance. Top of the agenda was the performance of Butcher with the defending champions languishing in mid-table and battling to shake off a series of on and off-field setbacks.

LaPaglia had no doubts Butcher should go but failed to attract any support and admitted afterwards: "There are some things which have happened at the club which I don't support but that's normal on a board where you have divergence of viewpoints.

"There are several different personalities but that's normal in any organisation. I still have no doubt that we remain good enough to defend the title successfully, even though the loss of Dwight Yorke was a blow because he is a player who galvanised the club and brought people to matches.

"There has been some level of upheaval over the past few months but that can sometimes be a good thing, so long as we are pulling in the right direction... Continue reading and judge for yourself here.

Some folks just don't get it!

SATURDAY'S SILLY JOKE!

A man and his ever-nagging wife went on vacation to Jerusalem .

While they were there, the wife passed away.

The undertaker told the husband, "You can have her shipped home for $5,000, or you can bury her here, in the Holy Land, for $150."

The man thought about it and told him he would just have her shipped home.

The undertaker asked, "Why would you spend $5,000 to ship your wife home, when it would be wonderful to be buried here and you would spend only $150?"

The man replied, "Long ago a man died here, was buried here, and three days later he rose from the dead. I just can't take that chance."

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – FORGIVE AND BE FORGIVEN.

But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. - Matthew 6:15.

Can you think of a more terrifying thought than God not forgiving us our sins?

We know how much He paid so our sins could be forgiven! We know how much He loves us! We know how much He wants us to be in relationship with him! So why would He withhold His forgiveness? Because we demonstrate that we have not received it or do not understand it!

God is gracious and he will not accept those who are not gracious!

Loving Father, there are those that I do find it difficult to forgive. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit, right now while I'm praying, soften my heart, cleanse my soul of any bitterness or resentment, and empower me to let go of the pain of the past, and forgive. I thank you for this grace to not only be forgiven, but also to forgive. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SATURDAY'S SILLYJOKE!

AN elderly couple set off in their car to visit their daughter and grandchildren. It was a long journey from Sydney to Melbourne, so they took it in turns to drive.

While the wife was behind the wheel, the couple were pulled over by a police car.

An officer approached their car. "Madam, did you know you were speeding?" he asked, as the woman wound down the window.

The woman, hard of hearing, turned to her husband and asked: "What did he say?"

"He said you were speeding!" the old man yelled.

"I'll need to see your licence," said the policeman.

The woman turned to her husband again: "What did he say?"

The old man yelled back: "He wants to see your licence!"

The woman dug in her handbag, found her driving licence, and handed it over.

The policeman studied it. "I see you're from Sydney," he snorted. "I was posted there years ago... I remember going on a blind date with the ugliest woman I've ever seen."

The woman turned to her husband again and asked: "What did he say?"

The old man yelled: "He said he knows you!"

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – MORE AND MORE LIKE JESUS!

And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. - 2 Corinthians 3:18.

We are being ‘transformed’ into the image of Jesus, with ever increasing glory! Wow! How can you top that, what a promise! Praise the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus!

In other words, it's an ongoing process, but with the continual help of the Holy Spirit, we are going to arrive at our goal… to be like Jesus!

The point is, not to give up on our journey, but keep on looking to Jesus, and keep trusting that the Holy Spirit is doing God's work in us, making us more and more like Jesus each day.

Loving Father, forgive me for the times when I've let my faith grow complacent, and I've lost my focus on Jesus. By the power of the Holy Spirit, help me as I try to be more deliberate in my jorney, especially my spiritual maturity. Transform me, and make me more like Jesus each day. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

WEDNESDAY'S SILLY JOKE!

Steve, Bruce and Kevin - were working on the site of a new skyscraper.

Steve fell off and was killed instantly. As the ambulance took the body away, Bruce said: "Someone should go and tell his wife."

Kevin piped up: "OK, I'm pretty good at that sensitive stuff, I'll do it."

Two hours later, he came back carrying a case of Fosters.

"Strewth," said Bruce. "Where did you get that, Kev?"

"Steve's wife gave it to me."

"That's unbelievable...you told the lady her husband was dead and she gave you the beer?"

"Well not exactly," Kevin said. "When she answered the door, I said to her: 'You must be Steve's widow'.

She said: "No, I'm not a widow'.

"And I said: 'I'll bet you a case of Fosters you are'."

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – ONLY IN JESUS!

There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. - Galatians 3:28.

Wouldn't it be great if we could tear down all the walls that separate us, racial, social, and gender.

The apostle Paul spent his entire life trying to do just that, to tear down the walls that separated people, by bringing them to Jesus and the cross. There are no positions of superiority or inferiority at the foot of the cross, only those who discover God's power displayed in sacrifice, and God's love displayed in the face of human cruelty.

While the forces of culture and human selfishness are always finding ways to separate us, we must remember that in Jesus, and only in Jesus, we can be one.

Loving Father, forgive me, when I have let discrimination and distrust keep me from fully loving those whom you have claimed as your children. By the power of the Holy Spirit, I pray that my life will be an example of deliverance and harmony, as I seek to love your children as you do. I ask this in the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

THE SILLY SATURDAY JOKE

ALICE and Jill were meeting up for a coffee at Starbucks. As she arrived, Alice saw that Jill was already seated at a table, but she was looking upset.

As she went over to join her, Alice said: "Hi Jill, you don't look too good. Is something up?"

"Yes... my boyfriend just called on the mobile. You know how I told you he got this tip on the stock market at the office? Well, it turns out it was a con. He's lost all his money, his life savings, the lot."

"Oh, that's tragic," said Alice, "You must be feeling awful for him."

"Yeah, I am," said Jill. "He'll really miss me."

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – KNOWN PERSONALLY BY THE LORD!

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. - Luke 12:6-7.

In a cosmos so vast, what is our little planet? In a planet so diverse and so full of life, what are people?

Among all the billions of people alive, and those who have lived and already died, what worth do we have? Well, Jesus reminds us that our worth is great, not because we are so important, but because we are known personally by God.

We don't have to be afraid, we are known personally, and loved by the One who is, and was, and is to come! Praise His wonderful name!

Loving Father, you already know my heart. You know where I struggle with sin, so empower and forgive me. You know my fears, so encourage and strengthen me. You know my immaturity, so nurture and grow me. You know my weakness and disease, so comfort and heal me. But even if these requests take time to be answered, I am still overwhelmed by the fact that you choose to know me, and for that I am eternally grateful, thank you! In the mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SATURDAY'S SILLY JOKE !

A SOLICITOR was conducting a preliminary interview with a woman who'd come in to inquire about a divorce.

"So," he asked, "what are your grounds?"

She replied: "About four acres. Nice front garden, and a lovely pond at the bottom of the back garden."

"No," he said. "I mean, what's the foundation of your case?"

"Oh," she said, "I'm sure it's concrete, brick and mortar."

"I mean," he continued, "what are your relations like?"

"My parents still live just off the High Street, and my husband's mother's in a home."

He sighed: "Do you have a genuine grudge?"

"No," she replied. "A Ford Escort."

"Please," he tried again, "is there any infidelity in your marriage?"

"Yes, my son and daughter have stereos. They both want iPods, but we've said no."

"Madam, does your husband beat you up?"

"Yes," she answered. "Saturdays and Sundays he gets up earlier than I do."

Finally, in frustration, the solicitor asked: "Madam, why do you want a divorce?"

"Oh, I don't want a divorce," she replied. "I've never wanted a divorce. My husband does. He says he can't communicate with me."

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

CROCODILE HUNTER - Steve Irwin's family say their last farewll.

Steve Irwin was buried on Saturday, there will be a public Memorial service soon...

Steve Irwin was farewelled by family and friends yesterday after a private service on the Sunshine Coast.A close friend said a service was held at the Caloundra Gregson and Weight funeral home chapel and crematorium at 2pm. It is believed the service was a prelude to Irwin, 44, being buried at his beloved Australia Zoo.

The friend said Caloundra City Council officials this week gave the Irwin family permission to bury the Crocodile Hunter on family land near Australia Zoo. "Yesterday's service was a service for family and good friends, people who were close to Steve in recent years," the friend said. "The council gave the family permission to bury Steve at the zoo and we think they're going to erect a monument there so visitors can continue to pay their respects."

TV news reports last night speculated that Irwin's body would be laid to rest at Australia Zoo, either last night at a dusk service or after a dawn service today. Channel 9 showed helicopter footage of a white van with two police escort cars seen entering the zoo, suggesting that the vehicle was carrying Irwin's body.

Earlier, Irwin's manager John Stainton told US TV network CNN: "We are having a private family service in the next two or three days, by Monday. "Then we'll start planning the memorial service which will be open to members of the public."

Friends said Irwin had often expressed his desire to be buried at the zoo but family representatives would not confirm if the service had taken place. On Thursday, Irwin's father, Bob, declined an offer of a state funeral, saying the family would opt to farewell him at a private service for only family and close friends in "the next seven days".

He pledged that a public memorial service would be held in the next fortnight, with Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium a possible venue.A flood of tributes from around the world continued to arrive at Australia Zoo yesterday.

Mr Stainton said on CNN that the sombre atmosphere that followed Irwin's death was lifting as life got back to normal at the zoo at Beerwah, just north of Brisbane. "Steve loved this zoo, it was built for people to enjoy. We want people to come back and celebrate his life," he said.

Mr Stainton said Irwin's children -- Bindi, 8, and two-year-old Bob -- were handling their father's death "really well" thanks to the strength of their mother, Terri, who had suffered some sad moments since her husband was killed by a stingray's barb while snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef in north Queensland on Monday. "They're holding up quite well," Stainton told King.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – SALVATION.

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ. - Philippians 3:7-8.

Paul had accomplished great things in his spiritual life before he became a Christian.

His commitment to God and to the Word of God was legendary. But he counted his past accomplishments as garbage, compared to knowing Christ and the grace he had received.

What he found in Jesus was salvation, not just deliverance from sin and death, but deliverance to a life of grace and power.

Loving Father, thank you for your grace that delivered me from legalism, pride, egotism, sin, and hopelessness. Thank you for the excellence you have given me in Jesus. By the power of the Holy Spirit, use me to help others come to know your grace more fully. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – THE LIVING WORD.

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. - Hebrews 1:1-2. TNIV

Our God is a speaking God. He loves us and has chosen to get His message to us in words. First there were the patriarchs and great prophets, and then there was the written record in the Scriptures.

But God's greatest message, His most powerful words, were not really words at all, but a person named Jesus of Nazareth, who is Christ and Lord of all. For us, His Church, to be what He wants us to be, we must not just look at Scripture, but we must also look at Him.

He is the key to understanding what Scripture means, and how it is to be lived.

Loving Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to see the work and purpose of Jesus more clearly. And as I open your word to seek and understand your will, guide me by your Spirit, so that I may know… "What Jesus would do?" In His wonderful and mighty name I pray.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SATURDAY'S SILLY JOKE!

JOCK and Archie were staggering home after a lock-in at the pub, and with the bravado that only a 10-pint session brings, decided to take a shortcut through the cemetery.

They had gone about 100 yards - reaching the darkest part of the graveyard, beside the trees, where the wind was softly brushing the branches, and just to make matters worse, the moon had just slipped behind the clouds.

Suddenly, they were chilled to the marrow by a tap-tap-tapping noise coming from the misty shadows.

Trembling with fear, they stumbled upon an old man with a hammer and chisel, chipping away at one of the headstones.

"Jeezo, pal," said Archie after catching his breath, "You scared us half to death - we thought you were a ghost! What are you doing working here at this time of night?"

"Those damn fools," grumbled the old man. "They spelled my name wrong."

It was Jock who fainted first.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – AS CHRISTIANS, OUR BEST DAYS ARE UP AHEAD!

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption, the redemption of our bodies. - Romans 8:22-23.

Life can be very difficult at times. Anyone who has lived long knows this.

At the same time, even our worst nightmares are staging periods for our great redemption. Our loneliest moments are the waiting room for our final adoption into the very presence and family of the King of Ages. With the Spirit living inside us, we are assured of the ultimate destination of our lives, no matter where the current scene in life's drama places us.

So let's live as those who are assured of their final destination but have not yet finally arrived, and not as those who have made their home, and placed their hope in what is present. Our best days lie ahead!

Loving Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, bless me with courage today so that I can face whatever obstacle may lie in my path, and give me the spirituality to do so with grace, dignity, and integrity, so that others may see my character and bring you glory. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – THE ROAD TO LIFE.

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. - Matthew 7:13-14.

The world wants a Saviour but not a Lord. The New Testament is very clear, a Saviour who is not Lord, is no Saviour and no friend.

If the Old Testament showed us anything, it is that God's seemingly strange laws were written not for his fascination, but for his people's preservation.

Let us not only call Jesus Lord this week, but let us live in a way that shows that He controls our lives, and His Spirit produces our character.

Loving Father, I thank you that Jesus is my Saviour and LORD. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit as you take control of my life and my will so that I may be totally yours, not just in word, but in thought and in deed as well. I ask this in the wonderful name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – WHAT KIND OF FRIEND DO YOU WANT TO BE?

Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus. – Luke 5:18.

What is the fullest definition of a friend?

The Bible offers us numerous definitions and examples. One of my favorite examples is this story of the paralyzed man whose friends went to great extremes to get him to Jesus. Their faith and their effort to get him to Jesus are the things that ultimately result in the man's forgiveness and healing.

I don't know about you, but that's the kind of friend I want to be!

Loving Father, help me by the power of the Holy Spirit to lead my friends to forgiveness and healing in Jesus. Give me the persistence and discretion to do this with gentleness and respect, without losing my sense of urgency to see them become Christians. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SATURDAY'S SILLY JOKE.

JOHN was sitting at home one evening, quietly watching the TV, when the doorbell rang.

When he opened the front door, a 6ft tall cockroach was standing on the doorstep.

Before John knew what was happening, the cockroach had punched him hard between the eyes and run off.

The next evening, John was making a cup of tea when the doorbell rang. And when he answered the door, the cockroach was there again. This time, it punched him in the stomach, and karate-chopped him on the back of the neck as he doubled up in pain. Before John could get to his feet, the cockroach had run away.

The third evening, John was again watching telly when the doorbell rang. Wary now, he opened the door halfway ... and the cockroach was there yet again. This time it shouldered the door open, leapt at John and stabbed him several times before running off.

Bleeding profusely, John managed to crawl to the telephone and dialled 999. An ambulance rushed him to intensive care, where they saved his life.

The next morning, the doctor was doing his rounds. He asked John what had happened, so he explained about the 6ft cockroach's attacks.

The doctor thought for a minute and said: "Yes, there's a nasty bug going around."

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – LORD JESUS, COME AND EAT WITH ME.

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with them, and they with me. To those who are victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. - Revelation 3: 20-21.

It has always fascinated me that this verse has often been cited by those calling others to conversion, when clearly in its context, it's written to lukewarm Christians needing to rekindle their love relationship to the Lord.

As believers, we need to invite the Lord Jesus into our hearts, our home, and lives. It's not that He's not there; it's just that he awaits our invitation, He will not barge in.

He only inhabits hearts into which He has been invited!

Lord Jesus, I know you long to share your presence and fellowship with me. I know you are nearby as I draw each breath. But I confess that I am often unaware, and even sometimes unappreciative of your presence. I ask you this day to come into my heart and fill my life with your presence and comfort and power. I want my life to be lived for you and with you. I ask this in your wonderful name. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – WHO DO YOU SAY JESUS IS?

"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "God's Messiah." - Luke 9:20.

A lot of people have their opinions about Jesus’ identity.

The real issue, however, is what you believe about Jesus. What you decide about God’s Son means everything for you, and for those you influence.

So listen to Jesus' question to His disciples as if He is asking it of you: “Who do you say I am?” I pray that your answer is the same as Peter’s: “God's Messiah.”

Loving Father, thank you for Jesus, who is my Lord, Saviour, friend, and older brother in your family. I praise you for sending him to reveal yourself to us, and I thank you for your lovedemonstrated by him on the Cross. I do believe that Jesus is the Messiah, and the only Saviour who can bring freedom, pardon, cleansing, and complete salvation. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG - A WORLD-WIDE FAMILY!

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. - Romans 12:10.

Being devoted to another in love requires that our church conversations… we're family, brothers and sisters, children of God, must be more than mere words.

We must enter each others lives, getting to know one another so that we can serve, love, and bless each other. What have you done lately to get more involved in the lives of your fellow Christians?

Devotion to others follows a commitment to know, and be known by them!

Loving Father, thank you for giving me a world-wide family. Thank you for loving me so completely. Father I ask that you help me by the power of the Holy Spirit be more open with myself, and my time to those in your family. Give me a heart that burns to bless and be blessed by those you have made your children. I ask this in the wonderful name of Jesus.
Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

THE SILLY SATURDAY JOKE

THOMAS was posted to another monastery, one that still did things the traditional way. He was assigned to help the other monks in copying the old texts by hand.

He noticed, however, that they were copying from copies, not the original manuscripts.

So, since it was his first day, Thomas went to the Abbot to ask him about this, pointing out that if there was a mistake in the first copy, that mistake would be continued in all of the following copies.

The Abbot said: "We have been copying from the copies for centuries, but you make a good point, Brother Thomas."

So, he went down into the cellar with one of the copies to check it against the original.

Hours passed and nobody saw him. So, Thomas went downstairs to look for him.

Hearing weeping coming from the back of the cellar, he found the old Abbot leaning over one of the original manuscripts, sobbing his heart out.

Brother Thomas asked the Abbot what was wrong, and in a broken voice came the reply: "The word is celebrate."

Be encouraged!

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – LIFE THROUGH JESUS.

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit. -1 Peter 3:18. TNIV

Having stood over the open graves of friends, family members, and strangers, I know the appearance and feel of death's finality, and our human frailty.

But Christ's death is that great reminder that death is a matter of perspective and faith. I believe God raised Jesus from the dead and that He is the first fruits of those of us who believe in Him.

He is alive, not just in Spirit, but in bodily form, and because of this, we will be too!

Loving Father, thank you for the gifts of your grace, Spirit, forgiveness and life. Most of all, thank you for the gift of your Son, who brought life and immortality to me through His death and resurrection. While I have no great desire to die, I know I can by the power of the Holy Spirit, look through death to you, and your victory in me through Jesus. Give me the courage to live for you every day, until that day when you take me home. In the wonderful Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

WORLD CUP SOCCER: KEWL HARRY!

Australia has qualified for the knockout stage of the 2006 World Cup with a 2-2 draw to Croatia in its final Group F match today.

Harry Kewell struck a late equaliser in the 79th minute to put Australia into the last 16 of the World Cup where it will meet Italy.Croatia led 1-0 after Darijo Srna scored from a free kick in the third minute.

Australia equalised with a Craig Moore penalty shot after 38 minutes.Croatia's second goal was scored by Niko Kovac in the 56th minute.

In a tense final 10 minutes both teams were left with 10 men as Brett Emerton and Dario Simic were both marched for second bookable offences.

Croatian defender Josip Simunic was sent off on the final whistle for his third bookable offence, referee Graham Poll forgetting to march him a few minutes earlier.

Australia play Italy in a second round fixture in Kaiserslautern on Monday.

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – CHRISTIAN COMPASSION.

"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' in front of others, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. - Matthew 6:1. TNIV

Compassion is not for personal glory, just as it is not a private internal emotion.

Christian compassion must always motivate us to act in the best interest, and for the greater good of those that are disadvantaged, without calling attention to ourselves or our sacrifices.

God provides what we need to bless others, and takes care of the reward when our goal is to please Him, and to be used by Him to bless others who are disadvantaged.

Loving Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, use me each day to be a blessing to someone in need. Please open my eyes and ears to see those around me who need emotional or physical support, or financial help. Please give me the courage to bless them, and lead them closer to you. In the wonderful Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – A CALL TO HOLINESS!

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. - James 4:7-8. TNIV

James always packs a lot into a small space, but let us focus on the centre of this call to holiness: let's draw ourselves closer to God.

When we come into God's presence and draw close to Him, we know our thoughts, our motives, and our behaviours, will be seen for what they are in the light of His holiness and righteousness. At the same time, we know that the devil is forced out by the radiance of our Father's holy life.

Let us seek after God, let us long to draw near to Him. Let's ask Him to cleanse us and make us wholly His, and make us completely holy!

Loving Father, I thank you for your love and forgiveness. By the power of the Holy Spirit, help me as I seek to draw closer to you, and as I seek to know you better. Purify my heart of any duplicity or secret sin. Cleanse my conscience, and empower me to be an example of your grace and holiness. I ask this in the wonderful Name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SAINTS SINK SYDNEY SWANS!!!

ST KILDA 7.10 (52) SYDNEY 7.8 (50)

What a game this was! This is whyI love Australian Football! This game was played in pouring rain, and the most courageous won in the end!

Luke ball was carried off in a stretcher after colliding with one of his own teamates, he was rushed to hospital, with blood flowing from his mouth, but when the Saints sung the victory song, there was Ball who rushed back from hospital, his face swollen and bruised, to rejoice with his teamates!
Nick Riewoldt was the man of the match. He played out of his skin tonight, absolutely marvellous!

That's us back in 5th place in the ladder, and next week we play the form team, Adelaide Crows.

Well done sainters! Carn the Saints! Oh when the Saints go marching in, oh when the Saints go marchin in...

WORLD CUP DILEMMA!

I liked the quote from a Church of England spokesman, commenting on the number of hits on its website after a prayer for the England team was posted: "You don't find many atheists during penalty shoot-outs."

True, very true. But it has to be said that at any given shoot-out, most of us, (especially Scots) become decidedly un-Christian: "Go on, miss you b******, miss, miss, miss..."

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

FRIDAY SCREAMER!

Three men were hiking through a forest when they came upon a large raging violent river. Needing to get on the other side, the first man prayed,"God, please give me the strength to cross the river."

Poof! God gave him big arms and strong legs and he was able to swim across in about 2 hours, having almost drowned twice.

After witnessing that, the second man prayed,"God, please give me strength and the tools to cross the river."

Poof! God gave him a rowboat and strong arms and strong legs and he was able to row across in about an hour after almost capsizing once.

Seeing what happened to the first two men, the third man prayed, "God, please give me the strength, the tools and the intelligence to cross the river."

Poof! He was turned into a woman. She checked the map, hiked one hundred yards up stream and walked across the bridge.
------------
The two thousand member Baptist church was filled to overflowing capacity one Sunday morning.

The preacher was ready to start the sermon when two men, dressed in long black coats and black hats entered thru the rear of the church.One of the two men walked to the middle of the church while the other stayed at the back of the church. They both then reached under their coats and withdrew automatic weapons.

The one in the middle announced, "Everyone willing to take a bullet for Jesus stay in your seats!" Naturally, the pews emptied, followed by the choir. The deacons ran out the door, followed by the choir director and the assistant pastor.

After a few moments, there were about twenty people left sitting in the church. The preacher was holding steady in the pulpit.The men put their weapons away and said, gently, to the preacher, "All right, pastor, the hypocrites are gone now. You may begin the service."

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

ABUNDANT LIFE!

A little boy who lived far out in the country in the late 1800s had reached the age of twelve and had never in all his life seen a circus. You can imagine his excitement, when one day a poster went up at school announcing that on the next Saturday a traveling circus was coming to the nearby town.

He ran home with the glad news and the question, "Daddy, can I go?" Although the family was poor, the father sensed how important this was to the lad. "If you do your Saturday chores ahead of time," he said, "I'll see to it that you have the money to go."'

Come Saturday morning, the chores were done and the little boy stood by the breakfast table, dressed in his Sunday best. His father reached down into the pocket of his overalls and pulled out a dollar bill-the most money the little boy had possessed at one time in all his life. The father cautioned him to be careful and then sent him on his way to town.

The boy was so excited, his feet hardly seemed to touch the ground all the way. As he neared the outskirts of the village, he noticed people lining the streets, and he worked his way through the crowd until he could see what was happening. Lo and behold, it was the approaching spectacle of a circus parade! The parade was the grandest thing this lad had ever seen. Caged animals snarled as they passed, bands beat their rhythms and sounded shining horns, midgets performed acrobatics while flags and ribbons swirled overhead.

Finally, after everything had passed where he was standing, the traditional circus clown, with floppy shoes, baggy pants, and a brightly painted face, brought up the rear. As the clown passed by, the little boy reached into his pocket and took out that precious dollar bill. Handing the money to the clown, the boy turned around and went home. What had happened? The boy thought he had seen the circus when he had only seen the parade!

Are you experiencing all that God has for you? The Christian life is a marvelous adventure, an exciting journey. Many people-including Christians-seem to be content to float in a sea of mediocrity, settling for second best. Do you want the abundant life that Jesus promised? Do you want to live life to its fullest?

Then aim higher. Don't set your sights too low. Determine to become all that God created you to be. Give yourself to Christ, follow Him completely, and allow the Holy Spirit to work in you and through you.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – SINGING WITH GRATITUDE!

Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. - Colossians 3:16. TNIV

We sing when we are happy, we sing when we are heartbroken, but today we sing out of gratitude.

God is not only worthy of all of our praise, He is worthy of all of our thankfulness. And the origin of all our songs is Jesus, and the declaration of the good news that brings life to us, through Him.

As that message, the word of Christ fills our hearts, we are tuned to be thankful children of the Most High.

Loving Father, I am so thankful today, for all the many blessings you have poured into my life. Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness give me hope for the future. Your gift of Jesus gives me life today, and promises life tomorrow. The incredible physical blessings, as well as the blessings of family and friends, are wonderful. But the greatest of all blessings, Lord, is the assurance that I will one day see you face- to-face, and share your glorious presence forever. In the wonderful and mighty Name Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – ONLY THROUGH JESUS.

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. - John 14:6.

I don't want to be any more exclusive than Jesus, but I do want to hear His voice, because He calls me to find the way to the Father through Him.

I also know that others must know Him, to find their way to the Father, too. Why can we not be more passionate about those around us, who do not really know Jesus as their Saviour, Redeemer, and Lord?

How can the first four books of our New Testament be read and ignored?

Loving Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, give me a passion for Jesus, and a heart that knows Him in word, deed, and concern. I ask this in the wonderful Name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – WALK THE WALK AND TALK THE TALK!

Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. - Philippians 3:17.

Someone once said... “I would rather see a sermon any day, than hear one.”

I'm not distressed because people want to “see a sermon,” but because so many of us don't “practice what we preach.”

As leaders, whether as friends, parents, or in positions of authority, our principal tool of influence, is our life of character (or lack of it). Do you practice what you “preach?” All of us who seek to influence others MUST!

Why? Because most people need to both hear and see the message, before it becomes a part of them.

Loving Father, forgive me for not being a visual sermon. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit, to walk the walk, and talk the talk. Equip me, and make me fit for your service. I know I can't do any of those without your power and grace transforming my life. In the wonderful Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged!
GBYAY