DANCING IN THE KEY OF LIFE

GOD will provide!

2012-02-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 46:4 (NIV)
"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."

Some people find it hard to speak about GOD and money in the same sentence. Some people find it easier to accept that GOD would heal a person of an illness rather than a financial problem. When we have a financial need we often hesitate to ask GOD because of a general misunderstanding about how our Heavenly FATHER cares for us. I have many testimonies on how GOD has come to my rescue in various situations. However I want to share a testimony where GOD proved to me HE is my provider!

I had a situation were I was several months behind on my apartment rent and had been issued an eviction notice by the landlord. After going to court to address the issue, I received a 10 day notice in which I had to pay the back rent I owed plus court costs. If I did not pay the money by the 10th day, the court would have the local police come to physically put me out of my home.

I called, emailed, and sent text messages to friends and family asking to borrow the money, but no one could help. I owed several thousand dollars in back rent, and most everyone I knew did not have that kind of money available. Although many people wanted to help, they just could not do so. I also had several pending business deals, all of which fell apart, leaving me with no chance to earn the money on my own.

Well, the 10th day came and I still did not have the money. I asked the landlord if I could have extra time to pay. Since the 10th came at the end of the week, the landlord gave me the weekend and extended the deadline to that following Monday.

On the evening of the 10th day, I spoke with a friend who share his testimony with me about a similar situation. My friend told me that he and his wife owed several thousand dollars on a "hard money loan" (which meant it absolutely had to be paid in full by a specific date). The date was fast approaching and they did not have the full amount to satisfy the debt. My friend and his wife prayed together about the situation and later decided to sow all of the money they had in church (in other words, they gave all of their money in the church offering). A few days after that church service (and 1 day before the loan was due) a person gave them the full amount needed to pay off the loan.

I thought about what my friend told me. I know it sounds crazy to give away the money you have when you need more money to resolve a problem. We have heard it said, "it is better to give than to receive". Here is what JESUS said about giving . . .

Luke 6:38 (NIV)
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Here is what the Apostle Paul said about giving . . .

2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NIV)
"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."

I thought about what JESUS and Paul said. I thought about my friend's testimony. Then I prayed to GOD, asking HIM to help me and lead me in the way I should go. That Sunday before the Monday due date, I went to church having only a few hundred dollars. This was ALL of the money I had total. Although I was scared, I decided I was going to trust GOD. So as an act of faith, I gave ALL the money I had to the church in their Sunday offering. So now I was broke with no money at all, but I felt confident that GOD would somehow save my home.

I remained confident until later Sunday evening. I became very nervous and even felt foolish. I began to have doubts about what I had done. I knew GOD could absolutely rescue me if HE wanted to because HE has done so in various situations throughout my life. However I began to wonder if HE would do it this time. As the night went on I became more anxious and had trouble sleeping. All kinds of thoughts were going around in my mind. Not one person I knew could help me and I had given away all my money. I had no other choice but to rely 100% on GOD. If the LORD did not resolve this problem, I would most certainly lose my home. As I thought about this I became more afraid as I prayed & cried for several hours into the night. Eventually I did fall asleep.

On Monday morning when I woke up, I discovered close to one thousand dollars in my bank account. As the day went on I received an additional few hundred dollars in my account. Where did this money come from? I knew it came from GOD and I immediately gave HIM thanks and praise. Behind the scenes GOD had been working on my behalf with a few business deals which I thought were not going to happen. Although I had more money than what I started with on Sunday, it was not enough because I was still short several thousand dollars. Then later that same afternoon, I received an email from one of my business clients. I had contacted this client 1 week earlier to see if they were interested in doing more business, but I did not receive a reply unto now. This client told me they wanted to make a deal with me and offered to pay me the exact amount I needed to pay my back rent. In other words, with this one deal alone, I could pay the landlord in full and still have money left over from the previous deals. Although this client and I came to an agreement that afternoon, I did not have the money before the close of the business day. I was unable to speak with my landlord before their office closed for the day. So now I had missed the deadline and I became extremely nervous (unsure what would happen next).

The next morning (Tuesday) I went to speak with my landlord as soon as his office opened. I told him I had part of the money now and expected to have the rest very soon. He said he could not accept it and needed the full amount. I asked if he could give me a few hours to come up with the rest of the money. He told me I could have the rest of the day, but also warned me the court had been notified I had missed the deadline. This meant the court would have the police come to physically put me out the following day (Wednesday). Before leaving his office, my landlord gave me a copy of the court order stating I would be forced to leave in 24 hours. Within a few minutes of leaving his office, the money I was expecting from my client had arrived into my bank account. I began praising GOD and thanking HIM for HIS grace and mercy towards me. I soon returned to my landlord's office, paid the full amount of what I owed, and gave him back the court's final eviction notice. As I left his office I thanked the LORD for rescuing me, saving my home, and leaving me with well over one thousand dollars to meet other obligations.

We can NEVER pay GOD for a blessing. My giving all the money I had was not about the money itself. It was a demonstration of my faith in GOD and HIS promises to meet my needs.

Philippians 4:19 (NIV)
"And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."

I will be the first to point out that my faith was shaken and at times throughout this ordeal I had very little faith. JESUS told us that we only need a little faith and mountains would move.

Matthew 17:15-20 (NIV)
"Lord, have mercy on my son,” he said. “He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him.” “You unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me.” Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed at that moment. Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

My faith has now increased because of what the LORD has done for me. This does not mean that everything in life will go my way. For years I prayed to GOD asking HIM to save my marriage and keep our family together. I had faith and believed HE would do it. However after 20 years of marriage and 2 beautiful children, my ex-wife divorced me in 2011. I don't know why GOD moves in some situations but not in others. I do know that HE has a purpose in ALL things (good & bad) that happen in our lives that HE will use to benefit us.

Romans 8:28 (NIV)
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

The separation and ultimate divorce from my wife was extremely painful and by far the most difficult experience of my life. However the LORD brought me through it and I am still here today as a thankful person with much joy in my life.

My friends, I have shared my experiences with you in hopes that you might be encouraged in whatever you are facing today. No matter the situation or circumstance, GOD will provide for you. Trust HIM with your life! Lean on HIM with all of your cares and concerns. Pray and ask GOD to help you and lead you in all situations. Do not get yourself ahead of GOD, thinking you can resolve you situation on your own. Things only prove to get worse by doing so. Instead, be patient and wait on GOD to guide you. The LORD will provide for you in all of your needs.

Matthew 6:25-33 (NIV)
"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 than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Hebrews 10:23 (NIV)
"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."

Psalm 33:4-5 (NIV)
"For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love."

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

What in the world is GOD doing in my life right now?

2012-01-22T16:33:00.000-08:00

I know; crazy right?! I mean seriously, what in the world is going on in my life right now?

At one time or another in our lives we all have said (or thought) these very words (or similar). Have you ever had something amazingly good and terribly bad going on in your life at the exact same time? If you have never experienced this unique state of being, then "keep on living" (as my grandmother would say) because the day is coming where this shall certainly happen to you too!

What is GOD doing in situations like these? What is HE trying to tell me? In order to process this we must first realize above all else that GOD loves us and has good planned for our lives.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Second, we must understand that we cannot (and will not) understand everything GOD is doing in our lives.

Isaiah 55:8 (NIV)
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.

Therefore it is crucial we keep these 2 very important foundation facts in mind as we move into the third (and most vital) point of action . . . PRAYER! Now please understand the purpose of this prayer is to gain wisdom, strength, encouragement, and revelation.

Wisdom to make the best decisions.

Strength to do what is necessary.

Encouragement for the moments our faith is low.

Revelation for our own personal growth and the growth of others who are closely watching us.

Yes it is most certainly ok to ask GOD questions in humility. However we must be careful not to question GOD as if to put HIM on trial.

Here is an example. Let's examine what happened to Mary, the mother of JESUS.
She is a teenaged virgin girl engaged to be married when suddenly she is visited by the angel Gabriel and told she is now going to be made pregnant and give birth to a child.

Luke 1:26-35 (NIV)
"In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God."

Let's pause right there and not focus on the fact the baby is JESUS. Instead take a moment and imagine young Mary has to go back to her fiancé (Joseph) and say, "Um, Joe baby?! I've got something to tell you sweetheart. Um, today I was visited by an Angel named Gabriel. He told me I am going to have a baby. Then later I was made pregnant by the Holy Spirit without having sex!"

Now ladies imagine yourself trying to explain this to your fiancé. Fellas, image hearing this explanation from your lady. With all due respect to everyone reading this message, I don't care how close you are to GOD, you would have a very hard time with this situation regardless which side of it effected you!

Not only did Mary have to tell her future husband, she also had to tell her family. Back in those days to be pregnant before marriage resulted in the woman being stoned to death.

So this incredibly wonderful thing happens to Mary, but yet at the very same time her life and the life of the baby are now in terrible danger!

The Bible describes Joseph as a good man and says he didn't "trip" (lose his cool) on the news from Mary. However the Bible also says that Joseph was indeed troubled by the news and had serious doubts about the future of their relationship. In fact Joseph was preparing to cancel their wedding, but doing so quietly (as a good man) so that Mary and the baby would not be harmed.

Before Joseph could move forward with his intended plan to resolve the matter, an Angel of the LORD visited Joseph in a dream one night. The Angel confirmed that Mary told the truth and from that point Joseph believed Mary. The Angel also gave Joseph wisdom on how best to move forward in the situation.

Jumping ahead in the story, Joseph married Mary and she gave birth to JESUS. You can read the complete story in Luke 1:26-38 , Luke 2:1-21, and Matthew 1:18-24

While Joseph & Mary's faith was tested and ultimately made stronger, their story has encouraged billions of people around the world over thousands of years.

There are moments where good and bad happen in our lives at the exact same time. While these moments strengthen our faith, they often are not about us at all. Instead it is for those around us to watch, listen, and witness for themselves the gracious, merciful, loving GOD move in our lives as a testimony for them to receive.

Don't worry about how you are going to resolve the issues in your life. Trust in GOD as Joseph did and GOD will give you the wisdom you'll need. GOD may tell you to move, or perhaps HE will tell you to stand still. Either way, trust GOD! Rely on HIM!

Remember, while you won't understand everything GOD does, just know HIS plans for you are good! So use this as a compass with your heart pointed toward GOD. It will help you navigate through the mysteries of life!

Psalm 32:8 (NIV)
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you."

Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

How Deep Are Your Dreams

2011-12-22T07:17:00.000-08:00

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word "dream" as a visionary creation of the imagination; a strongly desired goal or purpose.

One of my favorite records is called "Dreams" by the Wamdue Kids (to listen, click this video link: http://youtu.be/xrXp3AEHVfY) . In this classic release from 1995, they ask the question, "In the back of your mind, how deep are your dreams?"

We all have dreams for our lives, many of which date back from our early childhood. As children we often dreamed about getting our favorite toy for Christmas or perhaps that pet we have always wanted. But also while still a child we often dreamed about our future (our career, marriage, social status, etc). Dreams are often the root for the life goals we set for ourselves. We choose our paths in life based on how deeply rooted those dreams are within us. How deep are your dreams? Are you living out your dreams today?

It is a wonderful feeling when our dreams manifest into reality. But what about when "life" happens, and your dreams fall apart? Your dream came true when you married the love of your life, but now you are getting divorced. Your dream came true to buy the home you've always wanted, but now you're losing it due to foreclosure. Your dream came true to start your business, but business has been slow and you will soon be forced to shut it down. Your dream came true to get the job you've always wanted only later to be fired with no explanation. Your dream to graduate from college with the degree you've always desired came true, but the student loan payments are so expensive it has drastically lowered your quality of living.

What do you do when it all falls apart? How do you go on after the beautiful picture of your life long dreams shatter before your very eyes? This is one of the most challenging tests of our faith.

Hebrews 11:1-3 (NIV)
"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible."

We had confidence in our dreams (believing the dream could become our reality). Because of this confidence we eagerly pursued our dreams with assurance. Therefore we must ask if we have kept the faith believing GOD would make our dreams come true, why did GOD allow the dream to fail? This is a very difficult question to answer. I do not claim to have the absolute answer to this question because GOD's ways & thoughts are far beyond human comprehension. However through my own experience GOD has given me a revelation which is helping me and I want to share it with you.

Notice I wrote, "helping" (presence tense - now) verses "helped" (past tense - then). It's great when a person can encourage someone else by sharing how they "came out" of a situation. Sometimes it is more helpful to encourage someone while you are currently "in" a situation (also known as "transparency"). Sure, we all feel better after a situation is over, but how do we make it through each day until "over" happens? I know what it is like to have my marriage fail and end in divorce, to watch a dream career fall apart right before my eyes, to be evicted and lose a home, to have my cars repossessed, to be in debt, to have my good credit become bad credit, and to watch my good name and reputation destroyed. I know what it is like to see these things happen despite my best efforts to prevent the worst. It is from this place I want to share this revelation with you.

One thing I have learned from studying the prophets of the Bible is they always seem to give a prophetic word "in part". Sure there were prophets like Isaiah who gave very detailed descriptions of what was to come, but even those details were not 100% point by point as to exactly how things would manifest. Even JESUS (the Son of GOD) left the disciples (and ultimately all of us) asking questions about certain subjects to which we still do not have full knowledge of today. The revelation I received is this . . . Even when we dream, GOD only reveals a portion of our story to us.

It is like going to the theater to watch a movie. Before the featured film starts, you first see what is commonly known as the, "coming attractions". You watch a coming attraction for a particular film and based on what you see it sparks your interest; causing you to want to see that film when it is released. GOD gives us dreams in the same way. HE places a desire in our heart which motivates us to move in a certain direction. Although GOD gives us this "vision" in our spirit, it is yet only a "coming attraction" for what is to come in our lives.

Here is one example . . . In the Old Testament (Genesis Chapter 37 thru Genesis Chapter 50), a teenaged boy named Joseph has dreams in which he sees himself ruling over his brothers. The dreams did not reveal specific details as to how this would happen. If so, perhaps Joseph would have considered keeping these dreams to himself because after sharing these dreams with his brothers they tried to kill him and ultimately sold him into slavery. When you have time you should read this story for yourself because the details are quite interesting and relevant. However to quickly summarize, after Joseph was sold into slavery, falsely accused of a crime, sentenced to prison, he emerged to become ruler over Egypt (2nd in command to Pharaoh), and ultimately saving the lives of an entire nation (which included his brothers).

My friends do not stop dreaming. Even if your dreams have fallen apart do not lose confidence in what you have hoped for. Instead be assured in what you do not see! Trust GOD, knowing HIS wonderful plan for your life has never changed. Things may not have turned out as you had planned but this does not mean the story of your life ends here. The good things GOD has prepared for you still exist! What GOD has meant for you to receive you will surely receive it! Your dreams are simply a tool GOD uses to point you in the direction of HIS will for your life. Do not be discouraged! Do not lose hope! Do not abandon your faith in JESUS CHRIST!

Your dreams are not the complete story of your life for GOD. Instead, they are the "coming attractions" of GOD's life for you!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

Christmas Holiday Depression

2011-11-28T10:41:00.000-08:00

The Christmas holiday season is a wonderful time of year for most people. Those who celebrate this season get excited about Christmas for various reasons. For some it is the idea of giving & receiving gifts. For others it is about the smells of delicious food that fills the air (soon to be eaten). Yet for others the Christmas season is about the various activities that range from singing Christmas carols, holiday parties, giving & receiving gifts, going to church, or volunteering at a shelter or nursing home. All of these are wonderful ways of expressing, sharing, and celebrating the birth of JESUS CHRIST and the tremendous love displayed through his sacrifice. However there is one very important aspect of the Christmas holidays which is often overlooked . . . depression!

Unfortunately depression among people is often at its highest during the Christmas season. There are many reasons for this. Some people are depressed because they went over their budget in their holiday shopping and now are unsure how they will pay their bills. Other are depressed because they have lost their job, business, or perhaps their home. They cannot provide for their families as they would like to. Some people have lost loved ones (either through death or separation) and the pain of their loss is often refreshed (even intensified) during this time of the year. Yet others are lonely with no one to share and enjoy the holidays with. These are just a few of the many reasons people tend to become deeply depressed during the Christmas season. Many documented studies have shown that suicide rates dramatically increase during the Christmas holidays. The Christmas season itself is such a wonderful time of the year and it almost seems impossible that such sadness and pain exist. Especially in today's world with a host of problems that range from the economy, war, politics and countless issues of great importance, many people have lost hope and thus the spirit of depression settles in.

For those who are feeling depressed, it may seem like you are all alone in your pain, but GOD is actually right there with you. The devil wants you to believe you are alone and there is no hope for things to get better. Remember the devil is a liar (there is NO truth in him). I know from personal experience it can be hard to see the sunshine when the storm is raging around you. It is important to know that even if you feel you have no strength to fight your way out of depression, GOD will help you. In fact HE is already fighting for you. Do not take my word for it . . . here is GOD's word to you . . .

Exodus 14:14 (NIV)
"The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."

2 Chronicles 20:15 (NIV)
"He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."

Here are more scriptures to encourage and give you hope . . .

Psalm 34:17 (NIV)
"The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles."

Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Psalm 30:5 (NIV)
"For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning."

1 Peter 4:12-13 (NIV)
"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed."

Isaiah 61:3 (NIV)
"and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor."

Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
"but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."

Romans 8:32-39 (NIV)
"He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Philippians 4:6-8 (NIV)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
"I can do all this through HIM who gives me strength."

Psalm 147:3 (NIV)
"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

1 Peter 5:6-7 (NIV)
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

Luke 18:1 (NIV)
"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up."

Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)
"Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."

Isaiah 51:11 (NIV)
"Those the LORD has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away."

Each one of us knows at least one person who is feeling down and depressed. Let's remember and pray for those who may be having a hard time seeing and feeling joy in their hearts during Christmas. May GOD's love, peace, grace, and mercy be comforting to all those who are feeling down at this moment. May their trust in GOD be strengthened knowing that HE has the power to take their situation and use it for good.

Be encouraged knowing that GOD loves you and HE has a wonderful plan for your future. Things will get better for you. If you want to believe this but have trouble finding hope, take time to find little things to thank GOD for. Go out and find someone you can help. This will help change your perspective. Perhaps you think there is nothing in your life to be thankful for. Well if you are reading this message you can be thankful you are alive, thankful you can see, thankful you can read, thankful you can understand the words . . . you can even be thankful you have access to the internet to view this message.

My friend, GOD has wonderful things ahead of you. If you believe but just are not sure what to do, just stand still, pray, watch and see the salvation of the LORD. HE is going to move positively on your behalf. There is a song called, "Always" in which the lyrics say, "forever GOD loves you always . . . Don't worry, HE will be there always . . . and just because you've had some bad days . . . It doesn't mean it's going to be this way always." More simply quoted, "trouble don't last always!" It's going to be ok! You are going to be ok!

Therefore in the spirit of positive thinking, may you and your loved ones have a wonderful, joyful, peaceful, loving, merry Christmas!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

Be Thankful

2011-11-22T14:29:00.000-08:00

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)
"give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."

Most people who have a relationship with JESUS CHRIST would agree it is easy to thank GOD for the good things we receive in life. For example, we would be thankful for certain achievements such as a graduation, a promotion on the job, a new car, a new home, a marriage, and the birth of a baby. When good things happen to us, being thankful comes about so effortlessly it can sometimes be perceived by others as a mere gesture or cliche. But how do we respond when bad things happen? Are we as likely to be thankful to GOD when we flunk out of school, lose a job, lose a car, lose a home, get divorced, or when a child dies?

Being thankful during the low moments in our lives is one of the greatest challenges we will ever face. Unfortunately we all will experience tragedy in our lives. Accepting JESUS as our LORD & Savior does not make us immune to bad things happening in our lives. In life it is certain we all shall face some of life's most painful truths. JESUS himself confirmed this when HES said . . .

John 16:33 (NIV)
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

So then how do we thank GOD in the midst of tragedy and heartache when the last thing we want to do is thank HIM? I know from my own personal experiences it is incredibly difficult to thank GOD when you feel your world is falling apart. What has helped me be thankful in those moments is to think about what I still have and not focus on what I have lost.

Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Trusting GOD through our most difficult moments could be the hardest part of our walk with the LORD. How does a child thank GOD while being molested? How does a person thank GOD after being raped? How does a healthy person thank GOD after suddenly being diagnosed with a terminal illness? If GOD is love then why would HE allow such things to happen? I do not know why GOD allows such things to happen. It certainly does not make logical sense to me. However I do know the very nature of GOD goes far beyond our human logical thinking.

Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV)
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Although I may ask GOD why a certain thing has happened, I realize GOD does not owe me any explanation. However in my own life GOD has revealed things later on that changed my perspective on how I viewed those events. The late Bishop David Ellis once said, "Never count any day as a 'bad day' until all the days have been counted in. Because what you thought of as a 'bad day' might later prove to be a 'good day' in your life." For example, I have a friend who had a supervisor position at Chrysler Automotive Company. While working for Chrysler he was making a lot of money and doing very well for himself. But things began happening to him on the job which made him very unhappy and discouraged. Ultimately he made the decision to leave his well paying job in order to enter law school. Although it was a very hard process, several years later he graduated from law school and began working as a licensed attorney. One day he was watching television when the announcement was made that Chrysler was filing for bankruptcy. Had he not left several years prior, he would have been directly effected by those circumstances.

Many people know the story of Joyce Meyer. She was molested and raped by her own father from childhood until she left home in her later teenage years. She speaks openly about how this tormented her life many years afterwards. Today Joyce Meyer Ministries is known throughout the world as she travels regularly speaking before thousands (and millions through her television & radio ministry) spreading the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST. Joyce once said, "Give GOD your pain and let HIM turn it into your gain. Give HIM your mess and let HIM turn it into your message." In explaining why she shares her testimony about what happened to her, Joyce said, "I want people to know how good GOD is. Your struggle is worth it. Your journey is worth it. Don't give up!"

Romans 8:28 (NIV)
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

Often times GOD moves in such a way that does not allow us to clearly see what lies ahead for us. Since we know that GOD uses all things to work together for our good, perhaps thanking GOD in the midst of our trouble is also an act of faith. We don't thank GOD for the bad thing that happened, but instead we thank GOD for using that bad thing to make our lives better. We thank GOD for using that tragedy to better the lives of others. Someone can be encouraged by your life when they see how you made it through your most difficult moments.

I do not have all the answer this is for sure. Although I understand 1 Thessalonians 5:18, it most certainly is easier said than done. However I can tell you I have tried it. In my life I have thanked GOD during incredibly hard times and the LORD brought me through it. Therefore I am asking you to find a way to thank GOD during the hard moments of your life. I know it is a hard thing to do. But think of it this way . . . what have you got to lose by giving this a try?

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

JESUS Is Our Savior!

2011-11-09T06:51:00.000-08:00

John 3:16-17

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

Have you ever watched a televised sporting event and seen someone holding a sign that says, "John 3:16"? It is one of the most widely recognized Bible verses. Many people have this scripture memorized, but what does it really means to our lives? Often times in our society when a significant phrase becomes so common within the culture the depth of its true meaning gets lost.

In my own personal experience, when I saw the movie "The Passion Of CHRIST" I was deeply moved and overcome with heavy emotion. It was a very graphic example of what JESUS must have truly suffered while on HIS way to the cross. It was very hard for me to watch and afterwards I felt so unworthy of HIS sacrifice on my behalf. It was then I began to really understand the concept of grace & mercy as it comes from our FATHER.

I visited Jerusalem and had an incredible time visiting many of the ancient historical sites. While in Jerusalem I received new revelation to John 3:16-17. I went to the ancient "old city" of Jerusalem which is inside the modern city. While there I walked the path where it is said JESUS carried the cross to HIS crucifixion. This path known as the Via Dolorosa (aka The Way Of The Cross) has 14 stations or marking points to note the events that occurred along the way. For example, it marks all 3 times where JESUS dropped HIS cross (including the spot where it is said that Simon the Cyrenian was forced to help JESUS carry the cross up to Golgotha. This path leads into the Church of the Holy Sepulcher (Church of the Resurrection). The Holy Sepulcher is a temple that was built over top the site of the location where JESUS was crucified (Calvary aka Golgotha), and the tomb where HE was buried and later arose from the dead.

The evening on which I visited the "old city" was Christmas Eve as celebrated by Orthodox Christians who follow the Gregorian Calendar. This calendar recognizes December 25 Christmas Day on January 7, and originates from the ancient Julian Calendar. On this night (Christmas Eve) there were many people in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher praying during a special church service. Being there I was deeply moved much in the same way as watching "The Passion Of CHRIST".

Isaiah 53:5

"But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed."

I use to read this scripture and think about it in reference to GOD's healing of our physical illnesses. While this is certainly true, through GOD's revelation I now know the meaning is much deeper. When Isaiah says, "by his wounds we are healed", it speaks to our spiritual relationship with GOD that was broken by Adam's sin in the garden of Eden being healed (restored). I have always felt this in my heart but received confirmation while at the Holy Sepulcher. There is no greater relationship than with our Heavenly FATHER who is the creator of the universe. In comparison to all that exists, HE loves us so much that HE would sacrifice HIS son JESUS so we may be reconciled with our FATHER.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit Jerusalem I highly recommend you visit the "old city" and the Holy Sepulcher. Here are a couple of links you might find interesting.

video documentary: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqhdbUh8TkY

general info: http://www.bibleplaces.com/holysepulcher.htm

detailed info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church_of_the_Holy_Sepulchre

JESUS is truly our Savior! HE saved us from being separated from GOD for eternity! All we have to do is believe and accept HIM as LORD. HE looked beyond our sin and gave HIMSELF for us. Even though we reject HIM and are far from deserving such grace and mercy, HE yet gave the ultimate sacrifice for us. If you never have the chance to visit Jerusalem, know that GOD is present with you where you are at this very moment. HE loves you right where you are! You may have just made the worst mistake of your life, but GOD will forgive and restore you. HE wont force it upon you. Just be open to receive and HE will gladly restore you. If you are ready, HE has it available for you right now.

We live in very hard times. The economy of several countries is on the verge of collapse. Many people have lost jobs and homes. We are no longer isolated by country or continent. Because of the internet, mobile phones, ipads and similar technology, we have grown into a global community. As a global community our way of life as we knew it is no more. Today we all are embarking towards an uncertain future. Why has our Heavenly FATHER who loves us so much allowed this to happen? I do not have an answer for this. However I am convinced with certainty that GOD knew this day would come, and HE has given us hope in JESUS CHRIST. Yes indeed we have been given the gift of Salvation through JESUS. In the risen JESUS CHRIST we also have a Savior who cares about and meets our daily needs.

The times we live in are gloomy and the general talk from the media paints a picture of hopelessness. But all is not lost. GOD is not on a mission to harm us. HE is on a mission to bless us. GOD has not forgotten us. HE is right here with us and has delivered us through HIS son JESUS.

Here is what JESUS said . . .

John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

Look Beyond Yourself To Help Someone Else

2011-10-23T20:26:00.000-07:00

Luke 23:39-43 (NIV)
One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

While JESUS was in tremendous pain and yet dying on the cross, HE took a moment to be concerned about another man's soul. Sometimes the hardest thing to do when we are hurting is to reach out and help someone else. When we are hurting, the most natural feeling is to look for someone to extend a helping hand to us. There is nothing wrong with wanting others to be concerned about our issues or seeking help for ourselves. However, when we can step outside of our own difficulties and reach out to others we will be surprised of the positive outcome.

I remember a time many years ago when I was very sad about a situation. I was praying to GOD about my problem when suddenly the phone rang. It was my niece and she said she really needed to talk to me. Before moving forward in the conversation I remember thinking, "JESUS how can I possibly be any help to her right now?" But I told her I would listen and she began talking. I didn't say much in our conversation. I listened as she told me about her problem and offered some advice when she was finished. At the end of the conversation she said, "Thank you Uncle Terrence. You really helped me a lot." After our conversation ended I realized I wasn't sad anymore. I felt much better too!

Sometimes our deliverance comes when we get beyond our own pain to lift someone else up. GOD loves us and is concerned about our problems. GOD often uses people to manifest HIS will here on Earth. Therefore GOD wants us to be concerned about others enough to reach out to help them. We don't have to be in the best condition for GOD to use us to bring good to another person. We do not have to be a perfect vessel. We only have to be a willing vessel to be used by GOD.

The Apostle Paul wanted to be in the best possible condition to be used by GOD. Paul asked JESUS 3 times to remove a thorn from his side. The "thorn" represents the thing, issue, or circumstance which came to make Paul feel less than perfect for the task. JESUS did not grant Paul's request. Instead JESUS replied by saying, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in your weakness." Let's look at the scripture . . .

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NIV)
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Therefore we should not try to present ourselves as "all knowing" or "flawless" to anyone who comes to us seeking help. In fact we should do the opposite and be transparent about our humanity. It means so much to the person who is hurting to know that you are not perfect, but human just like them. So when you offer advice or step in to help in a situation which ends with a positive result, the credit must go to GOD.

So when I go back to the story about the phone conversation with my niece I realized that it was JESUS who was helping my niece (not me). Yes I felt good after that phone call knowing my niece was feeling better, but I was also at peace about my own situation. That peace came from JESUS as HE helped me during that same phone call. If we only step out to help others when things are good for us then we lose sight of GOD working in the situation. But if we rise above our own problems to assist someone else then GOD's light shines brightly. GOD blesses the person who is being helped and the person who reached out to help. It is amazing how GOD works! GOD is truly awesome!

I know it can be very hard to get beyond our own problems enough to think clearly about assisting someone else. However if we have the desire in our hearts to help others and make the effort to do so even while we are hurting, then GOD will do the rest. Helping each other is GOD's will for us. The beauty of GOD's plan is that we get blessed in the process. The next time you feel down, make an effort to help someone else and watch GOD work for them and for you! As we reach out to help others, GOD will reach out to help us!

James 5:16 (NIV)
"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."

Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

Did I Miss My Blessing?

2011-10-09T11:13:00.000-07:00

Let's say a great opportunity comes your way, but then somehow you missed it (or simply messed it up). Perhaps you did the best you could to take the best advantage of the opportunity. Perhaps you were lazy and just let it pass you by. In either case it appears the opportunity has come and gone without you receiving benefits from it. Have you then found yourself asking the question, "Did I miss my blessing?"

I have personally agonized over this very question, wondering if I have missed the greatest opportunity of my lifetime. Did I miss my blessing? Did I disappoint GOD by not taking proper advantage of the opportunity I was presented with? Now is my life doomed to go downhill? The answer is no, you have not missed your blessing. No you have not disappointed GOD. No your life is not over. Have you ever considered perhaps GOD sent the opportunity to teach you a lesson? We always think GOD only allows bad things to happen in our lives to teach us lessons. There are times GOD sends a good opportunity along to teach us something about HIM (GOD's love for us) and ourselves (how much we need GOD in our daily lives).

Let's take JESUS' parable about the prodigal (lost) son as an example (Luke 15:11-32). In this parable, the son asks his father for his inheritance. Normally one receives an inheritance (the practice of passing on money, property, and rights) upon the death of an individual. In this case the son wanted his inheritance now while his father was still living. The father without hesitation granted his son's request. Did the son then go forward making wise investments with his new wealth? Did he spend or save his money wisely? No! In fact he did the very opposite. He squandered his wealth eventually losing it all. However that is not where the story ends. Here is what JESUS says happens next . . .

Luke 15:14-24 (The Message Bible)

"After he had gone through all his money, there was a bad famine all through that country and he began to hurt. He signed on with a citizen there who assigned him to his fields to slop the pigs. He was so hungry he would have eaten the corncobs in the pig slop, but no one would give him any. That brought him to his senses. He said, 'All those farmhands working for my father sit down to three meals a day, and here I am starving to death. I'm going back to my father. I'll say to him, Father, I've sinned against God, I've sinned before you; I don't deserve to be called your son. Take me on as a hired hand.' He got right up and went home to his father. "When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: 'Father, I've sinned against God, I've sinned before you; I don't deserve to be called your son ever again.' But the father wasn't listening. He was calling to the servants, 'Quick. Bring a clean set of clothes and dress him. Put the family ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Then get a grain-fed heifer and roast it. We're going to feast! We're going to have a wonderful time! My son is here; given up for dead and now alive! Given up for lost and now found!' And they began to have a wonderful time."

While the son learned a valuable lesson concerning how he poorly handled the wealth he received, the bigger lesson came in the mercy and grace the father showed toward his son. Although the son did apologize, his father was not focused on his son's words. The father had already forgiven his son though he may not have deserved it (which is mercy), and gave a huge gift in making a celebration for his son's return (which is grace). So did the son miss his blessing, or did he receive a far more valuable blessing in the end? I have learned that sometimes GOD sends a good thing into our lives not for the sake of the thing being good, but for the sake of a bigger lesson to be learned which is far more valuable than the thing itself.

So how do we recognize a "blessing from GOD"?
Here is what the Bible says . . .

Proverbs 10:22 (NIV)
"The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, without painful toil for it.

My father, mother, and many others who I consider to be wise have often said to me, "What GOD has for you, surely you will get it." In other words, when GOD blesses you, it is not something you struggle for. It is presented to you like a wonderful gift which we have not earned nor deserve. In the case of the prodigal son, the blessing of the LORD was not the inheritance. Instead, it was in the mercy and grace shown to him by his father.

So the next you feel somehow you have missed out on a good opportunity in your life, do not ask if you have missed your blessing. Instead ask, "What should I learn from this?" Then look for GOD's mercy and grace in the situation. It is there in GOD's mercy and grace where you will discover the true blessing of the LORD.

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

Slow To Speak! Quick To Listen!

2011-09-25T13:35:00.000-07:00

James 1:19-20 (NIV)
"My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."

In 2010, an African-American woman named Shirley Sherrod was fired from her job as an United States Department of Agriculture employee because of a video tape which appeared to show her making racist remarks concerning a white farm owner. She was fired by the Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack after he viewed the video. Within 24 hours of Shirley Sherrod losing her job it was discovered that video had actually been edited. The full video showed her remarks not to be racist at all but instead a testimony of how to move beyond racism and help each other. Tom Vilsack later apologized to Shirley Sherrod and offered her a new job in the department.

This highly publicized incident gives us a good example why we all should be "quick to listen" and "slow to speak". We all should be careful not to rush to judgement in any situation. I have made this mistake many times throughout my life. Things can appear one way at first until we have more information which later can make the same situation appear differently. Even when one person has accused another we must actively seek both sides of the story.

Proverbs 18:13 (NIV)
"He who answers before listening, that is his folly and his shame."

Proverbs 18:17 (NIV)
"The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him."

We must be careful not to take any statement out of context (especially the Word of GOD). Unfortunately there are those who take scriptures from the Bible and quote them out of their proper context to support their own point of view. This is done in order to deceive us. Here is an example where the devil tried to deceive and tempt Jesus by using the Word of GOD out of it's proper context.

Matthew 4:5-7 (NIV)
"Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: 'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.' " Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test."

The scripture the devils quoted is Psalm 91:11-12. However lets read this scripture beginning with verse 9 through 13.

Psalm 91:9-13 (NIV)
"9 If you make the Most High your dwelling—
even the LORD, who is my refuge-
10 then no harm will befall you,
no disaster will come near your tent.

11 For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways;

12 they will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

13 You will tread upon the lion and the cobra;
you will trample the great lion and the serpent."

Verse 10 uses the word "befall" which is defined by Merriam-Webster's Dictionary as a verb to mean, "to happen especially as if by fate" or "to happen to". Therefore verses 9 thru 10 are saying if we make GOD first in our lives no harm will come and be successful toward us. The devil decided to only quote verses 11 thru 12 (using them out of their proper context) and tried to trick Jesus to put himself in harms way (or go towards the harm) when the passage speaks about GOD's protection from the harm that would come towards him (and us). By putting ourselves in harms way we are testing GOD. This is why Jesus answered the devil as HE did.

Therefore it is very important that we do not make a rush to judgement in any situations. We must carefully examine all of the evidence and consider both sides of any story before we make a final conclusion. We must be quick to listen and slow to speak. To do otherwise does not bring about the righteous life that God desires for us. Let's love one another and walk in peace!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net.

If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

Broken But Not Forgotten

2011-09-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 41:10
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Dear friend, I know your heart is hurting in a way you have never experienced before. While you are suffering (distressed with great pain and anguish), you think you have made mistakes which are beyond repair. You think you could never be forgiven. You feel you have gone beyond the point of no return and assume your life is now over. Please hear me when I tell you . . . Feeling are not facts, and YOUR LIFE IS NOT OVER! I know right now it is difficult to look beyond the pain you are feeling today. I know it is hard to see any potential of a good life for yourself . . . BUT THERE IS!

I know this is hard to believe, but the creator of the universe has you on HIS mind right now. HE is GOD, our FATHER, and HE loves you! Yes, perhaps you have made some terrible mistakes. The truth is that we all have made terrible mistakes. My mistakes may not be the same as your mistakes, but they are mistakes all the same. As humans we look at each other and judge as if to say, "yes what I did was bad, but what you did was horrible." Here is what GOD says . . .

Romans 3:23
"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."

This means in GOD's view, all of us have failed to live up to HIS high standard. Not one person walking this earth today is considered by GOD to be "perfect". The only person who met that standard was JESUS. So do not let people condemn you. Do not let others intimidate or belittle you because the know more Bible verses than you. Do not allow yourself to become stressed by the views and opinions of others. Your salvation is a matter between you and GOD (not you and other people). Therefore go to GOD and ask HIM to forgive you, to have mercy on you, to restore you, and to be gracious unto you. All you have to do is ask and it is done at that very moment. When you ask GOD for forgiveness, GOD's says, "I forgive you".

1 John 1:9
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Hebrews 8:12
"For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more."

You may be broken, but you are not forgotten. GOD loves you and HE can use you (even in your broken condition) to be a blessing to others who are hurting. You cannot see this now, but the LORD has a good plan for your life.

Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

GOD has blessed us because HE loves us. There is nothing that you, or I, or anyone else could ever do to be worthy or deserving of HIS kindness. HE restores us out of love. HE sent JESUS to reconcile our broken relationship with HIM, Our FATHER. Through JESUS CHRIST you were given a new opportunity to live an abundant life. Yes, my friend, JESUS came all those many years ago to restore you right now in this moment.

John 3:16
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Recently the world remembered the terrible tragedies of September 11, 2011. Many people around the world took time to reflect and pray. We thought about those who lost their lives. We thought about their families and friends who may still be mourning their loss. We thought about how the events of that day personally touched our lives. Now many of us have great appreciation for our family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. Many of the things we took for granted we now have great respect for. In the hours, days, and weeks after the attacks occurred, we reached out with compassion to help strangers. We showed love toward each other more openly & freely. Even our political leaders put aside their differences and came together in unity. If we can come together in the face of tragedy and show love towards each other, how much more will GOD show HIS love towards you in your situation? HIS love goes beyond our human comprehension.

John 14:27
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

GOD has not forgotten you. GOD did not leave you. HE is here with you right now. HE knows you are hurting terribly. HE will comfort and strengthen you. My friend, all is not lost. There is hope for you for the future. GOD can turn your life around for the better. HE will restore you and bring you out of this dark place you are in. You don't have to be formal with GOD, nor do you have to know Hebrew or Greek for HIM to hear you. Just be yourself and reach out to HIM as you are. HE will answer you!

Stop trying to figure out and navigate through life by yourself. Humble yourself and turn your life over to HIM. Put your life in GOD's hands, and HE will lead you. Ask JESUS to come into your heart and change your life for the good. HE will save you and put you on a good path that will change your life forever.

Romans 10:9
"If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

2 Corinthians 5:17
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

Ephesians 2:4-5
"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved."

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in the name of JESUS, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

Keep Doing Good & Do Not Give Up!

2011-09-12T15:22:00.000-07:00

Acts 18:1-11 (NIV)

"After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them. Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks.

When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ. But when the Jews opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, "Your blood be on your own heads! I am clear of my responsibility. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."

Then Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God. Crispus, the synagogue ruler, and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized.

One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city." So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God."

Have you ever given your best effort on your job but your employer doesn't notice? Have you continued to show love, kindness, and patience towards someone but yet they continue to be mean towards you? Have you work hard at your studies in school but never seem to get a positive grade? Have you worked hard as a entrepreneur but yet your business is going down instead of up? We all have had situations where we have given our best efforts (doing all we know how) only to see no positive results. I know from my own personal experiences this can be extremely frustrating (even painfully so at times). It can also be very discouraging to routinely give our very best efforts expecting to see positive change, yet there is no change at all. We've done all we can, yet things remain the same.

When we are in the peak of frustration we often make declarations like, "That's it! I quit! I give up! I'm done!" That is exactly what the Apostle Paul was feeling in the scripture passage (above) taken from Acts chapter 18. While in the city of Corinth, Paul had been at the church preaching, and preaching, and preaching, and preaching to the people about JESUS CHRIST with what seemed to be no positive result. In fact, many of the people laughed at him, called him names, or simply ignored him. Paul became extremely frustrated and shook his clothes (just as we might throw our arms in the air out of frustration) and basically said to the people, "I'm outta here! What happens to you people is on your heads!"

However after Paul leaves the church and goes to visit Titius, something special happens back at the church. The leader of the church accepted the word of GOD preached by Paul and his family believed also. The Bible goes on to say that many in Corinth believed and were baptized! It is interesting that positive change within the people didn't begin until after Paul walked away. I do not mean walked away as if to abandon his mission. Instead it was more like he moved out of the way. Sometimes we want something to happen so bad we unknowingly try to force it to happen the way we want. While there are times when we need to put in the work, there are also times we need to move out of the way (taking our hands off the situation).

Later on GOD speaks to Paul in a dream and says, "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city". GOD told Paul not to give up! Before this moment, Paul could not see that his preaching was not in vain. GOD encouraged Paul to keep preaching and not to fear. GOD wants us to know that HE is also with us in the very same way. GOD wants us to keep giving our best efforts in everything that we do (towards people, on the job, in business, in school, everywhere). GOD wants us to know if we keep doing the right thing the result will be good. Here is a scripture which sums it up for us . . .

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Therefore my friends please do not give up. GOD knows our hearts. HE knows we are hurting, frustrated, disappointed, depressed, and discouraged because things aren't happening as we would like. Just remember that after we have done all the good we can, sometimes we must to get out of the way and allow GOD to work things out for us. GOD will fix it! GOD loves us! Trust, trust, trust, and believe, believe, believe!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

GOD Is Our Hero!

2011-09-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

One year ago, the world watched as 33 Chilean miners were rescued from being trapped for 70 days at more than 2000 feet deep beneath the surface. I remember watching the rescue unfold on live television. As each man was brought up from below I kept thinking of Psalm 40:1-4

Psalm 40:1-4
I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.

He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD.

Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.

One of the miners is a man named Mario Sepulveda. In an interview shortly after his rescue he said, "I was with GOD and I was with the Devil, but GOD won. I held onto GOD's hand; the best hand. At no point in time did I doubt that GOD would get me out of there."

1 Peter 1:6-9
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

It does not seem right that we must suffer. But in our suffering our faith increases in strength. When we see GOD move in a heroic act to save others it makes an undeniably powerful statement of how great HE truly is! When GOD rescues us, we then become a living example so that others can increase their faith in GOD also. If you are in a situation today that is so deep you cannot see your way out, think about how GOD delivered the Chilean miners. Let their story be a source of inspiration for you today! Initially people thought they were dead, but GOD kept them alive and rescued them. GOD delivered them, and HE can deliver you also! Think about Psalm 40:1-4, be encouraged, and make a decision to completely rely on GOD. Stay positive as you move forward believing that GOD will bring you through! Problems do not come to stay; they came to pass! Trust and believe in the LORD. Let GOD be your hero too!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tpbiblestudy@comcast.net. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS' name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tpbiblestudy@comcast.net

GOD bless you!

Your Life Will Turn The Corner (For Good)!

2011-08-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

In November of 2010, my close neighbor killed himself. I later learned that he was extremely depressed because his business failed, he was having some family troubles, and soon after he lost all hope for the future. He was a very nice guy who I spoke with almost daily. I suspected he was in pain but I did not know for certain. Since we were only friendly as neighbors I did not want to get to personal. After his death I felt guilty, feeling like I should have reached out to him. He left behind his wife and 3 young children in deep pain and mourning.

When something like this happens it is very easy to judge and then ask, "why would a person do that and not think about his family?" The more difficult thing to do is to put yourself in that persons shoes. To think about what kind of emotional state that person must have been in to even think of such a thing. We have to be careful when passing judgement because life has a way of tearing people down to a point where they feel there is no way out. We may think we are invincible to such thoughts, but one never knows how you would react until the moment when life's troubles arrive at your door.

Today it is not uncommon to hear about a close friend or family member losing their home to foreclosure, or losing their job. We read about major companies going out of business as well as countries like Greece & Ireland seeking emergency financial assistance. These are extremely difficult times we are living in. Many people who were once very stable and sure of themselves and their future no longer have the same optimism. When you give your very best trying to turn things around only to find things remain the same (or have become worse) it can be extremely discouraging. If this happens continually over a period of time it is easy to see how a person could lose all hope.

In the Bible there is a story of Simon (aka Peter), James and John. They know about giving your very best effort having no success at the end of the task. But in reading about their encounter with JESUS, something happens to change their perspective (and ultimately their lives).

Luke 5:1-11

"One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God. He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.

Simon and the guys had been working all night with no success in catching any fish. Surely the must have been exhausted after working so hard. It is especially draining when you have worked so hard at something without accomplishing the goal. The scripture says they were washing their nets, so we know they had given up and were finished for the night. When JESUS told Simon to go out into the deep and drop their nets again, we can feel the frustration in Simon's response. However because the direction was coming from JESUS he decided to give it another try. The result was catching so many fish the nets broke and after filling the boats with fish they began to sink.

When I was growing up my father would always say, "You never know what good thing is just around the corner. That's why when times get tough you have to keep going forward until you get to the corner. Once you turn the corner in life, usually it means you will never again have to face what you left behind." After Simon, James, and John had this great encounter with JESUS, their lives were never the same.

When we feel like things are completely hopeless, this is the moment we must put rely in GOD. We cannot give up because we don't know what good thing is just around the corner. From my own personal experience I know this is easier said than done. When we are frustrated we have to stop everything and wait on GOD for direction. HE loves us and wants the best for us just as any good father would want the best for his children.

Suicide is never the answer. Suicide is the devil's way of keeping you from the very good thing that GOD has waiting for you just around the corner. With suicide there is no chance for redemption (once the act is done there is no turning back). However if you keep moving forward you will be amazed at how GOD can turn things around for you. Believe in yourself that you can and will make it. Trust that GOD will give you the strength, courage, and direction you need to move forward and overcome your circumstances. If you feel completely overwhelmed by the problems in your life, please reach out for help. Talk to a close family member or friend. If you do not have anyone close to talk to reach out to your local church. There are also some excellent community organizations that may also be of great help to you. But whatever you do please do not entertain the thought of killing yourself. GOD masterfully created someone great when HE created you! HE placed unique gifts, abilities, talents, and knowledge inside of you that is of great benefit to the world. Your presence on this earth is need! Life will not be the same without you! Forget what people might say about you and focus on what GOD says about you. Even if people hate you, know that GOD loves you. In HIS eyes you are nothing short of "awesome"!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com
Here is a video to give you additional motivation, inspiration, and encouragement:
http://youtu.be/V6xLYt265ZM

GOD bless you!

Recovering From Life's Dizzy Spells

2011-08-11T07:09:00.000-07:00

I recently took my kids to a carnival. At the carnival there was a ride called "Space 3000" in the shape of a space ship (flying saucer). This ride spins around so fast the G-force pins your body against the wall of the ride as you spin. My 9 year old son and I decided to give this ride a try. As we were spinning around, I noticed the guy who was controlling the ride was seated in the very center. Although we were spinning very fast, he was not spinning at all. After finishing the ride, my son and I were both left feeling dizzy. After a few minutes my son was fine and ready to find the next adventurous ride at the carnival. However it took me a bit longer to recover.

Depending on where we are in life, certain things can happen that we may not recover from as quickly or easily as we would like. We should not become frustrated because someone else seems to recover from similar circumstances faster. Perhaps at a different stage in our lives the same circumstances would not have effected us as severely as it might be currently.

Sometimes GOD allows a situation to occur at a later point in our lives because HE knows we would not have properly handled the same circumstances well during an earlier point in life. Although it could be more painful or perhaps cause us more injury, GOD's light gives off rays of wisdom that is more often appreciated with age.

However, it is possible to remain at peace when the world around us is spinning fast (seemingly out of control). In order for us not to be effected by the spin we must center ourselves in GOD just as the man seated in the center of the "Space 3000" ride. There are two interesting points about this man. The 1st point is he was not spinning at all (he was seated in a place of peace). The 2nd point is he was in control of the ride (he made it go faster, slower, started, and stopped). When we center ourselves in GOD, we are in a place of peace. It's like being in the eye of a hurricane storm. The winds are raging all around, but within the eye of that storm it is calm and peaceful. Also, when we center ourselves with GOD we are with the one who is in control of all things. We may not understand the things going on around us or why GOD allows them to happen. However, by centering ourselves in GOD we allow HIS peace to cover us; giving us the wisdom and strength to endure and overcome the spin of life. After all, life on this earth will always be spinning because the earth itself continues to spin.

So how do we center ourselves in GOD? Simply by trusting HIM. By trusting and relying totally on GOD with confidence, we are resting on HIM. It is like choosing to sit in a chair. You trust and rely on the chair being secure enough to hold you. Therefore when you sit, you do so with confidence knowing the chair will hold you. As you sit in the chair, you relax the weight of your body on it firmly. Once you are seated you are able to rest. Likewise we must trust and rely on GOD to hold us. We must sit on GOD with confidence knowing he will hold us. We must relax the weight of our troubles firmly on GOD so that we may be comfortably seated on HIM. GOD has promised through JESUS CHRIST that HE will allow us to rest if we bring our troubles to him.

Matthew 11:28-29
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."

Psalm 138:7 (NIV)
"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life.
You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me."

It is never easy to accept when negative or challenging moments arise in our lives. Sometimes the blessing is not so much in what happened, but when it happened.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)
"give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."

I do not know why children are dying of starvation in Somalia, why riots are happening throughout England, or why a little girl in Detroit is killed while sleeping in her home by a stray bullet shot from outside. GOD is not asking us to be thankful for bad situations. Instead, GOD is asking us to be thankful even while in the bad situation; trusting that HE will not allow it to over take us, but knowing HE will heal & deliver us from it.

My friends, the truth is the world is continues to spin 24 hours each day. Although it seems to be spinning out of control, GOD is most certainly in control. Why GOD allows terrible things to happen in the earth is a great mystery. Though it is true to say GOD has a purpose in all things, these words are not comforting to the father who lost his son during the riots in England who was simply trying to protect his neighborhood. These words are not comforting to the mother of the little girl who was killed in her sleep by a stray bullet. These words are not comforting to anyone who has received bad news or anyone who has suffered a great loss.

So then why should we turn to GOD? Perhaps it is like owning a car made by Ford that has some mechanical trouble. You would not take that Ford car to a Chrysler dealership for service. Instead, it makes sense to return to the original manufacturer. Ford made the car, so they would have the best answer how to resolve the problem. It is the same with our lives. Why do we run to psychics, horoscopes, taro card readers (and others alike), when GOD is the original manufacturer? GOD is the one who created us in HIS likeness. Therefore my friends let us return to the original manufacturer who is GOD our FATHER. Let us center ourselves in GOD. Only HE can help us successfully recover from life's dizzy spells!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

GOD bless you!

Sometimes You Must Encourage Yourself!

2011-08-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!

There will be times when the troubles of life will make us feel down, sad, or depressed. In some of these instances we will get hit with several blows at once that will overwhelm us (almost drowning us). It is our natural human response to reach out for help. Sometimes there will be people ready and willing to help. However there will be moments when we will seek others for encouragement, comfort, and guidance but no one will be available. It is during these times we must encourage ourselves in GOD. In other words, we must think back and remember situations in our past when things seemed hopeless, but GOD made a way, brought us through, and worked everything out for us. We must draw strength from those victorious moments GOD has given us and move forward with confidence. Below is a video link to a song which summarizes this perfectly:

Encourage Yourself - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6yhgFxDQMw

Here are 2 stories from the Bible about David. Many people have heard the story about the boy David who defeats the mighty giant Goliath. However for the purpose of today's reading, please notice that David not only faced the obvious challenge of defeating Goliath, but he also faced opposition from his own family. In other words, there were many battles David had to fight on that day, but he thought about his past victorious experiences with GOD. He gained strength from it, and it gave him courage to face them all (knowing that GOD was with him).

1 Samuel 17:1-51

1-3 The Philistines drew up their troops for battle. They deployed them at Socoh in Judah, and set up camp between Socoh and Azekah at Ephes Dammim. Saul and the Israelites came together, camped at Oak Valley, and spread out their troops in battle readiness for the Philistines. The Philistines were on one hill, the Israelites on the opposing hill, with the valley between them.

4-7 A giant nearly ten feet tall stepped out from the Philistine line into the open, Goliath from Gath. He had a bronze helmet on his head and was dressed in armor—126 pounds of it! He wore bronze shin guards and carried a bronze sword. His spear was like a fence rail—the spear tip alone weighed over fifteen pounds. His shield bearer walked ahead of him.

8-10 Goliath stood there and called out to the Israelite troops, "Why bother using your whole army? Am I not Philistine enough for you? And you're all committed to Saul, aren't you? So pick your best fighter and pit him against me. If he gets the upper hand and kills me, the Philistines will all become your slaves. But if I get the upper hand and kill him, you'll all become our slaves and serve us. I challenge the troops of Israel this day. Give me a man. Let us fight it out together!"

11 When Saul and his troops heard the Philistine's challenge, they were terrified and lost all hope.

12-15 Enter David. He was the son of Jesse the Ephrathite from Bethlehem in Judah. Jesse, the father of eight sons, was himself too old to join Saul's army. Jesse's three oldest sons had followed Saul to war. The names of the three sons who had joined up with Saul were Eliab, the firstborn; next, Abinadab; and third, Shammah. David was the youngest son. While his three oldest brothers went to war with Saul, David went back and forth from attending to Saul to tending his father's sheep in Bethlehem.

16 Each morning and evening for forty days, Goliath took his stand and made his speech.

17-19 One day, Jesse told David his son, "Take this sack of cracked wheat and these ten loaves of bread and run them down to your brothers in the camp. And take these ten wedges of cheese to the captain of their division. Check in on your brothers to see whether they are getting along all right, and let me know how they're doing—Saul and your brothers, and all the Israelites in their war with the Philistines in the Oak Valley."

20-23 David was up at the crack of dawn and, having arranged for someone to tend his flock, took the food and was on his way just as Jesse had directed him. He arrived at the camp just as the army was moving into battle formation, shouting the war cry. Israel and the Philistines moved into position, facing each other, battle-ready. David left his bundles of food in the care of a sentry, ran to the troops who were deployed, and greeted his brothers. While they were talking together, the Philistine champion, Goliath of Gath, stepped out from the front lines of the Philistines, and gave his usual challenge. David heard him.

24-25 The Israelites, to a man, fell back the moment they saw the giant— totally frightened. The talk among the troops was, "Have you ever seen anything like this, this man openly and defiantly challenging Israel? The man who kills the giant will have it made. The king will give him a huge reward, offer his daughter as a bride, and give his entire family a free ride."

26 David, who was talking to the men standing around him, asked, "What's in it for the man who kills that Philistine and gets rid of this ugly blot on Israel's honor? Who does he think he is, anyway, this uncircumcised Philistine, taunting the armies of God-Alive?"

27 They told him what everyone was saying about what the king would do for the man who killed the Philistine.

28 Eliab, his older brother, heard David fraternizing with the men and lost his temper: "What are you doing here! Why aren't you minding your own business, tending that scrawny flock of sheep? I know what you're up to. You've come down here to see the sights, hoping for a ringside seat at a bloody battle!"

29-30 "What is it with you?" replied David. "All I did was ask a question." Ignoring his brother, he turned to someone else, asked the same question, and got the same answer as before.

31 The things David was saying were picked up and reported to Saul. Saul sent for him.

32 "Master," said David, "don't give up hope. I'm ready to go and fight this Philistine."

33 Saul answered David, "You can't go and fight this Philistine. You're too young and inexperienced—and he's been at this fighting business since before you were born."

34-37 David said, "I've been a shepherd, tending sheep for my father. Whenever a lion or bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I'd go after it, knock it down, and rescue the lamb. If it turned on me, I'd grab it by the throat, wring its neck, and kill it. Lion or bear, it made no difference—I killed it. And I'll do the same to this Philistine pig who is taunting the troops of God-Alive. God, who delivered me from the teeth of the lion and the claws of the bear, will deliver me from this Philistine." Saul said, "Go. And God help you!"

38-39 Then Saul outfitted David as a soldier in armor. He put his bronze helmet on his head and belted his sword on him over the armor. David tried to walk but he could hardly budge. David told Saul, "I can't even move with all this stuff on me. I'm not used to this." And he took it all off.

40 Then David took his shepherd's staff, selected five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the pocket of his shepherd's pack, and with his sling in his hand approached Goliath.

41-42 As the Philistine paced back and forth, his shield bearer in front of him, he noticed David. He took one look down on him and sneered—a mere youngster, apple-cheeked and peach-fuzzed.

43 The Philistine ridiculed David. "Am I a dog that you come after me with a stick?" And he cursed him by his gods.

44 "Come on," said the Philistine. "I'll make roadkill of you for the buzzards. I'll turn you into a tasty morsel for the field mice."

45-47 David answered, "You come at me with sword and spear and battle-ax. I come at you in the name of God-of-the-Angel-Armies, the God of Israel's troops, whom you curse and mock. This very day God is handing you over to me. I'm about to kill you, cut off your head, and serve up your body and the bodies of your Philistine buddies to the crows and coyotes. The whole earth will know that there's an extraordinary God in Israel. And everyone gathered here will learn that God doesn't save by means of sword or spear. The battle belongs to God—he's handing you to us on a platter!"

48-49 That roused the Philistine, and he started toward David. David took off from the front line, running toward the Philistine. David reached into his pocket for a stone, slung it, and hit the Philistine hard in the forehead, embedding the stone deeply. The Philistine crashed, facedown in the dirt.

50 That's how David beat the Philistine—with a sling and a stone. He hit him and killed him. No sword for David!

51 Then David ran up to the Philistine and stood over him, pulled the giant's sword from its sheath, and finished the job by cutting off his head. When the Philistines saw that their great champion was dead, they scattered, running for their lives.

Here is the 2nd story when David once again encourages himself. In this story David is much older and has experienced many things including Saul's attempts to kill him. However at this point in his life David has overcome many things, acknowledging GOD as the one who gave him the victory. Notice how David looks to GOD as his source, guide, and confidant, and comforter.

1 Samuel 30:1-31

1-3 Three days later, David and his men arrived back in Ziklag. Amalekites had raided the Negev and Ziklag. They tore Ziklag to pieces and then burned it down. They captured all the women, young and old. They didn't kill anyone, but drove them like a herd of cattle. By the time David and his men entered the village, it had been burned to the ground, and their wives, sons, and daughters all taken prisoner.

4-6 David and his men burst out in loud wails—wept and wept until they were exhausted with weeping. David's two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail widow of Nabal of Carmel, had been taken prisoner along with the rest. And suddenly David was in even worse trouble. There was talk among the men, bitter over the loss of their families, of stoning him.

6-7 David strengthened himself with trust in his God. He ordered Abiathar the priest, son of Ahimelech, "Bring me the Ephod so I can consult God." Abiathar brought it to David.

8 Then David prayed to God, "Shall I go after these raiders? Can I catch them?" The answer came, "Go after them! Yes, you'll catch them! Yes, you'll make the rescue!"

9-10 David went, he and the six hundred men with him. They arrived at the Brook Besor, where some of them dropped out. David and four hundred men kept up the pursuit, but two hundred of them were too fatigued to cross the Brook Besor, and stayed there.

11-12 Some who went on came across an Egyptian in a field and took him to David. They gave him bread and he ate. And he drank some water. They gave him a piece of fig cake and a couple of raisin muffins. Life began to revive in him. He hadn't eaten or drunk a thing for three days and nights!

13-14 David said to him, "Who do you belong to? Where are you from?" "I'm an Egyptian slave of an Amalekite," he said. "My master walked off and left me when I got sick—that was three days ago. We had raided the Negev of the Kerethites, of Judah, and of Caleb. Ziklag we burned."

15 David asked him, "Can you take us to the raiders?" "Promise me by God," he said, "that you won't kill me or turn me over to my old master, and I'll take you straight to the raiders."

16 He led David to them. They were scattered all over the place, eating and drinking, gorging themselves on all the loot they had plundered from Philistia and Judah.

17-20 David pounced. He fought them from before sunrise until evening of the next day. None got away except for four hundred of the younger men who escaped by riding off on camels. David rescued everything the Amalekites had taken. And he rescued his two wives! Nothing and no one was missing—young or old, son or daughter, plunder or whatever. David recovered the whole lot. He herded the sheep and cattle before them, and they all shouted, "David's plunder!"

21 Then David came to the two hundred who had been too tired to continue with him and had dropped out at the Brook Besor. They came out to welcome David and his band. As he came near he called out, "Success!"

22 But all the mean-spirited men who had marched with David, the rabble element, objected: "They didn't help in the rescue, they don't get any of the plunder we recovered. Each man can have his wife and children, but that's it. Take them and go!"

23-25 "Families don't do this sort of thing! Oh no, my brothers!" said David as he broke up the argument. "You can't act this way with what God gave us! God kept us safe. He handed over the raiders who attacked us. Who would ever listen to this kind of talk? The share of the one who stays with the gear is the share of the one who fights—equal shares. Share and share alike!" From that day on, David made that the rule in Israel—and it still is.

26-31 On returning to Ziklag, David sent portions of the plunder to the elders of Judah, his neighbors, with a note saying, "A gift from the plunder of God's enemies!" He sent them to the elders in Bethel, Ramoth Negev, Jattir, Aroer, Siphmoth, Eshtemoa, Racal, Jerahmeelite cities, Kenite cities, Hormah, Bor Ashan, Athach, and Hebron, along with a number of other places David and his men went to from time to time.

My friends, sometimes we must encourage ourselves. We must trust and believe that GOD is with us at all times. We must remember what HE has done for us in the past. These past triumphs should cause us to grow stronger in our trust in GOD. I know it is easier "said than done" (especially when we get hit many times daily). Although it can be difficult, we should press forward to rely on GOD even more. Friends, lets put our trust in the LORD. Lets not depend on our own understanding or try to figure out how GOD is going to resolve the matter. Instead we must allow GOD to do it HIS way. HIS way will always be the best way. Lets give GOD the praise (even in the middle of the struggle) knowing he will lead us to victory today!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

GOD bless you!

Winehouse, Your House, My House (There But For The Grace Of GOD Go I)

2011-07-25T08:06:00.000-07:00

This week we learned of the passing of singer/song writer Amy Winehouse. What happened to her is a tragedy because we were robbed of the chance to see her flower in full bloom. Much of what is being reported has been quite critical and condemning regarding her battle with drug & alcohol addiction. It is very easy to look what another person is going through and be critical (especially when it appears the person's own poor decisions lead to their problems). As tempting as it might be, we should not be judgmental. We have no idea what painful life experiences lead this person down this particular path. Furthermore, we cannot say we would never make similar decisions in our own lives.

At times, life can hit us so hard to where we may do and say things we never thought we were capable of doing or saying. Therefore we should never look down at a person who is struggling with addiction or any challenge in life. Instead, we should be merciful and compassionate towards that person. We should be praying for them, asking GOD to help them. Perhaps you have heard the old saying, "There but for the grace of GOD there go I." This well known quote was spoken by an English Evangelical preacher named John Bradford who lived during the 1500s. What John was saying is that I too, like someone who has suffered misfortune, might have suffered a similar fate, but for God's mercy. We never know when such a crisis may hit close to home. You may not be addicted to any drugs, but what if it happens to one of your children, or perhaps another close friend of family member?

Matthew 7:1-2 (NIV)
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

My friends, we should not congratulate ourselves for not suffering a particular tragedy of another. The moment we begin to lift up ourselves we have begun our own path to certain destruction and doom.

Proverbs 16:18 (NIV)
"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."

Therefore let us not be judgmental of Amy Winehouse, or anyone who suffers under any addiction. Instead let us celebrate the musical gift GOD placed inside of her. Let us be thankful that gift was shared with us. Let us pray for her family and friends, that GOD would strengthen and comfort them during this difficult time. Let us pray for those who we know are struggling with addiction, that GOD will heal them of their pain, deliver and restore them to be the whole & beautiful people HE purposefully created them to be. And let GOD be gracious and merciful towards all of us, for there but for the grace of GOD we all go!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

GOD bless you!

Don't Worry! Be Happy!

2011-07-19T16:05:00.000-07:00

Luke 12:22-34 (New International Version)

Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?" "Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well." "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

In 1988 the famous human rhythmic percussionist Bobby McFerrin wrote, recorded and released a song called "Don't Worry Be Happy". This song became an international pop hit which earned Mr. McFerrin three Grammy Awards (Song Of The Year, Record Of The Year, and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance). The fact this simple acapella song touched so many people around the world is proof that it's simple message is a powerful one. For most of us it is hard not to worry (especially when facing a situation where we do not have control over the final result). It is not only the control, but it is also fearing the worse will happen because of our inability to control the situation. For example, if you have a loved one who is sick and you have done everything you can to get this person the best medical care but nothing seems to be working and their health continues to fail. Perhaps you have a business and you have done all you know how to bring in new customers but its not working and the business is going down. It could be that you have an urgent bill you must pay and you've done everything you know how to come up with the money but you were unsuccessful and now the bill is due.

When the outcome is uncertain and looks bad we usually fear the worst. A close friend of mine calls this "awfulizing"! Now "awfulizing" is not an actual word. It is a slang term from the root word "awful" (meaning extremely unpleasant or terrible). My friend once described this by stating that when we are facing our toughest life challenges we tend to awfulize the problem. In other words we look at our situation and then image the worse possible result. Then we continue to focus on this terrible outcome we have imagined fearing it will ultimately happen. This is what my good friend calls, "awfulizing". However my good friend went on by saying the thing we fear the most usually does not happen at all. Therefore we have put so much time and energy into something which turned out to be counterproductive and wasteful. JESUS' message to HIS disciples is a message for all of us. We should not worry about how our daily needs will be met. At the same time we also should not worry about life's biggest challenges. GOD knows what we are in need of. The key is that we put our trust in, and focus on GOD knowing all we need will be provided for us. This does not mean bad things will not happen to us. Instead it is knowing that GOD is with us during the bad times to comfort us, strengthen us and bring us through desperate situations. Even in the worst of times GOD still provides for us. We should not rely on our possessions, our physical abilities, or our knowledge. JESUS says we need to rely on GOD only.

I know from my personal experiences that trusting GOD completely is sometimes easier said than done. One thing I'm learning to do in my own life is simply taking one day at a time. I ask GOD for HIS grace, mercy, favor, strength, love, peace, wisdom (etc), to help me for this specific day. I try not to concern myself with tomorrow. I try to look only for today and ask JESUS to help me through it and thanking HIM for it. In doing this I am finding more peace in my life. Yes I get stressed like everyone else but not nearly as much as I have in the past. This is where GOD's grace comes into play. I am now beginning to understand more of what JESUS is saying to us. Life is a daily walk and we truly should take life one day at a time. Here is another way to look at this idea . . . "How does a person eat an elephant?" The answer is, "One bite at a time." Perhaps we can look at life being like the elephant, and each bite like each day. If we look at the size of the elephant, the idea of eating it at once seems impossible. But the idea of one bite at a time is reasonable. We should all strive to take life one day at a time, seeking GOD (HIS help, wisdom, mercy, strength, love, and peace) throughout the day. We should not worry about our daily life, but trust on rely on GOD to prosper our lives. By doing this we can each live happier lives and represent GOD to others through our lives.

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

GOD bless you!

Trust GOD! Do Not Give Up!!!

2011-07-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

Sometimes life can hit us with one major blow (or a series of blows) that can bring us so far down into depression that we cannot see our way out. We can do our best to remain positive, hopeful, giving our best effort to overcome, but when we see no good results we feel like giving up. I certainly have felt like giving up (quite a few times). The pain of watching my hopes and dreams vanish, see no positive results from my efforts while disappointing those who love, admire, respect and depend on me all became too hard to bare. What made things worse was during all of this I cried out to GOD asking, "Lord JESUS please help me" but nothing happened and I felt so alone (so far away from GOD). Have you ever had this experience? Are you experiencing this now?

When we are in the storms of life we must trust the promises of GOD above our own feelings. I know from my own experience this is easier said than done. But I have learned sometimes our own feelings can deceive us to make us think all hope is lost. We must trust GOD's word, knowing that HE keeps HIS promises. We must rely on GOD and keep moving forward even when we cannot see our way. By moving forward in the face of adversity we demonstrate our faith to GOD. I have learned that while moving forward with blind faith, GOD will lead and guide us in the way we should go. I have realized even when I don't feel GOD's presence HE is with me all of the time (especially in difficult times). JESUS is with you also (even though you may not feel HIS presence). It is when times get really hard that we must trust GOD the most.

Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge HIM, and HE will direct your paths."

Here is a video which gives a great illustration of this message. Please click on the following link and I hope you will be encouraged: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vB59PkB0eQ

My friends, no matter how hard it gets do not give up! We never know when our life is going to turn the corner. Even if we cannot see the corner we must keep moving forward and trust GOD to lead us. We must move forward expecting our life to turn the corner. On that day when it does turn the corner we will be amazed at what GOD has done in our lives!

GOD loves you!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

GOD bless you!

What's Love Got To Do With It?

2011-07-13T12:29:00.000-07:00

Matthew 22:36-40
"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Romans 13:8-10
"Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."

1 John 4:7-8
"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."

Tina Turner is known for singing,"What's love got to do with it? What's love but a second-hand emotion? What's love got to do with it. Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?" Most of us who know the story of Tina Turner's abusive marriage with Ike Turner compassionately understand the context in which Tina sang these lyrics. However, if we look at the general meaning of the word love, and GOD's intent for us to love each other, we must say that "love" has everything to do with it. The word "love" can be used as a noun or a verb. Merriam-Webster's Dictionary lists one of love's definitions as "an unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another". I believe this is the root of what GOD expects from us, and what JESUS commanded us (John 13:34-35).

There are many aspects to "love" and how it is demonstrated. One area where the LORD has really been dealing with me is loving a person who rejects me. I don't mean loving an enemy, because in that case I can love, forgive and walk away in peace. No my friends, I mean continuing to show love and kindness to a person whom I love dearly while that person continues to say and do things to hurt my feelings. A person I cannot walk away from or abandon. At times I have been so hurt and frustrated feeling totally unappreciated and disrespected by this person; yet I continue to give my heart to them.

My friends have you ever felt like this or been in a similar situation? Well my friends here is where it gets really deep! I have complained about this to GOD on many occasions. One day GOD spoke to my heart and said, "This is how I feel when I show you love and you reject me." Whooooooooooooooooo . . . . that stopped me cold and floored me! Even though JESUS saved me and I felt I had this relationship with GOD I was still rejecting HIM. I was not showing HIM how much I appreciate HIM in my life. I was not allowing HIM to share in my life or include HIM in my day to day activities. I was shutting HIM out only to call on HIM when I was in trouble. Never giving HIM sincere thanks for who HE is and what HE has done for me. This revelation changed my way of thinking, how I love GOD, and others (especially those I love who reject me). Here is what JESUS said . . .

Luke 6:27-36
"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that. And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."

You see my friends, we must continue to love those who hurt us because GOD continues to love us although we hurt HIM. We must forgive and show mercy because GOD forgives us and has mercy on us. It is by no means an easy thing to show love and kindness to someone who you care deeply about only to be rejected by that person. I know from personal experience it is extremely painful and can be a long, difficult process. However in continuing to show love in these situations it is GOD's love that is shining brightly through us. It may look as though the good acts of kindness, care and concern are having no effect, but GOD has promised that it will make a difference.

Galatians 6:9
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

So my friends, we must keep doing the right things and trust GOD's word. Lets keep on showing love even though we are hurt and rejected. When we have those feelings of hurt and rejection, lets remember how GOD feels about us. HE gave HIS son JESUS CHRIST to die on the cross for us and we still reject HIM. That is love my friends! The miracle is that JESUS rose from the dead and lives! This awesome miracle continues to manifest each time we show love in unselfish acts of kindness towards those who reject us. It is easy to love those who love and appreciate us. However when we love those who reject us we are more like JESUS CHRIST. Keep showing love and expect GOD to turn things around for the good. Remember, GOD is love!

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

GOD bless you!

Comfort When Life Does Not Make Sense

2011-07-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

Matthew 5:4 New International Version (NIV)
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

This morning there were 2 reports dominating the headlines on various national news programs. Both stories were very different but yet similar as they both ended in horrific tragedy.

The first news story told of a father and his young son who were at a Texas Ranger's baseball game. As one of the players on the field tossed a ball into the stands for the fans, the father attempted to catch the ball. As the father stretched out his arms and hands to make the catch, he lost his footing and fell 20 feet below landing on the hard concrete. His son watched as medical personal rushed to assist his dad. Unfortunately his father died while in route to the hospital.

The second news story told of a man in the city of Grand Rapids (Michigan) who used his gun to shoot people in 2 different homes. Between those 2 homes he killed 7 people. Next this man lead police on a high speed chase to another home where he held 3 people hostage. As the police hostage negotiator was trying to convince the man to surrender peacefully, the man suddenly shot himself. The man died and the hostages were unharmed. It remains unclear why the man did this as a statement given by the police indicate they do not have a motive for the shootings.

These are 2 very different stories but they each share a common thread in that each situation ended in unexplainable tragedy. How does a person find comfort while in the center of incredible grief? How does a person find comfort in GOD when they might question why HE would even allow such tragedy to happen? How does a person make sense out of a senseless tragedy?

My friends, even though studying the Bible gives us some insight as to the mind & heart of GOD, we will never fully understand why GOD allows such pain to exist in life. GOD in HIS word says the following . . .

Isaiah 55:8-11 New International Version (NIV)
8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. 9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, 11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

While some Theologians & Bible Scholars will debate over Genesis 1:26-30 (which summarizes how GOD gave man dominion over the earth) vs Mark 11:24 (when JESUS says GOD will answer what we believe in prayer), this debate does not give any comfort to the boy who lost his father, or those families who lost their loved ones in the tragic shooting (including the family of the gunman).

My friends, GOD is the only one who knows why these (and other) painful events happened as they did. They make no sense to us. However we must not lose sight of GOD's compassion and love for us. As painful and difficult as it is to accept the tragedies of life, we must trust GOD and continue to rely on HIM. GOD is a GOD of love and comfort. HE is a GOD of truth and justice. So then how does one find comfort when life does not make sense? By accepting and allowing JESUS CHRIST to be our advocate. Although we can pray to GOD directly, there are times when we must take our burdens to JESUS and allow HIM to go to our FATHER on our behalf.

Luke 22:31-32 New International Version (NIV)
31 “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”

Notice that JESUS says in verse 32, "I have prayed for you". The devil will use tragedy in an effort to separate us from GOD and destroy us. But JESUS prays on our behalf that we maintain our faith. And notice what else JESUS says in verse 32, "and when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." When JESUS says, "and when you have turned back" HE is acknowledging the fact that certain things in life will hit us so hard it will cause us to doubt GOD. However our faith will bring us back to trusting GOD, and when that happens we must then go help others who are suffering as we did. Sharing the testimony of how GOD brought us through our situation will encourage others to hold onto their faith.

My friends, when senseless things happen, we must go to the one who makes sense out of the senseless. We must go to GOD through JESUS CHRIST. Trust, rely on, and believe that GOD will give you the peace, love, strength, and compassion to see you through life's difficult moments.

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

GOD bless you!

Betrayal In The Church

2011-07-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

Psalm 55:12-14 New International Version (NIV)
"If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God, as we walked about among the worshipers."

It has often been said that GOD is a great person, but unfortunately HE has some bad PR (public relations) people. Although this has been said jokingly, it is actually a very accurate truth. Even JESUS said, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except GOD alone" (Mark 10:18).

No matter if you have just started going to church regularly or if you are a seasoned church goer of many years. One of the most painful experiences to get past is being hurt by someone you trust in the church. To experience betrayal on any level is painful within itself. However when that betrayal takes place within a church by a fellow member and/or one who works in the ministry, the resulting hurt often cuts deep into the spiritual life of the victim which could damage that person's relationship with GOD. This type of betrayal happens on many levels. For example, many of us have heard or read reports in the news about church leaders who have sexually abused children. We have seen reports of corruption where a church leader or ministry worker has stolen money. There have been cases where a person's husband or wife had an affair with someone they met in the church. But it could be as simple as a fellow church member with whom you are close says or does something that really hurt your feelings. Perhaps you wanted to volunteer and become involved in one of your church's ministries and you were rejected. Perhaps you were seeking help or counsel from your church and you were told your pastor (or other qualified ministry leaders) did not have time to meet with you. While each circumstance has it's own complexities, the common fact is that it tests the believer's faith and relationship with GOD.

This is a subject I can speak about personally. I hope the wisdom GOD has given me through my experience will be a blessing for you. In my situation a person who is very close to me (and one who I would say had much to do with leading me to JESUS CHRIST) betrayed me. What made the betrayal most painful was that it happened in the church. I asked GOD, "why is this happening to me?" I could not understand why GOD would allow such a thing to happen. Although there are some very nice people at this particular church who have been very kind to me, the pain of my situation became so bad that I began to see this particular ministry as a symbol of hurt & betrayal instead of a place of peace & worship.

Recently I was lead to go back to this church. While I was there GOD allowed me to see (up close) the situation which had hurt me so deeply. But something else happened while I was there. GOD gave me the grace to put that situation completely out of my mind. I began to worship and praise GOD for HIS goodness. I began to thank HIM for all of the good things in my life. As I was praising GOD, this incredible peace came upon me. The pain of the betrayal was no longer in my heart. Before leaving the church that day, I was able to look that person who hurt me so deeply in the face with confidence. Instead of feeling contempt for this person, I felt compassion & forgiveness. Recently this person needed my assistance with a personal matter. GOD blessed me and gave me the grace to help this person with their problem. In conclusion I came to realize the situation and the resulting pain I suffered was not about my relationship with that person. Instead it was all about my relationship with GOD. It was an attempt by the devil to distract me and take my focus away from GOD.

Romans 8:38-39 New International Version (NIV)
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

In my experience, I have learned several things.

1. Always keep GOD first and focus on HIM regardless to what else is going on.
2. No one is perfect. People make mistakes (especially in church).
3. Always be ready to forgive.
4. Give the same grace and mercy to others that GOD gives us (especially those who hurt us).

My friends, do not let the terrible things of this world turn your heart away from GOD. HE loves you dearly. Give your problems, pains, worries, and all burdens to the LORD. HE will keep HIS promise to bring you peace in the storm and sunshine when the storm is over. Always remember, people in the churches are still "humans". Whether they have titles such as Pastor, Bishop, Apostle, Deacon, Minister, (etc), or simply a fellow church goer, they are all still "people". They make mistakes just as we all do. If someone has hurt you (especially a person in church) and you are having difficulty dealing with the hurt, ask GOD to give you the grace to heal and get past it. Ask GOD to give you the grace to forgive those who hurt you. Make it a daily thing by asking GOD for HIS grace each day and then you respond by taking things one day at a time. Short term goals lead to long term progress and ultimately end in victory!

Psalm 126:5 New International Version (NIV)

"Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy."

I do not have an answer as to why HE allows us to go through such painful experiences. Sometimes it can only be answered as, "this is the will of GOD for your life". I know we must suffer in order to be made like JESUS CHRIST. But I also know that GOD has promised us joy & victory.

Psalm 118:8 New International Version (NIV)
"It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in humans."

Psalm 34:8 New International Version (NIV)
"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him."

John 10:10 New International Version (NIV)
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

I pray these words have been a blessing for you as they are for me (bringing us in closer relationship with our FATHER). Please feel welcome to reply and share your thoughts by posting them here or privately at tp@terrenceparkermusic.com. If this message has touched your heart and you do not know JESUS CHRIST as your Lord & Savior but want HIM in your life you can accept HIM right now wherever you are. Pray this prayer out loud, "Dear GOD, I ask forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is your son. I believe that JESUS suffered and died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected for me. I accept JESUS as my Lord & Savior. Come now and live in my heart. I accept you as head of my life. In the name of JESUS I thank you, Amen."

If you have just prayed this prayer I say to you "GOD bless you and Congratulations"! If you do not have a church home, pray and ask GOD to lead you to a local (Bible believing) church in your area where you can be baptized in JESUS name, fed the Word of GOD, and fellowship with other Christians.

If you have any questions please send an email to: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

GOD bless you!

Welcome Friends!

2011-07-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

Welcome friends!

Over 1 year ago I was lead by GOD to start a Bible study group on Facebook. In less than 1 year the group has grown to over 500 members. To many members of that Bible study group, it has become more like an "online church". GOD is now leading me to expand that Bible study page, making it available for everyone (especially those who are not regular Facebook users) in this format.

GOD loves you! HE deeply cares for you and is concerned about your daily issues. Although HE may seem far away, GOD is with you (especially when you cannot feel HIS presence). Beyond any and all of your mistakes, HE loves you and HIS forgiveness is unmatched. HE wants to have a close relationship with you. If you do not know HIM you should get to know HIM because HE really is great (Proverbs 8:17)!

If you do not have a Bible there is a great online resource I often use called Bible Gateway. Here you can find the Bible in various languages & translations. I personally use the King James as my direct reference but also use NIV, Amplified, and Message Bible translations. Here is the link to find the various Bible translations at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/versions

If you have any questions or comments, please feel welcome to contact me at: tp@terrenceparkermusic.com

I pray the messages shared here will be a blessing to us all. So with that again I say, "welcome"!