Our inability to finish what we start is seen in the smallest of things:
A partly mowed lawn.
A half-read book.
Or, it shows up in life's most painful areas:
An abandoned child.
A wrecked marriage.
Any chance I'm addressing someone who is considering giving up?
If I am, I want to encourage you to remain.
I want to encourage you to remember Jesus' determination on the cross.
Jesus didn't quit. but don't think for one minute that he wasn't tempted to.
Did he ever want to quit? You bet.
That's why his words are so splendid.
"It is Finished" - John 19:30
Copied from, Grace For The Moment (vol II page 177)
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Gift Card Shower
The wonderful people of the Pelham COGOP keep surprising us each month. Due to the great grocery showers given us in April and May we ask the church to omit the June grocery shower. Well they did, but surprised us with a wonderful "Gift Card" Shower. We received $120.00 worth of Gift Cards to three of our favorite restaurants. We are honored to be the pastoral team at the Pelham Church of God of Prophecy.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Grocery Shower May 4, 2008
Another GREAT Grocery Shower was given to Frances and myself. Below are some pictures of the groceries given. We are so very "thankful" to this church and all the people for being so kind to us. May God bless each of you!
Saturday, May 3, 2008
2008 Men's Retreat
The 2008 Men's Retreat was a BIG success. At least 115 men from across Alabama gathered at Camp Boothe on May 2 & 3 for a great weekend retreat. Pelham Church was represented by Deacons, Wayne Chance and Mike Folker and Pastor. It was a privilege to attend. Bro. Tony Burns, Director, could not be there so Bro. Jim Williams did a wonderful job of directing the retreat. Bishop Eugene Weakley blessed us Friday night with an outstanding message. Saturday Morning as it rained outside Bishop Phil Pruitt and Bishop James Wallace taught lessons on "Men" being "Servants" for the Lord.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Deacons Ordained
Saturday night during the revival Deacons Mike Folker (right) and Wayne Chance (left) were ordained.
Bishop Sam Clements, Bishop L. V. Jones, Bishop Bill Noe and Bishop K. Martin took part in the Ordination of these two great men of God.
Youth Night
Our first Youth Night at Pelham was a great success. God favored us with His presence. Hamilton Youth Pastor, Tommy Kirby, was our guest speaker and his wife Tracy was a blessing with her anointed singing. State Youth Pastor, Tim Beck was with us and encouraged the youth to allow the "power" of God to be in their lives. There were 4 saved, to God be the glory!
The youth group singing. Kay Jones Directing. The youth selected the name "3 D L," (3 Days Later)
Josh Jones and Brad Chance
Gary Chance playing drums.
State Youth Pastor, Tim Beck encouraging the Pelham Youth!
Hamilton Youth Pastor, Tommy Kirby and wife Tracy, blessing our youth night with anointed singing and preaching of the Word!
The youth group singing. Kay Jones Directing. The youth selected the name "3 D L," (3 Days Later)
Josh Jones and Brad Chance
Gary Chance playing drums.
State Youth Pastor, Tim Beck encouraging the Pelham Youth!
Hamilton Youth Pastor, Tommy Kirby and wife Tracy, blessing our youth night with anointed singing and preaching of the Word!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Revival at Pelham
The revival at Pelham with Bishop Sam Clements as guest speaker concluded today with one joining the Church. Bishop Clements preached wonderful messages and the altar filled with seekers each service. Calera and Dry Vally churches joined us in this revival. This picture is of Josh Jones, son of Kay and Gary Jones, joining the church Sunday April 27, 2008.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
COGOP-Implements-Proxy-System-for Generay Assembly
This is how it will work:
All Representatives that carry a local church proxy, properly certified, meeting the deadlines, etc., will be registered on Monday of the Assembly by an Independent agency ... a company hired to manage the proxy process. They are not affiliated with COGOP and have no stake in the outcome, as they are merely professionals hired to manage the logistics and assure the integrity of the process.
The proxy-carrying representative will be issued a voting card that is bar coded. Lose it? Lose the vote.
There will be x number of seats on the floor of the Sommet Center during the business sessions designated for those carrying the proxies, and ONLY them.
When the time comes for expressing the proxy on an issue, there will be about 15 strategically placed electronic stations at which the proxy holders will be able to usethe bar-coded credential to register "yes/no" "for/against" or whatever the two options might be ... "A/B."
The independent agency will tally the results (pretty much immediately) and report them to the person presiding.
All Representatives that carry a local church proxy, properly certified, meeting the deadlines, etc., will be registered on Monday of the Assembly by an Independent agency ... a company hired to manage the proxy process. They are not affiliated with COGOP and have no stake in the outcome, as they are merely professionals hired to manage the logistics and assure the integrity of the process.
The proxy-carrying representative will be issued a voting card that is bar coded. Lose it? Lose the vote.
There will be x number of seats on the floor of the Sommet Center during the business sessions designated for those carrying the proxies, and ONLY them.
When the time comes for expressing the proxy on an issue, there will be about 15 strategically placed electronic stations at which the proxy holders will be able to usethe bar-coded credential to register "yes/no" "for/against" or whatever the two options might be ... "A/B."
The independent agency will tally the results (pretty much immediately) and report them to the person presiding.
Monday, April 21, 2008
New Members & Celebration
Pastor K. Martin giving covenant to four new members at Pelham Church on April 20, 2008. New members are Tom & Melinda Bratton and C. T. & Annette Daniels. We at Pelham thank the Lord for our new members. Others will join next Sunday.
We had a wonderful service as everyone was so excited about our new members.
After our service about twenty-two of our congregation went to lunch together to "celebrate" and give God praise for our new members.
Another picture of some of the "Celebration" group at Golden Corral in Pelham.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Revival at Pelham
April 25-27 the Pelham Church will be in REVIVAL with Bishop Sam Clements as our speaker. Service time for Friday and Saturday is 7:00 PM. Sunday Morning Worship will be at 10:45 AM. Sunday night the revival will continue with Brother Tommy Kirby and his wife Tracy. Sunday night will be a special YOUTH NIGHT EVENT! Sister Kay Jones will be directing the service.
THE BATTLE OVER BITTERNESS
From "Pastor's Weekly Briefing" by H. B. London
On April 16 Sen. Obama, in a San Francisco speech, made a statement related to voters in small communities who "cling to religion and guns because they are bitter" — evidently over their economic conditions.
For a few days the story had some legs, but now apparently the news media has gone on to other things. Yet, as I think about his words, the mention of bitterness keeps coming back to me. Bitterness has consequences.
You and I have all been told we can either "be bitter or be better." The Apostle Paul wrote, "Get rid of all bitterness" (Eph. 4:31). In other words, it seems bitterness can be and often is hazardous to your health and spiritual well-being.
I remember a time early in my ministry when I was being pursued by a church board to pastor their church. I was excited — not to mention humbled — by the opportunity. But a church executive got word to the board that I had been very ill, and the illness had affected me emotionally. Needless to say, I was no longer a candidate for that position. When I found out who had been disloyal to me, I allowed the seed of bitterness to take root in my heart. I basically crossed the man off my list and made a vow to myself that I would not associate, communicate or fellowship with that man again. It almost became an obsession with me. All of this was unknown to the man in question.
I carried that bitterness for a long time until I finally had to confess and ask for his forgiveness. My point: Even though the man's words were inaccurate, I had no right to allow bitterness to take over my life. Do you?
I come in contact with a lot of our colleagues, and even their spouses, who are controlled by bitterness. Most of the time, that feeling of bitterness stems from being mistreated, disrespected or betrayed. If I let myself, I can easily be convinced that they have a right to their opinion — but reality tells me not only should they not entertain those feelings, but, if they continue to do so, bitterness will define their ministry.
Paul tells us to "bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Col. 3:13).
I know I am writing to someone who is paralyzed by bitterness. I beg you to face your feelings, and do what you need to do. The load that is lifted is so liberating. One other thought: Deal with it as soon as possible — Satan has a way of causing us to procrastinate! Well, enough preaching to the choir.
Be blessed, and be a blessing. —HBL
On April 16 Sen. Obama, in a San Francisco speech, made a statement related to voters in small communities who "cling to religion and guns because they are bitter" — evidently over their economic conditions.
For a few days the story had some legs, but now apparently the news media has gone on to other things. Yet, as I think about his words, the mention of bitterness keeps coming back to me. Bitterness has consequences.
You and I have all been told we can either "be bitter or be better." The Apostle Paul wrote, "Get rid of all bitterness" (Eph. 4:31). In other words, it seems bitterness can be and often is hazardous to your health and spiritual well-being.
I remember a time early in my ministry when I was being pursued by a church board to pastor their church. I was excited — not to mention humbled — by the opportunity. But a church executive got word to the board that I had been very ill, and the illness had affected me emotionally. Needless to say, I was no longer a candidate for that position. When I found out who had been disloyal to me, I allowed the seed of bitterness to take root in my heart. I basically crossed the man off my list and made a vow to myself that I would not associate, communicate or fellowship with that man again. It almost became an obsession with me. All of this was unknown to the man in question.
I carried that bitterness for a long time until I finally had to confess and ask for his forgiveness. My point: Even though the man's words were inaccurate, I had no right to allow bitterness to take over my life. Do you?
I come in contact with a lot of our colleagues, and even their spouses, who are controlled by bitterness. Most of the time, that feeling of bitterness stems from being mistreated, disrespected or betrayed. If I let myself, I can easily be convinced that they have a right to their opinion — but reality tells me not only should they not entertain those feelings, but, if they continue to do so, bitterness will define their ministry.
Paul tells us to "bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Col. 3:13).
I know I am writing to someone who is paralyzed by bitterness. I beg you to face your feelings, and do what you need to do. The load that is lifted is so liberating. One other thought: Deal with it as soon as possible — Satan has a way of causing us to procrastinate! Well, enough preaching to the choir.
Be blessed, and be a blessing. —HBL
Stress Awareness Month
From "Pastor's Weekly Briefing" by H. B. London
The Health Resource Network, a non-profit health education organization, has designated April as Stress Awareness Month for the 16th consecutive year. Health care professionals, health promotion experts and caregivers across the country will join forces to raise public awareness about the cause and cures for our modern stress epidemic.
For this reason Community Chaplains of America, which provides care for individuals during difficult and stressful situations, have offered 10 simple suggestions on how to provide care and essentially reduce stress, according to christianpost.com.
Provide a listening ear. Often, those who are going through stressful times simply need someone to talk to. Make an extra phone call or meet a friend for coffee and offer the opportunity for them to talk.
Send an encouraging note. Words are powerful. In the age of emails and text messages, handwritten notes show that you took time and effort to show you care.
Say "thank you." Offer your gratitude for people. Thank a coworker for his or her hard work or a waiter for serving you dinner. Everyone wants to feel appreciated.
Laugh with someone. A good hearty laugh can relax you both and mentally lighten your load. Tell a joke or rent a funny movie with a friend.
Perform a random act of kindness. Surprise someone with the unexpected. It can be as simple as paying for a friend's coffee or offering to watch the kids so a mom or dad can have that extra time to relax.
Help someone organize. When the places and things around us are in order, we feel a little more put together. Take time to help a friend clean out a closet or scrub the bathtub.
Take a walk. Exercise releases endorphins and makes us feel better all around. Walk around the mall with a coworker on your lunch break or meet a friend at a park after work and enjoy the fresh air.
Share a smile. This contagious act can easily brighten someone's day. Smile to a passing stranger; it may make a big difference in his or her day.
Get away. Get away from the everyday circumstances that may be causing stress. Plan a weekend getaway or a day trip with a friend.
Pray. Say a quick prayer for your friend and put his or her stress in the hands of the Ultimate Provider and Healer.
The Health Resource Network, a non-profit health education organization, has designated April as Stress Awareness Month for the 16th consecutive year. Health care professionals, health promotion experts and caregivers across the country will join forces to raise public awareness about the cause and cures for our modern stress epidemic.
For this reason Community Chaplains of America, which provides care for individuals during difficult and stressful situations, have offered 10 simple suggestions on how to provide care and essentially reduce stress, according to christianpost.com.
Provide a listening ear. Often, those who are going through stressful times simply need someone to talk to. Make an extra phone call or meet a friend for coffee and offer the opportunity for them to talk.
Send an encouraging note. Words are powerful. In the age of emails and text messages, handwritten notes show that you took time and effort to show you care.
Say "thank you." Offer your gratitude for people. Thank a coworker for his or her hard work or a waiter for serving you dinner. Everyone wants to feel appreciated.
Laugh with someone. A good hearty laugh can relax you both and mentally lighten your load. Tell a joke or rent a funny movie with a friend.
Perform a random act of kindness. Surprise someone with the unexpected. It can be as simple as paying for a friend's coffee or offering to watch the kids so a mom or dad can have that extra time to relax.
Help someone organize. When the places and things around us are in order, we feel a little more put together. Take time to help a friend clean out a closet or scrub the bathtub.
Take a walk. Exercise releases endorphins and makes us feel better all around. Walk around the mall with a coworker on your lunch break or meet a friend at a park after work and enjoy the fresh air.
Share a smile. This contagious act can easily brighten someone's day. Smile to a passing stranger; it may make a big difference in his or her day.
Get away. Get away from the everyday circumstances that may be causing stress. Plan a weekend getaway or a day trip with a friend.
Pray. Say a quick prayer for your friend and put his or her stress in the hands of the Ultimate Provider and Healer.
Friday, April 18, 2008
PRAISE The LORD
Just a word of PRAISE to our mighty God for His answering prayer. A few days ago the Doctor's thought I might have cancer. After CT and PET scans, today I was told that I had nothing to worry about. Thank God for answering prayer. Thanks to everyone that prayed for me.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Fireproof
Dear Family Advocate Readers:
Fireproof is an action-packed love story about a firefighter whose marriage is falling apart. Seven years into their marriage, Caleb and Catherine Holt have drifted so far apart that Catherine wishes she had never married. After agreeing to get a divorce, Caleb is challenged by his father to work through a book titled The Love Dare. This book takes him on a 40-day journey toward understanding what unconditional love really is. After coming to Christ halfway through the book, Caleb begins a rescue mission to save his dying marriage and win back the heart of his wife. Fireproof realistically shows some of the battles and struggles that married couples experience every day. But it also holds up the truth of God's Word in dealing with those. Like Facing the Giants, this movie will have fans laughing, crying, and leaving inspired and challenged!
The movie Fireproof will be released nationwide in theaters this fall. The actual release date will be announced later this year. If it does not violate your conscience to go to films, it is possible for a local church, or group of churches, to sponsor a special screening in your community. For more information on the movie you can go to www.FireprooftheMovie.com. If you could feel comfortable regarding this kind of endeavor, we hope that you and everyone in your circle of influence will help get the word out and see this film on opening weekend, the three key days when the success of a movie and its ultimate impact is greatly determined.
Larry and Susan Duncan
Family Ministries
Fireproof is an action-packed love story about a firefighter whose marriage is falling apart. Seven years into their marriage, Caleb and Catherine Holt have drifted so far apart that Catherine wishes she had never married. After agreeing to get a divorce, Caleb is challenged by his father to work through a book titled The Love Dare. This book takes him on a 40-day journey toward understanding what unconditional love really is. After coming to Christ halfway through the book, Caleb begins a rescue mission to save his dying marriage and win back the heart of his wife. Fireproof realistically shows some of the battles and struggles that married couples experience every day. But it also holds up the truth of God's Word in dealing with those. Like Facing the Giants, this movie will have fans laughing, crying, and leaving inspired and challenged!
The movie Fireproof will be released nationwide in theaters this fall. The actual release date will be announced later this year. If it does not violate your conscience to go to films, it is possible for a local church, or group of churches, to sponsor a special screening in your community. For more information on the movie you can go to www.FireprooftheMovie.com. If you could feel comfortable regarding this kind of endeavor, we hope that you and everyone in your circle of influence will help get the word out and see this film on opening weekend, the three key days when the success of a movie and its ultimate impact is greatly determined.
Larry and Susan Duncan
Family Ministries
Grocery Shower - April 6, 2008
View 1 of the wonderful Grocery Shower given to us from the Pelham church on the first Sunday of April
View 2 of the wonderful Grocery Shower given to us from the Pelham church on the first Sunday of April
View 3 of the wonderful Grocery Shower given to us from the Pelham church on the first Sunday of April.
Thanks to everyone that gave to us in this 1st Sunday Grocery Shower. God bless each of you!
Sunday, March 30, 2008
District Meeting
Sunday March 30, at 5:00 PM several churches came together at Calera COGOP for a District Meeting. Each 5th Sunday the following churches come together for this service: Calera, Clanton, Dry Valley and Pelham. Tonight we were blessed to meet at the Calera church. Each Pastor was present and each church well represented. Pastor Ken Humphries delivered a timely message on "staying focused on God in these last days." After service everyone was welcomed to the fellowship hall for a great meal.
The Pelham church choir under the direction of Kay Jones, sang with great anointing even though some choir members could not be present. The newly formed Calera choir also sang with wonderful anointing.
The Pelham church choir under the direction of Kay Jones, sang with great anointing even though some choir members could not be present. The newly formed Calera choir also sang with wonderful anointing.
What People Expect of A Leader
Author of this article is unknown.
There are seven things sheep want from a shepherd:
1. They expect shepherds to be concerned for their safety. People want the assurance that their organization is wise enough to survive in turbulent times and will provide for their futures. A protector who is concerned with the welfare of his flock won’t hesitate to communicate the possibilities and the perils looming on the horizon.
2. They expect shepherds to know them by name. When a responsible shepherd enters the fold, his sheep respond to him because he calls them by name. We cannot underestimate the value of establishing a connection with every person on our team – even if that number is large. The bond is strengthened each time people hear us speak their names.
3. They expect shepherds to be gentle and kind. When people you serve are less than cooperative, it’s not an excuse for retaliation. As Dwight D. Eisenhower said about his war experiences, “You do not lead by hitting people over the head – that’s assault, not leadership.” If you feel the urge to lash out at those around you, get tough on yourself. That’s where discipline yields the greatest harvest.
4. They expect shepherds to rescue them. What is our response when one of our employees becomes distracted? Do we let him stay off course and struggle to find his way back, or do we stop what we’re doing and give him our attention? Jesus said a good shepherd would leave a flock of 99 to go after the lost sheep until he finds it. That’s true of leadership.
5. They expect shepherds to be unselfish. The president of a chain of stores was under pressure to cut costs. Much as he hated it, he was forced to eliminate the Christmas bonus for his employees. Later, the president was awarded a check of $20,000 for balancing the budget. He immediately divided it with his staff. People expect to participate in decisions that affect the quality, quantity, and climate of their work. It must be a partnership that includes rewards. When one succeeds, all succeed.
6. They expect shepherds to be sincere. A fellow who was flying to a business meeting found a bug in his salad. He fired off a letter to the airlines. By the time he got back to his office, a letter was waiting for him. He was impressed by what it said, until he saw a note stuck to the back, which said: “Send this character the regular Bug Letter.” Leaders can’t afford to be artificial. They must be genuine.
7. They expect shepherds to care deeply about them. If we truly don’t respect and love people, we should resign from any position of responsibility that involves personal contact. Sheep want shepherds who are sensitive and responsive to their personal and professional needs. As this sign posted on a bulletin board says, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
There are seven things sheep want from a shepherd:
1. They expect shepherds to be concerned for their safety. People want the assurance that their organization is wise enough to survive in turbulent times and will provide for their futures. A protector who is concerned with the welfare of his flock won’t hesitate to communicate the possibilities and the perils looming on the horizon.
2. They expect shepherds to know them by name. When a responsible shepherd enters the fold, his sheep respond to him because he calls them by name. We cannot underestimate the value of establishing a connection with every person on our team – even if that number is large. The bond is strengthened each time people hear us speak their names.
3. They expect shepherds to be gentle and kind. When people you serve are less than cooperative, it’s not an excuse for retaliation. As Dwight D. Eisenhower said about his war experiences, “You do not lead by hitting people over the head – that’s assault, not leadership.” If you feel the urge to lash out at those around you, get tough on yourself. That’s where discipline yields the greatest harvest.
4. They expect shepherds to rescue them. What is our response when one of our employees becomes distracted? Do we let him stay off course and struggle to find his way back, or do we stop what we’re doing and give him our attention? Jesus said a good shepherd would leave a flock of 99 to go after the lost sheep until he finds it. That’s true of leadership.
5. They expect shepherds to be unselfish. The president of a chain of stores was under pressure to cut costs. Much as he hated it, he was forced to eliminate the Christmas bonus for his employees. Later, the president was awarded a check of $20,000 for balancing the budget. He immediately divided it with his staff. People expect to participate in decisions that affect the quality, quantity, and climate of their work. It must be a partnership that includes rewards. When one succeeds, all succeed.
6. They expect shepherds to be sincere. A fellow who was flying to a business meeting found a bug in his salad. He fired off a letter to the airlines. By the time he got back to his office, a letter was waiting for him. He was impressed by what it said, until he saw a note stuck to the back, which said: “Send this character the regular Bug Letter.” Leaders can’t afford to be artificial. They must be genuine.
7. They expect shepherds to care deeply about them. If we truly don’t respect and love people, we should resign from any position of responsibility that involves personal contact. Sheep want shepherds who are sensitive and responsive to their personal and professional needs. As this sign posted on a bulletin board says, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Breakfast
This is Wayne Chance and C. T. Daniels, (3/9/08), working in the kitchen preparing breakfast for the ladies of our church. Every 2nd Sunday the men of the church prepare breakfast for the ladies at Pelham COGOP.
Tom Bratton checking out Pastor Martin's tie before breakfast,(3/9/08)as Brother Milton Couch looks on.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Grandson Leaving for Iraq
Click on our grandson's name to view a clip of him getting ready to leave for Iraq. Please help us pray for his safe return home. Thanks to our granddaughter in-law for this clip
Karl leaving for Iraq
Date: Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:54
Karl leaving for Iraq
Date: Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:54
Monday, March 24, 2008
Easter Sunday
Sister Annette Daniels singing, Because He Lives, in the Easter Program at Pelham
Sister Carolyn Caulk blessing us with an anointed song during the Easter program
Brother Wayne Chance portraying, Peter, during our Easter program
Sister Becky Chance, as Mary, and singing Amazing Grace for our Easter program
Easter Sunday at Pelham COGOP was wonderful. The attendance was in the mid-fifties and thirty-three received Communion. This was the first time the church had celebrated Easter Sunday with Communion in many years.
God blessed each one as they brought their "Thirty Pieces" of silver offering to honor Christ instead of betraying Him.
Everyone present seemed to feel the Holy Spirit as He moved among us during the Choir's "Special Easter Cantata," directed by Kay Jones. Conviction of the Holy Spirit was very evident as people prayed and renewed their walk with the "RISEN" Christ.
After the service children and teenagers were busy hunting Easter Eggs.
Thanks to Tom and Melinda Bratton for their hard work in making the "tomb" for our Easter Cantata. Tom and Melinda also fixed the Choir a wonderful meal Saturday night after the dress rehearsal, even with "sugar-free" Banana Pudding for the Pastor.
Sister Carolyn Caulk blessing us with an anointed song during the Easter program
Brother Wayne Chance portraying, Peter, during our Easter program
Sister Becky Chance, as Mary, and singing Amazing Grace for our Easter program
Easter Sunday at Pelham COGOP was wonderful. The attendance was in the mid-fifties and thirty-three received Communion. This was the first time the church had celebrated Easter Sunday with Communion in many years.
God blessed each one as they brought their "Thirty Pieces" of silver offering to honor Christ instead of betraying Him.
Everyone present seemed to feel the Holy Spirit as He moved among us during the Choir's "Special Easter Cantata," directed by Kay Jones. Conviction of the Holy Spirit was very evident as people prayed and renewed their walk with the "RISEN" Christ.
After the service children and teenagers were busy hunting Easter Eggs.
Thanks to Tom and Melinda Bratton for their hard work in making the "tomb" for our Easter Cantata. Tom and Melinda also fixed the Choir a wonderful meal Saturday night after the dress rehearsal, even with "sugar-free" Banana Pudding for the Pastor.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Friday, March 21, 2008
Pastor's Meeting at Camp Boothe
Today I was among several Pastors called to Camp Boothe for a "Prayer and Directional" meeting. Our State Bishop, L. V. Jones called this meeting with the intent of seeking God on behalf of growth and spiritual development for our churches. What an our-pouring of concern and compassion from those present. Many things were discussed and time spent in prayer seeking God's direction.
God's presence could be felt through-out the meeting.
Sister Jones and her sister, Rhonda, brought the lunch meal for all the ministers. The home made desserts from the kitchen of Sister Billie Jones were wonderful.
God's presence could be felt through-out the meeting.
Sister Jones and her sister, Rhonda, brought the lunch meal for all the ministers. The home made desserts from the kitchen of Sister Billie Jones were wonderful.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Good Fellowship
My wife and I went with several of the Pelham saints tonight after Choir practice to Cracker Barrel and had a wonderful time. It was great to laugh and have a time of getting to know each other.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Birthdays
Tonight, after service, the Pelham church celebrated the birthday's of Wayne Chance, (3/12) Gary Jones, (3/17) and Josh Jones, (3/18). Bro. Josh is one of our fine up-coming youth who plays the Trombone in the Pelham High School Band.
Refreshments were served and everyone enjoyed a good time of fellowship.
Refreshments were served and everyone enjoyed a good time of fellowship.
Wonderful Presence Of Holy Spirit
Wow! What a wonderful presence of Holy Spirit we all experienced in service this AM, (3/16/08). The choir sang with so much anointing as the Holy Spirit filled the Pelham church. Saints praised God and rejoiced and we knew Holy Spirit was walking among us to give us strength and encouragement to face each day of our future.
Sunday AM message by Pastor Martin was entitled "Some Things We Have By the Blood of Christ"
Sunday AM message by Pastor Martin was entitled "Some Things We Have By the Blood of Christ"
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Prayer request for our Grandsons
Please pray for our grandson, Karl. He will be going back to Iraq later this month for another tour of duty with the USMC. Please pray for his safe return home.
Also please join us in prayer for our youngest grandson, Grant, who has "Type 1" diabetes. Grant is thirteen years of age and is very active in sports and his church. I know God can help him with this problem.
Also please join us in prayer for our youngest grandson, Grant, who has "Type 1" diabetes. Grant is thirteen years of age and is very active in sports and his church. I know God can help him with this problem.
Impossible? - by Tom Norvell
The movie Amazing Grace tells how the influence of former slave trader turned preacher, John Newton, compelled William Wilberforce to dream of abolishing slavery while Wilberforce's friend, William Pitt, dreamed of becoming Prime Minister. In one scene, the two are discussing the possibilities of seeing their dreams come true. Pitt has a plan. Side by side they will make the world a better place. Pitt is confident and persuasive. Wilberforce questions his friend on what makes him believe that the two of them are the ones to change the world. Pitt responds, "Which is why we are too young to realize that certain things are not possible." Through their idealism and determination they pursue and realize their dreams.
Can you remember a day when you were "still too young to realize that certain things are not possible?"
Are you still too young? I hope so.
We need people in the Kingdom like Pitt and Wilberforce.
We need men and women who refuse to accept things as they are and unwilling to settle for life as usual.
We need men and women who will stand up for they believe is right and trust that God is still able to do what we think is impossible.
We need men and women to stand firm on what they know God believes in, what God blesses, and what God wants.
We need men and women who believe that with God's help anything is possible and that the world can be a better place.
Can you remember?
We need men and women who take God at His Word when He says...
"I am the Lord, the God of every person on the earth. Nothing is impossible for me" (Jeremiah 32:27 NCV).
He [Jesus] replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, 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."
(Matthew 17:20 NIV)
Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26 NIV).
Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God" (Mark 10:27 NIV).
"For nothing is impossible with God" (Luke 1:37 NIV).
Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God"
(Luke 18:27, NIV).
Are you still too young to realize that certain things are impossible?
Chances are, if you already have not been, you will be faced with something before too long that will challenge your faith and put this question of possibility to the test. A relationship will seem hopeless. Recovery will seem unlikely. A career change will seem improbable. A dream will seem impossible.
There's a reason you're still too young to realize that certain things are impossible: God wants you to make the world a better place!
Believe Him. Trust Him. Witness the impossible.
It will be amazing ... grace!
Can you remember a day when you were "still too young to realize that certain things are not possible?"
Are you still too young? I hope so.
We need people in the Kingdom like Pitt and Wilberforce.
We need men and women who refuse to accept things as they are and unwilling to settle for life as usual.
We need men and women who will stand up for they believe is right and trust that God is still able to do what we think is impossible.
We need men and women to stand firm on what they know God believes in, what God blesses, and what God wants.
We need men and women who believe that with God's help anything is possible and that the world can be a better place.
Can you remember?
We need men and women who take God at His Word when He says...
"I am the Lord, the God of every person on the earth. Nothing is impossible for me" (Jeremiah 32:27 NCV).
He [Jesus] replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, 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."
(Matthew 17:20 NIV)
Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26 NIV).
Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God" (Mark 10:27 NIV).
"For nothing is impossible with God" (Luke 1:37 NIV).
Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God"
(Luke 18:27, NIV).
Are you still too young to realize that certain things are impossible?
Chances are, if you already have not been, you will be faced with something before too long that will challenge your faith and put this question of possibility to the test. A relationship will seem hopeless. Recovery will seem unlikely. A career change will seem improbable. A dream will seem impossible.
There's a reason you're still too young to realize that certain things are impossible: God wants you to make the world a better place!
Believe Him. Trust Him. Witness the impossible.
It will be amazing ... grace!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
LEADING SUCCESSFUL MEETINGS
This is from "Pastor's Weekly Briefing from FOF 02/22/08.
It's early in the morning, and I am waiting to go into another meeting. Over the four decades that I have served the church, and now Focus on the Family, it would be impossible to estimate how many meetings I have attended. How about you? The point being, I tend to agree with the one who said if all planned meetings were postponed, a lot more would get done.
It's early in the morning, and I am waiting to go into another meeting. Over the four decades that I have served the church, and now Focus on the Family, it would be impossible to estimate how many meetings I have attended. How about you? The point being, I tend to agree with the one who said if all planned meetings were postponed, a lot more would get done.
This is what I have learned about planning and executing successful meetings:
1. People and their time are valuable. Do not waste either. Begin on time!!
2. It is vital that the right people are in the meeting. Decision makers and implementers are crucial.
3. Most meetings last too long. Strip down the agenda to cover what needs to be addressed. Be careful with non-agenda suggestions.
4. Never go into a meeting unprepared. That is when leaders get surprised. Be alert!
5. Do not neglect the significance of a prayerful beginning to each meeting.
6. Whatever you do don't die on every hill. Some things just do not matter.
7. Have a printed agenda — and, in most cases, it should be distributed beforehand.
8. Where there is an issue to be debated, make sure you have addressed that issue with "power people" before the meeting begins.
9. Do everything you can to keep voice levels and attitudes on an even keel. Once you ring the "bell of discord," it can never be re-rung. Know when to hold and when to fold.
10. Your attitude will be essential. Be a leader. Know your parameters. Don't say things you will regret later.
11. If you have committees reporting, make sure the chairman is prepared, or do not present the report.
12. Never introduce a new idea without having run that idea by trusted colleagues or leaders. Don't despair if your new idea is not greeted with enthusiasm. Keep moving forward.
13. Food and drink may add a little extra time to each meeting — but fellowship is a great way to diffuse conflict. Laughter is a leveler.
14. The items that are significant should be handled first or you could be accused of attempting to "push things through."
15. If you have a "power player" in your organization, do all you can to befriend them. In the end, most decisions will go through them.
16. Don't have so many meetings.
Be blessed and be a blessing. —HBL
Friday, February 22, 2008
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Sunday, January 6, 2008
2008 Mileage Rates
IRS Announces 2008 Standard Mileage
Rates; Rate for Business Miles Set
at 50.5 Cents per Mile
| IR-2007-192, Nov. 27, 2007 WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2008 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. Beginning Jan. 1, 2008, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (including vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:
The new rate for business miles compares to a rate of 48.5 cents per mile for 2007. The new rate for medical and moving purposes compares to 20 cents in 2007. The rate for miles driven in service of charitable organizations has remained the same. The standard mileage rate for business is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile; the standard rate for medical and moving purposes is based on the variable costs as determined by the same study. Runzheimer International, an independent contractor, conducted the study for the IRS. The mileage rate for charitable miles is set by law. A taxpayer may not use the business standard mileage rate for a vehicle after using any depreciation method under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), after claiming a Section 179 deduction for that vehicle, for any vehicle used for hire or for more than four vehicles used simultaneously. Revenue Procedure 2007-70 contains additional information on these standard mileage rates. |
Shepherd's Heart Beginnings
As I begin this blog, I want to portray my heart as a Shepherd. This will be a site that you will find information to give strength and comfort to you. You may also find interesting information about other things that may be going on in the religious world.
Someone once said "Goodness is the only investment that never fails." I hope that through this blog some goodness will be shared.
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