WHAT KIND OF HEART DO YOU POSSESS?
Our Lord is called the Master Teacher, because of his ability to present wonderful truths based on life's everyday circumstances. He very often spoke in parables to illustrate truth. Sometimes he spoke in parables to prevent the gross of heart, blind of eyes, and dull of ears from understanding his message (see Matt. 13:10-15). Jesus, the Master Teacher, was also the Master Illustrator!

One of the best-known parables is the parable of the sower. It is a powerful lesson because it deals with the various attitudes men have concerning the truth presented to them. Attitude makes all the difference. A desire to do the will of God makes it easy to understand the will of God (John 7:17). That is true of the alien sinner, and the child of God!

The parable of the sower is found in Luke 8:4-15, and in Matt. 13:1-9. It reveals four kinds of reaction to the gospel. It should be noted that out of four kinds of attitude, only one was worthy! One of four most people will not make a proper response to God's word.

The Hardened Heart
The Word of God is presented, and the reception is like seed sown upon hardened, packed-down earth. The seed on hard ground will be carried away by the birds. The gospel falling upon the hardened heart is not acted upon, and Jesus said the devil takes the word away. The person does not believe, and is lost. He can receive the message, but is not disposed to do so. The hard ground hearer is personally responsible for rejecting the word.

The Shallow Heart
Where the soil is rocky and there is not much earth, and therefore little moisture, the plants wither. In giving explanation, the Lord spoke of those who receive the word with joy, but have not depth. The Word cannot penetrate the heart sufficiently because of an improper attitude, and in time of temptation the plant dies. We have all seen those who obey the gospel, but at the first bump along the road fall away.

The Overcrowded Heart
The thorny-soil-heart is "choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life," and is unproductive. No fruit comes to perfection. The person who claims to be Spiritual, but keeps in his life things of an anti-spiritual nature can never produce ripe fruit. (Josh. 24:15).

Many members of the church are in this category. They are the worldly, the indifferent, the careless and the lukewarm.

The Honest and Good Heart
The good ground hearer receives the seed, and produces fruit a hundredfold! The Lord said that this heart hears the Word, keeps it, and brings forth fruit. This heart is receptive, and eager to obey. The "honest and good heart" of Luke 8:15 is also the "glad receiver of the Word" of Acts 2:41. It is also the one "receiving the Word with all readiness of mind" in Acts 17:11.

The question is, What kind of heart do you have? What is your attitude toward truth? How do you receive the Word? The influence of that Word upon your life is within your control. Your attitude toward God is your attitude toward his word. Conversely, if you do not put obedience to the word of God first in your life, then you do not put his kingdom and his righteousness first. You lack love of God. (John 14:15).
[by Bill Jackson from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Aug. 11, 1991, p. 3]

A SPARE TIRE?
It seems that some Christians think of God as a kind of "spare tire." A spare tire is forgotten for months until suddenly, on the road, we have a flat. Many forget God when things go well with them. When sorrow, sickness, and troubles come, then they remember God and want him to help them.

God wants us to call on him when we are in trouble. He also wants us to remember and serve him when we are not in trouble!!!
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Aug. 11, 1991, p. 3]

WORRY, WORRY, AND MORE WORRY!!! WHY?
Do you recall the person who said, "I've got so many troubles that if anything happens to me today, it will be at least two weeks before I can worry about it"?

Maybe that's our problem. Have we considered the fact that we have a great backlog of troubles, and by the time we get around to worrying about them they will probably be solved? It is said that most of the things we worry about never happen - so, why worry about them?

I am convinced that the solution to the whole problem of "worry" is complete trust in God. As we sometimes sing, "Trust and Obey, for there's no other way," do we really mean it? This means that not all things will turn out perfect and to our liking; however, it does mean that whatever happens, it is with God's knowledge and his ability to know what is best. Or, as his Word declares...(Rom. 8:28).

So, why are we prone to worry, worry, and worry?
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Aug. 11, 1991, p. 4]

THE CHRISTIAN CAN READ!!!
We heard of a fellow who had learned to read numbers but could not read words. This caused him quite a bit of trouble on the highways - he could always tell "how far" but never "where to."

People who travel down the highway of life without Christ is in somewhat of the same predicament. They can tell "how far" they're going to the end of their life; but they have no assurance "where" they are going. The Christian knows where he is going!!!
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Aug. 11, 1991, p. 4]

THAT'S WHAT YOU GET FOR BEING A CHRISTIAN!
Did you ever wake up early on Sunday morning with everything quiet, your neighbors were still asleep, the world was having their siesta and another two hour's sleep would have been so pleasant, but you arose and prepared yourself and your family to go to God's house and worship Him? That's what you get for being a Christian!

Ever leave dishes in the sink, your ironing undone, beds not make, to go to a hospital to sit with another, to run an errand for someone, or make it to ladies' class or some other week-day Bible class? That's what you get for being a Christian!

Ever say "no" to a social club planning an outing for a Sunday or to a big party they had set on Prayer Meeting night? Did you ever have to tell your friends in PTA that you couldn't help them with one of their pet projects because you would have to violate your conscience? That's what you get for being a Christian!

Ever get into a situation where the truth would suffer and someone might be led into error if you kept silent, and yet you knew you might offend some and become unpopular if you said what had to be said - and you said it? That's what you get for being a Christian!

But these blessings are reserved for people like you:
1. You are a child of a King and an heir to heaven.
2. You won't be the cause of anyone missing heaven.
3. You can read your title clear in mansions in the sky.
4. You are happier than any sinner and you will still have your happiness when he has nothing but regrets.
5. You have a Father who loves you supremely and you can turn to at any hour, knowing He cares for you.
6. You have a clear conscience and a peace that passeth all understanding.
7. At your funeral they can sing: "Safe in the Arms of Jesus" and the preacher can comfort your loved ones saying: "Sorrow not as others who have no hope."

That's what you get for being a Christian!
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 15, 1991, p. 3]

FORWARD PROGRESS?
George Barna has emerged as one of the most insightful observers of Christianity in America. Recently he noted that "the church in America has shown little forward progress over the past decade." Certainly churches of Christ, with a three percent growth rate from 1980 to 1990, fit that observation.

Barna talks about the "top illnesses" in the churches. Here are a few:
* Many churches lack capable, non-paid leaders to push the church forward.
* Many Christians and not involved in the evangelistic outreach of the church.
* Churches spend five times as much money on buildings and maintenance as they do on promoting outreach.
* Christians as a whole do not develop solid relationships with each other.
* Too many groups have fought among themselves about items which are insignificant in light of a dying world.

Jesus was very clear about his goal in life...(Luke 4:43). Later he said of himself, "For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost."
The word Christian means Christ-like. Are we ready to go forward with his message? Or as we sick with some of the top illnesses? Let's make forward progress for the cause of Christ.
[by Harold Shank from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 15, 1991, p. 3]

BRING THOSE BABIES TO CHURCH
My heart goes out to the parents of small children. I know first hand the kind of problems they face (and my wife knows ever better). Training up a toddler in the way he should go is a constant job, a continuous battle, a seven-day-a-week task, not to mention an awesome responsibility. After six days of their whining chorus at home and three hours of embarrassment while shopping, the last thing some young mothers want to face is an hour of agony and humiliation at church.

Many a young mother has asked herself, "Why do I keep bringing them to church?" As she enters the auditorium she utters a silent prayer that the kids will be good and the sermon short. The service begins. While mother is picking up toys, drying eyes, wiping noses, swatting, scolding, going out, coming in, and trying to sing, listen, and pray, the toddler is pouring juice on her dress and pulling a button off of the man serving communion. To the toddler, church is an exciting adventure. Song books are a challenge to tame, stuffed toys make great missiles to launch over four or five rows, and the collection plate would make a great hat!

Most young couples don't mind the distraction themselves nearly as much as they worry about the distraction to others. It seems that all around are the staring, critical eyes of those who raised "perfect" children. As they glare down their noses through pursed lips they seem to be thinking, "When my children were that age they sat still and quiet during church and allowed others to truly worship." At least, that is what it seems like they are thinking.

Young parents, take heart! Allow me to assure you of six things. (1) Your children do not disturb others nearly as much as you think they do. (2) If people without children are determined to sit at the back (where most small children sit) then they deserve any distraction they get. (3) Most people really do understand your plight and remember back to the days when their children were infants and toddlers. (4) Through proper discipline and early training your children will soon learn how to behave properly. When they do begin to show signs of improvement, move down closer to the front where you and your children will feel more a part of the worship. (5) Remember that you are both wanted and needed in the worship service. (6) Have faith that the hand which now hurls crayons will one day spread the seed of the Kingdom.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 29, 1991, p. 3]

THE WEEK-ENDERS
None of us is apt to be surprised by the statistics that two and one half million American men between the ages of 30 and 60 suffer heart attacks every year. Last week at a Rotary meeting, though, I heard a heart statistic that did startle me. The speaker said that seventy-six percent of the two and one half million heart attacks occur on weekends.

While the speaker berated the Rotarians for being so soft and flabby, my mind took another track. Here was a physical fitness nut voicing a legitimate concern about the physical deterioration of the American male. But I am a spiritual fitness nut equally alarmed about other symptoms of decline in our populace.

What bothered me more than the number of heart attacks on the weekend was what the men were doing on weekends. Not many of our ancestors died of heart attacks on weekends. Most of them spent the weekend worshipping the Lord instead of slogging up ski slopes or repairing backyard fences. Back then of course, the weekend consisted of one day and that was the Lord's Day. It was a day of R and R - not for Rest and Recreation but for Rest and Religion!

I am afraid the heart trouble most common to us American males is not physical. Ours is a sickness of the soul. For too many Americans, play has replaced praise. Fun has taken the place of faith. We have given up God for games.

Of course, the speaker was right. Most of us are in lousy shape. Our bodies need some help. But the apostle spoke truly when he said that compared to the blessings of learning godliness and contentment, "bodily exercise profits little."

Our Sundays can either ruin our bodies or restore our souls. The choice is ours. Much depends on whether we make the Lord's Day His day or ours. Heart attack figures are not the only indication that our weekends may be the death of us yet.
[by Gene Shelburne from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 3, 1991, p. 3]

MAKING OTHERS LOOK GOOD
Bear Bryant knew how to get the best out of his people. He explained his secret this way: "I'm just a plowhand from Arkansas, but I've learned how to hold a team together, how to lift some men up, how to calm others down, until finally, as a team, we've got one heartbeat. There are just three things I would say. If anything goes bad, I did it. If anything goes semi-good, we did it. If anything goes real good, you did it. That is all it really takes to get people to win football games for you."

Only a really great person knows how to take blame and how to give credit. Sometimes it means being criticized for things that are not entirely your fault. At other times it means watching from the sidelines as others are praised for things you are responsible for. It is tough to take someone else's lumps; it is even tougher to watch someone else take your bows.

Yet, is not that at least a part of what Christianity is all about - making others look good while keeping your own humility intact?
Paul describes Christian love in this way...(I Cor. 13:5-7). Peter added his own exhortation...(I Pet. 4:8).
Making others look good - it is not just good public relations, it is a matter of Christian living and Christian loving.
[by Dale Wells from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 3, 1991, p. 3]

THE GREAT IMPOSTER
Between 1920 and 1925, John Fitzgerald Scott became notorious as "the Great Imposter." Operating on two continents, he managed to pass himself off as a key representative of a national government - one in charge of selling for that government a national monument.

In 1920, he "sold", for the equivalent of $30,000, the monument erected to commemorate Lord Nelson's victory at the battle of Trafalgar. In 1922 he "sold" Big Ben for $5,000. In 1925, he convinced a Texas rancher the U.S. was going to lease the White House in order to raise needed revenue. He collected $100,000. Later, in 1925, he was arrested while completing his fourth big sale. He had persuaded a man from Australia the U.S. was going to widen New York harbor and would have to sell the Statue of Liberty. Again, the asking price for this "bargain" was $100,000.

As slick as he was, Scott was a piker compared to the real "great imposter" - Satan, himself, who poses as an "angel of light," as a messenger of enlightenment. We should not be surprised, then, that his servants are also real con-artists when it comes to giving spiritual advice (II Cor. 10:13-15).
There is but one way to avoid being suckered into the philosophy of life peddled by an unrighteous agent with a glib tongue. (II Tim. 3:13-15).
[by Marlin Connelly from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 3, 1991, p. 4]

ONE SOLITARY LIFE
Here is a man who was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He worked in a carpenter shop until he was 30, and then for three years he was an itinerant preacher. He never held an office. He never owned a home. He never wrote a book. He never had a family. He never went to college. He never put his foot inside a big city. He never traveled 200 miles from the place where he was born. He never did one of the things which usually accompany greatness. He had no credentials but himself.

While he was a young man, the tide of public opinion turned against him. His friends ran away. He was turned over to his enemies. He went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed to a cross between two thieves. While he was dying, his executioners gambled for the only piece of property he had on earth, and that was his coat. When he was dead, he was laid in a private grave through the pity of a friend.

Nineteen wide centuries have come and gone, and today he is the central figure of the human race and the leader of the column of progress.

I am far within the mark when I say that all the armies that ever marched, and all the navies that were ever built, and all the parliaments that ever sat, and all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man upon this earth, as that One Solitary Life.
[by James A. Francis from Christian Light July 1988 via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 16, 1989, p. 4]

TEN OF CHRIST'S RULES FOR HAPPY LIVING

1. Decide that you want to be happy. Each person is about as happy as he makes up his mind to be. The Lord's word commands us...(Phili. 4:4-7).
2. Learn to serve. True happiness comes by serving and helping others. (Acts 20:35).
3. Cast your cares on the Lord. He cares for you. Let Him forgive you; learn to forgive yourself. (I Pet. 5:7).
4. Seek peace with others. As much as within you lies, be at peace with all men. Blessed are the peacemakers. (Heb. 12:14).
5. Don't fall in love with money. Learn to be content with such things as you have. (I Tim. 6:7-10; I Tim. 6:17-19).
6. Judge not. Do not imagine wicked things. (Matt. 7:1; Prov. 6:18; I Tim. 6:4).
7. Forgive. Do not hold grudges. A grudge is a poison of the soul that corrupts the vessel which keeps it stored. A person who can make you hate him is destroying your happiness and your hope. Don't allow it. Forgive and forget. (I Pet. 4:9; Matt. 6:12-15).
8. Learn contentment and gratitude. Thankful people are happier people. Unthankful people generally are so unhappy. (Luke 3:14; I Tim. 6:8; Eph. 5:4).
9. Keep your heart and conscience pure. God's word imparts the choicest rule to keep the conscience clean. Learn it, love it, and live by it, and it will bless you every day.
10. Build a life that no man can destroy. (Matt. 10:28). Confident living consists of being able to say...(Heb. 13:6).
There is a world of happiness and hope for all who will talk with the Lord. May he bless you with a wonderful and happy year.
[by Owen Cosgrove from Orange Ave. church of Christ, Eustis, Fla.]

AN UNSEEN PLANET
Nine years before I was born scientists discovered the planet Pluto.

Before anybody could see the "new" planet, Percival Lowell tried to convince his colleagues of its existence based on his calculations of unusual variations in the orbit of Neptune. For fifteen years they laughed at him. Then in 1930 they found it, right where Lowell said it would be.

I thought of this last week when I read the Associated Press report announcing that scientists have just discovered another planet. Not one in our solar system, but one which orbits a star near the center of the Milky Way galaxy.

Twelve times the mass of Earth, this latest planet is 20,000 to 30,000 light years away from us. A light year is a mere 5.9 trillion miles.

Like Pluto when Percival Lowell first discerned it, this new planet cannot be seen. Scientists verified its presence by measuring variations in the movements of Milky Way stars they can see.

Here is a phenomenon worth observing: scientist who are absolutely sure of the reality of something they cannot see.

I remember the brilliant young atheist who challenged me when I came as guest lecturer to his high school class to present "The Christian View of the Universe." I presented the case for the reality of the unseen realm. He adamantly objected, insisting that only those things we can touch and measure and see are real.

Some years ago I was present when the head of the Psychology Department at Arizona State University spoke to a roomful of preachers. True to the tenets of the pure behavioral psychology, this highly educated man totally discounted the spiritual components of personality. Only what can be observe and quantify deserves our attention, he asserted, invoking the mantle of "true" science.

Now we have scientists daring to ask us to believe that umpteen trillion miles out there in space, lost in a blackness too murky for our finest telescopes to penetrate it, is a whole planet. It's unseen and unseeable, mind you. But it's there.

The amazing thing is that I believe them. I wonder if they can muster as much faith when we tell them about our unseeable God.
[by Gene Shelburne from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 17, 1991, p. 3]

THE WORD OF GOD
Our guide - "When thou goest, it shall lead thee."
Our guard - "When thou sleepest, it shall keep thee."
Our guest - "When thou awakest, it shall talk with thee." (Prov. 6:22).
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 17, 1991, p. 4]

GOD IS STILL LOVE
A man traveling through the country noticed that the weather vane on the roof of a farm building bore the phrase "God is Love". He was troubled about it and asked the farmer, "Do you think God's love is as changeable as that weather vane?"
"You miss the point, sir," replied the farmer. "It's on the weather vane because no matter which way the wind is blowing, God is still love."
(I John 4:16).
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 17, 1991, p. 4]

WRONG POLICY
A farmer's barn burned down, and the insurance agent, explaining the policy that covered the structure, told him that the company, instead of paying cash, would build another barn just like it.
"Well," said the farmer. "If that's the way your company does business, you can cancel the insurance on my wife."
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 17, 1991, p. 4]

EVERYONE NEEDS A LAUGH NOW AND AGAIN
Checking in for a flight from Boston to New Hampshire on a commuter plane, I was surprised that the ticket agent asked me how much I weighed. Once airborne, the tiny ten-passenger craft was tossed around by turbulence. I started to get nervous. Looking for reassurance, I quipped to the man seated behind me, "I lied about my weight."
"Oh, don't worry," he replied. "I fly this route at least three times a week, and just to be safe, I always add ten pounds to my weight for every woman on board."
[by Robin C. Sherwood from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 24, 1991, p. 4]

One Sunday our minister's sermon topic was "thou shalt not steal." He began by asking all those who had stolen something - no matter how insignificant - to raise their hands. Many hands went up, and the pastor himself admitted that he had been guilty. He then preached on the sin of stealing.
The following Sunday, the homily theme was "lying". Our minister began by saying, "Last week, I asked all those who had ever stolen to raise your hands. There were some who didn't. This sermon is for you."
[by Jean Vander Hoek from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 24, 1991, p. 4]

RELIGION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS?
When the U.S. Supreme Court decreed that religion had no place in public education and God was banned from the classroom, Christians across America became highly upset. Now cultic religions have found their way into those schools and the lawmakers are doing nothing about it.

History reveals that this nation and its school system were founded upon God. The early settlers who came here did not seek freedom "from" religion but freedom "of" religion. God was an integral part of their entire lives.

In their school system, the Bible was taught as part of the curriculum, much like it is in Christian schools today. Their children actually were taught to read so they could study the Bible.

The fact that the majority of families believed in God kept Him in the classroom through several generations. Then a minority began voicing their objections to any references to God in the classroom, because they said it violated separation of church and state and that it forced religion upon those who did not believe in God.

Sometime later, the highest court in the land, acceded to the wishes of the minority. Today we have a system that has allowed cultic religions, such as Satanism and witchcraft, to fill the void, regardless of the fact that most families still believe in God.

Because God has been left out, another fast-spreading cult also is prevalent, the New Age Movement. In the August 1987 Focus on the Family magazine, an article entitled "Unplugging the New Age" tells how the movement is making heavy inroads into public education.

According to Dr. David Jeremiah in the Winter 1991 edition of Word of Life magazine, "New Age education is deceptive. Many schools are openly hostile to any influences of traditional Christianity, but accept New Age viewpoints that pose as psychology."

Dr. Jeremiah went on to say that an educator told about "one elementary program called Quieting Reflex and Success Imagery, in which trusting children are psychologically manipulated into involvement with spirit guides, Eastern religion, hypnosis, altered consciousness, and occult activities forbidden to Christians."

The late Beverly Galyean, a recognized "guru" of New Age education, said students need an "expanded view of learning" and explained her theory as follows:

"Once we begin to see that we are all God, that we have the attributes of God, then I think the whole purpose of human life is to re-own the God-likeness within us...(and) create back to that old, that essential oneness which is consciousness."

Dr. Jeremiah further said the "New Age advocates have a blatant desire to reach children; they recognize that social change is best carried out by transforming the young." And, we might add, with our tax dollars.

Parents, you need to protect your children, by asking God to put a hedge around them. As these satanic influences spread to more schools and as their administrations are blinded by what these cults are trying to accomplish, these vulnerable young ones need to have God's protection.

The alternative, of course, is Christian education. In a Christian school, children have the protection they need, and they also receive high quality academic teachings.

Whatever financial sacrifice you must make to keep your children in Christian school will be well worth it. Never let it be said that you could have readjusted your priorities but chose not to.

Teaching our children to center their lives in Christ and outfitting them for the future is our number one mission in life.
[by Paul A. Kienel, Executive Director, Association of Christian Schools International from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 24, 1991, p. 3]

WHAT IS THE CONDITION OF YOUR BIBLE?
Does your Bible sit on a shelf and collect cobwebs? Do you use it more as a paperweight or a coaster than as a source of spiritual nourishment? Does the T.V. Guide get more use in a week than your Bible does in a year?

Perhaps, on the other hand, your Bible looks well-used and comfortably lived in. There are notes in the margins and underlining in the text. The pages have that "handled" look. There are study notes tucked in every nook and corner - written on napkins, and the back of attendance cards, and the inside covers of your Bible. Good! That's how a Bible ought to look.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 24, 1991, p. 3]

IF ONLY
If only I had found Jesus sooner,
If the past I could only recall;
But how thankful I am
For the blood of the Lamb
And the fact that I found Him at all.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 24, 1991, p. 3]

A SNAKE IS ALWAYS A SNAKE
There was a little Indian boy who wanted to climb the tallest mountain so he could see all of the lands. One morning he arose early and set out to challenge the mountain. After a long, hard trip he made it to the top. He felt like he was on top of the world. While he was looking around, he heard a voice. He looked down and there was a snake talking to him. The snake said, "Little boy, would you pick me up and carry me to the bottom of the mountain. I am very old and I could never make it by myself to the bottom." The boy replied, "You are a snake, and if I pick you up, you will bite me." The snake then said, "Please help me, little boy, I promise I won't bite you, I promise." So the little boy reached down, picked up the snake, and carried him down the mountain. All the way down the snake just curled close to the boy as if he were the best friend it had ever had. When they reached the bottom of the mountain, the boy bent over and laid the snake gently down. Almost immediately the snake coiled back and bit him. The little Indian boy started crying and yelling at the snake, saying, "You promised, you promised." The snake stared back at the boy and said, "You knew I was a snake before you picked me up."

If we know from the beginning that a person or a situation might not be the best thing for us, do not get involved. If you do get involved, you have no one to blame except yourself.
[by Brian Beck from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 10, 1991, p. 4]

LIVER AND SIN
A few days ago, I learned that liver and sin have a lot in common. The great event occurred at a local restaurant. The meat on my plate was supposed to be a good ol' country fried steak. It wasn't.

I took just one bite. Never had I tasted anything like it. I instinctively knew as I struggled to swallow that this was the first time and the last time my taste buds would touch liver.

Some may dispute the conclusion that I've now reached, which is that liver and sin have a lot in common. Consider the facts. First, the liver appeared to be a delicious piece of steak - it wasn't. Likewise sin often appears to be something wonderful - it isn't. Appearances are deceiving.

Second, the horrible taste of liver stays with you long after it is swallowed. Likewise, the effects and consequences of sin often times remain with us long after the rebellion has ceased.

Last of all, I'm convinced that most people give liver a try because of peer pressure. (No other possible explanation exists.) Likewise, many other good people give sin a try because of pressure from "friends". When it comes to sin, we must all resist. When it comes to liver, you do what you want. I'll stick with vitamins.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 10, 1991, p. 3]

PSA. 23 - THE DIVINE PERFECTION
1. The Lord is my Shepherd - Perfect salvation.
2. I shall not want - Perfect satisfaction.
3. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures - Perfect rest.
4. He leadeth me beside still waters - Perfect refreshment.
5. He restoreth my soul - Perfect restoration.
6. He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness - Perfect guidance.
7. I will fear no evil - Perfect protection.
8. Thou are with me - Perfect company.
9. Thy rod and thy staff - Perfect comfort.
10. Thou preparest a table - Perfect provision.
11. My cup runneth over - Perfect joy.
12. Goodness and mercy shall follow me - Perfect care.
13. I will dwell forever - Perfect destiny.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 10, 1991, p. 3]

TO FORGIVE IS DIVINE
Two young women are talking together. The first woman, with head hung begins by saying, "I've got something to tell you. When we were talking the other day and I made you a promise, I lied to you. Now I know that this has happened many times before, but I'd like for you to forgive me so we can still be friends." What would you do?
Listen to Matt. 18:21.
Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, was once reminded of an especially cruel thing that had been done to her years before. But Miss Barton seemed not to recall it. "Don't you remember it?" her friend asked. "No," came the reply. "I distinctly remember forgetting the incident." Let's be people who possess forgiving spirits.
[by Glenn Colley from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 10, 1991, p. 3]

WHO IS A CHRISTIAN?
The greatest compliment that can be paid anyone is to say, truthfully, they are a Christian (a follower of Christ). But who is a Christian? How can we identify, or be sure ourselves?

Let us first look at what a Christian is not.
1. Just good morally. All Christians must be good morally, but this does not make one a Christian. Cornelius was a devout, God-fearing man, morally good but not a Christian. (Acts 10:1-5; Acts 10:48). People cannot be a Christian until they obey Christ.
2. Just being religious does not make one a Christian. Those in Athens were very religious (superstitious) but not Christians. (Acts 17:22-31). Many in Acts were very religious people before obeying Christ and becoming Christians.
3. Not all believers are Christians. Some teach salvation by faith only, but in John 12:42-43 we find those that believed but did not confess him. Were they saved? No. James 2:24. We are not justified by faith only.
4. Not all church members are Christians. Many are members of churches whose names and practices are not taught in the Bible. Their practices are contrary to the New Testament order of worship for Christians (Matt. 15:9).

Who is a Christian? He is a new creature in Christ (II Cor. 5:17). He is born of water and the Spirit (John 3:5). He is baptized into Jesus Christ (Rom. 6:3-4). He is alive in Christ since he was raised with Christ. (Col. 4:13). He is delivered from the darkness of sin into the kingdom (Col. 1:13).

A Christian is one that has put off the old man of sin and put on Christ through faith, repentance of sin, confessing Christ and being baptized into Christ. Are you a Christian? (Gal. 3:27).
[by John Griffis, Sr. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 8, 1992, p. 3]

DID SOMEONE WAKE AT DAWN?
Did someone wake at dawn today
And think of me with love, and pray?
I wish I knew!
For in the hour of baffling problems
There came power.
It seemed as if His very wings
Were lifting me above the things
That irritate.
When plans went wrong. I still could smile,
And found a song upon my lips.
With chin held high, I faced my world,
And eye to eye with truth
Moved onward through the day.
Did someone wake at dawn and pray?
I'm sure! I know!
[by Carol McAfee Appleby from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 8, 1992, p. 3]

On a recent radio program, I discussed the nature of the church - that it is saved people, not a building.
A listener later that day said, "Tell them the church is what you have left after the building burns down."
It reminded me of a similar expression: "Education is what stays with you after you forget all the facts you memorized."
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 8, 1992, p. 3]

DON'T STOP!!!
When I was taking lessons to learn to fly an airplane, I learned early in the training that in order to keep it flying you had to keep your speed up. If you don't - down you would come.
Christianity is much like an airplane - When you stop, you drop!
When you stop praying - you go down!
When you stop studying your Bible - you go down!
When you stop attending - you go down!
When you stop being involved - you go down!
When you stop caring - you go down!
And when you crash, the aftermath is awful.
Don't stop - even when you have little things which bug you, big things which plague you, little people and big people who bother you...don't stop! Even when Jesus could no longer carry His cross, He kept going to Calvary. He didn't stop...don't you stop. And one of these days you will finally rest...in Him.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 8, 1992, p. 4]

BUILDING THE BIBLE SCHOOL THROUGH BIBLE STUDY
Because we believe the Bible to be what it claims for itself, namely, the inspired word of God, containing the revelation of His will to man, it should be studied more carefully and prayerfully than any other thing that can occupy our attention. It is our only sure guide through the confusion of this world. It is our only safe instructor of the way to heaven. Yet too many give more time and thought to the reading of the daily news than to a study of God's word.

What are some reasons for diligently studying God's Word?

First, God has commanded it. (II Tim. 2:15). The word "study" if from the Greek word "philotineomi" which means "to be fond of...to be ambitious, to strive earnestly, to make it one's aim" (Thayer).

Second, one must study to be able to answer every man. (Prov. 15:28; Col. 4:6; I Pet. 3:15).

Third, Bible study is essential to growth. (I Pet. 2:2; II Pet. 3:18). God wants us to become a full-grown person in Christ (Eph. 4:13-16). God wants us to become more and more like His Son. (II Cor. 3:18).

Fourth, we need to study the Bible in order to be able to teach others. (Heb. 5:12-14). The early Christians were able to teach others (Acts 8:4). The Romans were...(Rom. 15:14).

Fifth, Bible study is essential to strong faith. (Rom. 10:17). If faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God then faith continues to grow as it continues to feed upon the word of God. One teacher, in a large state university, stated that some young Christians lose their faith because they cease to feed their faith.

Sixth, a number of good things happen to us as we study God's word. It gives us light for the next step. (Psa. 119:105). It imparts unto us life...(John 6:63). The Thessalonians received the word which Paul taught...(I Thes. 2:13).

Bible schools grow numerically and spiritually, when there is diligent study of God's word both in the home and in the Bible classes. Ignorance weakens and destroys (Prov. 24:5; Hosea 4:6; Isa. 5:13). Knowledge, in the Bible, is inseparable connected with freedom from sin (John 8:32); life eternal (John 17:3); faith that saves (Rom. 10:17); God's grace and peace (II Pet. 1:2); all things that have to do with life and godliness (II Pet. 1:30); and escape from the pollutions of the world (II Pet. 2:20).
[by James L. Meadows from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 7, 1993, p. 3]

GIFTS YOU CAN GIVE YEAR ROUND
The gift of praise - Appropriate mention, right in front of the other fellow, of superior qualities or of a job or deeds will done.
The gift of consideration - Putting yourself in the other's shoes and thus providing your genuine understanding of his side of the case.
The gift of concession - Humbly saying at just the right point "I am sorry, you are right and I am wrong."
The gift of gratitude - Never forgetting to say "thank you" and never failing to mean it.
The gift of attention - When the other fellow speaks, listen attentively. If his words are directed to you personally, meet his eyes squarely.
The gift of inspiration - Plant seeds of courage and action in the other person's heart.
The gift of personal presence - In sickness, in trouble, or in great joy, there is nothing quite equal to your personal expression of sympathy or congratulations.
Resolve to give these gifts each day. You will be pleasantly surprised at what you will receive in return.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 7, 1993, p. 3]

MISSING THE POINT
Orville and Wilbur Wright were excited. On December 17, 1903, they had finally succeeded in keeping their homemade airplane in the air for fifty-nine seconds. Immediately they rushed a telegram to their sister in Dayton, Ohio, telling of this great accomplishment.

The telegram read, "First sustained flight today fifty-nine seconds. Hope to be home by Christmas." Upon receiving the news the sister was so excited about the success that she rushed to the newspaper office and give the telegram to the editor. The next morning the newspaper headline read, "Popular Local Bicycle Merchants to be Home for Holidays."

One of the greatest stories of the 20th century was missed because an editor missed the point.

At first I laughed, but then I considered that I have often done the same thing in reading the scriptures. If one is too casual about it, he might learn some truth but miss that which is most important. For years Charles Hodge has been saying, "Familiar scripture should be read more closely." That advice is well worth heeding. But I am convinced that I should read all scripture more closely and let the deep meaning sink into my heart.

The book of Revelation is probably the least understood book of the Bible. We have not been able to see the forest for the trees. We become so entangled with living creatures, seals, horsemen, dragons, numbers, marks and trumpets that we miss the point.

Revelation is a book of imagination. It is built with symbols and vivid imagery. But behind it all is a great truth. God is ruling on his throne. He is in control. And Christians do not have to worry in the midst of persecution and death. We have been given a vision of victory!

Read the Bible. Read it carefully. And do no miss the point.
[by John Gipson from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 7, 1993, p. 4]

DYING TO SELF
When you are forgotten, or neglected, or purposely set at naught, and you don't sting and hurt with the insult or the oversight, but your heart is happy, being counted worthy to suffer for Christ, that is dying to self.

When your good is evil spoken of, when your wishes are crossed, your advice disregarded, your opinions ridiculed, and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart, or even defend yourself, but take it all in patient, loving silence, that is dying to self.

When you lovingly and patiently bear any disorder, any irregularity, any impuncuality, or any annoyance; when you can stand face to face with waste, folly, extravagance, spiritual insensibility, and endure it as Jesus endured it, that is dying to self.

When you are content with any food, any offering, any raiment, any climate, any society, any solitude, any interruption by the will of God, that is dying to self.

When you no longer care to hear yourself in conversation, or to record your won good works, or itch after commendation, when you can truly love to be unknown, that is dying to self.

When you can see your brother prosper and have his needs met, and can honestly rejoice with him in spirit and feel no envy nor question God, while your own needs are far greater and in desperate circumstances, that is dying to self.

When you can receive correction and reproof from one of less stature than yourself, and can humbly submit inwardly as well as outwardly, finding no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart, that is dying to self.
[by Vernon Means from Orange Ave. church of Christ, Eustis, Fla.]

THE GIFTS IN OUR HAND
We often think someone more blest,
If their gifts are more or seem the best.
But the Lord doesn't think like people do,
And He doesn't care if our gifts are few.

His will for us, we must understand,
Is just to use what is in our hand.
And if we bless the way we should,
We will use our gifts for another's good.

So in our hand they cannot stay,
For we have to give them all away.
If given freely from our store,
The Lord will always bless with more.

But if we think our gifts too small,
And fail to bless with them at all,
The Lord will come some future day,
And quickly take our gifts away.

THE SHACKLED SOUL
The one who spends his time, his soul
In search of some too distant goal,
Has lost the good he might have wrought,
And lived all those years for naught.
His shackled soul, no man can free
Because he seeks what cannot be.
[by Frances Barger, 1994]

SELF-SEARCHING QUIZ
Most of all, I desire __
I know that I can __
I wish I would stop __
I worry about __
To me, God is __
I feel close to God when __
My advice to others is __
Spiritually, I __
My own mental splinter is __
I'd like to change __
I am depressed when __
I am happiest when __
I am most inspired by __

HOPE FOR THE HUMAN HEART
1. How well are we teaching about Jesus and his message? (Phili. 2:5)
2. Does Jesus and the time he walked on this earth, understand my need at this present time?
3. Did Jesus live a life of example that would appeal to all classes of people? (John 13:15; Acts 20:35)
4. Do we see faults in others, but fail to see our own? (Matt. 7:3; Luke 6:41)
5. When things go wrong and don't go as we planned, who do we blame?
6. What steps do you take to make right things that are wrong?
7. Does God know how I am living my life? How do I live before my neighbor? (Rom. 10:1-13).
8. Can you describe and tell others about Jesus? (Phili. 3:7-12).
9. Do we limit God's power? How?
10. Are we making a difference in the lives of others? (Gen. 4:9; James 5:19-20).

LET'S GO VISITING
Visit is from the Greek word "episkeptomai". Primarily, to inspect (a late form of episkopeo, to look upon, care for, exercise oversight), signifies
(a) to visit with help, of the act of God, (Luke 1:68, 78; Luke 7:16; Acts 15:14; Heb. 2:6);
(b) to visit the sick and afflicted, (Matt. 25:36, 43; James 1:27);
(c) to go and see, pay a visit to, (Acts 7:23; Acts 15:36);
(d) to look out certain men for a purpose (Acts 6:3)."
Visitation is a part of the pure and undefiled religion (James 1:27). We are to visit
(1) the sick and the afflicted (Matt. 25:36-43);
(2) the fatherless and widows (James 1:27);
(3) to go and "see"..."how they do" (Acts 15:36);
(4) to "look ye out" (visit) individuals for a purpose (Acts 6:3).
Visitation is also translated from the Greek word "historeo" from histor - "one learned in anything; denotes to visit, to become acquainted with" (Gal. 1:18). Visitation from the Greek word episkope denotes visitation whether in mercy (Luke 19:44) or in judgment (II Pet. 2:12). The word bishop or overseer (episkopeo) is translated from the same root word. Episkope is translated "office" in I Tim. 3:1, the office of the bishop or one seeking the office of a bishop. The corresponding verb episkopeo is found in I Pet. 5:2, exercising the "oversight" or "taking the oversight". These passages show that one of the principle obligations of those who have the oversight is visitation - visitation to seek help, to give help, to seek information, and to become acquainted.

Visitation is the church's outreach to others. It is closely associated with evangelism. "Go...preach" (Mark 16:15). Visiting is absolutely essential to carrying out the work of benevolence. (James 1:27). Spiritual members of the church show their spirituality in visiting those overtaken in a fault. (Gal. 6:1). Visitation is important for Christian fellowship. To visit and be visited helps overcome loneliness. God has visited his people in times past (Luke 1:68, 78). He wants his visitation work continued. Christians are to carry on God's work of visitation. God says "Go ye" which means "Go me". Let us all go visit. We appreciate those who visit and a special note of appreciation is due those who take the leadership in this visitation effort. Your care and concern for others will not go unnoticed or unrewarded. Visitation is a work that God wants done!
[by Wallace Maxwell from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Oct. 1, 1995, p. 3]

I CAN'T SEE ANY PURPOSE IN BAPTISM!
Multitudes of people throughout the world are honest and sincere when they make the statement, "I can't see any purpose in baptism!" What is the connection between one's being submerged in water and the saving of a soul from sin? Some have said, "I'd be happy to be baptized if I could see some significance or purpose of baptism.

First of all, we must realize that the great God of heaven would not ask us to do something that has no meaning whatsoever. Since the New Testament has so many references to baptism, such as, Mark 16:15-16; Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; Rom. 6:3-6; Gal. 3:26-27; I Pet. 3:20-21; Eph. 4:5, as well as others, surely there is some significance or purpose in baptism. What is it?

Peter, on the first Pentecost after the resurrection of Christ, in Acts 2, told those enquiring about salvation that they needed to be baptized. Therefore, it is obvious that baptism had significance or purpose to that audience of people. Peter indicated in Acts 2:38 that baptism was for the remission of sins. Remission means the act or process of remitting, and remitting means to release from the guilt or the penalty of sins. Actually, if we had no other verse in all of God's Bible this one should provide sufficient enlightenment, enabling us to realize the purpose of baptism. Baptism is a step or action that man takes if he is to have his sins remitted.

Space will not allow us to deal with all the verses on baptism, but in this article we'll consider enough verses to establish what the purpose of baptism is to man.
(Rom. 6:3-6).

Please notice verse three indicates that baptism puts one into Christ. If we have been baptized into Christ we have put on Christ but if we haven't been baptized into Christ, we haven't put Christ on. The purpose of baptism is to put Christ on! Gal. 3:27 supports and confirms that baptism enables one to put on Christ. Surely we can see that if one has not been baptized he has not put Christ on. He doesn't have Christ. He's not in Christ. Can one go to heaven who is outside of Christ, having never put Christ on? (John 14:6). Eph. 1:3 tells us that all spiritual blessings are in Christ. The purpose of baptism is to get into Christ. Have you done that?

Baptism provides a newness of life. (Rom. 6:4). The purpose of baptism is to provide newness of life. Do you want newness of life? Without baptism it is impossible to have newness of life!
Baptism is in the likeness of His death and the assurance is given that if we baptized in the likeness of His death that we'll be in the likeness of His resurrection!

Finally, in I Pet. 3:21 the purpose of baptism is so clearly stated. Please notice the significance placed on baptism in this verse. Baptism saves! If God were going to tell you that the purpose of baptism is to save you, how would He state it any differently than this verse does?

Perhaps enough has been said in this article to cause you to say, "I can see the purpose or significance of baptism." It is noteworthy to know that baptism in New Testament times was always preceded by faith (Heb. 11:6; Rom. 10:17), repentance (Luke 13:3; Acts 17:30-31), and confession (Rom. 10:10; Matt. 10:32).
[by Demar Elam from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 3, 1995, p. 3]

A WONDERFUL LIFE
Today I'm happy, I can smile.
My heart is joyous all the while,
And I can sing...mile after mile.
You've given me a wonderful life!

You send the sunshine and the rain
And when life's trials bring me pain.
You give me strength to love again.
You've given me a wonderful life!

I have a peace that won't depart.
You've set a rainbow in my heart.
O what a precious Lord thou art!
You've given me a wonderful life!
[by Carol Richardson from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 21, 1995, p. 3]

DARE TO BE DIFFERENT
In the mad rush to keep up with culture, it is easy to compromise. Non-conformity is never an end within itself, but to follow Christ means non-conformity with the world. It is the very nature of things. We are not to "be conformed to this world."
We are God's special people. That makes us different. We are different in our commitment, our morals and our priorities. The world just does not get it. Our distinctiveness is wrapped up in whose we are.
(I Pet. 2:9).
Dare to be different. It reflects the nature of those who are God's children.
[by Jimmy Jividen from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 21, 1995, p. 3]

FOR ALL HIS BLESSINGS
For all His countless blessings
And all His gifts of live,
I owe all things that I possess
To God, the Lord above.

For hope and inner courage
When failure came my way,
And new found faith to carry on
To face another day.

He made my life far brighter
When it seemed so in vain,
He led me on to greater heights
I strove and sought to gain.
[by Harold F. Mohn from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 21, 1995, p. 3]

STEP BY STEP
He does not lead me year by year,
Nor ever day by day;
But step by step my path unfolds,
My Lord directs my way.

Tomorrow's plans I do not know;
I only know this minute.
But he will say, "This is the way,
By faith now walk ye in it."

And I am glad that it is so,
Today's enough to bear,
And when tomorrow comes, his grace
Shall far exceed its care.

What need to worry then, or fret?
The God who gave his Son
Holds all my moments in his hand
And gives them one by one.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 21, 1995, p. 4]

THE BOOK OF ROMANS FOR ADULTS
Rom. 8:38-39 lists ten things that are unable to separate us from God's love. Write them on the lines below.
              _ N _ _ _ _
              _ O _ _ _ _
_ _ _ _ _ _ T _ _ _ _ _
     _ _ _ _ H
               _ I _ _
        _ _ _ N _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
        _ _ _ G _ _
     _ _ _ _ C _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
           _ _ A _ _
_ _ _ _ _ _ N _ _ _ _ _
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 21, 1995, p. 4]

A HAPPY MARRIAGE
The historic little brown church still stands in Iowa and 100's are married there each year. I've read where the preacher has adopted a farewell to remember. After the wedding and they're ready to go, he asks the bride to ring the church bell. She will pull but not be able to ring the large bell. He will ask the groom to help his bride where upon both pulling together the bell rings out the message across the countryside. Then he says, "As you go out into life never forget that as long as you pull together, you can ring the bell."
[by John T. Griffis, Sr. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 4, 1996, p. 3]

THOUGHTS FOR A HAPPIER MARRIAGE
1. Share the day's activities and your hopes for the future. Talk to one another.
2. Meet half way when disagreements arise. Its not who's right but what's right.
3. Share the family finances. Share the spending and the saving. Talk to one another.
4. Be together in discipline and punishment of your children. Talk it over, agree, stick to it. (Eph. 6:1-4; Col. 3:18-21).
5. Remember, small acts of appreciation can be the most effective way to show love and respect.
6. Never forget the commands and ordinances of the Lord (Luke 1:5-6).
7. Never forget God COMMANDS YOU to love one another and tells each one how to accomplish it. (Eph. 5:21-33; Col. 3:18-19; Titus 2; II Pet. 3:13-15).
[by John T. Griffis, Sr. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 4, 1996, p. 3]

SIX DIVORCE MYTHS
(Matt. 19:9).
Myth # 1. The grass is greener outside of my marriage. The conflict you are in may give that impression. That is seldom the case after the divorce. The truth - what looks so green is usually weeds.
Myth # 2. The kids are better off. The truth - Divorce, even under the best of circumstances, has a devastating effect on children. Kids will always want their Mom and Dad to be together.
Myth # 3. I'm justified to divorce because I'm not in love anymore. The world has taken over this person's thinking. The truth - The same God who commanded people to love their enemies will gladly help couples who want to learn to love each other again.
Myth # 4. Divorce will make me happy. Happiness is determined by a person's attitude, not by circumstances. The truth - While some people subsequently come to experience happiness, most experience guilt, loneliness and anxiety.
Myth # 5. Divorce will set me free. There are all kinds of prisons. The truth - Divorce doesn't really free you, it just shackles you in a different way.
Myth # 6. It is God's will for me to divorce. Satan has told that lie millions of times. The truth - God has declared that He hates divorce (Mal. 2:16).
God wants all his children to be happy. More important, God wants all His people to be righteous. God wants all His children to be faithful. God wants all His children to be happy doing His will.
[by Gerald Elliott from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 4, 1996, p. 4]

THE BIBLE IS INSPIRED OF GOD!
(II Tim. 3:16-17). You cannot believe God, Christ or Paul if you cannot believe in inspired scripture, the Bible
The Bible is a reliable, trustworthy historical document.
The Bible is a unity.
The Bible contains prophecy made and fulfilled.
The Bible presents a view of God beyond mere human invention.
The Bible presents a view of the world beyond mere human invention.
The Bible contains true accounts of miracles performed.
The Bible presents an ethical standard beyond mere human invention.
The Bible presents a mission, authority, message, and commission for Jesus which are beyond mere human invention.
Therefore, the Bible is the inspired and authoritative revelation of God to man.
Many modernists and skeptics have attacked the inspiration of the Bible. Many religious leaders have rejected the inspiration of the Bible. There is nothing new. God was rejected time after time in the Old Testament, but he is still God. Many rejected and crucified Jesus, but he is still the Christ, the Son of the living God.
(John 14:6-7.) You can only come to God by Jesus' way, Jesus' truth, Jesus' life, and that is the Bible. There is not a number of different ways as the "religious world" teaches, and would have us believe. There is only one way! Jesus' way, and the only place to find it is in His Word, the Bible. (John 12:48-50; Heb. 1:1-2).
To reject the Bible as the inspired word of God is to call God a liar. With this in mind, let us read it daily, reverently, prayerfully, slowly, and carefully. (Rev. 1:3).
[by John T. Griffis, Sr. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 11, 1996, p. 3]

HE WHO READETH
A few years ago, the late brother Guy N. Woods told of a minister who called for the removal of the Bible from his congregation for a period of six months. Recently, I received an e-mail in which the writer expressed the view that the public reading of scripture was boring and that he did not get anything out of it. Those who once simply ignored the reading of scripture evidently feel that they can now challenge whether or not it is read at all; apathy has become disdain. Moreover, it is a mark of apostasy that some in positions of leadership in the church desire to limit another's reading of the scripture. At the high point of Roman Catholicism, Bibles were chained to pulpits and access was limited to few.

Contrary to this attitude, a blessing is pronounced upon those who read the scriptures. One such beatitude is found in Rev. 1:3. Here, the full spectrum of scripture reading is detailed: reading, listening, and doing. Those at Berea were considered...(Acts 17:11). Such a singular blessing should encourage every congregation to follow the Berean's example.

Moreover, the Bible is replete with language that encourages not only reading, but intensive study of the scriptures. In Deut. 6:7 we read of the intensity with which God encouraged the Israelites to ingrain the scriptures into the minds of their youth. In the Pulpit Commentary, W.L. Alexander writes concerning this statement: "...literally, Thou shalt sharpen them to the children, impress them upon them, send them into them like a sharp weapon." This is the force of the word diligent in this passage. In Psa. 1:2, we read of the intensity with which an individual is to study the scriptures. The Hebrew word "meditate" connotes a sound that is deep, recurring, and constant. This illustrates the uninterrupted pensiveness of one whose "delight is in the law of the Lord." Too, II Tim. 2:15 impresses upon us the importance of handling scripture correctly. The desired student is a worker - one devoted to a task - who has been tested and approved.

The blessings associated with reading the scriptures do not come from a casual glance. Like anything, with hard work and dedication, comes an appreciation and understanding of that to which one devotes himself. And regarding those who would stifle the reading or studying of the scriptures, whether public or private, it is no secret that ignorance breeds contempt.
[by Kevin Cauley from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 18, 1996, p. 3]

CHARACTER DEFINED: "WHAT IS A MAN IN THE DARK?"
There is a story of a country superintendent of education who had three applications to fill one vacancy among school bus drivers. He devised this scheme for selecting the proper man.

The superintendent took the first applicant to a sharp curve on a steep grade along the road and asked, "How close can you drive the bus to the edge of the road on the curve without going over the cliff with the children?"

The interested driver looked and replied, "I believe I can go within two inches of the cliff and still be safe."

The second person who had applied for the job heard the same proposition. He checked the curve and told the superintendent, "I believe I can drive within one inch of the edge and not go over the precipice."

When the superintendent took the third driver to the same highway scene and made the same proposition to him, the applicant immediately asked: "Do you think I'm crazy? I'm not interested in seeing how close I can get to the edge with the bus. I'll be trying to see how far I can keep away from the danger line with the bus." He received the job.

There is a borderline between the church and the world for the Christian. The church means "the called out from the kingdom of sin." (I John 2:15).

One who seeks to stay just as near the world of sin as possible, and still follow Christ, has the wrong attitude. An individual, as the driver, should stay just as far away from sin as possible. (Rom. 12:9).
[by B.C. Goodpasture from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 18, 1996, p. 4]

FAMILY GOALS
A family without goals is like a sailboat without a sail. Successful parents are goal setters, and then they work constantly to reach their goals. The number one goal for your family should be spirituality. You need this as a goal because it is not easy to be strong spiritually. There are many forces constantly trying to pull us away from spirituality. To combat these strong forces you must set spiritual goals, just like you set financial goals, and goals in other areas of your life. Set a goal to become a true Christian father, mother, or child, and then become more spiritual every day you live. If you are a parent, set the right example before your family. You can't fool kids! If your consuming interest is financial, with a dash of spirituality thrown in here and there, they know exactly what is going on. Your Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes and spiritual tones will not cover up your real interests in life. They stand out like technicolor to the all discerning eyes of your children. Your consuming interest as a Christian should be doing God's will and all of your financial endeavors should be a part of this big picture. It is so easy for finances to become the big picture, and spirituality only a brush stroke in the corner of the scene. (I Pet. 2:21). If we are true disciples of Jesus, we should always remember He lived to do His Father's will. This is what we should live for, and communicate to our children by word and example. A preacher wrote," People look at me six days a week to see what I mean on the seventh." Parents, your children do this every week you live, and there is no way you can escape it. (II Tim. 3:14). Example is the most powerful way we assure our children the things we have taught them are true. If there is no example, no practice of the principles taught, we can't expect these principles to be scotched for a lifetime in the minds of our precious children.

Benjamin Franklin wanted to interest the people of Philadelphia in street lighting. He didn't try to persuade them merely by talking about it; instead, he hung a beautiful lantern on a long bracket before his own door. Then he kept the glass brightly polished, and carefully lit the wick every evening at the approach of dusk. It wasn't long before Franklin's neighbors began placing lights on brackets in front of their homes, and soon the entire city awoke to the value of street lighting. If you want your children to do something in the area of spirituality, do it before them, and they will usually do it too, either sooner or later. (Prov. 22:6).
[by David Macy from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 19, 1995, p. 3]

EXCUSES
Those who have been preaching for any length of time can give experiences they have had with "brethren" who offer excuses as to why they are not attending the various services of the church or engaging in the various activities of the congregation. These are anything from legitimate to "my cat was sick and I had to stay home with him."

The problem lies not so much in the excuse itself as it does in the more severe problem of attitude toward God and His cause. It is usually not that one could not have attended or worked so much as it is that one just did not want to work nor attend!

One thing we are encouraged to do is to...(II Pet. 3:18). However, I am at a loss to understand how it is possible for one to achieve a higher level of growth in the Lord, by not attending nor engaging in the activities of the church. Yea, the opposite must be true! In fact, experience with those who have made excuses over the years as to why they are not more "faithful" to the Lord, points out the fact that one has not grown in Christ.

The scriptures point out that as one "willfully forsakes the assembling" together, other things are also involved. Notice for example that in Heb. 10:29, one who has done so "hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant wherewith he hath been sanctified an unholy thing and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace."

The seriousness of those things can not be minimized! We are also told that "...God spared not the angels that sinned..." That being true, who are we to think that we shall be held unaccountable who have sinned today?

Yes, the problem of forsaking the assembling of ourselves is a much deeper problem and we are always dealing with the problem rather then that which has caused it. There is no doubt that if we loved the Lord like we should, there would be no problem with attendance! Jesus said...(John 14:15).

Our aim this year is to come alive and this can only be done if we all do our best to improve our spiritual side of this life. If we fall into the excuse trap, we cannot come alive, but rather we will fade. It is the personal duty of each to gain a better relationship of his fellow Christian here and then we will be in a better position to gain a better relationship with the fellow Christians in our eternal home in heaven.
[from The Informer, Vero Beach, Fla., vol. 7, no. 9, Mar. 5, 1975, p. 2]

WHAT IS PERSONAL WORK?
1. It is discussing Christianity with a friend.
2. It is giving him an article on a particular subject.
3. It is telling and showing your neighbor the happiness of being a Christian.
4. It is inviting the postman to worship with you.
5. It is ringing doorbells in the name of Christ.
6. It is teaching or hosting a cottage class.
7. It is visiting in the home of a student in your Bible class.
8. It is gathering the neighborhood children into your home for a Bible class.
9. It is bringing a friend to a Bible class.
10. It is telling your employer about Jesus.
11. It is planting the Word in someone's heart.
12. It is any deed that shows the love of God working through you.
[from The Informer, Vero Beach, Fla., vol. 7, no. 9, Mar. 5, 1975, p. 1]

BEFORE THEY CALL
Isa. 65 is a most interesting passage. It is messianic in nature with verse one being quoted in Rom. 10 with reference to the acceptance of the Gentiles into Christianity. It was written at a time when the future of the nation of Israel was bleak indeed. This chapter calls them...(Isa. 65:4-5). The only thing that lay ahead of much of the nation was a cruel oppression and bondage in Babylon. God said...(Isa. 65:12). They had forgotten God and such could not go unnoticed.

They might have cried out to God, but because of their sins these prayers could not be answered. Note the words of Isaiah...(Isa. 59:1-2).

With all this in the background the words of Isa. 65:4 become even sweeter. God spoke of the return from captivity and the blessing that awaited them when Immanuel came, "And it shall come to pass, that before they call I will answer". Before they call! God's promise to us that He is so concerned about us that He sees our needs even before we do and works to meet them even before we ask! Sin causes His face to turn from us, but righteousness insures that He is working to help us even before we call.
[by Dan Jenkins from The Light, Arlington, McMinnville, Tenn., p. 2]

A TRAGIC STORY
Ages 0-6 years: "Let's stay home from church today. The children are fussy and won't behave properly. This afternoon they'll probably be feeling better and then we can go for a ride or go to the park."

Ages 6-12: "Let's not go to church tonight. Remember, tomorrow's another school day and the children need their rest. We went this morning, besides too much church can be boring to anybody. Anyway, there is a good movie on TV tonight that we can all watch. There are so few of that kind around these days."

Ages 12-18: "Dear, Johnny and Janie don't want to go to church today. Don't you think they will rebel at church if we make them go? Their psychiatrist says that this is just normal and they'll outgrow it and we should allow them to express themselves."

Ages 18 and up (or sooner): "But Officer, that couldn't be our Johnny and Janie that you have in jail! They were raised in the church! There must be some mistake!" There was!
(Prov. 22:6).
[from The Informer, Vero Beach, Fla., vol. 5, no. 7, Feb. 14, 1973, p. 1]

$10,000 REWARD
"I was the instrument in God's hand to bring this one to Christ." How many times would you affirm this statement if this church paid $10,000 for every soul won for Christ? This church does not offer $10,000 reward for souls saved. But God offers you far more than a measly $10,000. (Dan. 12:3).
[from The Informer, Vero Beach, Fla., vol. 5, no. 7, Feb. 14, 1973, p. 2]

MY FRIENDS ARE THIEVES
The title introduced an article in a national magazine. It startled me. I read further. The author was an accountant. He wrote: "I didn't know until recently that some of my best friends are thieves! That includes a minister, a young married couple, a single laborer, and others. I hadn't known it until I made out their income tax reports a few days ago. Their "offerings" in no way reflected God's generous blessings to them - not even 5% was returned to God."
What is your income?
Your church contribution?
What percent is this?
God sent us to this world to make a life. Too many times too many of us lose sight of this in our mad rush to make a living. It is also true we are to make a life. Let us not spoil the one in seeking to gain the other.
[from The Informer, Vero Beach, Fla., vol. 5, no. 7, Feb. 14, 1973, p. 2]

THE FLEA AND THE ELEPHANT
A flea and an elephant walked side by side over a bridge. Said the flea to the elephant, after they had crossed: "Boy, we sure did shake that thing." This story reminds us of some of the members of the church. They ride the wagon while others push, criticize while others try, are light as a feather when weighted in the balances, and then brag, "Boy, look what we did!" Are you a flea or an elephant when it comes to working in this church?
[from The Informer, Vero Beach, Fla., vol. 5, no. 7, Feb. 14, 1973, p. 4]

BE FRIENDLY
More than once I have heard it said, "They are not friendly." We know many times the one saying this is to blame. Sometimes it is true. Do every thing you can to make this untrue of this church. It costs nothing to be friendly. And it pays great dividends. Go out of your way to speak to the one you don't know. Don't just stand in front of the building talking to your close friend.
[from The Informer, Vero Beach, Fla., vol. 5, no. 7, Feb. 14, 1973, p. 4]

THE JERICHO ROAD
We are all travellers on the Jericho road. We are our brother's keeper. What hurts one hurts all of us. What concerns one concerns all. Help the traveller that needs help. Make the Jericho road safe for others who must travel this road.
[from The Informer, Vero Beach, Fla., vol. 5, no. 7, Feb. 14, 1973, p. 4]

MAKE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS RIGHT [true or false]
1. T F There are no happy hermits.
2. T F God gave us things to use and people to love.
3. T F You can only be loved to the extent that you are known.
4. T F When we love a person, we actually love their spirit.
5. T F Most wives would rather have a $3000 ring from their husbands instead of a plaque inscribed with a poem he had written to her.
6. T F People will lie to you, cheat you, hurt and betray you.
7. T F A person with few or no friends is more likely to live longer than a person with a lot of friends.
8. T F God gave us the church to be our extended family, a place to belong.
9. T F We sin if we do not love each other.
10. T F People are spirits poured into human molds for a time.
11. T F Our relationships extend to the whole world.
12. T F God makes his appeal of reconciliation through us.

KEEP COOL, EVEN WHEN YOU'RE HOT
Physical effects of anger on the body:
1. Upsets digestion, causing ulcers
2. Causes blood vessels to constrict, high blood pressure
3. Eyes dilate
4. Stops logical thinking
5. Stomach aches, nausea

Emotional effects of anger:
1. Causes illness
2. Breaks down relationships between friends and relations

Ways to handle anger and prevent it:
1. Put it to work.
2. Write it down.
3. Control your tongue.
4. Delay the explosion by counting to 10.
5. Report feelings of anger.
6. Make a no-hurt contract.
7. Look for the positive side, express it in a positive way.
8. Use it to fight injustices.
9. Handle one anger at a time.

FIVE WAYS TO PROMOTE SELF-ESTEEM IN YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY
Overview:

1.	Definition and importance of self-esteem
2.	Development of self-esteem
3.	Five components of self-esteem
4.	Promoting positive self-esteem
I.	Definition and importance of self-esteem
	A.	Definition - The degree to which our evaluation of ourselves is positive or negative.
	B.	Importance - The importance of self-esteem is best seen by examining the consequences of a negative self-esteem. These consequences include:
		1.	Increased risk for psychological disorders such as depression or anxiety.
		2.	Poor performance at school and work.
		3.	Formation and continuation of unhealthy relationships.
II.	Development of Self-esteem
	A.	External to Internal -
		1.	From infancy through adolescence, our judgment of ourselves changes from what others tell us about ourselves to what we tell ourselves about ourselves.
		2.	This internalization occurs over a period of time but starts to crystallize in middle childhood.
	B.	General to Specific to General -
		1.	During childhood, our judgment of ourselves changes from a singular global evaluation to more diversified ratings across different areas.
		2.	As we move into later childhood, we develop multiple self-esteems.
		3.	However, there remains a nonspecific overall appraisal of our worthiness underlying this transition.
III.	Five Components of Self-esteem
	A.	Self-Worth - How valuable am I?
	B.	Self-Confidence - How well will I be able to meet life's demands?
	C.	Self-Acceptance - How well can I accept my human condition including my weaknesses?
	D.	Self-Respect - How well do I treat myself?
	E.	Self-Control - How well am I able to control my desires?
IV.	General Promotion of Positive Self-esteem
	A.	The Importance of Parenting.
		1.	Three parenting types -
			a.	Authoritarian (Drill Sgt.) - High expectations, harsh consequences, limited nurturing.
			b.	Permissive - (Anything goes) Few rules, few consequences, abundant nurturing.
			c.	Authoritative - (Shepherding) - High expectations, appropriate consequences, abundant nurturing.
		2.	One model for a healthy family life involves the concept of the family bank.
	B.	The Family Bank.
		1.	Each family is like a bank in which we make deposits and withdrawals.
		2.	Deposits include praise, attention, affection, privileges, and rewards.
		3.	Withdrawals include setting limits, restrictions, criticism, and punishment.
		4.	It takes multiple deposits to offset one withdrawal.
		5.	When withdrawals are made continually without a sufficient balance, family bankruptcy occurs.
	C.	Increasing Deposits.
		1.	4:1 concept.
		2.	"Catching a child being good".
		3.	Creating opportunities for children to engage in positive behavior.
	D.	Making Withdrawals.
		1.	Limits are well-defined, monitored, and enforced.
		2.	Correction is immediate and appropriate.
V.	Specific Promotion of Positive Self-esteem
	A.	Self-Worth - What is the basis of our worthiness?
		1.	We are valuable because we are created in the image of God.
		2.	Psa. 139:14.
	B.	Self-Confidence -
		1.	Experiences are constructed for children which are challenging yet accomplishable.
		2.	Determining my children's strengths (not what I want my children's strengths to be) and encouraging these strengths.
	C.	Self-Acceptance -
		1.	Reacting reasonably to a child's mistakes.
		2.	Separating the person from the behavior.
	D.	Self-Respect -
		1.	Physical self-respect involves respect for my body.
		2.	Emotional self-respect involves talking nicely to myself and refraining from self-depreciating comments.
		3.	Interpersonal self-respect entails not involving myself in relationships which are destructive.
	E.	Self-Control -
		1.	Appropriate gratification - I don't always get what I want.
		2.	Delayed gratification - I don't always get things when I want them.
		3.	One downfall of permissive parents is that they fail to engender self-control in their children.

Conclusion: (II Tim. 1:7).
[by R. Christopher Qualls, Ph.D.]

I MUST GO SHOPPING
I must go shopping. I am completely out of generosity and want to get some. I also want to exchange the self-satisfaction that I picked up the other day for some real humility; they say it wears better.
I want to look for tolerance, which is worn as a wrap this season. I saw some samples of kindness, and I'm a little low on that right now; one can't get too much of it.
I must try to match some patience. I saw it on a friend and it was so becoming. I must remember to get my sense of humor mended and keep my eyes open for inexpensive goodness.
Yes, I must go shopping today.
[from Orange Ave. Church of Christ [bulletin], Aug. 8, 1993, p. 2]

THE SECRET SERVICE
I recently read of an ad placed in a certain newspaper's classified offering a "retired" police dog for sale at $25. A woman who lived alone thought a police dog might make a good watchdog, as well as a companion. She quickly called the police station and sent for her dog. Later, a police officer delivered a mangy, scroungy, pitiful looking creature. When the woman protested the dog's appearance and said that she wanted a dog to guard her house, the officer replied, "Now, ma'am, don't let this dog's looks deceive you. He's in the "secret service."

When it comes to being a real Christian, there is no such thing as secret service. True, we are not to put on a show or serve God to be seen of men, but we are to...(Matt. 5:16). I wonder though, how many live and act as if they were in some kind of secret service. What kind of light is shining when their attendance for worship is so spasmodic? Their participation in Bible classes or the Sunday/Wednesday night services is even more irregular. Brethren, serving God is serious business! Have you been treating it lightly? Then repent and renew your dedication to the Lord and his work.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Aug. 1, 1993, p. 3]

MY HAND
Should you need a hand to hold.
Mine is there with you.
Not that it will heal the hurt,
But it may help you through.
It's yours to tightly cling to,
And let you know I care...
So should you need a hand to hold,
Remember...mine is there.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Aug. 1, 1993, p. 4]

GOD IS GREAT
While browsing through Virgil Trout's book Think!, my attention fell on a page entitled "Daring to Face the Giants." Brother Trout wrote, "When David went to meet Goliath, he did not reckon with the size of the one in front of him. Instead he recognized the size of the one behind him." This is a great lesson for everyday life. My giants are not from Gath, rather they take the form of discouragement, fear, uncertainty, and the like. But, like David, all I need to do is to remember the power of my God. It isn't the size of the obstacle in front of us but the size of the God behind us that counts.
[by John T. Smithson from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 18, 1993, p. 3]

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
How long can a camel go without water? I read the other day where a tour guide in Israel asked a tour group this question. Some said, "Two weeks."
The guide said, "That's what most people think. Actually, a camel can go all his life without water. Of course, if he doesn't get water in two weeks, that is all of his life!"
How long can a Christian go without singing? How long can one go without prayer? Bible study? The Lord's Supper? Worship?
The answer, of course, is all your life. But, if these things are not done often, that will be all of your spiritual life.
How long can you go without these things? Answer: all your spiritual life.
[by Roger Johnson from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 18, 1993, p. 3]

TV: MIRROR AND MOLD
I turned on the TV looking for Good Morning America. Instead, the Psychic Network was on, with a popular singer giving an introduction about a psychic who predicted disaster over the telephone to one of her "friends" who pays $3.99 per minute for the advice of his "psychic friend."

As I passed through the house that afternoon, Oprah Winfrey was featuring a gay couple who had artificially inseminated a surrogate mother and were having "a child of their own."

The cops and robbers show at 9:00 p.m. featured a gay cop who was abandoned by his hard-hearted and Bible-quoting fellow officers. They were finally indicted by the testimony of a fellow officer who "came out of the closet" and admitted he was gay.

Once I saw that plot, I changed the channel to Star Trek. Surely, some solace here. A unique species was on the ship, and one of them had fallen for one of the male officers on the Enterprise. It seemed that one their planet they were all unisex, and when he/she revealed his/her affection, it was bad. People on his/her planet were ashamed of any definite sexual leanings - if they had any. The parallels to the so-called oppressed homosexual minority in our land won out again.

The Congressional hearings about gays in the military; the news show; the gay march on Washington. All this took place in less than one hour of television viewing, and I haven't even mentioned Entertainment Tonight.
Television both mirrors public opinion and shapes public opinion. In the days of Noah...(Gen. 6:5). How far do we have to go?
[by Tom Steed from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 18, 1993, p. 3]

LORD, USE ME
To what avail have I lived my life
If I've held aloof from my neighbor's strife?
I might have loved and lifted up;
I might have sweetened the bitter cup;
I might have lightened another's load.
I might have shortened a weary road;
I might have staid the hopeless tears
I might have eased the empty years;
I might have cared what another does,
I might have - but I didn't for I was too busy.
How much better for me to say,
Let me be spent in a fuller way;
Today, let me do the best I can
To ease the way for my fellow man.
Let me lend my strength to the sin-sick soul.
Let me mend the broken and make them whole,
Let me listen, and soothe the wayward heart.
Let me unite in love those drawn apart.
Let me brighten the lonely, sunset years;
Let me ease the ache and bitter tears
Lord, use me.
[from Orange Ave. Church of Christ [bulletin], 1993, p. 4]

WHAT IS A FATHER?
A father is someone who makes you happy just by coming home from work.
A father is someone you love to see go to the grocery store with your mom because he always brings home more goodies.
A father is someone who thinks (and can almost convince you) that you're the most beautiful girl in the world even when the kids at school are calling you "grill mouth", "four eyes", or "freckle face".
A father is someone who is always available when you need to talk.
A father is someone you can tell all about your date - even if he is trying to listen to the eleven o'clock news.
A father is someone who disappears when you feel the need for privacy.
A father is someone who lets you know he is concerned about you - not the dented car fender.
A father is someone you can drag out of an important meeting with a long distance call from college - and he'll take time to help you balance your check book. And of course, you called "collect"!
A father is someone who gives you away to another man - knowing your new provider can't take care of you quite as well as he always has.
A father is someone who makes a room warmer and everyone happier just because he's there.
A father is someone who expects no more of others then he is willing to give himself.
A father is someone a daughter (or son) is never, never ready to say goodbye to - even for a short time.
[from Orange Ave. Church of Christ [bulletin], June 20, 1993, p. 3]

A FATHER'S TEN PRECEPTS
1. He makes himself responsible for his children's behavior.
2. He is never blinded by love from recognizing and correcting his child's weakness.
3. He makes his child feel secure.
4. He shares in his child's activities.
5. He has his child's complete confidence.
6. He always is available to help solve youthful problems.
7. He doesn't demand filial devotion - he wins it.
8. He recognizes and accepts as his the responsibility for his child's mental and spiritual development.
9. He contributes to making the home the child's haven.
10. He strives to be honest with his children.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 11, 1993, p. 4]

THE KIND OF DAD I'D BUY
If I went shopping for a man to be my Dad, here is what I'd buy:
One who would always stop to answer a little boy's "Why?"
One who would always speak kindly to a little girl or boy,
one who would give a bit of sunshine or joy.
I'd pick a Dad that followed the Bible's Golden Rule,
and one who went regularly to church and Bible School.
I'd buy the very finest Dad to place in our family tree -
and then I'd try to live like him, so he'd be proud of me.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 11, 1993, p. 4]

NO FATHER'S DAY CARD THIS YEAR
The telephone rang in the night. As always, a moment of fear gripped me. My husband answered, talked briefly, and hung up. He walked with leaded steps to the bed.
"It's your dad, Honey. He's gone," he whispered.
"Oh, no!" I cried. "Not Dad! I just said good-bye to him three days ago."
Soon we were on our way through the cold December night to my home in Indiana we had left only three days previously.
Dad gone? No, it cannot be, I told myself. I'll wake up soon. My tall, laughing dad, who had never been sick a day in his life? It just cannot be!
Yet all too soon I was to stand beside the casket and look into the face of my handsome dad. He who had worked so hard for his family! He was so proud of us all. Why, we were his very life! But as I looked at his hands - his calloused hands - I realized that life had been mostly work.
We laid him to rest in the peaceful valley he had always loved. It is surrounded by his beloved hills. But as I looked out over the graves I wondered how many here were taken for granted?
Oh, yes, I loved my dad. I just never told him often.
He was handsome, but I never told him; generous, but I never mentioned it. He regularly supported a school for the blind, but I never complimented him on it. He had a good job and enjoyed it. The men looked up to him and counted on him, but I never bothered to brag on him.
He loved his family ad let everyone know it. He was behind his boys in any new business venture. He was free with his money to many churches. He lived for us all. Yet in my day-by-day, selfish thinking about me and mine, I let time slip by and left words unsaid.
Now I no longer have the privilege of picking out a Father's Day card or a birthday card. I can no longer wander through the stores wondering what Dad would like for Christmas.
I will never again have the privilege of walking out in the backyard to see his latest dog. I will never again hear one of his jokes as only he could tell them.
"O Lord," I prayed, as the shock began to wear off and I began to feel the grief, "why did I take him for granted? Why did not I take more time for talking, for hearing of his dreams and plans? Why, oh, why did I leave so much unsaid?"
Perhaps I can try to warn others. Lord help me to tell others not to take their loved ones for granted.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 11, 1993, p. 3]

TRUE CHRISTIANITY MEANS...
Serve, even when we are not being served...
Love, even when we may not be loved...
Help, even when we have not been helped...
Give, even when we have not received...
Please, even if others do not please us.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 20, 1992, p. 3]

ARE YOU DEPRIVING YOURSELF?
The Bible must always be at the heart of our preaching, teaching, and way of living. If the scriptures do not guide our lives, we have no guide better than ourselves. No human document can compare in the least with the Word of God.
Woodrow Wilson is reported to have said, "We have deprived ourselves of the best there is in the world if we deprive ourselves of a knowledge of the Bible." There is no comparison: the Bible is the best guide and the Believer's life is the best guided. Don't be deprived of the Bible's rich blessings. Read it daily. Study it often.
[by James Haney from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 20, 1992, p. 3]

TEENAGERS SPEAK OUT
A national survey examines adolescent spirituality.
At the eighth annual Conference on Youth and Family Ministry, Drs. David Lewis and Carley Dodd presented the findings of their latest research in adolescent spirituality. This year's conference, entitled "The Many Faces of Christ," revealed the results of a nationwide survey of teenagers in churches of Christ. Respondents included youth from all 50 states and 8 foreign countries, and ranged from 5th graders through college students.

Among the findings:
* 91% said that Christ is extremely or very important in their personal future.
* The average age at baptism was 12.4.
* 45% of those who are high school graduates have left the church.
* 43% indicated that they receive less than 1 hour per week of focused attention from their father.
* 77% are virgins.
* 85% abstain from alcohol and 98% abstain from drugs.

The research uncovered the following two lists of desired changes in parents. For more information about the complete study, contact Lewis and Dodd at Abilene Christian University, Abilene, Texas 79699.

Desired changes in Father.
1. Availability - I wish he could spend more time with me.
2. Self-control - I wish he could get a grip on his anger and temper outbursts.
3. God-oriented - I wish he cared about spiritual matters more than his career.
4. Vulnerability - I wish he could be more honest about his past and also about his present. It would make us closer.
5. Accepting of me as a person - I wish he would like me for who I am and not just what I can do athletically, etc.
6. Genuine - I wish he wouldn't be so superficial when it comes to talking about topics like sexuality and alcohol/drug use.
7. Boldness with faith - I wish he were not so embarrassed to talk openly about his own Christian commitment.
8. Confidence in God and me - I wish he were more confident about my making good decisions and God's taking care of me.
9. Respectful - I wish he would listen first to my opinions and needs before making up his mind or jumping to conclusions.
10. Approachable - I wish he could make me feel safe and comfortable in sharing my real struggles with him.

Desired changes in Mother.
1. Open - I wish she would be more open about her own past, especially her teen relationships with boyfriends, mother, etc.
2. Loosen up - I wish she would lighten up as I get older and allow me to make many of my own decisions.
3. Confidence in God - I wish she trusted the Lord more to take care of me and not spend so much time worrying.
4. Let go - I wish she wasn't holding on so tightly to me and would realize that the older I get the less I need her rules.
5. Energetic - I wish she weren't so tired at the end of each day and had time for me and my problems.
6. Confidence in me - I wish she would realize that I need privacy; she's too nosy.
7. Moodiness - I wish she weren't so moody and temperamental.
8. Music tolerance - I wish she understood how important music is to me and not try to interfere with my musical tastes.
9. Communicative - I wish that she were easier to talk to and would spend more time listening to me than talking to me.
10. Accepting - I wish she could accept my friends and care more about what I think than about what her friends think.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 20, 1992, p. 3]

PLEASE, GOD, GIVE US MEN
Give us men with eyes to see
Visions as they ought to be;
Men who champion the right,
Men with courage wrong to smite;
Men with boldness to begin
Men who dare to fight and win;
Men who will not stoop to wrong,
Or to please the lauding throng;
Men who'd perish with the just
Ere they'd violate their trust,
Who the hosts of sin defy
Holding Christ's own banner high!
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 20, 1992, p. 4]

Many parents are hard put to explain to their youth why some music, movies, books, games and magazines are not acceptable material for them to bring into the home. One parent came up with an original idea that was hard to refute. He listened to all the reasons his children gave for wanting to see a particular PG-13 movie. It had their favorite actors. Everyone else was seeing it. Even church members said it was great. It was only rated PG-13 because of the suggestion of sex. They never really showed it. The language was pretty good. They only used the Lord's name in vain three times in the whole movie. The video effects were fabulous and the plot was action packed. Yes, there was the scene where a building and a bunch of people got blown up, but the violence was just the normal stuff. It wasn't very bad. Even with all these explanations for the rating, the father wouldn't give in. He didn't even give them a satisfying explanation for saying, "No." He just said, "No."

It was a little bit later that evening, that this same father asked his teens if they would like some brownies he had prepared. He explained that he had taken the families favorite recipe and added something new. They asked what it was. He calmly replied that he had added dog poop. He stated that it was only a little bit. All the other ingredients were gourmet quality. He had taken great care to bake it at the precise temperature for the exact time. He was sure the brownies would be superb. Even with all the explanations of the perfect attributes of the brownies, the teens would not take one.

The father acted surprised. There was only one little element that would have caused them to act so stubbornly. He assured them that they would hardly notice it if at all. They all held firm and would not try the brownies.

He then explained that the movie they wanted to see was just like the brownies. Satan tries to enter our minds and our homes by deceiving us into believing that just a little bit of evil won't matter. With the brownies, just a little bit makes all the difference between a great brownie and a totally unacceptable product. He explained that even though the movie people would have us believe the movies which are coming out are acceptable for adults and youths to see, they are not. (Test your movie and see. Would you be comfortable taking Christ with you to see the movie?)

Now when this father's youth want to do something or see something they should not, the father merely asks them if they would like some of his special dog poop brownies and they never ask about that item again.

CLEANSE YOUR TEMPLE
The prayer "closet" Jesus referred to isn't just a special location, it is also the pray-er himself.
In John 2:13-16 see how the first public act regarding the nature worship was carried out. What did Jesus do?
How does Jesus expect us to worship God? (John 4:24).
What sign did Jesus use to show that what He did was God's will? (John 2:19).
What temple was He speaking of? (John 2:21).
When did the disciples fully understand what Jesus was talking about? (John 2:22).
All through Jesus' ministry, He preached, prayed, and wept over Jerusalem. At the very end of His ministry, He came again to Jerusalem. What happened when he returned? (Matt. 21:9-10).
Did the Jews truly know who Jesus was? (Matt. 21:11).
The real character of Him who cometh in the name of the Lord was more insightfully revealed when He once again cleansed the temple. (Matt. 21:10-13).
When Jesus cleansed the temple the second time, He announced the methodology for cleansing: the true believer must himself become a house of prayer. (Matt. 21:13).
Remember when Jesus cleansed the temple the first time, He prophecied that if He ("this temple") were destroyed, He would be raised. (John 2:19-21).
Accordingly, as Jesus spoke of Himself as a temple - a house of prayer, His challenge is the same for all Christians (John 3:5 states we are born again of water and of spirit) we all should learn how to be like Christ and become a "house of prayer".
What did Paul remind the Corinthians in I Cor. 3:16?

BEATITUDES FOR TEACHERS
1. Blessed are the teachers who set a good example before their students in all things; for they are worthy members of a great calling.
2. Blessed are the teachers who know their subject well; for their students shall learn much.
3. Blessed are the teachers who convey to their students that which they have learned; for this is the true nature of teaching.
4. Blessed are the teachers who strive to understand their students; for they will be able to comfort and guide them.
5. Blessed are the teachers who make provision for difference in individuals, for their students will rise up and praise them for their understanding.
6. Blessed are the teachers who make their work interesting and profitable, for they shall attract many into their classes.
7. Blessed are the teachers who exhibit self-control; for they shall influence their students to do likewise.
8. Blessed are the teachers who plan their work wisely, for their students shall be led to more successful understanding.
9. Blessed are the teachers who use a variety of methods; for their classes do not become dull and boring.
10. Blessed are the teachers who maintain good classroom order, for they are leading their students toward self-discipline.
11. Blessed are the teachers who are fair and impartial in evaluating students' work; for they shall enjoy the respect and loyalty of their students.
12. Blessed are the teachers who accept criticism constructively; for they shall improve their efficiency and their personality.
13. Blessed are the teachers who work cooperatively with their associates; for they shall be worthy of recommendation.
14. Blessed are the teachers who hunger and thirst after all of God's word; for they shall broaden their own perspective of teaching.
15. Blessed are you, teacher, though your reward may seem small, and some may criticize you and rebuke you, and say all manner of discouraging things to you. rejoice and be exceeding glad; for yours is a great work!
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Oct. 18, 1992, p. 3]

PARABLE OF THE VACATIONING CHRISTIANS
Now it came to pass...as fall drew nigh Mr. Church Member lifted up his eyes until the hills and said:
...Honey, the changing of the leaves. Come, let us go unto a far country where cool breezes refresh us and glorious scenes greet our eyes."
You speak wisely, replied Mrs. Church Member. "...Yet four things we must do before we go."
"Three things I can think of, responded Mr. Church Member. We must arrange for our flowers to be cared for...our pet to be fed...and our mail to be brought in, but the fourth thing I can't remember."
"The fourth is like unto the first three, yet more important than all," Mrs. Church Member replied. You must dig into your wallet and leave our church offering that the good name of the church shall be preserved and that it may be well with you. For verily I say unto you, you will have more money now than you will when you return!"
And so it came to pass that Mr. Church Member left his offering for the Lord, and the church treasurer rejoiced greatly saying, "It is true after all, there are those who care for the Lord's work and the church will not suffer after all" And it was so.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Oct. 18, 1992, p. 4]

PRAYER IS...
A is for Adoration; this means to praise God, "I adore."
C is for Confession; this means to confess to God, "I confess."
T is for Thanksgiving; this means to thank God, "I am thankful."
S is for Supplication; this means to ask God, "I ask."

LOGISTICS AND PLANNING WITH GOD
Moses and the people were in the desert, but what was he going to do with them? They had to be fed, and feeding about 3 million people requires a lot of food. According to the Quartermaster General in the Army, it is reported that Moses would have to have 1,500 tons of food each day. Do you know that to bring that much food each day, two freight trains each a mile long would be required!

Besides, you must remember, they were out in the desert, and they would have to have firewood to use in cooking the food. This would take 4,000 tons of wood and a few more freight trains each a mile long, just for one day.

And just think, they were forty years in transit. Oh, yes, they would have to have water. If they only had enough to drink and wash a few dishes, it would take 11,000,000 gallons each day, and a freight train with tank cars 1,800 miles long, just to bring water!

And then another thing. They had to get across the Red Sea at night. Now, if they went on a narrow path, double file, the line would be 800 miles long and would require 35 days and nights to get through. So, there had to be a space in the Red Sea, 3 miles wide so that they could walk 5,000 abreast to get over in one night.

But then another problem. Each time they camped at the end of the day, a campground two-thirds the size of the state of Rhode Island was required, or a total of 750 square miles long, think of it! This space just for nightly camping. Do you think Moses figured all this out before he left Egypt? I think not!

You see, Moses believed in God. God took care of these things for him. Let us take courage, we have the same God. We think our problems are so big. Remember what God can do! What He has done! Team up with God and your problems will be His. Let Him run your life. All the way the Savior leads us HOME.

It is hard to imagine what a daily miracle it was to keep all those Israeli people together for 40 years as they tried the patience of God. His plan just would not be diminished. It is quite a lesson for us today. God still is consistent with His purposes, even though our society and government act as though He does not matter or work in the world today! If God were totally absent, and all that was left in the world was pure evil, then it would be obvious what wonder it is that God is here and providing good things to everyone, even to those who ignore Him and even worse, abhor Him. It is such a shame that mankind cannot recognize the handiwork of God all around them. The beauty of the earth, of flowers, trees, birds singing, sunsets, color, music, friends, family, children, love, joy, inner peace.

All from God. Plus much, much more. Especially for God's desire to have a relationship with us so badly that He would sacrifice His own to pay the price to make our way to Him possible. And He asks so little of us in return. Unfortunately, for most of the world that little that He asks is too much. Just too much to depend totally on God's grace for salvation.

Too much to make the decisions and choices we must make to show that we really do want to be like Jesus every day, every hour. We are just plain too selfish. It would do us good if God would discipline us more in this life, so that we can be ready for Him in the life to come. Notice how often people cry to God for help when their lives are turned upside down by calamity or heartache. When we see that we truly are helpless without Him, then we can turn to Him more easily. I guess in a sense, God's rich blessings are a scourge to our spiritual growth, unless we daily stand at the foot of the cross, looking up at the battered body of our Lord in our place, and realize that we are truly rich by the blood falling on us and making us clean over and over as we rely on Him. I want to go through my whole life, living and being as one standing at the foot of the cross.

Nowhere else truly matters, because everything else is temporary.

ROAST BEEF AND POTATOES
There are probably as many ideas as to what a sermon should be as there are people present any Sunday. I still believe that God's desire is for Biblical doctrinal preaching. Note the following "sermon sampler".
"Cotton Candy Sermon": Very sweet and full of air; when bitten into, nothing there!
"Stuffed Olive Sermon": Pleasantly fashioned, pleasingly tart; stuffed with intellect, but no heart!
"Jello Fruit-Salad Sermon": Shaking, prancing, quivering preaching; lots of action, but low-cal teaching!
"Poached Egg Sermon": Soft, safe, sentimental food; soothes every mind, calms every mood!
"Left-over Turkey Sermon": Meat they suspect they've been served before; but disguised just enough for one Sunday more.
"Strawberry & Whipped Cream Sermon": Summer surprise, memorably bright; light in weight, but what a delight!
"Roast Beef & Potatoes Sermon": Familiar fare, but always good; The Gospel preached in words understood!!!
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Oct. 11, 1992, p. 3]

MIND OVER MATTER
A lady was somewhat disturbed to find herself seated at the left of her host instead of at the right, where she thought she should have been. "I suppose," she said, "it isn't always easy for you to seat people in their proper places."
"Oh," said the host, "I find that those who matter don't mind, and those who mind don't matter."
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Aug. 2, 1992, p. 4]

LONG-TERM MARRIAGE
Much can be learned about family life by studying those people who have experienced a high level of success in their families. One good source of such information comes from those senior citizens who have successful marriages after 40 or more years of living together.

Florence Kaslow, a Florida psychologist, found long-term marriages have these common traits. They are:
1. Show love and affection to each other.
2. Show mutual trust and respect to each other.
3. Share common interests and values.
4. Share love for their children.
5. Have a give/take ability with each other.
6. Are sensitive to each other's needs and wishes.
7. Do not let power issues become a battleground.
8. Have fun together.
9. Have a healthy sense of humor.

May God help all of our families to be able to put these things into our marriages. To those senior citizens who have the above traits in their marriages we honor you and pray that God will continue to bless you.
[by Allan Isom from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Aug. 2, 1992, p. 4]

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