THE WORK OF OUR SHEPHERD
The shepherd feeds his sheep. (Psa. 23:1-2; John 10:9.)
The shepherd leads his sheep. (Psa. 23:3; John 10:3-4.)
The shepherd gathers his sheep together. (Jer. 31:10, I Pet. 2:25.)
The shepherd rescues lost sheep. (Eze. 34:11, 16; Luke 19:10.)
The shepherd separates his sheep from the goats. (Matt. 15:32.)
The work of the shepherd. Let us thankfully remember that he came to seek and save us for his eternal heavenly home.
[from The Truth In love.]

LIVE FOR SOMETHING

Live for something, have a purpose
And that purpose keep in view;
Drifting like a helpless vessel,
Thou canst ne'er to life be true;
Half the wrecks that strew life's ocean,
If some star had been their guide,
Might have long been riding safely-
But they drifted with the tide.
[by Robert Whitaker. Published in Hayhurst, Mamie W. The Christian Girl. Oklahoma City : Telegram Book Co., c1964]

THE TOWN OF "DON'T-YOU-WORRY"

There's a town called Don't-You-Worry,
On the banks of River Smile.
Where the Cheer-Up and Be-Happy
Blossom sweetly all the while.
Where the Never-Grumble flower,
Blooms beside the fragrant Try,
And the Ne'er-Give-Ups and Patience,
Point their faces to the sky.
In the valley of Contentment,
in the province of I-Will,
You will find this lovely city,
at the foot of No-Fret hill.
There are thoroughfares delightful,
in this very charming town,
And on every hand are shade trees,
named the Very-Seldom-Frown.
Rustic benches quite enticing,
you'll find scattered here and there,
And to each a vine in clinging,
called the Frequent-Earnest-Prayer.
Everybody there is happy,
and is singing all the while
In the town of Don't-You-Worry,
on the banks of River Smile.
[Published in Hayhurst, Mamie W. The Christian Girl. Oklahoma City : Telegram Book Co., c1964]

MORNING PRAYER

Good Morning Lord, Another lovely day
Help me to keep it so, Dear Lord, I pray.
May no small careless word or deed of mine
Let fall a shadow there to spoil the shine.
No act of kindness thoughtlessly undone,
Make dim this lovely morning's bright, clean sun.
Help me to keep this day as good as new,
Till at it's close I give it back to you.
[by Helen L. Marshall]

Life and time, once gone (or wasted), are the only two things that cannot be recaptured. Live wisely.

THE CLOCK OF LIFE

The clock of life is wound but once
And no man has the power
To tell just when the hands will stop
At late or early hour.
Now is the only time you own!
Live, love, toil with will,
Place not faith in "Tomorrow"
For the clock may then be still.

THE HANDS OF THE CLOCK

The hands of the clock were begun...
Time, for me, had started to run.
My mother cradled and rocked me on her knee,
For she and her baby were so happy to see.
The hands of the clock moved faster...
Time could have tries to be master.
For was no time a'tall, I held my own child...
But not for long...time's movement became wild!
The hands of the clock kept on speeding...
My grandchildren, I heard their pleading...
"Let's go and have fun and play in the park!"
But, woe...time had now made things so dark.
The hands of the clock stood still...
He said, "Be not afraid, for this is My will...
From the very beginning, it has been planned."
And in His, the Lord took my most willing hand.
Though, for me, the clock's hands are of no more worth...
"Tis not so, for those still living on earth.
But remember this please, you'll follow anon...
I'll meet you at the Judgment...for time is now gone!!
[By Mildred Jergins]

EMPATHY DURING A HOSPITAL VISIT
No...
She cannot appreciate
The things I do for her today.
She thinks of things
The future brings,
And worries over yesterday,
But I will stay.
I'll sit with her
And calm her fears
From tragedies of yesteryears,
And while she dreams
Of future schemes,
I'll sit and pray.
[by Betty Griffin]

MOTHER'S PRAYER

Father, be with me today;
Help me live the holy way.
Help me love my children true
And teach them how to follow You.
Father, make me wise to see
My children's feet will follow me.
I must never let them stray
But lead them in Thy blessed way.
Help me look to You, dear Lord.
Help me trust Your holy word.
Help me put You first today
And all your holy will obey.
Father, help me with my work;
Never let me duty shirk.
As I do what has to be,
Lord, let me know You're there with me.
[By Mary Bachman]

THE GOOD LIFE

Many in this day of reaching out for life find in their reaching only emptiness and strife.
Oh, if only we could find the simplicity of real love and joy and rest from iniquity.
Where is this path to the dreamland of hoping? A life free of death and pain and groping for the Good Life.
The Good Life of which they all spoke, these men of the Holy Land so very long ago.
The path, they said, was found through out minds not a path of stone, it's a path we must find.
The path has been made and we must needs follow if we truly are reaching for a life that's not hollow.
HEAR was the first step on that path to light. BELIEF follows hearing - believing what's right.
OBEDIENCE steps, the longest and hardest of all without careful stepping we'll stumble and fall.
"What do I obey?" is the beginning of wisdom for to desire to obey Him will lead you to freedom.
"Confess me" He commanded, "I'll confess you to God. "Die with me, oh wonderer, for in anguish I trod.
Be buried with me, Baptized, I was buried in a tomb, mocked by God's people, after my death did they wound.
Take up your cross and follow after me. Feed my sheep and serve diligently.
Care for your children and teach them to love, honor and obey, serve my Father above.
Pray for the sick and administer, too. Show them the path as I've shown it to you.
Do good to all men, but especially to those who follow after me and go as I go.
Worship my Father in action and words. Trust in his care as do animals and birds.
Then at the end of your life you will see that you've followed the path of the Good Life and me.
We'll spend all of time in Heaven above where there's rest from iniquity and great joy and real love."
So consider your choice and decide as you must whether a life of giving you'll seek and if it's God you will trust.
For if any other road you will follow through life and to death you'll find shallowness and emptiness - no rest.I speak not as one who has ended my steps but in walking, I've found that the Good Life's the best.
So now that you've heard (the first step) don't rest God will bless you and help you to see what is blessed.
Believe and obey Him and seek out his commands, Walk with Him daily and take hold of his hand.
He's left us the Bible to tell us what to do and now the obeying - that's left up to you.
[By Anne Coleman]

WINDMILLS AND WOMEN

Each breath she takes...her stature fills with softness.
The tenderness of man...her stature reaches for freshness.
Gently with strength...her stature fills with new life.
Softly with care...her stature delivers a gift to man.
[by Carol Borden]

THE MOTHER WHO CARES

My mother is someone who will always care.
It may be at a distance,
But I know she's always there.
I know she's thinking of me
and wishing me the best
and always full of love for me
when I am in distress.
So comfort surrounds me
when I think of how she cares
And know that she will help me,
no matter what she bears.
[By W.D. Wedgefarth]

MOTHER'S WRINKLED HANDS

Such beautiful, beautiful hands!
Though heart were weary and sad
Those patient hands kept toiling on
That her children might be glad.
I almost weep when looking back
To childhood's distant day
I think how these hands rested not
When mine were at their play.
Mother in gladness, Mother in sorrow.
Mother today, and Mother tomorrow,
With arms ever open to fold and caress you
O Mother of Mine, may God keep you and bless you.
[By W.D. Wedgefarth]

OH, MOTHER

As I walked through the valley one crisp November morn,
I mused of my childhood and the home where I was born.
I saw Mother by the fireside in her old rocking chair,
Her brow was pale and wrinkled with silver in her hair.
Her hands were worn from service family album in her lap,
Old Tom on the platted rug taking his evening nap.
As Mother viewed my pictures of days long gone by,
She looked up with sadness a tear in her eye.
Oh, Mother, to be your little girl again and have a fresh, new, start,
Many things would be different, 'cause I've had a change of heart.
We would be the best of friends no quarrels there would be
I would say how much I love you and what you've meant to me.
I would heed your honest wisdom; with your guidance I would grow
Into a find Christian woman; loving kindness I would show.
I would start each day as you did with a prayer, "Thy will be done,"
To our loving heavenly Father who gave his only begotten Son.
So that we might not perish but have everlasting life,
A life with him in heaven without any heartache or strife.
Oh, Mother, I know we can't start anew for now you are gone,
And I have grown older and have children of my own.
But from this precious moment tomorrow and forever more,
You will be so proud of me as you look from heaven's door.
Because I will sing His praises His wonderful story I'll tell,
So others that haven't heard it may hear and sing it as well.
I rededicate my life to God to do His blessed will;
I love Him 'cause He first loved me; I now know that He is real.
Oh, Mother, thank you for the good life you lived that I might be
The same Christian example to the children God gave to me
[By Bettie Appling]

I DARE YOU

I dare you to prove that you are not asleep on the job. I dare you to spend more time reading God's word than the daily newspaper. I dare you to face your doubts and conquer them. I dare you to brave the snickers of your friends and live in the simple style which will enable you to spend more time on Christ. I dare you to talk to your friends about actually living up to your professed religion. I dare you to take Christ with you into the schoolroom, office, and workshop. I dare you to tell the truth in love whenever you speak. I dare you to live above the average standard of morals and be really virtuous. I dare you to be candid with yourself and evaluate the way you spend your leisure time in the light of your love for Christ. I dare you to be courageous and willing to accept criticism by trying to start some Christian endeavour in your neighbourhood. I dare you to risk your reputation by rising up in protest at the inertia which characterizes some congregations and members. I dare you to throw your whole soul into the worship of God every time you meet for that purpose. I dare you to work half as hard to save the souls for whom Christ died as you work for your business. I dare you to act as if you believe that Jesus is Lord!!

BE WITH HER EACH DAY

Give strength to our sister, Oh Lord we pray,
Let endurance and comfort come to her each day.
She is there when we need her, of herself she gives all,
So when she is weak, please God, heed her call.
So often when troubles tear at our hearts,
Her words and her deeds, help give us a new start.
We ask You, O Lord, that when she is down,
Bless her, strengthen her, let courage abound.
Show her, O Lord, and make her aware,
That we as her sisters, are with her in prayer.
The deeds that can show her, the words that can say,
We ask with our prayer, please be with her each day.
[By Barbara Brundage.]

BE JOYFUL, LOVE HAPPY

Have mercy, speak kindly, tread softly through time;
The world doesn't need those with cynical minds.
Compassion, forgiveness, humility win
Respect, admiration and love in the end.
A faithful assurance and zeal for this life
Eliminate worries and lessen your strife.
Be joyful, live happy, see good where you look:
Life's questions are answered in God's holy book.
Frustration and sadness torment the poor soul
That is not attuned to the Lord's words of old.
Redemption, salvation and eternal bliss
Can't come to a soul where the heart is amiss.
Drink deep from the fountain of knowledge and truth;
Live daily as though it's your last here on earth.
Your gentle example to those that you meet
Will show them the way to eternity sweet.
Refrain: Sing a song of joy and praise unto the Lord.
Shout salvation and exclaim His holy Word.
Magnify His matchless name;
To the world His love proclaim -
Jesus died, was buried, and he lives again!
[By Mary Hollingsworth from The Capital Newsletter]

THE CHRISTIAN WOMAN

No crown of gold adorns her head, nor golden slippers does she wear,
But her life is filled with golden deeds, she scatters sunshine every where.
She toils from early morn 'till night to care for those she loves so dear
As she toils along life's rugged way her love increases year by year.
What a glorious place this world would be, if every one was more like you
No gloom could ever grow so dense, a bright sunbeam could not shine through.
A life so lived will never cease, but when these fleeting days are o'er
It will shine above the noon day's sun on that far off celestial shore.
[by Lawrence Brockman]

Learn to care by sharing, learn to share by caring; learn to give by living, learn to live by giving.
[By Mary Oler from Eustis Church of Christ bulletin]

It costs so much to be a full human being that there are very few who have the enlightenment on the courage, to pay the price...One has to abandon altogether the search for security, and reach out to the risk of living with both arms. One has to embrace the world like a lover. One has to accept pain as a condition of existence. One has to court doubt and darkness as the cost of knowing. One needs a will stubborn in conflict, but apt always to total acceptance of every consequence of living and dying.
[By Morris L. West in The Shoes of the Fisherman From Nelson Church of Christ bulletin]

FULFILLMENT

Why is it that the world can't be beautiful out there?
Why is it that people just don't want to hear...
About the good news called the "Bible".
Unfortunately, they remain so idle to the Word,
And keep on following the rest of the herd.
We are also the good news...
Like shepherds leading their flocks from wandering astray.
Our aim is to influence our world out there in the "Christian" way.
Won't you please come to God,
And let him take your hand,
To walk with Him in this very troubled land,
He won't ever lead you astray,
But with your help and His,
Will lead you to the "Christian" way!
If you are wanting to follow in His footsteps,
Your lifestyle will very soon change...
But please don't be worried,
It won't really seem all that strange?!
You'll be a new person,
You won't know the old "You" after a while.
You will be one in Christ...
Glowing with that glinty full-time smile.
Is there really any harm done then?
Isn't Christianity a much better way?
Won't you think about yourself just a little...
Come to Christ soon one day, if not today?!
[From Central Auckland bulletin]

Somewhere in this world
Between the sky and the earth
Lies the land of hope and joy
For you and me.

Don't walk in front of me I may not follow
Don't walk behind me I may not lead
Walk beside me and just be my friend.
[By Albert Camus]

NEW FRIENDS AND OLD FRIENDS

Make new friends, but keep the old;
Those are silver, these are gold.
New-made friendships, like new wine,
Age will mellow and refine.
Friendships that have stood the test
Time and change - are surely best;
Brow may wrinkle, hair grow grey;
Friendship never knows decay.
For 'mid old friends, tried and true,
Once more we reach and youth renew
But old friends, alas! may die;
New friends must their place supply
Cherish friendships in your breast
New is good, but old is best;
Make new friends, but keep the old;
Those are silver, these are gold.
[By Joseph Parry]

DAYTIME, BIRDS, AND FLOWERS

Morning shade decreases;
Soon the mid of day.
Next, the sunny afternoon,
Then daytime fades away.
Tiny egg with spots of brown;
A young bird, beak flung wide;
Then up in the air, away in the sky,
Soon to drop and be cast aside.
First you see a bud of red.
Ahh! the bud pops open.
Petals soon begin to fall
Then under our feet are trodden.
A boy born innocent and pure;
A child, sweet and simple, grows;
Then as the days and years go by
Sin tugs and brings him low.
'Tis good the story ends not here!
The Saviour, with hands outstretched,
Bids the soul to turn from sin,
And from death the soul is fetched.
'Tis true the body grows old and dies
As daytime, birds and flowers
But friend, the soul flies up and away
To Heaven's celestial bowers.
[By Gwen Coffelt]

REFLECTIONS ON SPRING

The sun is shining down its rays
To warm a winter's day,
To give the Earth a hint of spring
As cold days fade away.
But spring involves much more to me
Than winter, summer, fall,
For with it comes all new-born things,
And God created all.
The heavens seem a brighter blue,
The grass a richer green,
The flowering plants of every kind
Their gorgeous colors seen.
And every life that God did give,
Both animal and man.
Begins anew with springtime's breath,
Refreshed by God's great plan.
A realization comes to me!
I know that you can guess.
God's handiwork is beautiful, His home?
I can't express!
But there's a comfort constantly,
God's made a mansion fair,
A house constructed by His hands
That's waiting for me there.
[By Kathleen Burns]

Oh, many a shaft at random sent,
Finds mark the Archer little meant,
And many a word at random spoken,
May soothe or wound a heart that's broken.

You are only young once. After that it becomes necessary to think up new excuses for what we do.

Hats off to the man who is a little better than his word, a little more liberal than his promise, a little larger in deed than he is in speech.

Love is giving with no thought of getting.
It is tenderness enfolding with strength to protect.
It is forgiveness without further thought of the thing forgiven.
It is understanding of human weakness, with knowledge of the true man shining through.
It is quiet in the midst of turmoil.
It is trust in God with no thought of self.
It is the one altogether lovely, the light in the mother's eyes, the glory in the sacrifice, the quiet assurance of protection.
It is in the expectation of our Father's promise coming true.
It is the refusal to see anything but good in our fellow man.
It is the glory that comes with selflessness and the power that comes with assurance of the Father's love for His children.
It is the voice that says "no" to our brother, though "yes" might be more easily said.
It is resistance to the world's lust and greed, thus becoming a positive law of annihilation to error.
Love...the one thing no one can take from us...the one thing we can give constantly and become increasingly rich in the giving.
Love can take no offence, for it cannot know that which it does not of itself conceive.
It cannot hurt or be hurt, for it is the purest reflection of God, Good.
It is the one eternal, indestructible force for good.
It is the will of God, preparing, planning, proposing always what is best for all His universe.

LIFE IS A BOOK

With life a book of many pages
Spanning days o'er ages and ages
A page in my life belongs to you
A special friend - loyal and true.
As time flies and ages roll
Daily each must write his scroll.
None of the minutes can we rewind,
And special friends are hard to find.
Each day if filled with love and trust
In order to keep away the rust.
When life is poetry and life is prose
A special friendship grows and grows.
One life to live with much to say
Pages and pages unroll on the way.
I'm happy to know 'tis all so true,
A page in my life belongs to you.
[By Terry Perkins Shirley]

This day be with me, Lord, when I go forth,
Be nearer to me than I am able to ask,
In merriment, in converse, or in task,
Walking the street, listening to men of worth
Or greeting such as only talk and bask,
Be thy thought still my waiting soul around
And if he come, I shall be watching found.
[by George MacDonald from Diary of an Old Soul published in The Capital Newsletter]

INTROSPECTION

How many warm smiles
Have I scattered today?
Did I give a word of praise
To smooth life's rugged way?
Did I warmly clasp a hand
To show I really care...
That burdens of life
Are sometimes hard to bear?
Could a kind tender smile,
And gentle words to sway
Help just one lost soul
To see the golden Ray?
If I can do this...
I'll truly serve my Lord!
Then each day will bring
A peaceful sweet reward.
[By Arlis O. Armstrong]

FRIEND

A forgotten path
A singing bird
A cheerful word - Friend.
An "I love you"
An arm of strength
An old book - Friend.
A prayer of faith
A touching hand
A smile with a tear - Friend.
[by Terry Perkins Shirley]

BY FAITH...Moses esteemed the reproach of the Lord,
Denied both sin and its pleasures,
Had respect to the recompense of reward,
Far richer than all Egyptian treasures.

One way to break a bad habit is to drop it.

You're not what you think you are; but what you think, you are.

Living one's faith is the best method of defending it.

I'd like to be a could-be
If I could not be an are,
For a could-be is a may-be
With a chance of touching par.
I'd rather be a has-been
Than a might-have-been, by far,
For a might-have-been has never been
But a has-been was an are.
[From the Mangere bulletin]

ACCOMPLISHMENT

Whenever a task is set for you,
Don't idly sit and view it.
Nor be content to wish it done,
Begin at once and do it.

Often the most useful Christians are those who serve their Master in little things. He never despises the day of small things, or else He would not hide His oaks in tiny acorns, or the wealth of a wheat field in bags of little seeds.
[By Theodore Cuyler]

The man who rows the boat has no time to rock it.

A man may fall several times, but he is not a failure until he starts saying somebody pushed him.

Hasty decisions often bring life-long regrets.

HOPE IS A WINDOW

Hope is a window...
I can see God's love
Shining across my couch,
Erasing gloom.
That window, never curtained,
Never closed
Brings God's rainbow of light
Into my room.
I stand beside my window,
Lift my face,
To feel the warmth of promises,
And grace.
[By Mary Oler]

It's a little piece of paper
That tells someone who you care;
It can be a ray of sunshine...
It can be a wish or prayer;
It can be a word of comfort
When somebody's heart is sad
It can be a smile or chuckle
Making someone's heart feel glad
It can keep folks close together
Even though they're far apart
It can show someone you're thankful
From the bottom of your heart
It can travel any distance
In all kinds of weather, too
And it has that "magic" something
That some "big things" never do
Yes, it's just a piece of paper
And it costs no big amount
But it proves that old, old saying
"It's the little things that count!"

"The time has come," the walrus said, "to talk of many things:
of shoes, of ships, and sealing wax, of cabbage, and kings,
and why the sea is boiling hot and whether pigs have wings."

Oh Father, Help me to love you more!
My very soul at your feet I pour.
Sometimes I feel so all alone,
But we both know for whom Your Son's blood did atone.
Your loving mercy is so all complete.
I praise you, Oh God, for giving me
An attitude of courage in the face of defeat.
Give me the meekness and boldness, I pray,
To teach and share with others Your true and living Way.
How real You can be in my heart everyday!
All I must do is ask, "Please come in and forever stay."
Teach me the true meaning of total surrender,
Unto Jesus, my King, my Best Friend and Redeemer.
[by Carol Oppelt]

Looking to the Lord - that is faith.
Turning to the Lord - that is repentance.
Coming to the Lord - that is conversion.
Added to the Lord - that is adoption.
Singing to the Lord - that is devotion.
Praying to the Lord - that is consecration.
Working for the Lord - that is service.
Giving to the Lord - that is fellowship.
Cleaving to the Lord - that is dependence.
Faithful to the Lord - that is loyalty.
Attention to the Lord - that is discipleship.
Surrender to the Lord - that is submission.
Obedience to the Lord - that is Christianity.

Until Gethsemane gets into one's prayer experience - that titanic struggle between one's stubborn self-will and God's will - authentic personhood cannot break through.

Until a man goes to his Gethsemane to wrestle with his pride, his ignorance, his greed, his lust, his envy, his cowardice, his prejudice, God cannot set him free.
[by Wallace E. Fisher, Preaching and Parish Renewal]

The man who stands in the pulpit and does not know and preach the great ultimates of God's purposes is not prepared to preach properly in the day in which we live. He will become a dupe of the materialistic and socialistic forces that are operative round about us.... Present tense preaching - preaching to the time in the light of eternity - should be the regular solid fare of the pulpit.
[by William Ward Ayer, "Study Preparation and Pulpit Preaching," Bibliotheca Sacra, April-June, 1967]

The claim of truth is far more compelling than the claim of consistency, and I respond to it with a far more loyal heart.
[by William Newton Clarke, The Christian Doctrine of God]

The name of Christ is dishonored when we refuse to recognize the divine authority of Scripture. Our stand for the infallible Word must be made unequivocally clear for all to hear. It will mean swimming against the stream of our time. But a decisive return to the Bible, our source of authority, is the path of discipleship to Christ, and the secret of a revitalized ministry.
[by Clark H. Pinnock, "Our Source of Authority: The Bible" Bibliotheca Sacra, April-June, 1967]

What does it mean to deserve the name of Christian in today's strange world?.... No half-way allegiance, which stops at the point where it begins to cost or to clash with the reigning codes, will suffice to win the game.... We are not Christians if it is not obvious to all men which side we are on.
[by Halford E. Luccock, The Acts of the Apostles in Present-Day Preaching.]

The church of the living God is not a historical museum in which relics of the past are preserved and idolized. It is a living body of bold and alive men and women who are ever proclaiming and living the resurrection faith in a 'current' world.
[by Thomas H. Olbricht, "The Current Restoration" Mission, July, 1967]

The survival or rebirth of a civilization is contingent upon the applied genius of the Christian faith.
[by Jesse Jai McNeil, The Preacher-Prophet in Mass Society]

Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir man's blood and probably themselves will not be realized. Make big plans: aim in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will never die, but long after you are gone will be a living thing, ascertaining itself in ever-growing insistency. Remember our sons and grandsons are going to do things that would stagger us. Let your watchword be 'order' and your beacon 'beauty.' Think big. Remember that when you create a situation that captures the imagination, you capture life, reason, everything."
[by Daniel H. Burnham, 1907, Chicago architect and city planner]

Christ was no prisoner of time,
His truth transcends every age;
His words beyond compare, sublime;
His life, life's deathless page.
[by William H. Hudnut, Jr.]

When our bodies are immersed in water and our souls into the Holy Spirit, our plans are all religious. If we value intelligence, it is for its purifying tendencies; if we value purity, it is for its blissful termination. Bliss is our god - intelligence and purity are the race course.
[by A. Campbell, The Millennial Harbinger Abridged]

The church today simply does not present an alternative to society, but is simply society on Sunday.... Yet, unless the church offers a different calibre of life from that available elsewhere, there is no adequate reason for the church to exist.
[By Leander E. Keck, Mandate to Witness]

The center stage for the life of love is reserved for the family, in the biblical tradition. Neither life nor love consist of a series of abstractions; they are experienced in the daily dramas of real persons. Love is not some vapid, idealized theory: it is a relationship between specific individuals. The love of man in general is thus learned inductively; from the intimate expressions of family living - its conflicts and its conquests - one moves to the community, then to the world.
[by Stuart E. Rosenbery, More Loves Than One]

In 1974 the Harvard Medical School studied the effects of conversion on students at both Harvard and Radcliffe and found:
- ego functioning improved
- self-image enhanced
- introspection increased
- depth of interpersonal relationships increased
- dependence on drugs, bad grades and poor impulse control diminished
The study concluded with a comment, "Religious conversion may be a profoundly transforming experience."
[by Ken Dye in 20th Century Christian]

To talk with God no breath is lost; talk on.
To walk with God no strength is lost; walk on.
To toil with God no time is lost; toil on.
Little is much, if God is in it;
Man's busiest day not worth God's minute.
Must is little everywhere
If God the business doth not share.
So work with God, then nothing's lost
Who works with him does well and most.
[An Old English Verse published in Christian Woman]

Last night my little boy confessed to me some childish wrong;
And kneeling at my knee,
He prayed with tears -
"Dear God, make me a man like daddy - wise and strong;
I know you can."
Then whole he slept,
I knelt beside his bed,
Confessed my sins,
And prayed with low-bowed head,
"Oh God, make me a child like my child here
- pure, guileless, trusting thee with faith sincere."
[From the Capital Newsletter, Wellington]

THE GOLDEN CHORD

Through every minute of this day, be with me Lord.
Through every day of this week, be with me Lord.
Through every week of this year, be with me Lord.
Through all the years of all this life, be with me Lord.
So shall the days and weeks and years,
Be threaded on a golden chord,
And all draw on with sweet accord.
Unto Thy fullness Lord,
That so when time is past,
By grace I may at last,
Be with Thee Lord.
[From the Capital Newsletter...Wellington]

PREPARATION

In the old oak against the sky
From the dead branch up high
A flash of gray and white
Plunged earthward to alight
Upon the fence post.
A mockingbird!
Survey the yard, a nervous glance,
This way and that, and if by chance
the way is clear,
Flutter to the clothesline.
Wary eye across the hedge,
Hop to pink blanket's ragged edge,
Short quick tug with cock of head.
Shoot upward with the stolen thread
To her half-finished nest.
The time is near!
Bolder now, swoop down again
Directly to the hem and then,
Pull loose another faded shred,
Returning to the nest she sped.
Both of us, I thought,
Are getting ready!
[by Pat Ball December 1972]

WHAT CAN I DO FOR CHRIST?

You may not be able to preach, but you can bring a friend to hear about Christ.
You may not be able to write gospel tracts, but you can distribute them for Christ.
You may not be a missionary, but you can support one in Christ's name.
You may not find words come easily, but you can conduct yourself honourably for Christ.
You may not have much means, but you can give yourself to Christ.
You may not be a nurse or social worker, but you can visit the sick and help the needy for Christ.
You may not be a popular extrovert, but you can sit with the lonely for Christ.
You may not have known what to do with your time, but now you can see that every moment belongs to Christ!
You may not think you have much to offer, but you can be in every meeting of the church with Christ.
In all circumstances, you can pray earnestly for the work for Christ.
[from The Outreach, 15 Sept. 1991]

ACRES OF DIAMONDS AND MOUNTAINS OF GOLD

Acres of diamonds, mountains of gold
Rivers of silver, jewels untold
All these together could not buy you and me
Peace when we're sleeping, a conscience that's free
A heart that's contented, a satisfied mind
These are the treasures which money can't buy
But if you have Jesus you have more wealth in your soul
Than acres of diamonds and mountains of gold.

IN THE SERVICE OF THE LORD
(II Cor. 11:3)
Christians are called to exercise simplicity or singleness of mind in their service to their Lord with a pure and blameless devotion.

Our salvation is a personal decision. (Acts 2:38.) Our salvation to serve Jesus as his followers is an individual and personal decision no one else can do for us. Not our parents, nor our friends, nor the church, but each of us personally.

Our worship is a personal commitment. Rom. 12:1. Our worship "in spirit and truth" (John 4:24) towards God is an individual and personal commitment. No one else can worship God for us. Not our parents, nor our friends, nor the church, but each Christian personally. It is a personal responsibility, for which each of us is held personally accountable by God, to be present in the worship meetings of the church (Heb. 10:24-25).

Our good works are a personal responsibility. James 1:27. Our good works, for which we were...(Eph. 2:10), are an individual and personal responsibility. No one else can do our good works for us. Not our parents, nor our friends, nor the church, but all who believe in God are expected to "engage in good deeds" (Titus 3:8). Gal. 6:10.

In our salvation, worship, and good works, let each one of us demonstrate "the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ".
(II Cor. 5:10.)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 7, Feb. 23, 1992, p. 7]

HEAVEN'S GROCERY STORE

I was walking down life's highway a long time ago,
When one day I saw a sign that read Heaven's Grocery Store.
As I got a little closer the door came open wide
And when I came to myself I was standing inside.
I saw a host of angels, they were standing everywhere.
One handed me a basket...and said...my child shop with care.
Everything a Christian needed was in that grocery store.
And all you couldn't carry, you could come back the next day for more.
First I got some patience, love was in the same row.
Further down was understanding, you need that everywhere you go.
I got a box or two of wisdom, a bag of wisdom, a bag or two of faith,
I just couldn't miss the Holy Ghost for it was all over the place.
I stopped to get some strength and courage to help me run this race.
By then my basket was getting full but I remembered I needed some grace.
I didn't forget salvation for salvation that was free.
So I tried to get enough of that to save...both you and me.
Then I started up the counter to pay my grocery bill.
For I thought I had everything to do my Master's will.
As I went up the aisle I saw prayer and I just had to put that in.
For I knew when I stepped outside, I would run right into sin.
Peace and joy were plentiful, they were on the last shelf.
Song and praises were hanging near so I just helped myself.
Then I said to the angel...Now how much do I owe?
He smiled and said, "Just take them everywhere you go."
Again I smiled at him and said...How much now do I really owe?
He smiled again and said, "My child, Jesus paid your bill a long time ago."
[written by Lucille Wells]

SHEPHERD OF EAGER YOUTH

Shepherd of eager youth,
Guiding in love and truth
Through devious ways;
Christ, our triumphant King,
We come thy name to sing,
And here our children bring,
To sound thy praise.
Thou art our Holy Lord,
The all-subduing Word,
Healer of strife;
Thou didst thyself abase,
That from sin's deep disgrace
Thou mightest save our race,
And give us life.
Ever be thou our guide,
Our shepherd and our pride,
Our staff and song:
Jesus, thou Christ of God,
Be thy enduring Word,
Lead us where thou hast trod,
Make our faith strong.
[By Clement of Alexander, 200 A.D. translated by Henry M. Dexter, 1821-1890. Said to be the earliest known Christian hymn]

The soul of a child is the loveliest flower
That grows in the garden of God.
Its climb is from weakness to knowledge and power,
To the sky from the clay and the clod.
To beauty and sweetness it grows under care,
Neglected, tis ragged and wild.
"Tis plant that is tender, but wondrously rare,
The sweet, wistful soul of a child.
Be tender, O gardener, and give it its share
Of moisture, of warmth, and of light,
And let it not lack for the painstaking care,
To protect it from frost and from blight.
A glad day will come when its bloom shall unfold,
It will seem that an angel has smiled,
Reflecting a beauty and sweetness untold
In the sensitive soul of a child.
[From Tell me about God's friends: nursery teacher. Austin, Tex. : R.B. Sweet Co., Inc., c1968]

I have only just a minute,
Only sixty seconds in it.
Forced upon me--can't refuse it.
But it's up to me to use it.
I must suffer if I lose it.
Give account if I abuse it.
Just a tiny little minute,
But eternity is in it.

Every moment of resistance to temptation is a victory.

Some temptations come to the industrious, but all temptations attack the idle.

Troubles are often the tools by which God fashions us for better things.

An extravagant wife makes a poor mother: it also has the same effect on the father!

Life left to God will bring a greater yield
Of golden harvest and of ripened field
Than all the weary plannings of thy soul
Can force to be, or strength of will control;
Oh, trust a power that must bring good from all,
And leave thy life to God.

I never knew a night so black
Light failed to follow on its track.
I never knew a storm so gray,
It failed to have its clearing day.
I never knew such bleak despair,
That there was not a rift somewhere.
I never know an hour so drear,
Love could not fill it full of cheer.

Dear Lord, Build my house on a foundation of love;
Make its threshold of sympathy,
And its door key of faith;
Let the light of understanding
Shine from its windows.
Let peace, gentleness and truth
Hover around its firesides
Roof it with content. Amen.

The way that He loves is as deep as the sea
His spirit shall be my stay
The way that He loves is as pure as a rose
Much sweeter He grows each day
His peace hovers near like a dove
I knew there's a heaven above
To Jesus I'll cling,
Life's a wonderful thing
Because of the way He loves.
The way that He loves is as fair as the day
That blesses my way with light,
The way that he loves is as soft as the breeze
Caressing the trees at night
So tender and precious is He
Contented with Jesus I'll be
The way that he loves is so thrilling because
His love reaches even me.

THE HARBOUR OF CONTENTMENT

Off to my treasury isle of dreams I sailed on the morning tide -
With only my hopes for compasses and only my star to guide...
Searching for happiness I called at many a far strange post - then on I sailed, unsatisfied, for I knew not what I sought.
Over the oceans of the years I travelled but never found -
The lost horizon; so sick at heart I turned my ship around -
Towards the place I had started from; to that haven of rest I went -
Home on the flow of the evening tide to the harbour of content -
There to discover what I had wandered round the world to find.
It was there all the time awaiting me: contentment and peace of mind.
[By Patience Strong]

SUFFICIENT

No longer will I strive and strain to be -
Relieved from illness and adversity.
No longer will I offer anxious prayers -
For release from pains and worldly cares.
To come into the presence must suffice -
Of Him who holds the pearl beyond all price.
To turn to Him whose touch can heal and bless -
Must be sufficient for my helplessness...
He knows my need. My trouble He can see.
Come, Lord, and lay Thy healing hands on me.
[By Patience Strong]

THERE WAS A TIME

There was a time when we two walked enchanted in a land of dreams.
Gay, romantic and in love we built our hopes and wove our schemes...
Lost to the world, we trod on aid and everything was marvellous.
The future was a magic gate. The earth, we thought, was made for us.
Then we talked the sweetest nonsense. Paradise was in a kiss.
We were young and life was heaven. How, then, did we come to this?
Now we talk of bills and boilers and discuss the price of things.
What's become of all the rapture? Time, it seems, has clipped our wings.
But we know it had to happen. It's the way that we are made.
Love can't live amongst the clouds. The music dies, the colors fade...
But something comes as compensation when we look around and see -
Another sort of happiness: the joy of home and family.

Men who put their trust in God cannot fail in this life or in the life to come. Their lives will be useful and helpful to their fellow-men. The life spent in the service of God cannot be in vain.

The man who seeks only ease in life will be sure to find a hard time; it is better to learn the luxury of doing good.

The man who is not dead in earnest in the fight to conquer the world, the flesh, and the devil will soon be dead - spiritually dead.
[From Gospel Advocate]

The man who strives and prays to make each day the best day of his life cannot fail to enter heaven at last.

There is no day that we do not need new strength from heaven. We gain it only by waiting on the Lord.

If we would lead a holy life, we must not forget to let our light shine at home as well as in the house of God.

If you lose your sense of humor, you lose your sense of value.

The worst thing that ever happens to a man may be the best thing that ever happens to him if he doesn't let it get the best of him.

The distance from earth to heaven is not so much a matter of altitude as it is of attitude.

More people would learn from their mistakes if they weren't so busy denying that they made them.

Men who have much to say use the fewest words.

Success is nothing but a good idea coupled with hard work.

Wrinkles should merely show where the smiles have been.

Live the moment to the utmost of its possibilities; and be satisfied with life always, but never with one's self.

The man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder- a waif, a nothing, a no man. Have a purpose in life, and, having it, throw such strength of mind and muscle into your work as God has given you.

The body of every organization is structured from four kinds of bones. There are the wishbones who spend all their time wishing someone would do the work. There are jawbones, who do all the talking but little else. The knucklebones knock everything anybody else tries to do. Fortunately, in every organization there are also the backbones who get under the load and do most of the work.
[From Peasantview Church of Christ bulletin Feb. 1980]

THE GLORIOUS MINORITY...

There are people who carry life's burdens,
There own and some others beside;
There are people who stand in their places,
And who stand there whatever betide.
When the Kingdom is calling for workers,
Or the city is crying for men,
Or some cause is seeking supporters,
These people will answer just then.
There are two kinds of people...you know them,
As you journey along on live's track...
The people who take your strength from you,
And others who put it all back.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

AT SUNSET...

How much they miss
Who have no eyes to see...
O God, if heaven outside
So beautiful can be,
Then grant me spirit eyes to look within with Thee....
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

You can't be judged by what people say about you, but you can be judged by what you say about people.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

The Bible is a window in the prison of hope, through which we look into eternity.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

Faith can place a candle in the darkest night.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

If one expects to answer, "When the roll is called up yonder," he had better be present "When the roll is called down here."
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

You can't live wrong and die right.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

My life shall touch a million lives in some way ere I go
From this dear world of struggle to the land I do not know
So this the wish I always wish, the prayer I ever pray:
Let my life help the other lives it touches by the way....
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

It's a shame my life can't be like the 2nd edition of a book...I could live it again and take out all the mistakes.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

Let me tonight look back across the span
Twixt dawn and dark, and to my conscience say...
Because of some good act to beast or man...
"The world is better that I lived today."
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

I want a soul so full of joy...
Life's withering storms cannot destroy.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

If you want to save face...keep the lower part of it closed!
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

You cannot learn and talk at the same time.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

Smiling is contagious...
Frowning is outrageous.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

A Christian is like ripening wheat; the riper he grows the more lowly he bends his head.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

Beware of a half-truth...it may be the wrong half.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

A dog teaches us fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three times before lying down.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

What fire could ever equal the sunshine of a winter's day?
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

I LOVE THE WORD IMPOSSIBLE...

It's like joy after sorrow. People being friends after being enemies. Rainbows after drenching rain. A wound healed. Sunsets on quiet evenings after hot, noisy days. Paralyzed, injured limbs learning to grow strong and useful again. Forgiveness after wrong. Truth after fog. New love-made babies. Birds learning to fly and own the sky. Bitterness turned to mellowness. Fresh, genuine hope...once abandoned. People finding each other at right moments. In unexpected, obscure place...for God-ordained reasons. I love the word impossible because my God believed in adventure and extraordinary mountains. And he dares to be alive in a world crawling with terrible situations. He promises to be bigger than any impossibility because he is love...and love always finds a way through, in time....
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam]

About the best use of my life that I can see is to spend it for something that'll outlast me.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam, July 22, 1979]

You can no more measure a home by inches or weigh it by ounces, than you can set up the boundaries of a summer breeze, or calculate the fragrance of a rose. Home is the love which is in it.
[from The Sycamore Sunbeam, July 22, 1979]

TO GET HELP OR NOT TO GET HELP? WE'LL HELP, IF YOU'LL LET US
(Phili. 2:12.)
The apostle Paul understood well that each person must take responsibility for his or her own actions: each one must work out his own salvation. While it may be popular today to blame all one's present problems on past experiences, the Bible teaches that we cannot use these past experiences as an excuse for irresponsible behaviour. When we place the blame for all our troubles on other people's shoulders (even though they may have instigated some great evil against us), we are saying, in effect, that we can do nothing to change our destiny. Placing blame will do nothing but contribute to the spiritual and emotional sickness we face: it fails to deal with the problem itself.

All Christians have seen a time in their lives when their spiritual progress has been impeded by physical, emotional or psychological distresses. Such is the lot of humanity. And some people have been harder hit than others by events in their childhood, adolescence and adult lives. These people deserve our sympathy and empathy, but feeling pity is not enough. Some action must be taken to deal with these problems.

The first action that must be taken is a show of support by elders, preachers and all members to those people undergoing life's hardships. Hurting people need to know that there is someone they can go to and share their problems with without fear of judgement or retribution. When people come to us, they do not need a sermon on the evil of their actions. The fact that they have sought us out is adequate proof that they wish to change their way of living. Those with problems should know they can express their joys and fears to their brethren, and then realise that their brethren will help them overcome the difficulties they are facing.

The second action (and perhaps the most difficult to carry out) is the process whereby the hurting person shows a willingness to deal with his troubles. In many instances an individual fails to realise he has a problem and, thus, cannot begin to deal with it. This is why we need to each examine our lives closely in order to detect our inconsistencies. Sometimes, however, a problem is such that the only way we can see the error in our thinking is for someone to point it out to us. When someone strives to do this, we should not feel dejected: rather, we should be comforted in the knowledge that someone loved us enough to tell us about our problem. The writer of Proverbs tells us...(Prov. 27:6-7)

In our congregation are people who are hurting - you may be one of them. You do not have go continue to live a sad, painful existence. While we are all responsible for our own actions, we do not have to carry all of life's burdens alone. We can go to our Lord Jesus and He will take our load upon Himself. We can also turn to our fellow-sufferers in Christ for a listening ear or a consoling word. Maybe your marriage is in trouble, perhaps you are smarting from an emotional battering received during your childhood, or maybe you are just feeling a little weary along life's way. Brethren, whatever your troubles may be, take enough responsibility to deal with them, just don't bear the load alone.
[by Matthew Merrick from Rotorua Church of Christ]

THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH

The church, in its infancy, was under the close tutorage of the apostle (cf. Acts 2:42). A part of the nurturing process was to create in new converts a vision of success. As part of their indoctrination there were things that were fundamental to their survival as a church. By searching the scriptures we can find our role in the mission of Church.

The first, and most basic, was the need for evangelism. The apostles preached and taught the message of eternal salvation from Pentecost to their deaths (e.g. Paul - Acts 20:18-21; II Tim. 4:6-8). This is evidenced by the phenomenal growth that took place in the first century (cf. Acts 2:41; Acts 4:4; Acts 5:14; Acts 6:1, 7; Acts 8:4; Acts 17:6). Paul reported, (Col. 1:23). How did this gospel grow in so short a time? Each Christian had a personal realization of the mission of the Church. What will help the local congregation grow as it should is for every individual to do the same as those of our brethren who lived in the first century.

The second was the need for knowledge. In the early church Christians were not blessed with the technology of the 20th century. For every member of the family to have a Bible of his own was unknown. People crowded to the synagogue to hear the reading of the law (cf. Acts 13:15, 27; Acts 15:21). When a travelling preacher would come through they longed for stories about Jesus and his plan for salvation. Though they desired knowledge they were not gullible. They only accepted things that were logically sound (cf. Acts 17:11). Those in the latter part of the first century who were persecuted for their faith found encouragement in the words of truth they heard (cf. Rev. 12:11). Jesus revealed that spiritual freedom comes only to one who knows the truth (John 8:32). For the Christian to realize the mission of the church he must know what that mission entails. Knowledge only comes from studying God's Word. Only when we know the truth will we be able to defend it.

The third was the demand for readiness. One of the most difficult things for the Christian is to constantly be ready to defend his beliefs. (I Pet. 3:15). Being ready is sometime thought of as being ready to defend if confronted. Examples from the Bible show that we must continue to put ourselves in situations that will call for a defense. Paul always sought confrontation that would allow opportunity to defend the faith. To understand the mission of the church means to always be ready to promote and defend the faith.
[by Scott Harp from North Shore News, January 28, 1990, p. 2]

THINGS WORK OUT

Because it rains when we wish it wouldn't,
Because men do what they often shouldn't,
Because crops fail, and plans go wrong
Some of us grumble all day long.
But somehow, in spite of the care and doubt,
It seems at last that things work out.
Because we lose where we hoped to gain,
Because we suffer a little pain,
Because we work when we'd like to play-
Some of us whimper along life's way.
But somehow, as day always follows the night,
Most of our troubles work out all right.
Because we cannot forever smile,
Because we must trudge in the dust awhile,
Because we think that the way is long
Some of us whimper that life's all wrong.
But somehow we live and our sky grows bright,
And everything seems to work out all right.
So bend to your trouble and meet your care,
For the clouds must break, and the sky grow fair.
Let the rain come down, as it must and will,
But keep on working and hoping still.
For in spite of the grumblers who stand about,
Somehow, it seems, all things work out.
[by Guest from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

There never has been a great and beautiful character, which has not become so by filling well the ordinary and smaller offices appointed of God.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

PEACE

I sought it in a temple,
With angel-vested choir,
And dim and solemn spaces
That called the soul up higher,
I thought the music sweet and rare
Must reach the very throne;
And yet I saw some faces there
Were troubled like my own.
And then I thought a summons
Called: "Forward. Do not stay.
A world of conflict needs you.
Come, do your part today."
I joined the forces of the right,
The hosts of evil fought,
And in the thickest of the fight,
I found the peace I sought.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

WHAT THINK YE OF CHRIST?

Artist: "The one altogether lovely"
Architect: "The chief corner stone"
Astronomer: "The sum of righteousness"
Baker: "The living bread"
Biologist: "Life"
Builder: "The sure foundation"
Carpenter: "The door"
Doctor: "The great physician"
Educator: "The great teacher"
Farmer: "The sower"
Florist: "The rose of Sharon"
Geologist: "The rock of ages"
Philanthropist: "The unspeakable gift"
Servant: "The good master".
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

MISTAKES

Be not concerned nor be surprised
If what you do is criticized;
There'll always be some folks who can
Find some fault with every plan.
Mistakes are made we can't deny,
But only made by those who try.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

Hope is like the sun, which as we journey toward it, casts the shadow of our burden behind us.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

You never see the stock called happiness quoted on the exchange.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

A CHRISTIAN IS

A mind through which Christ thinks.
A heart through which Christ loves.
A hand through which Christ helps.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

He who has imagination without learning has wings but no feet.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

Satan hinders prayer, but prayer also hinders satan.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

DO NOT LET YOURSELF

Worry - when you are doing your best.
Hurry - when success depends on your accuracy.
Think evil - of a man until you have the facts.
Believe - a thing is impossible without trying it.
Trust - an elastic conscience.
Waste - time on peevish and peeving matters.
Imagine - that good intentions are a satisfying excuse.
Harbor - bitterness in your soul toward God and man.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

WHAT TO DO...AND WHY Churches teach the lost to-
Believe - because:
1. It is commanded. (Acts 16:31.)
2. It is unto righteousness. (Rom. 10:10.)
3. The Master requires it. (Mark 16:16.)
Repent - because:
1. It is commanded. (Acts 17:30.)
2. It is unto life. (Acts 11:18.)
3. The Master requires it. (Luke 13:3-5.)
Confess Christ - because:
1. It is an implied command. (Acts 8:36-37.)
2. It is unto salvation. (Rom. 10:10.)
3. The Master requires it. (Matt. 10:32-33.)
Be baptized (immersed) - because:
1. It is commanded. (Acts 2:38.)
2. It is unto Christ. (Rom. 6:3-4.)
3. The Master requires it. (Mark 16:16; John 3:5.)

These things we teach and command, because the Bible teaches and commands them. Having no human creed, wearing no human name, being tied to no human denomination, we are able to present to the world a plea for a return in all things to the Bible.

We plead with men that they return to the Bible doctrine of salvation, the Lord's pattern of living, the New Testament law for the church, and the Way of God the Father.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

The serious business of the world is done by people who are cheerful.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

Much happiness is overlooked because it doesn't cost anything.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

DO IT TODAY

Through this toilsome world, alas!
Once and only once I pass;
If a kindness I may show,
If a good deed I may do
To a suffering fellow man
Let me do it while I can.
No delay, for it is plain,
I shall not pass this way again.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

Many of life's failures are men who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

Kindness is the wind that blows the chaff from life's threshing floor.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

The real test of a man's humanity is his respect for those who can be of no possible service to him.
[from "Be of good cheer" Quinlan, Tex.: Just a Moment Pub. Co.]

When your mind goes blank, turn off the sound.

The greatest work you will ever do will be within the walls of your own home.
[by Harold B. Lee]

A cheerful disposition is one that allows a tea kettle to sing while up to it's neck in hot water.

We have two ends with a common link. With one we sit, with one we think.

Success depends on what we use.

We all grow better - in sunshine and love.

Correcting faults is like tying a necktie; we can do it easier on ourselves than an anybody else.

If you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?

Spring being a tough act to follow, God created June.
[by Al Bernstein]

The saints are the sinners who keep on trying.
[by Stevenson]

Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man.
[by Benjamin Franklin]

Don't be content with being average;
Average is as close to the bottom as it is to the top.

ARE YOU READY FOR HARVEST?

Springtime is generally thought of as a time for rebirth. It is a time to plant and to sow seeds. Probably many of you have already begun making preparations for gardens at your homes.

In Matt. 13, Jesus speaks of a man going out to sow seed on various types of soil. First, there is the seed that falls by the wayside. This seed is devoured almost as quickly as it falls to the ground. It does not take root at all and is soon gone. Secondly, some seed falls onto stony ground. This seed finds no depth in which to root, but springs up quickly. However, the sun soon scorches this seed to death. Other seed falls among thorns and is soon choked. Yet some seed falls on good ground. This seed thrives and takes deep root and produces a good crop.

Have you ever stopped to recognize what kind of soil you are? Does the word of God fall upon deaf ears with you? Does the plan of salvation fall upon a cold heart of stone? Is the love of Christ for you being choked out by things of this world? Hopefully, you are like the good soil and the seed of the kingdom has taken root in your life.

Maybe we all need to stop and take a spring inventory. Is this a planting season that any of us can afford to miss?
[By Jeff Sweet from the Sycamore Chapel Newsletter, Apr. 22, 1990]

THE POWER OF LOVE
(I John 4:19.)
As the apostle John sets forth some conditions for Christian living, he says that God's children must be loving people. Love originates in God. John's statement that "God is love" is perhaps the greatest phrase to describe God in the Bible. Love, as it is identified with God is infinite goodwill which seeks the welfare of others. The greatness of God's love is demonstrated by God's self-disclosure in His Son, Jesus. He was sent to be the completely adequate sacrifice for man's sins.

The love which flows from God to His people should be reflected in their lives as they actively seek the welfare of others. It is only in that way that God's love can reach its goal in their lives. Love is never satisfied with blessing the few; it always is zealous for the many. The process of reaching out never ends so long as there are people who need salvation.

John makes it clear that the person who lives in mutual indwelling, love finds its complete expression and the believer's fears are vanished. (I John 4:18.) Love makes all hard hearts gentle.
[by George Herbert from Power for Today, Jan., 1989]

THE JEW, THE ARAB, THE CHRISTIAN AND JERUSALEM

The land of Israel is known to millions as the Holy Land. World attention has focused on the Holy Land in recent years because of wars and the attempts to negotiate peace. History records a sad story of relationships between Jew and Arab. The ancient city has always featured in the tensions. Jews, Arabs and Christians all trace their spiritual roots back to Jerusalem and Abraham.

The Arabs.

The conflict between Arab and Jew has raged for centuries. Why has such animosity existed between them? The Bible gives us the answer. Both peoples trace their ancestry back to Abraham. The Arabs are very proud of the fact that they are descendants of Abraham's firstborn son Ishmael. When Abraham was having difficulty producing a son by his wife Sarah he took Hagar as a wife and she bare to him a son, Ishmael. Even before he was born, God outlined his future and that of his proud descendants. (Gen. 16:10-12.)

These prophetic words have rung down through the centuries with amazing accuracy. For 4000 years the Arabs have been and still are, a bold free, independent people acquainted with war and strife.

Notice another statement from the Biblical record. (Psa. 83:3-6.)

The Jews.

The Jews are the descendants of Isaac who was born to Sarah. He was the child of promise. Animosity between Jews and Arabs centres on the issue of legitimacy. The Jews are very proud of the fact that they descend from Isaac. The Arabs counter by claiming that they are the descendants of the firstborn, Ishmael. The Bible records that Israel was God's chosen people. God had placed certain conditions on that relationship. It was symbolized by two mountains, Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal. (Deut. 28:1-3, Deut. 28:15-16.)

The record of Israel's faithfulness is a tragic one because mostly they rebelled against God and brought upon themselves trouble. Jerusalem is known as the Holy City; yet it has known little peace and holiness because, as Jesus Himself said, "Men loved darkness rather than light."

The Christians

The Jews have opposed Christianity since it first revealed itself among them. They were forbidden to study the prophecies of Dan. 8 and Dan. 9 because these clearly identified Jesus as the Messiah.

"May the bones of the hands, and the bones of the fingers decay and decompose of him who turns the pages of Daniel to find out the time" Sanhedrin 9/B Sec 2 line 28.

The birth of Jesus.

Jesus was born in Bethlehem a small town a little south of Jerusalem. His birth was predicted by the prophet Micah 700 years before he was born. Micah named the town of Bethlehem as the location for the birth. (Micah 5:2.) Isaiah, another prophet speaking 700 years before Christ said that the Messiah would be born under miraculous circumstances. (Isa. 7:14, Matt. 1:18-23.)

Jesus' early years.

Because of the threats of Herod, Joseph and Mary fled to Egypt. Herod wanted all the male babies of Bethlehem killed because he feared that one of them might take the throne from him. He was extremely jealous of his position. He had several years before killed one of his wives, Marianne and her two sons Alexander and Aristobulus because he thought they were conspiring against him.

Joseph and Mary brought Jesus back to Nazareth after the death of Herod in the year 4 B.C. (Our present dating system is not accurately related to the actual year of Christ's birth. Christ was born before Herod died and since Herod died in the last months of 4 B.C., Christ was born some time during that year.)

When Jesus turned about 30 years of age He went to the Jordan river where John the Baptist was preaching and baptizing. Jesus was baptized by John and then he began His ministry. The baptism took place in the 15th year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar. (Read Dan. 9:25; John 1:41; Acts 10:38 and Luke 3:1-23.)

The death of Jesus.

Jesus ministered to mankind for three years in Israel. At the close of His ministry he came to Jerusalem. On a Thursday evening in 31 A.D. He held the last supper with His disciples. Afterward He went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. While there He was arrested and subjected to several late night, early morning trials which illegally sentenced him to death. His accusers had violated their own laws to bring about the prosecution. Jesus was crucified on Friday on a rocky outcrop known as Golgotha. The Biblical record says that He was placed in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea.

His resurrection.

The record says that He arose from the dead on the third day. His tomb is empty. If He was a mere man His death could be confirmed and proof of His demise would have been preserved by the Jews and Romans. It would have been a simple matter for them to have exposed the claim of a resurrection by producing the body. Both the Jews and Romans of that time remained silent. A resurrection had taken place and Christ was who He claimed to be - the Son of God. See Luke 23, Luke 24 for the fascinating story of the resurrection.

Jesus promised to return.

Before Jesus left this earth He assured His disciples that He was coming back. (John 14:1-3.) Everything else that we read in the Bible is true and we have every reason to believe that this is also accurate. The Biblical record presents a dynamic perspective on history and its meaning. It also gives us hope for the future. It demands from us an honest assessment of the claims it has on our lives.
[by Rein Muhlberg]

PETRA: LOST CITY OF THE DEAD

In 1812 the Swiss explorer John Burchardt disguised himself as a local Arab and set out to find the city of Petra, which had been lost to the Western world for over 1000 years. The area he searched was approximately 50 miles south of the Dead Sea in the great Nubian sandstone mountains, generally known as Mt Seir. It is the area settled by the descendants of Esau who became known as the Edomites. Esau was the twin brother of Jacob who was the father of the nation of Israel. Most of the impressive temples and buildings of Petra, that can be seen by the tourist today, were constructed by the Nabateans who inhabited the area after the Edomites. The most spectacular of the buildings is El Khazneh, the treasury. This is the first building visible from the access route into the city. The one and a half mile ravine leading into Petra is known as Wadi Musa in its first stage. The Arabs believe that the ravine was created when Moses struck the rock firmly with his staff.

It is estimated that Petra had 3000 temples and buildings that were carved out of rock. The Nabataeans and the Romans after them made this rock fortress a unique city. The steep valley in which Petra stands is very barren and inhospitable and is located 292 kilometres south of Amman the capital of the Hashemite kingdom of Jordan. It is almost due south of the Dead Sea.

Some of the impressive buildings of Petra are truly awe-inspiring. The first building to be seen by the visitor is the huge treasury building known as El Khazneh. It is an awesome experience to emerge from the siq or cleft and face the magnificence of El Khazneh. Another well preserved temple is situated several kilometres along the valley. El Dier is not recessed into the rockface like El Khazneh but is similarly carved out of living rock. From the ground to the top of the urn of El Dier is 45 metres. Another impressive rock-hewn structure is the 5000 seat amphitheatre. Some scholars believe that El Khazneh may have originally been intended as a mortuary temple for King Aretas IV who is mentioned in the New Testament in II Cor. 11:32.

Petra and the Biblical record.

What is most visible among the ruins of Petra are the remains of Nabataean and Roman activity. The Edomites had been conquered by the Nabataeans about the fourth century B.C. Not much is known about the existence of the Edomites in this valley. However we do know that they had frequent encounters with the Israelites and that relations between the two peoples was not a good one. During the Exodus it was the Edomites who refused the Israelites permission to cross their land.

Edomites.

These people were the descendants of Esau, Jacob's older brother. (Gen. 36:1, 19.) They occupied the country south of the Dead Sea after expelling the Hurrians.

Predictions.

The Bible records God's displeasure with the Edomites in these words...(Eze. 35:1-4.)

Fulfilment.

Today the area once inhabited by the Edomites is indeed desolate. It is a barren, deserted valley inhabited only by wild animals. The Edomites along with other pagan nations practiced an immoral form of worship that involved sacrifices to appease their gods. It is believed that human sacrifices were carried out on the high places of sun worship. Even the Israelites during periods of apostasy lowered themselves to such evil. (Psa. 106:28, 36-38.)

Rock dwellers.

(Oba. 3-4.) The rock-dwellers have certainly come down and perished. The Edomites experienced the fulfilment of the Biblical prediction.

Umm El Bayyarah.

This rocky outcrop at Petra is ancient Selah where the Edomites once had their capital. This is probably the place captured by King Amaziah of Judah. This rebellious king killed thousands of Edomites including 10,000 men who were taken to the top of a cliff and pushed to their death. (II Chron. 25:11-14.)

Edomites vanish.

(Oba. 18.) After 586 B.C. the Edomites moved into the southern part of Judah, Israel. They moved as far as Hebron but during the rise of the Maccabean rulers of Israel they were subjugated and forced to confirm to Judaism. They became known as Idumaeans from whom later came the Herods of the New Testament. However, as a people, the Edomites have since disappeared.

Nineveh.

Ancient Nineveh is situated on the eastern bank of the Tigris River at the mouth of a small tributary now known as Khosr, opposite the present city of Mosul in Iraq. The city was founded by Nimrod who is mentioned in the Bible. Gen. 10:11.

Cities nearby such as Calah and Asshur were very important places during the Assyrian era.

The patron goddess of Nineveh was Ishtar and worship of this pagan god dates back to at least 2300 B.C. Shalmaneser I (1274-1244 B.C.) built the first palace in Nineveh.

Sennacherib (705-681 B.C.) was responsible for the greatest moments in the history of Nineveh. Later Ashurbanipal built another palace to which he added history's first known library.

Biblical prediction.
(Nahum 3:7, Zeph. 2:13-15.)
Today all we see is the rubble of this once proud city. Archaeologists during the last century discovered Colah, Asshur and Nineveh. They had vanished from history and the only record of their existence had been the Bible. Sceptics rejected the Biblical record because they could not find any evidence of these cities. Now the sceptics have been silenced because the cities have been found and their history confirmed.

Baalbek.

Off the high mountain route which leads from Beirut on the sea to Damascus on the edge of the desert, the Romans built the holy sun-city Heliopolis. It featured the Temple of Jupiter Heliopolitanus and the Temple of Bacchus. The latter is actually larger than the Parthenon in Athens. This centre of pagan worship was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1158 A.D.

The worship that took place here was characterized by licentiousness and corruption. Its purpose was to elevate pagan religion and stem the rising influences of Christianity. Today the pagan city lies in ruins and the principles of the Bible survive. The Biblical record has taken severe hammering over the centuries but in spite of the attacks survives today as a reliable, accurate and dependable source of history and interpretation.
[by Rein Muhlberg]

SECRETS IN STONE

For centuries Egypt was a mystery to the world. Its imposing monuments and strange art forms held secrets that remained silent under centuries of almost rainless skies. But in 1798 Napoleon launched a campaign to conquer Eqypt. What took place during this expedition was to lift the veil on the past and unlock to the world the wonder of ancient Egypt.

Accompanying Napoleon's troops was a contingent of scholars who were to study the Nile Valley. During 1799 while exploring near Rashid or Rosetta, soldiers found a stone slab which had inscriptions on it. The proclamation carved on it was in three languages, Hieroglyphics, Eqyptian script called Demotic and Greek. The contents of the Rosetta shone which concern Ptolamy V in 196 B.C. are relatively unimportant. The fact that the message was repeated in three languages enabled scholars to search out the meaning of hieroglyphics. In 1822 after a 14 year study the brilliant French linguist Jean-Francois Champollion unlocked the secret of hieroglyphics. For the first time in centuries men could read the inscriptions on the walls of the temples, palaces and tombs of Egypt. What they found has given to scholars some of the most surprising confirmations of the Biblical record of history.

Giza Pyramids.

For most people the pyramids of Giza symbolize the greatness of Egypt's past and constitute one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

Although there are over 80 pyramids in the country the famous three are situated at Giza, on the west bank of the Nile River. The Great Pyramid of Cheops or Khufu rises to a height of 450 feet or about 138 metres. Originally it was 481 feet tall. This pyramid was already a thousand years old when Joseph was sold as a slave into Egypt. It is estimated that there are 2.3 million stone blocks averaging 2 1/2 tons in this giant structure. The base covers 13 acres and measures 756 feet with the margin of error in squareness only 0.09 per cent. The Greek historian Herodotus states that it took 100,000 men 20 years to build the pyramid. It is probable that all the farmers of the Nile Valley were put to work on the pyramid during the 3 months during which the Nile was in flood every year.

The second largest pyramid at Giza was built for Chephren. It can be identified by a capping of limestone that originally covered the entire surface. The third pyramid was that built for Mycerinus.

The oldest large stone structure in the world is the Step Pyramid at Saqqara built for King Djoser by his architect Imhotep. This man is also considered the father of ancient Egyptian medicine.

Despite much that has been said about the pyramids their only purpose was to be burial chambers for the pharaohs. The designers of these tombs went to great lengths to secure them against entry. However, over the centuries tomb robbers managed to break into most of the tombs of the pharaohs and today we have little left of the huge treasures once deposited in them.

The Sphinx.

Near the base of the pyramids of Giza is Abu El Hol the great Sphinx. This huge figure crouching in the desert sand has a lion's body measuring 240 feet long and 66 feet high. (73 metres and 20 metres). The human face of this sphinx measures 13 feet across (4 metres). It was carved from an outcrop of rock left over from the quarrying of stone for Cheops great Pyramid. It is believed that the face of the sphinx represented Chefren and the whole figure was made about 2650 B.C.

Between the paws of this awesome figure is a stele on which is an inscription from Thutmore IV. It relates how he unexpectedly become king although he was not heir to the throne. We do not know what happened to the rightful heir because the ancient Egyptians never recorded defeats. However, the Bible holds the answer. Thutmose had an older brother who was crown prince. This young man was killed during the tenth plague which Moses had called down on the firstborn of Egypt. Here we have between the paws of the Great Sphinx a powerful testimony to the historical accuracy of the Biblical record.

The Papyrus Reeds.

Along the edge of the Nile River the papyrus used to grow in profusion. The Egyptians cut the fibrous lining of this plant into strips. These were laid side by side and across at right angles and treated with a resin. After being pressed and pounded they were dried in the sun, then smoothed out ready for use as writing paper.

Today there is very little papyrus growing in Egypt. A small cluster grows in a pool outside the Cairo Museum and the Papyrus Institute of Cairo cultivates some on an island in the Nile River.

Notice what the Bible says about the papyrus plant. (Isa. 19:7.) Papyrus was used extensively in ancient Egypt both as paper and material for building boats. It became a symbol of Lower Egypt. Yet, just as the Bible predicted it was to virtually disappear from Egypt.

Memphis or Noph.

This great city of ancient Egypt was founded by Menes 20 miles south of the apex of the Nile Delta. It was the capital of Lower and Upper Egypt. With rise of the Third Dynasty, about 2700 B.C. the era of the old Kingdom began. Memphis grew in fame and importance from then on until 1300 A.D.

Today Memphis is all but gone. Very little remains of this once great city. Note what the Biblical writer had to say about Memphis. (Eze. 30:13.) What you see today at Memphis confirms the accuracy of the Biblical prediction.

Upper Egypt.

This is the part of Egypt that extends along the Nile River into the desert. Hardly any rain ever falls on this area. The most famous region of Upper Egypt centres around ancient Thebes. Located there are the twin temples of Luxor and Karnak. Beautiful temples and monuments abound on both sides of the Nile. Rulers like Thutmose III, Hatshepsut and Ramses II built their buildings here and inscribed on the walls accounts of their exploits and successes.

At Karnak one inscription speaks of King Sheshonk conquering Jerusalem after the death of Solomon. Shishak as he also known is referred to in the Bible. (I Kings 14:25-28, II Chron. 12:2-12.) Shishak attacked many Israelite towns and severely affected the whole nation. One town he attacked was Megiddo. A part of a broken stele discovered at Megiddo mentions King Shishak.

For years sceptics denied the historicity of the Biblical Hittites. Inscriptions on the temples of Ramses II at Thebes tell of the king fighting the Hittites at Kadesh. Ramses later concluded a treaty with the Hittites which is not considered to be the first recorded treaty in history. Again the Bible is show to be accurate.

Also at Thebes the Colossi of Mennon, two 67 foot statues flanking the entrance of what was once the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III. Nearby is the beautiful temple Dier El Bahri the mortuary of Queen Hatshepsut.

Tutankhamen.

In 1922 Howard Carter shocked the world with the dramatic news of the discovery of King Tutankhamen's tomb. Under the rubble and dust of the Valley of the Kings, Carter found the entrance to a tomb that was to unlock the mystery of the tombs of the Pharaohs. Carter at first discovered evidence of the work of tomb robbers and thought that this tomb along with the 63 others would yield nothing. What an awesome moment it was when he opened the inner chambers and found unbelievable treasure. If this 18 year old, rather insignificant king was buried with so much wealth what would great men like Ramses II have been buried with?

Moses and Egypt.

Much that we now know about ancient Egypt fills in the picture of the life of Moses. His very name is Egyptian and we can be sure that the presence of Israelites in Egypt is historically acceptable. Moses did not end up in some tomb along the Nile or as a mummy in the Cairo Museum. The Bible says he left Egypt. Heb. 11:25-26.

To the open mind these monuments of the past will provide a challenge and inspiration. Perhaps a fresh look at the world's best selling book will provide us opportunity to make fresh and meaningful discoveries.
[by Rein Muhlberg]

ROOM FOR JESUS?

Have you any room for Jesus,
He who bore your load of sin?
As He knocks and asks admission,
Sinner, will you let Him in?
Room for pleasure, room for business;
But for Christ the crucified
Not a place that He can enter
In the heart for which He died?
Have you any time for Jesus,
As in grace He calls again?
Oh, "today" is "time accepted,"
Tomorrow you may call in vain.
Room and time now give to Jesus
; Soon will pass God's day of grace;
Soon thy heart be cold and silent,
And thy Saviour's pleadings cease.
Room for Jesus, King of Glory!
Hasten now, His word obey
Swing the heart's door widely open!
Bid Him enter while you may!
[From The Truth in Love]

LIFE'S RACE

Oh! Its great to see a young man start life's race,
With principles manly and fine,
Who can look any man that he meets in the face,
With a courage that's truly sublime.
To dare to be manly, to hold to the right,
When he knows that the right is the less,
Oh play life's greatest game, with a chivalrous grace,
Such a man will his whole country bless.
To choose for his help meet, in life's strenuous race,
A woman who'll help him along,
Who will know when he falters or is tempted to wrong,
To prevent with a smile or a song.
The whole world is better for women or men,
Who fight righteously through every day;
They are the ones who are eminent and loved best of all,
No matter what critics may say.
We've had many Pilates, who wash stain away,
From their hands with a zeal that is strong.
But the people we need are the ones who will save,
The Christ from the multitudes throng.
[By Mrs. Charles Love]

(Psa. 19:14.) If it were just a matter of the mouth, I wouldn't have so much trouble, ... but it isn't, ... and I do. From GOD IS NO FOOL.

My life shall touch a dozen lives before this day is done,
Leave countless marks for good or ill ere sets the evening sun,
This is the wish I always wish, the prayer I always pray;
Lord, may my life help other lives it touches by the way.

THE DAWN

A sudden burst of sunshine after days of dreary gray.
Raindrops falling in the night when drought seemed here to stay,
A ship, storm-tossed for days at sea now knowing calm relief.
A sparkling smile upon the face of one who's known deep grief.
[By Gwen Coffelt]

I'VE FOUND A FRIEND

I've found a friend; oh, such a Friend!
He loved me ere I knew Him:
He drew me with the cords of love,
And thus He bound me to Him.
And round my heart still closely twine
Those ties which naught can sever,
For I am His and He is mine,
Forever and forever.
[by J.G. Small from the Napier Church of Christ bulletin]

A SMILE

Someone gave me a smile today;
I tried my best to give it away
To everyone I chanced to meet
As I was going along the street.
But everyone that I could see
Would give my smile right back to me.
When I got home, besides one smile,
I had enough to reach a mile.

God is in every tomorrow,
Therefore I live for today,
Certain of finding at sunrise
Guidance and strength for the way,
Prayer for each moment of weakness,
Hope for each moment of pain,
Comfort for every sorrow,
Sunshine and joy after rain.
[From Dunedin Church of Christ bulletin]

CHASING TIME

Most people want the material things of life yet few are satisfied when they get them. The most elusive thing in today's world is time. Some people buy it, some chase it, but few give it freely. There are many who want nothing more than someone to sit and talk to them - sadly, nobody seems to have time.
[From Australian Women's Weekly.]

OPPORTUNITIES

One day I woke up early and prayed
"Father, guide my steps today."
I didn't know His plans for me
As I went about my way.
Opportunities came a knockin'
Even at my kitchen door
And each time I took advantage
It seemed there came some more.
First came along my garbage man
And asked a drink of me.
He'd been up for several hours
Emptying cans for folks like me.
My family got up one by one
And each one needed me.
It was "help me find my shoe"
And "please hurry with the tea."
They got themselves together
Then all rushed out the door
I sat down, breathed a sigh,
And said, "Lord, is there more?"...Opportunities!
"Yes, read a portion of My word
And then kneel down to pray,
For you will need much strength from Me
To get through your busy day."
My neighbor called me on the phone.
(She received bad news that day;)
And said 'would you watch o'er my child?
I must leave right away.'
My plans were to clean the kitchen
And then bake an apple pie;
But now a quick decision -
Will I serve her or "I?"...Opportunities!
Later on I went shopping
And a stranger chanced to meet.
She had a woeful story-
Had been put out on the street.
Listening to her intently
I almost began to fret,
But then I realized
"Opportunities" I had met.
She went home with me that day
And helped me with the chores.
She didn't want to sponge off us
But went straight to mopping floors.
That night I told her of God's love
And what He'd done for me.
She said she'd like to learn some more
And from her sins be free.
Then just before I went to bed
Many thoughts raced through my mind;
And kneeling down, I prayed "Dear God,
Never let me become blind to...Opportunities!"
[By Cois M. Brown]

RECIPE FOR HAPPINESS

Forget the past!
Flower the present,
Face the problems
Fight the pounds.

Jim: "Who introduced you to your wife?"
Jack: "Oh, I really don't blame anybody."

DIFFERENCE OF OPINION

Jane: "I guess it's good we don't all see alike. If everybody felt as I feel, everybody would want my husband."
June: "And if they felt as I feel, nobody'd want him!"

A MOTHER'S ARMS

How comforting a mother's arms
They caress
Your aching body and mind
With warmth,
Love,
Assurance,
They give you peace and knowledge
Of her caring.
When you are grown,
Do not forget them...
They will still be here...
Stretched out.
[By Debbie Hoffman]

I REMEMBER

It can't be! It seems like yesterday that he came into my class - small, scared but eager to learn.
It can't be! It seems like yesterday that we learned new songs, and pasted pictures on a page.
It can't be! It seems like that we learned to pray and stay within the lines of colors.
It can't be! But there he stands so straight and tall. His face beaming with that same eagerness. He wants to put on his Lord in baptism! It was only yesterday!
But yesterday fade, and tomorrow looms ahead. He is a Christian, a new babe in Christ, and yet I remember when he was so small. I remember, Timmy.
[By Mrs. Melvin Fleisher]

YESTERDAY CAME IN YELLOW

Big pretty yellow breast
Walking on my lawn,
Where did you come from
So early after dawn?
When I was just a little child,
I followed you around.
I drew you in my lesson book,
And listened to your sound.
Big yellow meadow lark
Today you came once more
Bringing happy memories
Of days that went before.
Thank you for reminding me
That God is just the same.
Your children still have yellow breasts,
And mine still have my name.
[by Frieda Ann Rubesh]

GOD'S GREATEST GIFT

Our Father's handiwork is everywhere to be seen,
In the brown sodden earth and the trees so green;
The great cloud mass in the azure sky,
Are all creations of His perfect eye.
He has given us this earth in which we abound,
Oh yes, everywhere His gifts can be found.
But greatest of all He gave us His son.
To die on a tree and save us, everyone;
And the way we feel about His death on this tree,
Is the way God feels about you and me.
[By Jan Payne]

MOTHER

You light the way for others around you
You care for those you love
Of all the things in life which surround you
You gain courage from devotion to him up above
It means so much to know that I have you
It will not be forever I know
If words could say thank you,
If actions could show
There will not be another.
My only dear mother.
[By Donna Philips]

AREN'T WE ALL "CHILDREN OF GOD"?
(Acts 17:24-29.)
As the apostle Paul told the philosophers in the city of Athens, there is a sense in which all people are children of God; that is, created by him and sustained by him.

But there is another sense in which God wants us to be his children in a special way. God wants people to "seek him and reach out for him and find him" (Acts 17:27). He wants us to repent and turn to him. He has given us proof of our ultimate resurrection to judgment by raising Jesus from the dead, and Jesus will be our Judge (Acts 17:30-31).

Jesus Christ come into the world for this purpose and (John 1:12). So there is a way for God's fleshly children by human parents to become his spiritual children by adoption, "born of God" (John 1:13).

When Jesus talked to the Pharisee Nicodemus, he told him that (John 3:5-6).

Soon after Jesus' resurrection and return to heaven, his apostles pronounced his terms for entry into the kingdom of God - (Acts 2:38).

Later, the apostle Paul reminded Christians that (Gal. 3:26-4:6).

Paul also wrote that (Rom. 8:14-15).

No wonder that the apostle John reminds Christians, (I John 3:1).

Summary: 1. God want everyone to become his spiritual children, and so have a place in his kingdom.
2. God has made this possible through his Son.
3. To become children of God, we must first believe in his Son.
4. Believing in God's Son means receiving his authority to become God's children.
5. Jesus Christ authorises those who believe in him to be "born of water and the Spirit" in order to enter God's kingdom.
6. Christ's apostles conveyed his authorisation to everyone by calling on them to believe, repent and be baptized.
7. All who are baptized receive forgiveness of sins, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and are united with Christ.
8. By receiving the indwelling Holy Spirit in this way, we are made God's children.
9. That we are called "children of God" shows how great God's love is for us.
[From The Truth In Love]

This I would like to be - braver and bolder,
Just a bit wiser because I am older,
Just a bit kinder to those I may meet,
Just a bit manlier taking defeat;
This for the whole year my wish and my plea
Lord, make a regular man out of me!
This I would like to be - just a bit finer,
More of a smiler and less of a whiner,
Just a bit quicker to stretch out my hand
Helping another who's struggling to stand,
This is my prayer for the whole year to be,
Lord, make a regular man out of me!
This I would like to be - just a bit fairer
Just a bit better, and just a bit squarer,
Not quite so ready to censure and blame,
Quicker to help every man in the game,
Not quite so eager men's failings to see,
Lord, make a regular man out of me!
This I would like to be - just a bit truer,
Less of the wisher and more of the doer,
Broader and bigger, more willing to give,
Living and helping my neighbour to live.
This for the whole year my prayer and my plea
Lord, make a regular man out of me!
[From Napier bulletin, 1984]

BIBLES IN MOSCOW

One of the exciting developments that grew out of Eastern European Mission's delivery of 50,000 New Testaments to the Soviet Union in April was an invitation to participate in the Moscow Book Fair in September. Two of those who were on the original trip in April, Dale Randolph of the World Bible Translation Center and Mladen Jovanovic, of the Zagreb, Yugoslavia church, were allowed to pass out 10,000 free copies of the new Russian Easy-To-Read New Testament at the Book Fair. The response was overwhelming! People lined up by the hundreds and waited as long as two hours to get their free New Testament.

In stark contrast to this was the booth of the American Atheist Press. An article by Marsha Hamilton of the L.A. Times Service tells it best:

Two lines of eager Soviets stretched on either side of Austin atheist Madaline Murray O'Hare's booth at the Moscow International Book Fair, but no one stopped to browse through her anti-religious literature. O'Hare, in fact was taking a nap. It was a turn of events in this officially atheistic state that did not please O'Hare, founder of American Atheists. "I am completely stunned to find out the U.S.S.R. is absolutely indifferent to atheism," she said.

A reporter from Dobrij Vecher, Moscow (Good Morning, Moscow), a Moscow evening television news program, approached Mladen Jovanovic with the question, "How can you explain this crowd in front of your booth? Why do our people stand in line for hours to get a copy of your Bible?" "I think," Jovanovic responded, "that in these 72 years of atheistic-oriented Soviet society your people have come to the point where they want to know more about God, who, as they were told, did not exist. They want to see a copy of the Book on which the foundation of their culture and literature rests. How can you read and understand Dostoyevski if you don't know the source of his greatest literary works? Russian people deserve to have access to the Word of God. They should decided for themselves whether they want to believe or not. That is a basic human right."

When people saw that only a couple of thousand copies of the New Testament were left, the crowd went out of control. People were pushing from all sides. Seven policemen tried to control the crowd. By Saturday, all the Bibles were gone, but the people kept waiting in line. We decided to begin collecting addresses from everyone who hadn't received a Bible, promising that they will get one by mail as soon as possible. In the next two days almost 20,000 addresses were collected. This week in Moscow had a great impact on my life. Just to be there to see hundreds and hundreds of people patiently waiting in line to get a copy of the New Testament was good proof to me that God is still alive in our world today.
[by Mladen Jovanovic from The Bulletin, Massillon, Ohio]

SATAN HAS TAKEN CONTROL?

Satan has taken control
When in the Lord you fail to grow.
When your prayers have ceased to be uttered each day
For yourself and those who have fallen astray.
For those who are dearest to your heart indeed;
For the one you've never seen but still has the need.
For the king who lives graciously with untold riches
To the beggar whose clothing is nothing but stitches.
Satan has taken control
When you lose that humble and Christlike glow,
When you fail to tell others of God's endless love,
And about His Son Jesus who left his throne above.
When you cease to tell others that Jesus lived above sin
To make the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of mortal men.
Satan has taken control
When Jesus is not longer Lord of your soul.
When upon each first day of the week
You're able to worship the Lord, but refuse to seek.
Of when in service you refuse to rely
On the Word of God at the preacher's cry.
So if one day you awake to find
Yourself in torment or a terrible kind
You will then realize without a doubt
You're in a devil's hell with no way out.
If you believe that this could be so
There is a message of truth that you should know.
It will set you free from the burden of sin
And give you a feeling of freshness deep within.
So give yourself body, heart and soul
To the Lord Jesus Christ to take full control.
Life will be yours in heaven for a day
As you live for Jesus in every good and kind way.
Yes only a day in heaven you'll spend
Because there's no night there, so the day will never end.
Though Satan may try to take your soul
It won't happen with Jesus in control.
[by Mark Spencer of Marietta, Ga. from Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ newsletter, Apr. 15, 1990]

WASTING LIFE

There was something different about Morris Siegel.

On the surface he seemed like your average Los Angeles street person - roaming about in dark alleys, sleeping out-of-doors, carrying everything he owned in an old shopping cart. And he died the way one expects a street person to die - found in an alley, dead of natural causes, heart trouble perhaps. But there was something about him that was different.

Maybe it was his three bank accounts containing a total of $207,421.00.

Ten years ago, Morris' father died and left the money to him. When Morris did not claim it, the Division of Unclaimed Property tracked him down, and his family forced him to accept it. He did not show up at the ceremony when the cash was handed over. He took enough of the money to buy an old car, where he slept in bad weather. Relatives rented him an apartment; he never went there. He died December 14, 1989, with three dollars in his pocket and an untouched fortune in the bank.

Sound crazy? Well, figure this one out.

A couple thousand years ago, our Heavenly Father ratified His will, and left all of His children eternal wealth - life, peace, victory. To this day, many have not claimed the windfall and some have refused to spend any of it. Lost people shuffle down blind alleys of an empty existence, facing hell for eternity, and ignore the salvation promised in Christ. Many Christians, who have heaven for their final destination, content themselves with a grubby, isolated, unproductive life on this earth.

Old Morris lived a wasted life and died a futile death, but I can't be too quick to point the finger at him. He was only dealing with the temporary, and many of us play the same losing game with the eternal.
[by Douglas F. Parsons from Living the Word, Mar. 26, 1990]

LIVING DAILY WITH JESUS : CHRISTIANS AND WAR

Preliminary reading: Matt. 5:38-45; Matt. 8:5-13; Matt. 26:51-52; Luke 3:14; Acts 10:1-8; Rom. 12:18-21; Rom. 13:1-7; I Tim. 2:1-2; I Pet. 2:13-17
Situation: There is a national recruitment for war service and you receive your call-up.
Your reaction:
I will refuse and face the consequences?
I may obey provided it is a "just war"?
I don't believe any war can be justified?
I would fight an invader to protect my family and country?
I do not believe killing is ever right?
Pacifism has failed repeatedly against ruthless oppressors?
Killing is wrong, but I may have no choice?
I will not take up arms, but I may serve as a "non-combatant"?
Modern war is "total"; no one can avoid involvement, either directly or indirectly?
The one who works at home is just as much "pulling the trigger" as the one at the front?
What would Jesus do?
[from Truth in Love 1990]

SET YOUR HEARTS ON THINGS ABOVE (Col. 3:1-4)

We have been raised with Christ. Paul reminded the Colossian Christians that they had been "raised with Christ" through their faith in and baptism into Christ (Col. 3:1; Col. 2:12; Mark 16:16; Rom. 6:3-5; Gal. 3:26-27). Since they had chosen to die to their former way of life and had elected to live the new Christ-life, they should actively transform their minds. (Rom. 12:1-2) To achieve this they were urged to "set your minds on things above" (Col. 3:1-2; Heb. 12:1ff).

Christ is all, and in all. Christians must rid themselves of the kinds of thoughts, attitudes and conduct which are worldly and, instead, positively substitute thoughts, attitudes and conduct revealing their new commitment to Jesus Christ. Since "Christ is all, and is in all" (Col. 3:11) he should be in everything and in every moment in their lives.

Christ's peace and Christ's word in us. Christ's peace should "rule in your hearts" (Col. 3:15) and his word should "dwell in you richly" (Col. 3:16-17).

Give thanks to the Father through Christ. Are we so committed and devoted to our Lord as he desires us to be? Where are our hearts and minds concentrated?
[from the Truth in Love, no. 21, June 1, 1990]

LIVING DAILY WITH JESUS: "GOD, WHERE ARE YOU?"

Preliminary reading: I Kings 19:13-18; Job 4:3-6; Psa. 22:2; Psa. 37:3-7; Psa. 77:7-9; Prov. 3:5-6; Prov. 24:10; Isa. 35:3-4; Isa. 40:27-28; Isa. 49:14-15; Matt. 6:25-34; Matt. 14:29-31; John 14:8-11; Rom. 1:19-20; Rom. 8:38-39; Heb. 11:1-12:3.
Situation: Friends try to persuade you there is no God.
Your reaction:
I find it hard to believe anything?
My friends are good people who don't believe in God?
There are many good people who believe in a different god?
How can I be sure of my God?
My faith goes up and down. Why?
I wish I were always confident and sure like some people?
What can give me that certainty?
Does it really matter what anyone believes?
It takes more faith than I have to believe there is no God?
Scientists, who ought to know, don't seem to believe in God?
What did Jesus say?
[from Truth in Love 1990]

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