Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Can You Imagine This Preached Today?
Liberals, don't freak out on me!!!
Excerts from: Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God by Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) Enfield, Connecticut July 8, 1741
Their foot shall slide in due time.-- Deuteronomy 32:35
The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked: his wrath towards you burns like fire; he looks upon you as worthy of nothing else, but to be cast into the fire; he is of purer eyes than to bear to have you in his sight; you are ten thousand times more abominable in his eyes, than the most hateful venomous serpent is in ours.
You have offended him infinitely more than ever a stubborn rebel did his prince; and yet it is nothing but his hand that holds you from falling into the fire every moment. It is to be ascribed to nothing else, that you did not go to hell the last night; that you was suffered to awake again in this world, after you closed your eyes to sleep.
And there is no other reason to be given, why you have not dropped into hell since you arose in the morning, but that God's hand has held you up. There is no other reason to be given why you have not gone to hell, since you have sat here in the house of God, provoking his pure eyes by your sinful wicked manner of attending his solemn worship.
Yea, there is nothing else that is to be given as a reason why you do not this very moment drop down into hell.
O sinner! Consider the fearful danger you are in: it is a great fumace of wrath, a wide and bottomless pit, full of the fire of wrath, that you are held over in the hand of that God, whose wrath is provoked and incensed as much against you, as against many of the damned in hell.
You hang by a slender thread, with the flames of divine wrath flashing about it, and ready every moment to singe it, and burn it asunder; and you have no interest in any Mediator, and nothing to lay hold of to save yourself, nothing to keep off the flames of wrath, nothing of your own, nothing that you ever have done, nothing that you can do, to induce God to spare you one moment.
Excerts from: Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God by Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) Enfield, Connecticut July 8, 1741
Their foot shall slide in due time.-- Deuteronomy 32:35
The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked: his wrath towards you burns like fire; he looks upon you as worthy of nothing else, but to be cast into the fire; he is of purer eyes than to bear to have you in his sight; you are ten thousand times more abominable in his eyes, than the most hateful venomous serpent is in ours.
You have offended him infinitely more than ever a stubborn rebel did his prince; and yet it is nothing but his hand that holds you from falling into the fire every moment. It is to be ascribed to nothing else, that you did not go to hell the last night; that you was suffered to awake again in this world, after you closed your eyes to sleep.
And there is no other reason to be given, why you have not dropped into hell since you arose in the morning, but that God's hand has held you up. There is no other reason to be given why you have not gone to hell, since you have sat here in the house of God, provoking his pure eyes by your sinful wicked manner of attending his solemn worship.
Yea, there is nothing else that is to be given as a reason why you do not this very moment drop down into hell.
O sinner! Consider the fearful danger you are in: it is a great fumace of wrath, a wide and bottomless pit, full of the fire of wrath, that you are held over in the hand of that God, whose wrath is provoked and incensed as much against you, as against many of the damned in hell.
You hang by a slender thread, with the flames of divine wrath flashing about it, and ready every moment to singe it, and burn it asunder; and you have no interest in any Mediator, and nothing to lay hold of to save yourself, nothing to keep off the flames of wrath, nothing of your own, nothing that you ever have done, nothing that you can do, to induce God to spare you one moment.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
BROKENNESS!!!
The problem with declining church attendance isn't necessarily a lack of good preaching, or good music, it could be because the church (as a whole as well as the local congregation) is lacking this:
BROKENNESS OVER THE "LOSTNESS" OF OUR COUNTRY AND THE NEED FOR REVIVAL!!!
I. The Problem. A lack of concern for the unsaved!
II. The Symptom. No salvations, no baptisms & a stagnant church!
III. The Scripture. Psalm 51:17 & Psalm 34:18
IV. The Cure. Let us see the multitudes without, and be moved with compassion. Let our hearts be burdened for the desperate need of salvation for the people of our nation and the need for revival in our churches, and may we pray for and exercise true repentance.
BROKENNESS OVER THE "LOSTNESS" OF OUR COUNTRY AND THE NEED FOR REVIVAL!!!
I. The Problem. A lack of concern for the unsaved!
II. The Symptom. No salvations, no baptisms & a stagnant church!
III. The Scripture. Psalm 51:17 & Psalm 34:18
IV. The Cure. Let us see the multitudes without, and be moved with compassion. Let our hearts be burdened for the desperate need of salvation for the people of our nation and the need for revival in our churches, and may we pray for and exercise true repentance.
Friday, June 27, 2014
“Depart From Me I Never Knew You”…who is Jesus talking to???
“I Never Knew You..”
Matthew 7:21 – 23
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
Of all the scripture that comes to mind, perhaps the saddest and most fearful of all is the very words of Jesus Himself found in Matthew 7 and verse 21 – 23. Here, Jesus tells us that at the second coming, there will be some people who will fully expect to ascend to heaven with Him in the clouds of glory, but He will have to tell them; “….depart from Me, I never knew you.” Can you imagine those words falling from our Savior’s lips? “depart from Me, I never knew you!”
Make no mistake about it; there will be people on the Day of Judgment that are going to be expecting to go to heaven, yet instead of inheriting the Kingdom,they are going to hear those saddening words of Christ; “Depart from Me, I never knew you.” There will be deacons, Sabbath school teachers, Elders, Pastors, TV evangelists, miracle workers along with countless others (ie. all church people!) that will be turned away–and all because they lacked one very necessary qualification; they didn’t truly know the Lord and so He will be forced to say to them, “…depart from Me, for I never knew you.”
The people Jesus will say He “never knew” will be those who never felt the need to truly “know Him” yet these are people who “think” they are going to heaven!
Matthew 7:21 – 23
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
Of all the scripture that comes to mind, perhaps the saddest and most fearful of all is the very words of Jesus Himself found in Matthew 7 and verse 21 – 23. Here, Jesus tells us that at the second coming, there will be some people who will fully expect to ascend to heaven with Him in the clouds of glory, but He will have to tell them; “….depart from Me, I never knew you.” Can you imagine those words falling from our Savior’s lips? “depart from Me, I never knew you!”
Make no mistake about it; there will be people on the Day of Judgment that are going to be expecting to go to heaven, yet instead of inheriting the Kingdom,they are going to hear those saddening words of Christ; “Depart from Me, I never knew you.” There will be deacons, Sabbath school teachers, Elders, Pastors, TV evangelists, miracle workers along with countless others (ie. all church people!) that will be turned away–and all because they lacked one very necessary qualification; they didn’t truly know the Lord and so He will be forced to say to them, “…depart from Me, for I never knew you.”
The people Jesus will say He “never knew” will be those who never felt the need to truly “know Him” yet these are people who “think” they are going to heaven!
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Well, Would They?
Is there any sick among you? If so let them call the elders of the church..............then what? Will the elders KNOW what to do?
Monday, June 23, 2014
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Divine Relationships
God sends Divine Relationships to help and strengthen our walk with Him. They are few, so be aware and take advantage of what He has sent you. I'm not speaking of "fellow laborers", but true divine relationships!
Choose Who???
Revival is possible IF the church could be awakened! If you study the "lethargic" side of the church, then look at the unchurched, you will come to understand that reaching the unchurched would result in a greater FERVOR for Christ Jesus.
Perhaps we need to quit laboring so hard and long among the cynical!!!
Perhaps we need to quit laboring so hard and long among the cynical!!!
Monday, June 16, 2014
Come Back!!!
School is in session for me today. I'm never to old to learn, and I have the most awesome Teacher that has ever lived. He came to me in August of 1983, and in most of those 30 plus years I have at times listened intently to Him, and have been greatly educated in the things of this life, as my education was preparing me for the a new life (eternal) to come.
But there has been times, as in high school, were my body was sitting in the class room, yet my mind was far, far away, that I just wasn't listening and definitely wasn't learning. My Professor today knows, just as a few select school teachers from years ago knew, when and when I wasn't paying attention to their heeding to better educate me. Thank God though, many of those public servants never gave up on me, they just kept on laying out much needed advice, secretly hoping I would grasp what I could while being in a mental stupor, and my class room Educator of today does the same even now.
My present Teacher, knows me better than I know myself, (kind of like my 6th grade teacher in elementary school (Mrs. Francis Cohron) and my New Testament professor (Dr. George Redding) in college), because He made me and He knows me, both of me, the good person and the weak man.
For those few years that I wasn't out in the waters of life helping my brothers and sisters in Christ, who were frantically trying to rescue the perishing from the strong satanic rip currents which were pulling them out deeper and deeper into positions of sure death. In those times of being back slide, I only sit on the shore watching both the lost be sweep away into an eternal abyss and the other Believers wearing themselves out going from drowning person to drowning person, placing saving and loving arms around the doomed, begging them to hold on and to listen, as they were sharing with them how to save themselves from the grasp of the enemy, and I just watched as those "life guards" would periodically look back to the shoreline with anxious countenances upon their faces, at me, saying, "Come back in, we need the help". And though I didn't budge from my position of disobedience, my Savior never pushed me back into the water, though He knew at one time I would wade out as deep as anyone, that I was a prolific soul winner. Rather, He would just whisper in my ear, and say, "I miss you and they need you".
One day, my Teacher sent two old friends, that lives a thousand miles away to come see me, and believe it or not, we were on the beach, just walking, when one of them (Jimbo Webb) said to me, "What are you doing anyway"? It wasn't a specific question, but I knew exactly what he was asking. The next morning, I went back to the beach, the spiritual one, and said to my Teacher, "Forgive me for being in a spiritual coma for these last few years", and I stepped off into the water once again.
Each day I get deeper. Each day I am being retaught and given new revelations. Each day I thank Heaven for the "Other One" that Jesus sent to earth for us, as a Comforter and a Teacher, after He ascended to the right hand of the Father. (John 14:12-21)
I am forever grateful for another shot at this, and for my salvation and calling. Thank you Holy Spirit, my Teacher. ~ Pas Cochise
Psalm 84:10
But there has been times, as in high school, were my body was sitting in the class room, yet my mind was far, far away, that I just wasn't listening and definitely wasn't learning. My Professor today knows, just as a few select school teachers from years ago knew, when and when I wasn't paying attention to their heeding to better educate me. Thank God though, many of those public servants never gave up on me, they just kept on laying out much needed advice, secretly hoping I would grasp what I could while being in a mental stupor, and my class room Educator of today does the same even now.
My present Teacher, knows me better than I know myself, (kind of like my 6th grade teacher in elementary school (Mrs. Francis Cohron) and my New Testament professor (Dr. George Redding) in college), because He made me and He knows me, both of me, the good person and the weak man.
For those few years that I wasn't out in the waters of life helping my brothers and sisters in Christ, who were frantically trying to rescue the perishing from the strong satanic rip currents which were pulling them out deeper and deeper into positions of sure death. In those times of being back slide, I only sit on the shore watching both the lost be sweep away into an eternal abyss and the other Believers wearing themselves out going from drowning person to drowning person, placing saving and loving arms around the doomed, begging them to hold on and to listen, as they were sharing with them how to save themselves from the grasp of the enemy, and I just watched as those "life guards" would periodically look back to the shoreline with anxious countenances upon their faces, at me, saying, "Come back in, we need the help". And though I didn't budge from my position of disobedience, my Savior never pushed me back into the water, though He knew at one time I would wade out as deep as anyone, that I was a prolific soul winner. Rather, He would just whisper in my ear, and say, "I miss you and they need you".
One day, my Teacher sent two old friends, that lives a thousand miles away to come see me, and believe it or not, we were on the beach, just walking, when one of them (Jimbo Webb) said to me, "What are you doing anyway"? It wasn't a specific question, but I knew exactly what he was asking. The next morning, I went back to the beach, the spiritual one, and said to my Teacher, "Forgive me for being in a spiritual coma for these last few years", and I stepped off into the water once again.
Each day I get deeper. Each day I am being retaught and given new revelations. Each day I thank Heaven for the "Other One" that Jesus sent to earth for us, as a Comforter and a Teacher, after He ascended to the right hand of the Father. (John 14:12-21)
I am forever grateful for another shot at this, and for my salvation and calling. Thank you Holy Spirit, my Teacher. ~ Pas Cochise
Psalm 84:10
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Friday, June 6, 2014
yep!!!
“It is possible to be as straight as a gun barrel theologically and as empty as one spiritually.” Vance Havner
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Zeal, But No Righteousness!!!
Ministering to the physical needs of people is admirable, but neglecting the spirit by leaving out the way to salvation while tending to the body isn't. The former is needed, but the later is more important. They work together! ~ Pas
What Is Your Excuse?
..........for if some reject, others will thankfully accept the offer. The very poor and low in the world, shall be as welcome to Christ as the rich and great..........
Luke 14:15-24 When one of those who were reclining at the table with Him heard this, he said to Him, “Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!”
Parable of the Dinner
But He said to him, “A man was giving a big dinner, and he invited many; and at the dinner hour he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for everything is ready now.’ “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first one said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of land and I need to go out and look at it; please consider me excused.’
“Another one said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please consider me excused.’ “Another one said, ‘I have married a wife, and for that reason I cannot come.’ “And the slave came back and reported this to his master. Then the head of the household became angry and said to his slave, ‘Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the city and bring in here the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’
“And the slave said, ‘Master, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ “And the master said to the slave, ‘Go out into the highways and along the hedges, and compel them to come in, so that my house may be filled. ‘For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste of my dinner.’”
Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary
14:15-24 In this parable observe the free grace and mercy of God shining in the gospel of Christ, which will be food and a feast for the soul of a man that knows its own wants and miseries. All found some pretence to put off their attendance.
This reproves the Jewish nation for their neglect of the offers of Christ's grace. It shows also the backwardness there is to close with the gospel call. The want of gratitude in those who slight gospel offers, and the contempt put upon the God of heaven thereby, justly provoke him.
The apostles were to turn to the Gentiles, when the Jews refused the offer; and with them the church was filled. The provision made for precious souls in the gospel of Christ, has not been made in vain; for if some reject, others will thankfully accept the offer.
The very poor and low in the world, shall be as welcome to Christ as the rich and great; and many times the gospel has the greatest success among those that labour under worldly disadvantages and bodily infirmities. Christ's house shall at last be filled; it will be so when the number of the elect is completed.
Luke 14:15-24 When one of those who were reclining at the table with Him heard this, he said to Him, “Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!”
Parable of the Dinner
But He said to him, “A man was giving a big dinner, and he invited many; and at the dinner hour he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for everything is ready now.’ “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first one said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of land and I need to go out and look at it; please consider me excused.’
“Another one said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please consider me excused.’ “Another one said, ‘I have married a wife, and for that reason I cannot come.’ “And the slave came back and reported this to his master. Then the head of the household became angry and said to his slave, ‘Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the city and bring in here the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’
“And the slave said, ‘Master, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ “And the master said to the slave, ‘Go out into the highways and along the hedges, and compel them to come in, so that my house may be filled. ‘For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste of my dinner.’”
Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary
14:15-24 In this parable observe the free grace and mercy of God shining in the gospel of Christ, which will be food and a feast for the soul of a man that knows its own wants and miseries. All found some pretence to put off their attendance.
This reproves the Jewish nation for their neglect of the offers of Christ's grace. It shows also the backwardness there is to close with the gospel call. The want of gratitude in those who slight gospel offers, and the contempt put upon the God of heaven thereby, justly provoke him.
The apostles were to turn to the Gentiles, when the Jews refused the offer; and with them the church was filled. The provision made for precious souls in the gospel of Christ, has not been made in vain; for if some reject, others will thankfully accept the offer.
The very poor and low in the world, shall be as welcome to Christ as the rich and great; and many times the gospel has the greatest success among those that labour under worldly disadvantages and bodily infirmities. Christ's house shall at last be filled; it will be so when the number of the elect is completed.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
WAPN Holly Hill Radio 91.5FM
Every Wednesday & Friday, tune in or watch LIVE through streaming, at 11:30am for a word from Pastor Cochise!!!
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Yep
Ministering to the physical needs of people is admirable, but neglecting the spirit by leaving out the way to salvation while tending to the body isn't. The former is needed, but the later is more important. They work together!
Monday, May 12, 2014
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Cure for Envy!!!
C. H. Spurgeon
Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long. For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cast off. (Proverbs 23:17-18)
When we see the wicked prosper we are apt to envy them. When we hear the noise of their mirth and our own spirit is heavy, we half think that they have the best of it. This is foolish and sinful. If we knew them better, and specially if we remembered their end, we should pity them.
The cure for envy lies in living under a constant sense of the divine presence, worshiping God and communing with Him all the day long, however long the day may seem. True religion lifts the soul into a higher region, where the judgment becomes more clear and the desires are more elevated. The more of heaven there is in our lives, the less of earth we shall covet. The fear of God casts out envy of men.
The deathblow of envy is a calm consideration of the future. The wealth and glory of the ungodly are a vain show. This pompous appearance flashes out for an hour and then is extinguished. What is the prosperous sinner the better for his prosperity when judgment overtakes him? As for the godly man, his end is peace and blessedness, and none can rob him of his joy; wherefore, let him forgo envy and be filled with sweet content.
Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long. For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cast off. (Proverbs 23:17-18)
When we see the wicked prosper we are apt to envy them. When we hear the noise of their mirth and our own spirit is heavy, we half think that they have the best of it. This is foolish and sinful. If we knew them better, and specially if we remembered their end, we should pity them.
The cure for envy lies in living under a constant sense of the divine presence, worshiping God and communing with Him all the day long, however long the day may seem. True religion lifts the soul into a higher region, where the judgment becomes more clear and the desires are more elevated. The more of heaven there is in our lives, the less of earth we shall covet. The fear of God casts out envy of men.
The deathblow of envy is a calm consideration of the future. The wealth and glory of the ungodly are a vain show. This pompous appearance flashes out for an hour and then is extinguished. What is the prosperous sinner the better for his prosperity when judgment overtakes him? As for the godly man, his end is peace and blessedness, and none can rob him of his joy; wherefore, let him forgo envy and be filled with sweet content.
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Yep!!!
I get aggravated at some of my friends, who think Baptist don't believe in the gifts. That's not true, they just believe in more than that.
There isn't much difference if any. I have been in the Church of God's the last 2 services I've preached, and what i loved about them were, it didn't matter, as long as we preach Jesus, but.............
...........last night while out at the store, i invited someone to Set Free and they asked were it was. I said the Halifax Baptist Association, and they said they were saved and baptized in the Baptist church, but NOW they believe in the gifts............like healing..................... and left the Baptist................WHAT?
Someone has pulled the wool over their eyes, is what happened. I have preached in 100's of baptist churches and they all believe in healing and many have come forth for healing prayer.........James 5:16...........I have prayed for 1,000's to be healed.............and some were...................nothing I did.........I just agreed with the one asking, and claimed the promise of Jesus, were if 2 agree and ask............but I don't go around with this as my MAIN teaching or doctrine........................my main teaching is, FAITH in Jesus for ALL things.
My point is.......................as I said earlier this week........................"God has been served by ignorant men (like me), but He is never served by ignorance."
BTW, this person asked me to pray for a friend to be healed............I said, lets do it right here, right now, so at CVS I claimed the promise (again) were if 2 people agree on any one thing on earth it will be done for them by the heavenly Father.........and as always I prayed for God to reveal Himself to the one I'm praying for, that they would know IT'S HIM WHO HEALS..........He will keep His promise IF our prayers ARE reaching Heaven???.........just saying..................as there are many hindrances to prayers..............like an unforgiving spirit.........Mark 11:25-26....................or like our sin.......................Isaiah 59: 1-2..............
Preach Him....................that's all you have to do........................because then "men will be drawn to Him"...........................Preach Him..................and watch what happens.......................Preach Him..................and.........................
There isn't much difference if any. I have been in the Church of God's the last 2 services I've preached, and what i loved about them were, it didn't matter, as long as we preach Jesus, but.............
...........last night while out at the store, i invited someone to Set Free and they asked were it was. I said the Halifax Baptist Association, and they said they were saved and baptized in the Baptist church, but NOW they believe in the gifts............like healing..................... and left the Baptist................WHAT?
Someone has pulled the wool over their eyes, is what happened. I have preached in 100's of baptist churches and they all believe in healing and many have come forth for healing prayer.........James 5:16...........I have prayed for 1,000's to be healed.............and some were...................nothing I did.........I just agreed with the one asking, and claimed the promise of Jesus, were if 2 agree and ask............but I don't go around with this as my MAIN teaching or doctrine........................my main teaching is, FAITH in Jesus for ALL things.
My point is.......................as I said earlier this week........................"God has been served by ignorant men (like me), but He is never served by ignorance."
BTW, this person asked me to pray for a friend to be healed............I said, lets do it right here, right now, so at CVS I claimed the promise (again) were if 2 people agree on any one thing on earth it will be done for them by the heavenly Father.........and as always I prayed for God to reveal Himself to the one I'm praying for, that they would know IT'S HIM WHO HEALS..........He will keep His promise IF our prayers ARE reaching Heaven???.........just saying..................as there are many hindrances to prayers..............like an unforgiving spirit.........Mark 11:25-26....................or like our sin.......................Isaiah 59: 1-2..............
Preach Him....................that's all you have to do........................because then "men will be drawn to Him"...........................Preach Him..................and watch what happens.......................Preach Him..................and.........................
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Monday, April 21, 2014
Friday, April 18, 2014
Ain't It Cool!!!!
True Conversion Produces An "IMMEDIATE CHANGE"!!!
Acts 16:25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. 27 The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!”
29 The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized.
34The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.
Acts 16:25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. 27 The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!”
29 The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized.
34The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.
Friday, April 11, 2014
GOD DOES NOT TEMPT US WITH "EVIL"!!!
God is more concerned about building your Christian Character than He is about making you Comfortable!
James tells us, we are to keep ourselves from being "polluted" by the things of this world. (1:27)
People want fun, and that's cool, but don't substitute filth for fun.
Look what James says here, (1:13-15), When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, "NOR DOES HE TEMPT ANYONE"; but each person is tempted when they are DRAGGED AWAY by their OWN EVIL DESIRE and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to DEATH.
(1:21) Get rid of ALL MORAL FILTH!!!
James tells us to not just HEAR the Word, BUT Do the Word, AMEN!!! How is YOUR Christian Character?
James tells us, we are to keep ourselves from being "polluted" by the things of this world. (1:27)
People want fun, and that's cool, but don't substitute filth for fun.
Look what James says here, (1:13-15), When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, "NOR DOES HE TEMPT ANYONE"; but each person is tempted when they are DRAGGED AWAY by their OWN EVIL DESIRE and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to DEATH.
(1:21) Get rid of ALL MORAL FILTH!!!
James tells us to not just HEAR the Word, BUT Do the Word, AMEN!!! How is YOUR Christian Character?
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
YES!!!
Every BELIEVER should realize that no matter what his employment is, it is only PAYING his EXPENSES to be an AMBASSADOR for the Lord Jesus Christ. ~ James A. Stewart
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
NO GRAY AREAS!
Addicts rationalize sin. And eventually, sin becomes everything in their lives, which means they rationalize away who they are. If we’re all honest with ourselves, we would see that, like the addict, we like the “gray” area far too much. We want to push the boundaries in the name of freedom, rationality, or cultural appeal.
Christ followers are meant to be a good smell to the world of God’s work and goodness, and it’s impossible for them to do this if they are not living in His “light.” Corruption infects everyone affiliated with it. We are meant to bring the light into the darkness, not become part of the darkness. Interacting with culture and those who don’t believe is not the same as becoming one with culture and those who don’t believe. ~ John D. Barry
Christ followers are meant to be a good smell to the world of God’s work and goodness, and it’s impossible for them to do this if they are not living in His “light.” Corruption infects everyone affiliated with it. We are meant to bring the light into the darkness, not become part of the darkness. Interacting with culture and those who don’t believe is not the same as becoming one with culture and those who don’t believe. ~ John D. Barry
Are You Drawn?
The reason no one can come to Jesus (John 6:44) is that it is not our nature to come. It is our nature, and therefore our will, to flee from Christ, not come to him. The fact is, and a sad fact at that, we do not want to come.
We are delighted not to come. We willingly and freely and voluntarily choose to stay in our sin and unbelief, because we find nothing at all in Jesus that is alluring, appealing, truthful, or in any way an improvement on what we already are and have on our own. Were we ever to come to the point of wanting to come to Christ for life, we could do so. Indeed, Jesus says we most assuredly will (John 6:37)!
But such “wanting,” such “coming,” is not of our own making. It is of God. It is of the Father who in eternity past “gave” us to the Son and now in time “draws” us to faith. Simply put, no one, of himself or herself, wants to be saved. But whoever, by God’s power, is made willing shall be saved!
~ Sam Storms
We are delighted not to come. We willingly and freely and voluntarily choose to stay in our sin and unbelief, because we find nothing at all in Jesus that is alluring, appealing, truthful, or in any way an improvement on what we already are and have on our own. Were we ever to come to the point of wanting to come to Christ for life, we could do so. Indeed, Jesus says we most assuredly will (John 6:37)!
But such “wanting,” such “coming,” is not of our own making. It is of God. It is of the Father who in eternity past “gave” us to the Son and now in time “draws” us to faith. Simply put, no one, of himself or herself, wants to be saved. But whoever, by God’s power, is made willing shall be saved!
~ Sam Storms
Monday, April 7, 2014
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
One Night Revival Effort At Bella Vista Baptist Church
Carol Preskitt-Clemons said: I was blessed to have the two most important men in my life with me tonight, Cochise! And I have been praying hard for the Lord to move in our lives. And you sure brought the house down with your message!! What a blessing to witness all those folks on their knees praying for their children's salvation!! YOU ROCKED IT TONIGHT!
Carol Preskitt-Clemons said: What a powerful and moving message you preached tonight Pastor! What a blessing it was for my family!! You lit a fire in that little church tonight! It brought tears to my eyes to see the spirit move in the house of God!! Amen and AMEN!!!
If I could just preach one revival a month, the Lord could finance us that place we need for ministry through that method, and it would be earned and not a hand out...............would you agree with us on this? One revival a month!
The ALTAR was full and over flowing tonight in that old Baptist Church, that's right in the Baptist Church.....................why? Because they want revival!!! when I see 80 year olds kneeling and praying at the altar........weeping and praying for the souls of their children, grand children and great grand children............I know God showed up!
What a powerful and moving message you preached tonight Pastor! What a blessing it was for my family!! You lit a fire in that little church tonight! It brought tears to my eyes to see the spirit move in the house of God!! Amen and AMEN!!!
Wow! I really felt the Holy Spirit move in me tonight. I would like to take ya out to lunch soon and talk. I have some things to say to you that I won't get into now. Just let me know when would be good for you. Thank You Brother. Look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you so much for a great message tonight! It's been a long time since I have heard preaching like that! May God Bless and Keep You and Your Family in His Care!
Hay I am the guy that told you about the wreck on I-64. That was a great message tonight. Wishing you the best on finding a ride for you wife.
I will check your page...it was good seeing you tonight Brother. You were right on point tonight...definitely carried the spirit with you, and I needed it. Thanks
Carol Preskitt-Clemons said: What a powerful and moving message you preached tonight Pastor! What a blessing it was for my family!! You lit a fire in that little church tonight! It brought tears to my eyes to see the spirit move in the house of God!! Amen and AMEN!!!
If I could just preach one revival a month, the Lord could finance us that place we need for ministry through that method, and it would be earned and not a hand out...............would you agree with us on this? One revival a month!
The ALTAR was full and over flowing tonight in that old Baptist Church, that's right in the Baptist Church.....................why? Because they want revival!!! when I see 80 year olds kneeling and praying at the altar........weeping and praying for the souls of their children, grand children and great grand children............I know God showed up!
What a powerful and moving message you preached tonight Pastor! What a blessing it was for my family!! You lit a fire in that little church tonight! It brought tears to my eyes to see the spirit move in the house of God!! Amen and AMEN!!!
Wow! I really felt the Holy Spirit move in me tonight. I would like to take ya out to lunch soon and talk. I have some things to say to you that I won't get into now. Just let me know when would be good for you. Thank You Brother. Look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you so much for a great message tonight! It's been a long time since I have heard preaching like that! May God Bless and Keep You and Your Family in His Care!
Hay I am the guy that told you about the wreck on I-64. That was a great message tonight. Wishing you the best on finding a ride for you wife.
I will check your page...it was good seeing you tonight Brother. You were right on point tonight...definitely carried the spirit with you, and I needed it. Thanks
Friday, March 28, 2014
BAM!!!
Boot Hill Saloon, Main St. Daytona Beach, FL just NOW asked me to have a monthly church service there!!!
Rock On!!!
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Tongues, Prophecy, and the Thing We Call Love
Nearly anything good can become unproductive if it’s abused or misused. Paul is all about embracing the side of spirituality that can seem a bit wacky to us today—gifts of tongues and prophecy, to name a few. But he is fully aware of the problems that can come from these gifts being used in a way that doesn’t fit within God’s will. And Paul’s primary concern is that spiritual gifts are used only within the bounds of love.
Love is what it’s all about. “Pursue love, and strive for spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. For the one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God, because no one understands, but by the Spirit he speaks mysteries” (1 Cor 14:1–2). By tongues, Paul is likely referencing the “tongues of angels”—some angelic language (1 Cor 13:1)—although elsewhere the term is used in reference to people speaking in a language they don’t actually know for the sake of ministering to others in their native tongue (Acts 2:3–4).
Love—as manifested in Christ’s death and resurrection and in our living sacrificially for Him and others—is central, and spiritual gifts should support that cause.
Paul goes on to say: “Now I want you all to speak with tongues, but even more that you may prophesy.… But now, brothers, if I come to you speaking with tongues, how do I benefit you, unless I speak to you either with a revelation or with knowledge or with a prophecy or with a teaching?” (1 Cor 14:5–6).
Spiritual gifts are meant to indwell believers. Christians are meant to be driven by God’s Spirit and to do miraculous things in His name. But none of it matters if it’s not for the purpose of showing Christ’s love.
Love is what it’s all about. “Pursue love, and strive for spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. For the one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God, because no one understands, but by the Spirit he speaks mysteries” (1 Cor 14:1–2). By tongues, Paul is likely referencing the “tongues of angels”—some angelic language (1 Cor 13:1)—although elsewhere the term is used in reference to people speaking in a language they don’t actually know for the sake of ministering to others in their native tongue (Acts 2:3–4).
Love—as manifested in Christ’s death and resurrection and in our living sacrificially for Him and others—is central, and spiritual gifts should support that cause.
Paul goes on to say: “Now I want you all to speak with tongues, but even more that you may prophesy.… But now, brothers, if I come to you speaking with tongues, how do I benefit you, unless I speak to you either with a revelation or with knowledge or with a prophecy or with a teaching?” (1 Cor 14:5–6).
Spiritual gifts are meant to indwell believers. Christians are meant to be driven by God’s Spirit and to do miraculous things in His name. But none of it matters if it’s not for the purpose of showing Christ’s love.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Yes Sir!!!
A certain darkness is needed to see the stars!!!
And
When you want more, you will do more!!!
And
When you want more, you will do more!!!
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Yep!
2 Kinds of Motorcycle Ministers! 1st, the biker who got saved and has been there. 2nd, the saved man who bought a bike.
Monday, March 10, 2014
Thursday, March 6, 2014
100%er!!!
Are you hesitant in your commitment to Jesus? What is keeping you from devoting totally to Him?
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
A Friend Of the World Is An Enemy Of God's!
In what ways are you loving evil things instead of hating them? Be honest with yourself and God.
JOHN D. BARRY
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Loose It & Live!!!
In John 12, Jesus states that utter and complete devotion to God and His kingdom should be the focus of our lives: “Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor” (John 12:25–26).
Think About It!!!
When we feel downtrodden, it’s easy to lash out at those around us. Too often, caught in the injustice of our circumstances, we might begin to feel an unhealthy amount of self-justification. It’s difficult to see where the lines of right and wrong fall when anger and hurt overwhelm us.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Faith Please God!!!
God is limited by our lack of faith. Pray for an increase of faith, and then believe!
Man Up!!!
Where are all the real men today? Those that love being saved and not afraid to tell others? That live a separated life, a guarded life, a life that reflects Jesus Christ?
Where are the real bikers that have been saved from the pits of hell? That want to ride, unafraid and unashamedly for Christ? That will go where the angels fear to trod?
I'm praying that all who come to Set Free Daytona will become these men, including ME!!!
Isaiah 41:10 Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Matthew 10:28 "Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
I Peter 3:14 But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats.
Where are the real bikers that have been saved from the pits of hell? That want to ride, unafraid and unashamedly for Christ? That will go where the angels fear to trod?
I'm praying that all who come to Set Free Daytona will become these men, including ME!!!
Isaiah 41:10 Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Matthew 10:28 "Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
I Peter 3:14 But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats.
Bulk Up!!!
As a Warrior for God, you must be willing to Swing The Sword Of The Lord!!!
To do that you MUST Read & Study His Word, EVERYDAY, or be overwhelmed in your daily battles.
To do that you MUST Read & Study His Word, EVERYDAY, or be overwhelmed in your daily battles.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Acts 10
A veteran pastor served for years in a small town in northern Montana. One day the Lord called him home to heaven, and it appeared his earthly sojourn was complete. As it turned out, however, he had been brought to glory a little earlier than the heavenly schedule had designed. After making the appropriate apologies, the Lord informed the pastor he would have to return to that dreary small town and continue to serve until the actual time of his home going arrived.
Upon this announcement, an argument ensued, with the pastor actually saying, “I won’t go!” and the Lord reminding him, “You must!” Finally the pastor said, “Well, Lord, I’ll go back to northern Montana if you’ll go with me.” After the Lord pondered the offer for several minutes he finally replied, “Well, I’ll go with you as far as Billings.”
Silly nonsense, of course, but descriptive of Peter’s early mood when that odious sheet came down. By the time the messengers arrived, he had dealt with his attitude and was quite motivated to go and accomplish whatever God wished of him. Furthermore, God went with him all the way to Caesarea and stayed with him every moment.
Upon this announcement, an argument ensued, with the pastor actually saying, “I won’t go!” and the Lord reminding him, “You must!” Finally the pastor said, “Well, Lord, I’ll go back to northern Montana if you’ll go with me.” After the Lord pondered the offer for several minutes he finally replied, “Well, I’ll go with you as far as Billings.”
Silly nonsense, of course, but descriptive of Peter’s early mood when that odious sheet came down. By the time the messengers arrived, he had dealt with his attitude and was quite motivated to go and accomplish whatever God wished of him. Furthermore, God went with him all the way to Caesarea and stayed with him every moment.
Hey Church!!!
Never think you are too good to break bread with someone else, believer or unbeliever.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Did you get it right?
Salvation is the process by which the believer becomes conformed to the image of Christ. The process begins through a confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord (God and Master) and Savior. Through faith alone we are justified (declared righteous) before a Holy God.
The Holy Spirit is given to the believer to guide and lead him through the process of sanctification. The process is completed through the power of God as the believer is resurrected to live eternally in heaven with God.
Also:
Worship is a natural response to what God has done for us and can be expressed in many different ways (both corporate and private). Corporate worship and service is to be done with a local body of believers and is not optional for obedient Christians.
The Holy Spirit is given to the believer to guide and lead him through the process of sanctification. The process is completed through the power of God as the believer is resurrected to live eternally in heaven with God.
Also:
Worship is a natural response to what God has done for us and can be expressed in many different ways (both corporate and private). Corporate worship and service is to be done with a local body of believers and is not optional for obedient Christians.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Bible Study Last Night!!!
We had a great discussion on miracles, especially the miracle of healing, in reference to Peter raising the lady Tabitha from the dead.
A very good round table discussion pursued, with one man giving a personal testimony of him seeing a man raised from a crippling ailment and begin to walk immediately and continued on even till today.
Jesus is still in the miracle business!!!
A very good round table discussion pursued, with one man giving a personal testimony of him seeing a man raised from a crippling ailment and begin to walk immediately and continued on even till today.
Jesus is still in the miracle business!!!
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Fitting In!!!
Some days I don't think I fit in anywhere. I shared on facebook this morning that I often feel more loved by the sinners than I do by the saints of God, with the exception of my dear faithful members of Set Free Daytona Beach!!!
When will the believers in the Lord Jesus QUIT judging one another and truly keep the Great Commandment, and that's love your neighbor as much as you love yourself, and the Apostle Paul says, especially those in the household of faith!!! I'm not saying I'm being judged, BUT man o man, so many other Christians seem to have people like me under their "perfection" magnifying glass, and some seem to have their proverbial "thumb" pressed down on us.
Many come across as they don't like the way we do things or the places we go! But, as long as God opens doors, we're going. Would you come go with us.
Be blessed today dear friends!!!
Cochise
When will the believers in the Lord Jesus QUIT judging one another and truly keep the Great Commandment, and that's love your neighbor as much as you love yourself, and the Apostle Paul says, especially those in the household of faith!!! I'm not saying I'm being judged, BUT man o man, so many other Christians seem to have people like me under their "perfection" magnifying glass, and some seem to have their proverbial "thumb" pressed down on us.
Many come across as they don't like the way we do things or the places we go! But, as long as God opens doors, we're going. Would you come go with us.
Be blessed today dear friends!!!
Cochise
Sharing What He Had Done For us.
Because we convince ourselves that people won’t accept our testimony about God’s work in our lives, we’re not usually ready to share it. We might prejudge their reactions or simply lack confidence. Soon, staying silent becomes a way of life. We become accustomed to the monotony and forget our calling in the world.
But we’re called to action. Our words have power, and not because of our own storytelling talent or our ability to tap into others’ emotions. God can and will use our words to draw people to Him through His Spirit—perhaps without our even being aware of it.
But we’re called to action. Our words have power, and not because of our own storytelling talent or our ability to tap into others’ emotions. God can and will use our words to draw people to Him through His Spirit—perhaps without our even being aware of it.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Thanks!!!
We are settling into our new home, but it's been a tad hard. It has either rained or been cold since the move, remember we live in Florida, and before you call us sissies, remember, homes and such, here, are not built for cold weather. And many don't even have much cold weather clothing, we do, thank the Lord.
Health is okay. I go for another heart cath soon, (when the deductible is gotten together first), but still trust Jesus to touch my heart with physical healing. It may be hereditary, but I believe we, Christ and me together can "break" this generational curses, amen!
Keep praying for Set Free Daytona. Come visit us sometimes, at 201 Osceola Ave in Daytona at 10am each Sunday and 6:30pm on Wednesdays. We have a service every month at The No Name Saloon on the 3rd Sunday @ 4pm. Also on March 2nd, we have our Spring Blessing of the Bike(r)s, at the Boot Hill Saloon, at 10am. A preliminary service at Set Free 1st at 9am.
God Bless, Cochise, Pastor/Servant
Health is okay. I go for another heart cath soon, (when the deductible is gotten together first), but still trust Jesus to touch my heart with physical healing. It may be hereditary, but I believe we, Christ and me together can "break" this generational curses, amen!
Keep praying for Set Free Daytona. Come visit us sometimes, at 201 Osceola Ave in Daytona at 10am each Sunday and 6:30pm on Wednesdays. We have a service every month at The No Name Saloon on the 3rd Sunday @ 4pm. Also on March 2nd, we have our Spring Blessing of the Bike(r)s, at the Boot Hill Saloon, at 10am. A preliminary service at Set Free 1st at 9am.
God Bless, Cochise, Pastor/Servant
You Just Can't Do It!!!
Mark 7:24 "...............but HE could not be hid".
Boys that will PREACH!!!
Boys that will PREACH!!!
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Yes He Will!!!!
James 5:19 My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, 20 let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.
Friday, January 10, 2014
1 Peter 2:21-23
"For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly." - See more at: http://so4j.com/ways-we-are-to-be-like-jesus-christ#suffering_for_others
Jesus said , for whosoever is not against you is for you.
Set Free Church Daytona Beach
In the good times and the bad times, God is immutable, unchangeable, all powerful, all knowing and everywhere. His eyes are always upon His people, like a true loving parent. Ready to direct us in our daily walk and correct us in the course we take, even on days we don't ask for His help. O how He loves us! And just like our earthly parents, He wants us to succeed in life, to be faithful to the family and to remember from whom we came. ~ Pas Cochise
In the good times and the bad times, God is immutable, unchangeable, all powerful, all knowing and everywhere. His eyes are always upon His people, like a true loving parent. Ready to direct us in our daily walk and correct us in the course we take, even on days we don't ask for His help. O how He loves us! And just like our earthly parents, He wants us to succeed in life, to be faithful to the family and to remember from whom we came. ~ Pas Cochise
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
In A Spiritual Coma!
School is in session for me today. I'm never to old to learn, and I have the most awesome Teacher that has ever lived. He came to me in August of 1983, and in most of those 30 plus years I have at times listened intently to Him, and have been greatly educated in the things of this life, as my education was preparing me for the a new life (eternal) to come.
But there has been times, as in high school, were my body was sitting in the class room, yet my mind was far, far away, that I just wasn't listening and definitely wasn't learning. My Professor today knows, just as a few select school teachers from years ago knew, when and when I wasn't paying attention to their heeding to better educate me. Thank God though, many of those public servants never gave up on me, they just kept on laying out much needed advice, secretly hoping I would grasp what I could while being in a mental stupor, and my class room Educator of today does the same even now.
My present Teacher, knows me better than I know myself, (kind of like my 6th grade teacher in elementary school (Mrs. Francis Cohron) and my New Testament professor (Dr. George Redding) in college), because He made me and He knows me, both of me, the good person and the weak man.
For those few years that I wasn't out in the waters of life helping my brothers and sisters in Christ, who were frantically trying to rescue the perishing from the strong satanic rip currents which were pulling them out deeper and deeper into positions of sure death. In those times of being back slide, I only sit on the shore watching both the lost be sweep away into an eternal abyss and the other Believers wearing themselves out going from drowning person to drowning person, placing saving and loving arms around the doomed, begging them to hold on and to listen, as they were sharing with them how to save themselves from the grasp of the enemy, and I just watched as those "life guards" would periodically look back to the shoreline with anxious countenances upon their faces, at me, saying, "Come back in, we need the help". And though I didn't budge from my position of disobedience, my Savior never pushed me back into the water, though He knew at one time I would wade out as deep as anyone, that I was a prolific soul winner. Rather, He would just whisper in my ear, and say, "I miss you and they need you".
One day, my Teacher sent two old friends, that lives a thousand miles away to come see me, and believe it or not, we were on the beach, just walking, when one of them (Jimbo Webb) said to me, "What are you doing anyway"? It wasn't a specific question, but I knew exactly what he was asking. The next morning, I went back to the beach, the spiritual one, and said to my Teacher, "Forgive me for being in a spiritual coma for these last few years", and I stepped off into the water once again.
Each day I get deeper. Each day I am being retaught and given new revelations. Each day I thank Heaven for the "Other One" that Jesus sent to earth for us, as a Comforter and a Teacher, after He ascended to the right hand of the Father. (John 14:12-21)
I am forever grateful for another shot at this, and for my salvation and calling. Thank you Holy Spirit, my Teacher. ~ Pas Cochise
Psalm 84:10
But there has been times, as in high school, were my body was sitting in the class room, yet my mind was far, far away, that I just wasn't listening and definitely wasn't learning. My Professor today knows, just as a few select school teachers from years ago knew, when and when I wasn't paying attention to their heeding to better educate me. Thank God though, many of those public servants never gave up on me, they just kept on laying out much needed advice, secretly hoping I would grasp what I could while being in a mental stupor, and my class room Educator of today does the same even now.
My present Teacher, knows me better than I know myself, (kind of like my 6th grade teacher in elementary school (Mrs. Francis Cohron) and my New Testament professor (Dr. George Redding) in college), because He made me and He knows me, both of me, the good person and the weak man.
For those few years that I wasn't out in the waters of life helping my brothers and sisters in Christ, who were frantically trying to rescue the perishing from the strong satanic rip currents which were pulling them out deeper and deeper into positions of sure death. In those times of being back slide, I only sit on the shore watching both the lost be sweep away into an eternal abyss and the other Believers wearing themselves out going from drowning person to drowning person, placing saving and loving arms around the doomed, begging them to hold on and to listen, as they were sharing with them how to save themselves from the grasp of the enemy, and I just watched as those "life guards" would periodically look back to the shoreline with anxious countenances upon their faces, at me, saying, "Come back in, we need the help". And though I didn't budge from my position of disobedience, my Savior never pushed me back into the water, though He knew at one time I would wade out as deep as anyone, that I was a prolific soul winner. Rather, He would just whisper in my ear, and say, "I miss you and they need you".
One day, my Teacher sent two old friends, that lives a thousand miles away to come see me, and believe it or not, we were on the beach, just walking, when one of them (Jimbo Webb) said to me, "What are you doing anyway"? It wasn't a specific question, but I knew exactly what he was asking. The next morning, I went back to the beach, the spiritual one, and said to my Teacher, "Forgive me for being in a spiritual coma for these last few years", and I stepped off into the water once again.
Each day I get deeper. Each day I am being retaught and given new revelations. Each day I thank Heaven for the "Other One" that Jesus sent to earth for us, as a Comforter and a Teacher, after He ascended to the right hand of the Father. (John 14:12-21)
I am forever grateful for another shot at this, and for my salvation and calling. Thank you Holy Spirit, my Teacher. ~ Pas Cochise
Psalm 84:10
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Loving Those You'd Rather Hate
Luke 6:27
A man who had reached his 100th birthday was being interviewed by a reporter. "What are you most proud of?" the reporter asked.
"Well, " said the man, "I don't have an enemy in the world."
"What a beautiful thought! How inspirational!" said the reporter.
"Yep," added the man, "I outlived every last one of them."
Is that your approach to dealing with your enemies? Is it just to avoid and ignore them, hoping that you outlive and outlast them?
Maybe you secretly hope and plan and pray for bad things to happen to them. Maybe you take a more active stance toward your enemies and gossip about them, spread lies about them, turn them into the police when they do something wrong, and pray that God will punish them for their wicked ways.
This is how most of the world operates toward enemies. We go to war with them. We plan and plot their demise. We rejoice in their failures and mourn at their successes. We write letters, make phone calls, send e-mails and muster up support among our friends. We try to get people to side with us and join the team of those who are angry at others. That's the way the world is, and the church often acts in similar fashion.
Our enemies are those who purposefully and knowingly seek our ill-will. They have bitterness and hate in their hearts against us. They do not seek our good, but only what is evil. It is these people, church, that we are to love.
Loving our enemies goes contrary to what feels right or normal. In fact, as Christ develops for us how we are to love our enemies, notice that he wants us to treat our enemies better than most of us treat our own family members! That should make us think about how we treat our families. Loving our enemies is a challenging thing - especially when we have struggles enough loving our own families.
Jesus never asks us to do something He has not already done Himself. As you read through the Gospels, notice how Jesus loves his enemies. Take Judas for example. Jesus wasn't ignorant of who Judas was or what he was going to do, but Jesus loved Judas anyway. The next time you read through the Gospels, notice how Jesus interacts with Judas. He never slights Judas. Never has an unkind word for Him. It seems at times, that Judas gets better treatments and more special love from Jesus than some of the other disciples. It seems crazy indeed, but the best way to deal with someone who wants to harm you, is to just love them, pray for them and treat them kindly.
Seek after Faith, Hope & Love, But of these three, LOVE IS THE GREATEST!!! ~ Pas Cochise
"Well, " said the man, "I don't have an enemy in the world."
"What a beautiful thought! How inspirational!" said the reporter.
"Yep," added the man, "I outlived every last one of them."
Is that your approach to dealing with your enemies? Is it just to avoid and ignore them, hoping that you outlive and outlast them?
Maybe you secretly hope and plan and pray for bad things to happen to them. Maybe you take a more active stance toward your enemies and gossip about them, spread lies about them, turn them into the police when they do something wrong, and pray that God will punish them for their wicked ways.
This is how most of the world operates toward enemies. We go to war with them. We plan and plot their demise. We rejoice in their failures and mourn at their successes. We write letters, make phone calls, send e-mails and muster up support among our friends. We try to get people to side with us and join the team of those who are angry at others. That's the way the world is, and the church often acts in similar fashion.
Our enemies are those who purposefully and knowingly seek our ill-will. They have bitterness and hate in their hearts against us. They do not seek our good, but only what is evil. It is these people, church, that we are to love.
Loving our enemies goes contrary to what feels right or normal. In fact, as Christ develops for us how we are to love our enemies, notice that he wants us to treat our enemies better than most of us treat our own family members! That should make us think about how we treat our families. Loving our enemies is a challenging thing - especially when we have struggles enough loving our own families.
Jesus never asks us to do something He has not already done Himself. As you read through the Gospels, notice how Jesus loves his enemies. Take Judas for example. Jesus wasn't ignorant of who Judas was or what he was going to do, but Jesus loved Judas anyway. The next time you read through the Gospels, notice how Jesus interacts with Judas. He never slights Judas. Never has an unkind word for Him. It seems at times, that Judas gets better treatments and more special love from Jesus than some of the other disciples. It seems crazy indeed, but the best way to deal with someone who wants to harm you, is to just love them, pray for them and treat them kindly.
Seek after Faith, Hope & Love, But of these three, LOVE IS THE GREATEST!!! ~ Pas Cochise
It Ain't Easy, BUT.........
How do you deal with criticism? The first reaction for many of us is to defend ourselves, or worse yet to lash back. And yet, while criticism can be taken as hurtful and demoralizing, it can also be viewed in a positive way: it is honesty, and it can spur us to do better.
Show your true talents while revealing your toughness by controlling the immediate challenge: resolving your own internal conflict. Be tough and don't whine or howl.
Show your true talents while revealing your toughness by controlling the immediate challenge: resolving your own internal conflict. Be tough and don't whine or howl.
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Went Down Into
Acts 8
36-39 As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch "went down into" the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way "rejoicing".
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