Got home last evening at about 5:30 p.m. and had a bite to eat with Karen and then while it was still light out we went for a walk in the back 7 acres of our property. It is an open field surrounded by a large woods and we enjoy walking back there this time of the year. We took Mattie our 9 year old Beagle and we were having a good time talking and looking at the leaves. About midway through our walk we were startled to hear a voice of a man. We stopped dead in our tracks and began to search out where the voice was coming from. To our surprise there was a Deer Hunter on our property. He was there without permission and had his bow ready to fire when he heard and saw us. I quickly began to speak to make sure he knew we were not deers but humans. He recognized that and began to make up some story why he was where he was. As we continued to walk back to the house I began to pray for safety. Now our first mistake was to forget that it was bow season for deer hunting. It is not a wise thing to do in taking a walk in the woods while it is that time of year. But I was reminded that even when we make a mistake the Lord is there to protect us and lead us out of danger. I also was reminded that we have a spiritual enemy who is HIDING & HUNTING. He hides out and is watching for a moment when he can let his fiery darts loose at us. Thank God we have spiritual Armor available we can put on each and every day. Maybe a good read for today would be Ephesians 6. I am so Thankful for those many times of God's protection, I am sure often we haven't even know He has done so. OH by the way I think after Karen got looking at this hunter he may have been the most frightened!! Have a great day!

 It is Wednesday morning and usually I don't  blog on that day but the roadway of life is full of roadblocks and unexpected detours. Most of you who know me well understand I like to have my schedule planned out in advance. That would be nice but I have learned that most of the time that is not the way it goes. I still like to have a plan but have learned to be pliable and ready to change in "Midstream". The last several weeks have been some of the busiest of our ministry. Our already over full days have needed to add 4 funerals in around 14 days. That has taken it's toll on our schedule but in reality that is what we live for. Ministering to people and shepherding them in times of difficulty. Nonetheless it has forced me to be pliable and added more time to my work load thus a little less down time and rest time. Now don't get me wrong i am so thankful for the opportunities of ministry and have asked the Lord for more opportunities. "Only One Life Will Soon Be Past, Only What's Done For Christ Will Last". But we can get overloaded. I am learning more than ever how important it is to Walk in the Spirit, to have His aid and supernatural ability. Also how important others are in my life and ministry, To delegate and have others help you. That is something I am working on diligently. Also how important ones health is and the supreme importance of a "Good Nights Sleep". I had some friends give me some Herbs a few days ago and it seems they have helped a lot for me to sleep more sound and better. Last night I slept better than I have in weeks. Of course we know it is the Lord that gives our health and as we trust Him and rest in Him with live in His peace we can sleep better. And one more thing really helps to keep up the pace till we see Christ is PRAYER. Prayer for Spiritual Power. PRAYER for Physical Strength. PRAYER for Protection from the ENEMY. How thankful we are for each of you who pray for us throughout the day. Thanks for praying for not only me but for Karen and our children and the congregation. There is so much to do , so little time, and sometimes so few laborers . Perhaps today you would pray as I just have, and ask the Lord to extend your health, your strength, your energy so that you could serve Him more in HIS great work ! Also please pray for the Elections this coming Tuesday. There really is a difference in the candidates, some very extreme ones. Vote for the Truth not for feelings or emotions. Have a great day! 

 Had good services yesterday at Liberty. Preached on Psalm 133 on "Unity" . I love that topic and especially that passage. Had 760 in services in the morning. I share that once in awhile because some ask and we don't post it in the bulletin. Tonight I will preach the funeral of Alice King's brother and tomorrow morning will preach Rex Shinholts funeral. Please pray for these families and that the Gospel will go out in power! Yesterday as we preached we missed Rex sitting in his spot. He was so faithful to service even when it was so difficult for him to make it. What a testimony for Adel to be here both services, she revealed her love for the Lord and her love for the church. I am sure being here was better for her than staying at home. She was a a great picture of faithfulness to all of us. Our church has Rex's handprint all over it. He made the Cross in the Baptistry, Tact Racks in the foyer, Podiums in the classrooms, Choir Cabinet in the choir room, Missionary Plaques , Bulletin Boards, Noah's Ark in the children's center. Let me ask you when you leave this world will your handprint be left all over the church? Maybe in a visible way maybe in a invisible way. ""When you leave this world leave something for this world which will help others to get to heaven in the next world".

 Faithfulness!! What a powerful word. What a powerful thought. What a powerful goal. Lord my prayer today is for YOU to help me to be FAITHFUL! Help me to be a Faithful Son of Yours. Help me to Be a Faithful Husband, Father, Pastor, Brother in Christ, and Friend. I understand today I am limited in many ways, many things I cannot accomplish and attain but I can be faithful! By God's grace I will attempt to be found faithful. I can do this, I will do this, I want to do this. It will take Faith. Not half hearted faith but  FAITH that is FULL! I know where to get that Faith. I can get it in His Word. I can get it fully if I give myself fully to the Author of that Word! I think I will do that right now, this very moment, anew, afresh, again! I will bring myself to HiM and empty myself and allow Him to fill me Full of Faith so I can be Faithfully full of Him! Have a great day. 

 Today is another day we will mourn and celebrate. Today we will officiate Ray Carmichael's funeral. I am so glad Ray wanted to have his funeral at the church. Ray and his wife Jackie were part of the original small group of people when we came to Liberty 22 years ago. They were so faithful attending 3 times a week and all other special functions. They did that till a few years ago when Jackie got sick. Ray stayed home to care for her and then just 11 months ago she went to be with the Lord. Now Ray is with his wife of 57 years and both are with their Lord and I am sure it has been a grand reunion. Many things I remember about Ray but one I would like to encourage all of us to do. Ray was FRIENDLY! When he came to church he was happy and always Friendly. For many we will remember how he would pass out Peppermint candy. Just last Sunday in church I was thinking how we need to be a little bit more friendly at Liberty as we have grown and it seems we are letting the "other Person" do that a little more. Let's learn from Ray that when we come to the "House of God" let us come being Glad". Read Psalm 122 today and pray for Ray's family as they bury him in that great hope of resurrection. I wonder if he will greet me in heaven with a Peppermint ??? 

 Only a few weeks till we get to exercise our Liberty by voting. I for one am very thankful for the right to vote, and I plan to exercise that right. Not only do I plan to vote but I plan to vote intelligently concerning the issues. I have been amazed at the false comments being made about many of the candidates. Some are made by those running for office concerning themselves and others are made by their opponents concerning the ones they are running against. Many falsities are being spread by the media and many other groups and individuals via the papers, air waves and especially the internet. May I encourage you to not believe everything you read or hear. Run down the Truth. We believers stand for the truth so be careful what you are sharing and spreading is truth. Speak the facts and vote the facts. Watch all the parties, check the past voting records for a sure fire way to see where a candidate really stands. I for one will vote my BIBLICAL principles and perhaps this year it is not so easy as we will have to choose one who may not stand as close to those principles as I would like but sometimes you have to make the best choice as possible between two candidates. But for sure I will not listen to LIES from either side. Make sure that you check all stories out  at   www.snopes.com . This is a good sight that helps to make sure what you hear is really true. You can go to that sight and check things out. I understand that many stories are floating around and some very frightening. As Truth Bearers make sure you are not passing on something not true. Have a great day!

 It is Monday morning and I just got to the office. I love getting to my office early. Especially the days I get here before any of the other staff. It is quiet and secure. Many a morning I have started my day with God right here in this old familiar place. Lot's of things in my office that haven't changed for years. My desk is the same desk I have used since 1977. My library was started in 1973 and has grown into thousands of books many of which are some old friends which have helped me through the years. My first Bible is in my desk, I had to retire it a few years back because i didn't want to lose it for good. On occasion I pull it out and use it with it's many notes I wrote in it early in my new life as a believer. Often finding decisions and commitment's I made so long ago. It refreshes my heart to see that I am still committed to these decisions today. As I remember those commitments I vow afresh to keep them till the day I see my Lord! My old office has some great pictures of my family which through the years have been added to. The high school senior picture which Karen gave me in 1971 still sits where I can see it from where I sit and it reminds me of my covenant with her and how blessed i am too have her as my wife. The World Globe which Mae Hehe gave me nearly 20 years ago which reminds me of the need the world has of the gospel and the world to come where Mae is already. The Clock on the wall which Ray Carmichael made for me just after I became Liberty's pastor, and to know today Ray has been in the land of "NO Time" for 2 earthly days. The little Refrigerator which my wife purchased for me back in the late 70's still working and helping reminding me of Faithfulness. The Eagle Picture on the wall which was a gift from the congregation of Liberty so long ago which preaches to me every day to rest in the Lord and renew my strength so that I might mount up as an eagle and FLY. My ORDINATION certificate which I received in 1977 which cries out so consistently for me to be found Blameless & Worthy of its meaning. The calendars of years gone by which help me to remember all that has been accomplished for the Lord and for nearly 15 of those years each of those were gifts to me from my old friend Bill Glass. As I ponder the past it helps me to strive for the days ahead because there is so much yet to accomplish. In the last fe years many things have been added to my office. A Picture of Liberty with many meaningful signatures from the congregation given at our 20th anniversary as Pastor, many pictures of our children who have become adults. And of course pictures of our granddaughter Luci , as she reminds us of the legacy of family.  I am sure if the Lord tarries and gives this preacher a few more years, new items will be added to countless other items I have not taken time to mention. They will each reflect life, friendships and partnerships. Well I hear others entering this office annex and it's time to move on to the other use of this office , WORK! Have a great day!

 It is Harvest Time in Indiana. The farmers are picking soy beans and corn. Everywhere you look you see tracctors and harvesters working the golden fields of harvest. As I was coming to the office this morning I was praying for the spiritual harvest and the great need of harvesters. Are you working the fields of harvest?  Selah!! Pause and Think about it. ARE YOU WORKING THE FIELDS OF HARVEST?????

Now for the light side of things.   Do you know why we hold elections in November? Because it is the best time for choosing a Turkey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 Yesterday I stayed at home and really enjoyed it. I got up, made a pot of coffee, some toast and then spent 4 1/2 hours in study and preparation for Sunday mornings message. I love studying Gods Word. Then in the afternoon I went outdoors and worked until 6 p.m.. around the property getting things ready for winter. In the evening we went to Lucy's {Our Granddaughter} house for awhile to wish her a happy 4th birthday. Had a great day. I tried to give my brain a rest and I think I did but all afternoon as I worked I was thinking and praying for so many who are having a hard time right now. Prayer is so wonderful in that as you are working, driving, resting or many other things you can still be in the attitude of prayer. As I was doing other things I was "Praying without Ceasing". I am sure some of you blog readers were prayed for yesterday by this preacher even while I was accomplishing other things. So often I wish that I could be in two places at one time because so much needs accomplished, so many need help, so many are lost. Prayer is one of those eternal gifts God gives us that allows us to accomplish multi tasks at the same time. I am Thanking the Lord today for His privilege of prayer which allows us to do more then one thing at a time and to be in more then one place at a time. Hope you are availing this great tool {PRAYER} today. Don't forget this Sunday evening at Liberty we are having "FREEDOM VILLAGE" from New York state with us. This is a group of 11 young people who have had their lives changed by the power of God. If you know of any family having trouble with rebellious children, or teens this is the service for them. Hope to see you tonight at service and at both morning and evening services on Sunday.

                              "IS PRAYER YOUR STEERING WHEEL OR YOUR SPARE TIRE"?

 As we have been following the financial systems of the nations of the world it really has revealed how uncertain our world is. Along with the economic world the political world seems so unworthy and not to be trusted leaving most very perplexed and non-trusting. The last several weeks we watched the Dow Jones fall over 4,000 points. And then yesterday rally a record day of gains of 936 points. These certainly are not days of certainty. Up's and Down's can wear a person out. But thank God for His constant steadfastness. It seems to me that His days are always constant with Truth and Purpose! He never changes! Today I am going to focus on a thought and would encourage you to do the same. "TOMORROW"S UNCERTAIN, BUT FOREVERS FOR SURE"! If we are living for eternity today we are living in a very certain day. Have a secure, steadfast, FAITH filled day! One which will make you faithful to the ONE who is in control. 

 Had a great day yesterday at Liberty. The altars were used both in the morning and evening services. The Sunday School class I am a part of was wonderful! What a great group of people, we have fun together, fellowship with each other, pray for each other and bear one another burdens. Then we study God's Word together, in my book it doesn't get any better than that. Last eve we spoke on Psalm 32: 7. What a tremendous verse. Jesu truly is our SECRET PLACE, SECURE PLACE , & SINGING PLACE!!  I hope each of you are SINGING today. He will surround us with SONGS OF DELIVERANCE. Even though we are living at the midnight hour of civilization we still have much to sing about! Sing the song of victory, sing the song of thanksgiving, sing the song of rejoicing. We have the answers for this hour. The believer is here for a purpose. The Lord has allowed us to live in these very uncertain times so that we can show the world how to sing even in the darkness. There is no doubt problems in our world, major ones. There is no doubt that in our world there seems to be more darkness, more evil, and no one has the answers the world needs. But in the mess we believers can still have a song, we can be surrounded by the songs of deliverance. HE has given us a song in the midst of troubles. Amen. Go out this week singing in the face of tragedy and agony. Let the world know that God is on His throne and He will soon return with the peace this old world is needing. Go out with the song of the cross and tell people how they can be forgiven and live in heaven forever. Go out with a song and sing songs of peace and contentment showing your neighbors what security you have in Jesus! Sing your song to yourself, your family, your neighbors, your coworkers, your friends and acquaintances.  

REMEMBER    Jesus Jesus Jesus Sweetest name I know

                  Fills my every longing

                  KEEPS ME SINGING AS I GO

 I just left my house for the day and because i was riding with Pastor Ryan as I was walking across the road to his house what a sight I got to see. The sun was rising and it was a brilliant ball of glory. On this October morning it was a little cool but as the sun hit my body I was warmed all over. As I stood there I thought of heaven and our Lord. The scriptures teach that in heaven there is no need of the sun because the SON will be there. He will give us light, warmth and Glory as we have never experienced before. I can hardly wait, but until then we must work because the sun is setting on this old world. We need to work while there still is day. I was thinking that may be the last sunrise I see before I see that GREAT SUNRISE IN THE SKY! Enjoy the day and invest the day in eternal things. Chat with you later. 

 It seems to me that the majority of prayers seem to focus on stomachs or fenders! We pray for sick and for safety in travel- good subjects for prayer, but should these be our priority? Paul's prayers focused on the spiritual health of t hose he loved. He was concerned about the ultimate goal of life, and his prayers reflected that concern. When you listen to the prayers of Gods children it becomes obvious what their priorities of life are. I want to encourage each reader today to read Ephesian 3 14-21. Here we read about Paul's prayer for the Ephesian. As you read look for Paul's reason to pray, What do you think Paul's kneeling position represented in his life? To whom does Paul address his prayer? What confidence would verse 15 give to each Gentile believer? Perhaps you would like to list Paul's themes of prayer which stand out to you? How does Paul's intercession lead naturally to praise? Good questions to think on and find answers too. Who are the people in your life for whom you are most concerned? Use Paul's prayer to help focus on the eternal, ultimate needs of those for whom to pray.

 How is everyone on this Tuesday morning. If you were checking the blog yesterday sorry about missing. I was called out about 6:00 a.m. in the morning. Rich Romine one of my very close friends and long time member of Liberty had a heart attack. So much of the day was spent ministering there. It is good to be able to report that Rich is bette r today. He had to have a ballon treatment in one of the arteries of his heart. Please keep praying for Rich & Brenda. 

We had another great day of services on Sunday. Four adults in our 10:45 morning service were saved. AMEN!!! Had over 750 in attendance in the morning. It was good to have Pastor Bobby Cupps with us in the evening to preach and give report on the Santa Clarita church plant.

Don't forget the viewing of Goldie Neely is today at 4-8 p.m. Goldie is Norleen Ressler's mother & Jenny Smiths grandmother. Pray for this dear family in the loss of this love on, and pray for me as tomorrow at 10 a. m. I will preach the funeral. It will be at Needham Storey in Gas City. 

I am still reviewing Psalm 37 today. As all you Liberty folk know I spoke on this chapter Sunday. I have already had to practice what I preached several times since. TRUST IN THE LORD, DELIGHT IN THE LORD, COMMIT TO THE LORD {roll it over on Him}, REST IN THE LORD, & WAIT ON THE LORD.If we do these 5 things we really will have a PEACE that passes understanding! Talk with you tomorrow unless I go to heaven before then i will see you there!

Had a great midweek service last evening. We had around 430 in total attendance. That is not bad for a Thursday night in October!! I was standing in the foyer before and afer and just watched the people gather and fellowship. For me this is one of the most enjoyable things I do. Just to watch Blood Washed believers loving each other and enjoying doing it! This Sunday I will be speaking on Psalm 37:1-11 so if you want to get a head start on it you can read it several times before Sunday morn. Pastor Bobby Cupps will be preaching on Sunday eve. He and Aly are here from our church plant in Santa Clarita, California. This morning I attended with our staff the funeral of Norma Carmichaels mother. This is also Matt & Ryan Carmichael's grandmother. Please pray for the family. As i left the service I prayed for each attendees soul. Life is short and the only thing that counts when it is over is do we know Christ. As I sat there in the funeral home I was reminded of how much people need to here the Gospel of Christ. Let me encourage each of you to give the gospel to someone before you come to church on Sunday. Somehow , someway lets do it. 

 Hope today finds each of you Trusting the Lord!! I was reading a short article that really helped me this morning so I wanted to share it with you. The article was written by Howard Hendrincks, and it goes as follows.    

Shortly after Dallas Seminary was founded in 1924, it almost folded. It came to the point of bankruptcy. All the creditor were ready to foreclose at twelve noon on a particular day. That morning, the founders of the school met in the president's office to pray that God would provide. In that prayer meeting was Harry Ironside. When it was his turn to pray, he said in his refreshingly candid way, "Lord, we know that the cattle on a thousand hills are Thine. Please sell some of them and send us the money."

Just about that time, a tall Texan in boots and an open-collar shirt strolled into the business office. "Howdy!" he said to the secretary. "I just sold two carloads of cattle over in Fort Worth. I've been trying to make a business deal go through, but it just won't work. I feel God wants me to give this money to the seminary. I don't know if you need it or not, but here is the check," and he handed it over. 

The secretary took the check and, knowing something of the critical nature of the hour, went to the door of the prayer meeting and timidly tapped. Dr. Lewis Sperry Chafer,founder and president of the school, answered the door and took the check from her hand. When he looked at the amount, it was the exact sum of the debt. Then he recognized the name on the check as that of the cattleman. Turning to Dr. Ironside, he said, Harry, God sold the cattle."

What a great story and one that encourages each of us to TRUST THE LORD AND PRAY MORE THEN EVER! We have a FATHER IN HEAVEN who hears us when we pray. Lets ask God for things that will bring Glory to Him. May today be a mighty day of prayer for each and every reader.