Good day. What a week it has been. Many things done for the Master. I sure m glad my Master is not the world, satan , or self. My Master is Jesus and he sure is wonderful to serve. He is the best Master anyone could want to serve. He is so worthy and so wonderful to give your all for. He is so gracious and kind and to serve Him is such a privilege. I really do see my identity as a BONDSERVANT! What about you? Is serving Him a drudgery or a delight? Do you look forward to every waking hour as one that can be used for Him or yourself? Are you eager to serve Him more or less? When new opportunities to serve Him arise is it with great thankfulness or is it resentment that becomes part of your emotion? Do you view your self as a servant or as one who needs served?  To be a DOULOS should be the cry of every Redeemed Believers heart. Oh how blessed we are to have the right, the privilege, the call to willingly serve our King! 

By the way, yesterday I had a comment made by one of our blog readers concerning the article about " In The Ditch." The reader CB said our blog for that day should be awarded "The BLOGIFiCATION OF THE YEAR."  BLOGIFICATION, I had never heard that term. I asked this fellow blogger about this word and was told it was an original.  BLOGIFICATION ! Then I received a definition, so I thought I would share it with you. BLOGIFiCATION=  A conversation written inside a blog that is used for the purpose of spiritual building and moral instruction. Used in a sentence- The Christian wrote a wonderful blogification at the church blogsite which caused the readers and commentators to pray, rejoice and grow closer to the Lord. When I read the definition and saw it in a sentence that just BLOGIFIED my mind! I sure hope it glorifies God when we get BLOGIFIED! 

TODAY IN HISTORY! 

1. 1836-THE FIRST REVOLVER WAS PATENTED.

2. 2010 THE WORD BLOGIFICATION WAS CONSIDERED TO BE ADDED TO THE DICTIONARY.

3. THE FIRST BLACK SENATOR WAS ELECTED. Pray about all the racial strife in our world today. 

 It is Wednesday and I usually don't blog on this day but this week I am working today and so i thought I would blog a little. When I left my house this morning our dog stopped me at the door and told me I should do something today. He looked up at me with his tender loving eyes and said I love you and then he wagged his tail and said to me, "Make sure you wag your tail today." You see he speaks in a little different language then we humans. He speaks with his bark, his eyes, his jumping and with his tail. When his tail goes between his legs he is fearful and unsure of his masters action. When his tail is wagging he is happy, he is smiling, he is ready to make someone happy. As I walked out of my house today I am attempting to listen to my good faithful friend COOPER. He said "wag your tail" so I think wherever i go today I will do just that. I will wear a smile, I will look to make others know I appreciate them and that I want to be apart of their life. I will attempt to bring some joy their way. What about you? Will you wag your tail today as well? 

TODAY IN HISTORY!

1. 2349 B.C.-THE DOVE LEFT THE ARK THE THIRD TIME AND NEVER RETURNED. The ark was a wonderful picture of the Lord Jesus Christ. The fact it was three stories high represents the Trinity. The window at the top side pictures we are to look up for our safety. Only one door pictures the one way of salvation. The door being on the side pictures the wounded side of Jesus. Read the story today and see how many pictures of salvation can be found in this beautiful story.

 This morning on my way to the office it was one of those days that it didn't look slick but it suddenly became slick. As normal I was in a little hurry to get moving on my day of many planned things. As one of those melancholy people it seems I always have an agenda. Usually one that has to many plans for one day. Well as I was driving I began to realize I needed to slow down or there may be a real possibility that I would be BIG TIME SLOWED DOWN. So I took a little off the accelerator and things were safer but after a while I thought this is to slow, I must get there sooner, so ( you guessed it} I began to see if I could speed it up a little. It wasn't long till I realized I better slow it down , especially if i wanted to get to the office without a tow trucks assistance. About a mile after I slowed it down for good I saw flashing lights and realized that some unsuspecting traveler had not slowed it down and because of that they came to a screeching halt. As I came upon the accident it was with relief that I saw all was well and others were there helping this young teenage girl get out of , HER DITCH for the day. Life is like this is it not? We have roads to travel, things to do and we must get to those places where we are to do those things. As we travel the roads of life it becomes very apparent that our travel plans are not always the way that things will end up going. Sometimes because we speed up when we should slow down. Sometimes because we slow down when we should speed up. Sometimes because we just are not watching carefully. And other times not because of anything we did not do or did do but unforeseen hazards just showed up before we knew what happen. Maybe on your journey to the doctor for a routine appointment you slid into a curve of bad news. Perhaps upon arrival to your job that you have been doing well you have hit the hazard of a layoff or worse the road is closing never more to be open to the public. Maybe when you have pulled into your own garage of safe harbor you have found your spouse is gone for what ever reason but what you thought was a secure road has become a slippery slope of  an unknown future. Life's roads are like that much of the time. The "Roads of Relationships." The Avenues of our Abilities." The "Highways of our Happiness" all marred with unexpectant turns and curves and hazards along the way. The good news is that Jesus will always be there to be our "Driving Instructor" our "Navigator" if you will. He will tell us when to slow down and when to speed up. If we listen He will warn us of unexpectant turns , up ahead. And those times that he doesn't for what ever eternal purposes, He will be there to "Tow Us Out" and certainly "As He Tows He Teaches." Are you driving along today and it seems things have gotten out of control? Slow down a little and listen for future instruction. Are you traveling straight roads today, if so listen He may be saying pick it up a little, but always be cautious and ready to slow it down when He says to. Are you "IN THE DITCH OF LIFE"? If so make a call for rescue. Call for help. Don't just keep spinning your wheels. When He shows up He won't make you feel like you are stupid. He will come with patience and power enough to get you back on the road of His purpose. His only charge will be to LEARN LESSONS OF LIFE. Amen. 

TODAY IN HISTORY!

1. 1685- HANDEL, THE AUTHOR OF HANDEL'S MESSIAH, WAS BORN. This is one of the great pieces of music ever written. Let us pray for and appreciate all the gifted and dedicated people in our churches who use their God Give abilities to help us worship our Lord.

2. 1836 - THE SIEGE OF THE ALAMO BEGAN.- Pray for the all the Texas churches today.

3. 1957- MA SUNDAY WAS BURIED. This was the wife of the famous Evangelist Billy Sunday. Together they saw millions of souls come to Christ. Perhaps the last national revival of America came under their ministry. Pray for America and revival in this nation to happen again. 

 What a moment it is when an Olympic winner stand before world wide television audience to be awarded a GOLD MEDAL for all their effort. 

The Apostle Paul was familiar with the Olympic games of his day, and he often used the imagery of athletics to teach about self- discipline and endurance. Paul had the goal to win something far better than a Gold Medal, he was striving to finish well for the glory of Jesus Christ. 

Paul's last words to one of his favorite young preachers, Timothy, in 2nd Timothy 4:7 he explained that his life was really in three phases.

I HAVE FOUGHT A GOOD FIGHT!- Paul was saying he did his very best. He was leaving the field knowing he was leaving all his mental and physical and spiritual energies on the field of Christian battle. 

I HAVE FINISHED THE COURSE!- That is he Knew that he had completed the God given tasks assigned to him. The calling God gave him after being saved , Paul could say he had accomplished it. He had crossed the finish line. 

I HAVE KEPT THE FAITH!- Paul was saying to this young preacher that he had remained faithful. He hadn't watered down the message of the Gospel. He hadn't disqualified himself by some action or attitude. He had stayed true to God's Word. He had stayed faithful to the end. 

Are you running the race for the Lord Jesus well? Will you cross the finish line with joy? Are you reading and memorizing  the Word of God to find the rules of the race? Are you training for the battle in prayer? To win the prize you must discipline your mental , physical and spiritual appetites. You must continually confess and forsake your sins. Share Christ with others and be faithful to church.

If you were faithful at one time, but have fallen , it is time to get back up and get in the race. Declare war on the temptation that brought you down . Ask the Lord to forgive you and get back in the fight today. Hebrews 12:1-3 tells us a "A great crowd of witnesses is cheering for you" and so are we. Set your eyes on Jesus the Author and Finisher of your Faith. 

TODAY IN HISTORY!

1. 1879- THE FIRST F.W. WOOLSWORTH STORE WAS OPENED. For many of you it is a reminder of simpler days of "Five and Ten  Cents Stores." 

2. 1732- THE BIRTHDAY OF GEORGE WASHINGTON, KNOWN AS THE FATHER OF OUR COUNTRY. Again today let us pray for our president and other government officials. 

3. THE BIRTHDAY OF BETTY STAM, FAMOUS MISSIONARY MARTYR. Missionary to China and beheaded by the communists. She was and is a great example of dedication even to being willing to die for the faith. Dear Lord please help me to know of such dedication. 

It is a sunny Friday morning and the sun sure makes a difference. We had a great midweek service last eve. We had several visiting families and the attendance was great. All the specific ministries have given good reports and we are rejoicing that our Lord is still doing great things here at Liberty Baptist. I want to thank the hundreds of our people who serve the Lord here at Liberty. I am continually amazed at so many dedicated laborers that the Lord has sent and raised up here to do His important work. With out you it what is happing and the way it is happening would not be a realty. 

This weekend one of our finest young people will be married here at our church. Katie Singer will marry Matt Dooney at 2 p.m. this Saturday. I hope you will be able to be here and participate in this celebration of Holy Matrimony. Kati grew up here and was saved early in life. She dedicated her life to the Lord and His service as a young teenager. After graduation she went to "Word of Life " Bible School and has served there now on staff for several years. It was there that the lord brought into her life Matt, her husband to be. Matt loves the Lord and also has dedicated himself to full time service.  They will be at Liberty for some time as they work on raising there support to go and be "Word of Life " missionaries in Florida. The present plan is to go to Florida and help "Word of Life Clubs" as they attempt to reach hundreds and thousands of teens for Christ. We are proud of both of these young adults. This is one of many answers to prayer concerning our young people growing up to serve the Lord. Many of us have prayed for years for our children to mature and be used as godly adults. Let us rejoice that the Lord has done this work in Katie and Mats hearts. Congratulations to Pastor Chas and Denise for example and diligence as Christian parents.

Sundays messages at Liberty are worth inviting visitors. In the morning Pastor Ryan will be speaking from 2nd Samuel 9 on " A PICTURE OF GRACE." It is on some of my favorite Bible characters. King David and Mephiboseth. Pastor Ryan and I were speaking about the message yesterday and I am looking forward to hearing his message and learning more about God's grace. I know many of you enjoy Pastor Ryan's ministry as I do, so why not invite someone to come to church with you this Sunday morn? In the evening service I will be preaching from 2nd Peter 3: 1-15. The message is entitled "The Return of the King." I can hardly wait to share from God's Word on this subject.

TODAY IN HISTORY!

1. 1803 OHIO WAS ADMITTED TO THE UNION. Let us pause and pray for the saints in this state along with the pastors and it's churches.

2. 1881-KANSAS ADOPTED STATEWIDE PROHIBITION OF ALL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. Let us today again reaffirm our opposition to the liquor traffic. Perhaps some time this weekend could be spent in teaching our children and teens the danger of this evil and to pledge ourselves to stay away from this very powerful enemy of humanity.

3 2010- This is the day for each of us to tell the Lord we love Him and we promise to grow in His grace.

 It is Thursday and we are gearing up for midweek services tonight. We have a wonderful selection of elective classes offered to our adults and the teachers are doing a great job. Praise the Lord our midweek services have something for the whole family and much is accomplished here at Liberty in this very important time of the week. Last evening we spoke at New Hope Baptist Church in Gas City. I taught from Ephesians 4 on the topic "The Church God Uses." The people were like sponges soaking up every word from Gods Book the Bible. We also met with the deacons of New Hope after the service. There was a sweet spirit and all were looking forward to what God was going to do in His church there. On Sunday evening the membership of this church voted to place themselves under Liberty Baptists leadership for this time as they restructure and reposition themselves as church body. I, along with our pastors and deacons will give oversight until they are on solid ground once again. Please pray for each one who has a part of this, it will be a large undertaking but one worth the effort. I will be reporting more in depth to our congregation as soon as possible. Tonight in Pastor Chas and my elective class we will start surveying the book of Romans. What a great book of doctrine.  Hope you can be with us this evening. 

Lately I have been having a wonderful time of study in God's Word. I have been studying 1st Kings, Luke 10-11, Ephesians 4, Acts, Romans, and beginning this week 1st Peter 3. Yesterday and already this morning we have spent more than 8 hours studying 1st Peter 3 on the subject of " The Return of the King." I may begin this study on this Sunday evening or perhaps next. It has stirred my heart that we need to be ready for Christ's return. 1st Peter 3:11 asks us what manner { sort } of people are we in the fact that Jesus is coming again? How are you living? Are you living Holy? Are you living Expectantly? Are you living with a great desire to bring people to the Lord's salvation? It has been nearly 2,000 years since Christ ascended with a promise He would return. Sounds like such a long time , yet in eternity  a thousand years is as one day. That would mean it has only been like  "The day before yesterday" since Jesus sat down at the right hand of the father. Think about it! Scoffers will come from without and perhaps within our own doubts, but we must not doubt we must believe the promises of our Lord. HE WILL COME AGAIN! In the light of such truth, what sort of life are you living today?

TODAY IN HISTORY!

1. 1861- JEFFERSON DAVIS WAS INAUGURATED AS PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERACY.

2. 1678- THE "PILGRIMS PROGRESS"  WAS PUBLISHED IN ENGLAND. This is the is the great book which is the second best seller only to the Bible today and has been for many years. "Pilgrim Progress" was written by John Bunyon. He wrote it on milk bottle stoppers taken from the milk that was brought to him while he was in prison for preaching the Gospel. Bunyan said,"If I am released from prison today, I will preach the Gospel tomorrow."

 One of many philosophies of my life is that as I become older, to be sure that I don't lose sight of the vision, zeal, and truths that I held  as a young preacher. I have found that many older Christians and Christian leaders have become grumpy old people who have lost their sweet spirit or compromise because they are simply tired of fighting the battle. I want to remain dedicated to the truths and practices that brought me thus far in my Christian life. But in that pursuit I want to keep the love and sweetness of God. I don't plan to lose my Bible based convictions but I also don't plan on taking on a spirit of criticism and just plain old meanness, in my carrying out my convictions. I plan on focusing on what I need to do and not only on what others are not doing or that they are not doing it the way I think is right. I plan on teaching and training what is right and spending little to no time on pointing out what others are doing wrong. If we teach our people what is right they will know what is wrong. We must know what is right,  but the environment in which we teach right, must always be one of sweetness. I want to separate myself and my congregation from a critical spirit, one which always looks at what they don't have, instead of what they do have. We must be careful with our drive to go deeper and our desire to go higher in our walk with God. Yes we need to grow and become deeper, but if that is all we think about and talk about if we are not careful we can breed a spirit of discontent and we will only bring people to constantly thinking that nothing is right especially where we are, at our church ,our home, our life. It could drive people away and possibly into another place which they will receive less from God then where they are. All the time thinking they are getting more they may get less.  I want to separate myself and those I influence  from infighting, bickering, complaining, griping and always looking from a critical point of view. The Scriptures teach us that only by pride cometh contention. I find a most contentious spirit leavening many of our churches today. " A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump." I feel that the minority voices shouting loudly and preaching their criticism and engaging the gullible are leavening the whole. Many have become grumpy old people, at the time they should be gracious, wise, zealous, energetic and full of vision. Instead of saying what is and can be, they are saying what isn't and can't be. At this time in my life I want to continue to have the sweet spirit of youth instead of the sour spirit of age that so easily happens. By the way, a sour spirit is always unproductive and the sweet spirit always produces for the Kingdom. 

TODAY IN HISTORY! 

1. 1945-BATAAN WAS RECAPTURED BY THE AMERICAN FORCES. These were the turning days of WWII. The news would come day by day that the war was turning toward the allies and that victory seemed soon inevitable. How happy it made our nation. Hope and Encouragement. This was the war to end all wars, and yet we know that has not been the truth. But may I say that Jesus is coming soon. He will win the war. Calvary was the beginning of the end. It is only a matter of time the war will end and victory will be for all in HIS KINGDOM.

2. 1959- CASTRO BECAME PREMIER OF CUBA. Again a reminder that evil men can rule a people physically but never spiritually. Castro will die soon and another will rule in his place., but God today can rule in our hearts and one day will rule in even the physical realms completely.

 Good Monday!! Has great services yesterday. Had an adult lady saved in the 10:45 a.m. service. PTL. The altars were used in all three services. AMEN! Pastor Chas preached at New Hope Baptist yesterday and 5 adults prayed and received Christ as Saviour. GLORY! We need to be more like the angels in heaven and make sure we REJOICE when people come to Christ and are saved. As I study the word "Rejoice" it doesn't give me the idea that the angels just calmly say that was a good thing. It carry's the idea that they get exited and it affects their inner beings, voices, and behavior. They get with it and that excitement affects all of heaven. Every being in heaven is interested in this thing of people coming to Christ and being born again. When a new baby is born on this earth all rejoice and are happy. When a new born baby Christian is born we should be just as delighted. For those who are doing all they can to see souls saved it is a thrill for all their labors. For all the prayers, all the invites, all the gospel presentations, all the tithes and offerings, all the preparation of messages and lessons, all the living of a holy life, absolutely all we do to help someone come to Jesus. And then when one does , HALLALUJAUA.  Oh the thrill that fills the soul. Nothing builds a fire in my soul like seeing a soul coming to Jesus. Just writing about it now wants me to go and give the gospel to someone right now. At lunch we left a good tip and a gospel tract for our waitress and I just prayed for her to read it and be saved. May each of us do all we can to give the good news out to as many as we can before we leave this world. 

TODAY IN HISTORY!

1. 1888- THE BATTLESHIP MAINE WAS BLOWN UP. Pray against terrorism today.

2. 1926- THE ORIGINAL GUTTENBURG BIBLE WAS SOLD. This original Bible was sold for $100,000 and was presented to Yale University. It was Guttenburg who gave us the first printing press. Certainly we should be thankful for our Bibles. As we think of the Bible today perhaps we should read Psalm 119, the great chapter on the Bible. Find the many things the Bible has for us and then find the many things we are to do with the Bible. Find how many titles the Word of God is called in this wonderful Psalm. Make sure you are reading the Bible daily. 

 Yesterday Karen { the best wife any man could have} was able to stay home because Eastern High School was cancelled because of snow. It was  her second day out and trust me she didn't sit around. The first day she went to her mother and fathers house and painted the entire living room for them. Yesterday she cleaned and prepared our home for the "Growing Together" Sunday School class Valentine Party which is happening at our home this Saturday eve. Pastor Ryan and Beth asked us to host this fellowship and we thought that sounded like fun so we agreed to be the host and hostess. Last eve as we went to bed both of us were very tired but felt very good about a very productive day. The dining areas are all set, the fellowship area is ready. I was able to update a few items in our home in preparation for this event. We can hardly wait till our friends are are able to be with us as we serve them in honor.  As I was sleeping I began to dream about another event that is going to happen soon. That great Banquet of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. For over 2,000 years God has been preparing for this wonderful event. I am sure the table sittings will be "OUT OF THIS WORLD."  What we eat will be the best we have ever eaten but who we will be with is better than all the decor and the food. We will be with our "FOREVER FRIENDS" and our "ETERNAL FATHER."  It will be so glorious to be with all the saints of all the ages and of course the saints we have personally known on this earth. Where will we sit? Will we be able to see everyone and hear everyone. It will be heaven and I am sure the Lord can make all that possible. I can't imagine we will be in different rooms or any limitations. But better than all the surroundings and all the perfection and even all our friends our BRIDEGROOM will be there. OUR ETERNAL SAVIOUR, OUR ETERNAL REDEEMER, OUR ETERNAL LOVER OF THE SOUL. What a day that will be! The Holy Spirit will be there. He will be in each of us and He will be saturating this event with unity, hope, wisdom, revelation, love, and He will be manifesting GOD'S GLORY THROUGHOUT EVERY HEART. GOD'S GLORY, GOD'S GLORY, GOD'S GLORY, this will be the theme of this event. It will be on the lips of all the redeemed and the angels will join in, GOD'S GLORY, GOD'S GLORY, GOD'S GLORY! 

May each of us remember that we are being Adorned for that event in this life time. What we wear at this event is being determined today. Read Revelation 19 & 21 and other places in the Old and New Testaments and you will find this truth. I want to bring honor to my Saviour on that day. The ONE who has PROPOSED to me, who has PROMISED His return , who has been PREPARING a place for me and will come and receive me and take me where He is. May we "BE READY."  While He is preparing let us be preparing. In our personal  home today sit several tables ready for an invited people. I can't help but believe that " Heavens Table " is ready for it's invited people and the HOST is just about to receive His guests. 

TODAY IN HISTORY! 

1. 1847- THE BIRTHDAY OF THOMAS EDISON- My what contributions this man made to society. Think about a world without electric lights. This and many other inventions. May we pray that the Lord would use us to contribute in some way to this society and those ahead.

2. 1915- FANNY CROSBY DIED. Fanny was blinded at the age of 6 weeks. She wrote hundreds of wonderful gospel songs. Many of my favorite hymns were written by this gifted lady. "Rescue the Perishing", "Blessed Assurance," etc. One day she was sitting with a seeing friend; he was describing to her the sunset. She could see in her mind its beauty and from this she wrote the words, "Someday the silver cords will break, and I shall see Him face to face." Look through your song book and find some Fanny Crosby hymns and sing some today. Give thanks for your disabilities today and remember when we are weak He is strong. Visit someone who is disabled. I often cover my eyes for a few minutes and also my ears  and as I do I give God praise for my sight and hearing. Then I dedicate them both again for His use.

3. 1861- ABRAHAM LINCOLN LEFT SPRINGFIELD FOR THE WHITE HOUSE. So many stories are reported about this great man. One That I treasure is it is said that he refused to allow liquor in the White House. 

It must be February because in many isles of our stores are heart shaped boxes filled with candy and greeting card racks are filled with valentines. In a few days many of us will give tokens of love to those closest to us. 

God is the author of true love. Jeremiah 31:3 teaches He loves us with an everlasting love. That love is unconditional we don't deserve it and we can't earn it. Yet God loves us graciously and mercifully.

GOD"S LOVE IS SOVEREIGN.- Before we chose to love God, He loved us first. 1st John 4:10 tells us He initiated the love relationship. True love cannot be coerced, however, so we must respond willingly.

GOD'S LOVE IS EVERLASTING.- There has never been a time when God did not love you. Before you  and I were saved, When were still in our sin, God loved us and proved it through His atoning sacrifice. Even in our disobedience God still loves us. No matter what we do , God will love us eternally.

GOD'S LOVE IS GENTLE.- Jeremiah 31:3 teaches us that His love draws us gently to Himself. He draws us with loving kindness like a mother holding her baby gently to her chest. God loves us tenderly. He knows our inherited sin issue. He knows our struggle with the old nature and sin. Though we deserve eternal punishment in hell because of our sin, God deals with us kindly and affectionately.

Today would be a good day to thank Him that He loves us in spite of our sin and selfishness. And just think, He loved you first. The fact remains that no gift can compare with God's gift of love. No valentine can compare with THE LOVE OF GOD REVEALED TO MANKIND ON CALVARY'S CROSS.

TODAY IN HISTORY !

1.1867-NEBRASKA WAS ADMITTED TO THE UNION. Pray for the churches and Christian ministries in this state. Pray for the lost souls in this state as well. 

2. 1773- WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON WAS BORN. He was the ninth president of our great nation. He was the last president that was born before the American Declaration of Independence. He was governor of the INDIANA territory, {Let's here  it for INDIANA} He was only in office for 31 days as he stood in the rain and cold on his inauguration and became ill and never recovered. Pray for our national leaders again today.

3. 1891- THE WEATHER BUREAU WAS ESTABLISHED. Let us thank God for the weather reports and forecasts. As I type this blog today 300 schools are canceled in the state of Indiana. We are again in the midst of a snow storm. The east coast is again being pounded. Baltimore has received over 60 inches of snow this winter. Washing D.C. has 24 inches of snow on the ground and could receive 24 more over the next few days. I for one believe GOD CONTROLS THE WEATHER. AND OFTEN HE CONTROLS THE WEATHER TO CONTROL MANKIND. May our nation understand God is speaking and we must listen. 

Well it is another Monday morning and we just finished meeting with our pastoral staff. We are blessed at Liberty to have great pastors who love the Lord and His people. Pastor Ryan is so gifted and works hard in so many areas. I praise the Lord for all his effort to help parents rear their children for Christ. He does so many other things in the church that are making an eternal difference. Pastor Chas adds so much in our Worship, yesterdays worship was "On Fire." He also does so many other ministries and without him we would surely notice a big difference. Pastor Mike is working hard with our Teens and Missions, and now is working on a new visitation program. He also is many other capacities of ministry. Barry Early is making a big contribution overseeing the facilities , visiting, counciling, working with the youth, teaching and visiting. He also assists in many other  areas as well. I am thankful most for their hearts for the Lord. They LOVE JESUS. I am also thankful for their willingness to listen and learn and to follow this pastors leadership. Each of them are real men who are leaders and who walk with God. They have ideas and they seek the will of the Lord. It is a pleasure to have them not only as a staff but personal friends and brothers in Christ. I am glad we are united in our ministries and we are not competing but completing . Would you take a few minutes and pray for each pastor and his family today? If you attend Liberty let these assistant pastors know how much you appreciate them.

TODAY IN HISTORY!

1. 1910-The FOUNDING OF THE BOY SCOUTS- We need to pray for this good organization today.  Pray for your boy today as well. I just prayed for my son Matt. I love him so much and am very proud of him.

 The prophet Amos lived in a day when corruption was the norm for both kings and priests in Israel. Hebrew worship had degenerated so much that God said, " I reject your festivals , solemn assemblies, offerings, and songs, Amos 5:21-23." Gods patience had run out on their hypocritical charades at the temple. He demanded more than just religious activity; He desired holiness and obedience. He wanted "justice and "righteousness" to flow down from His people to others in their daily activities .He expected them to be honest in all their business affairs and compassionate in helping to meet the needs of others less fortunate. Such justice was more important than just sacrificing lambs on an altar. What about us today? Do we really think we can please God by just attending church or giving a tithe or doing some other religious exercise without all of it flowing from a just heart? Do we think like like the O.T Jew that religious motion will suffice our God? We must first be right with God, having our sins confessed and forgiven, and then we must be just and righteous in our relationship with each other. THINK ABOUT IT!

We had tremendous services last eve at Liberty. Great spirit in the people and great truths taught from the Bible. May the Lord's church be strong all over the world. Are you doing all you can to help keep His church strong in your community? Hope so. 

TODAY IN HISTORY!

1.1861- THE FIRST MOVIE PROJECTOR WAS INVENTED.

2. 1900- ADLAI STEVENS WAS BORN. This was a great U.S. Senator from the state of Illinois. Why not pray for the churches of this great state today.

3. 1837- THE BIRTHDAY OF DWIGHT MOODY. Moody was born on Sunday. What a great evangelist and pastor. Between 1860 and 1899 this man was used of God to shake two great nations for God. He helped bring revival to the United States of America and also to Great Britain. He was used to build the great Moody Church and Moody Bible Institute still thriving 110 years after his departure to heaven. He was one of the first to publish Christian books at an affordable price. He was the founder of Moody press which today is a giant in the publishing and printing of Christian material. Moody Radio, Moody Aviation and so many other ministries are available today because of this mans great vision and faith. May we ask the Lord to help us in some way to leave a legacy of good behind us and also that in the future our labor will leave foundations for others to build on.

4. 1893 -THE BIRTHDAY OF DR. FORD PORTER. His tract, "God's Simple Plan of Salvation." has gone around the world. He was one of the warmest hearted Christians ever. Pray for his gospel tract today to be used in a great way. This tract is still being printed by the hundreds of thousands each year. Pray for all the Gospel tracts that are passed out to be used of God. Why not pass out some tracts today, tomorrow and every day?  

 Good Thursday to each of the Bishir Blog readers. We have had a little trouble with our blog the last several weeks. For those who follow the blog you probably have noticed that we have had comments made that were really advertisements for shoe  companies. Today we have hopefully fixed this from happening again. It will create a little more work for us as we will need to MODERATE all the comments which come in. That means we will either allow or disallow the comment to be posted on the blog. Up to this point any comment made was allowed. This will take a few extra minutes each time we blog but it will be worth it to GAURD what is posted. It just reminds me that every thought that is posted in my mind must be MODERATED . Is it acceptable? Is it worthy of sharing with another? Should I let it be posted on my hard-drive? It takes some extra effort to guard our minds but the results are worth all the effort we put into this MODERATION. We should not leave our minds in an UNMODERATED state,. It is easier to do so but the results of doing so are costly and dangerous for both ourselves and others. 

For all the LIBERTY FAMILY don't forget that our midweek service is tonight. This is our second week of our new Adult Winter Electives. Also Teens , AWANAS. And Yams will meet. See you tonight at our Midweek meal at 5:45 p.m. - 6:40 p.m. And then at 7 p.m. for services. 
 

TODAY IN HISTORY

1. 1783- THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR ENDED. Praise the Lord today for our freedom and liberties.

2. 1902- CHARLES LINDBERGH WAS BORN. May each of us today thank the Lord for the many people of our great land who have had the pioneering spirit. I am asking the Lord to help me move out by faith into uncharted territory if that is His will. God give us bravery and faith and a willingness to take the risk of loss if it means gain for others and His kingdom.

3. 1861- THE SOUTHERN CONFEDERACY WAS BORN. Pray for the southern  part of our nation today.

 I would like to challenge each of us today to keep our lives in perspective. It happens daily and if we don't watch carefully we will begin thinking life is bad and it is hard and that we are having a more difficult time than we really are. It does me good to remember that many in this world are having it a lot harder than I am at this very moment. When I remember the good things in my life it seems to bring peace and thanksgiving into my attitude and that lifts my life . When all I am doing is focusing on what isn't right,what is not going well, what is disappointing it is only rooted in my lack of seeing how much is good in my life, how much is right in my life, how much I have going in the right direction in my life. Thank God today I can see. I can hear, I can walk, I can breath without the aid of an oxygen tank. Thank God today I have eaten, I slept last evening in a warm bed with my loving wife of 34 years. Thank God I had water running out of a facet this morning and better than that I had hot water for a shower. PTL I have a shower. I was able to turn on electric lights and { you will like this one} I was able to flush a stool. I went out into my attached garage and got into a car that started and pushed a button to open the door . I pulled out pushed the button again and the door closed. I was able to back out of a paved driveway from a house that has been paid off for over 20 years. I was able to drive on a paved road all the way to the office and pulled on a paved parking lot to park my car. I walked on a sidewalk to the office and when I got in it was warm and clean. I had a cup of coffee from a new fangled {did I spell that right} coffee maker and went to my wonderful office and sat down and opened up the Bible {which is one of many} and heard from God. I was able to use my computer to connect with many others and was able to know today's news today. have been able to email my wife already and guess what she and I wanted to communicate. PTL. My body today is not racked with pain as some of our congregation is today. I feel fairly good except for some of these aches and pain that come with a little age. And oh by the way praise the Lord that I have had 56 years of life on this earth, I have know others that left this world in their teens and twenties. PTL I have not gone through an earthquake lately. I don't live in the middle of the jungle where the gospel hasn't yet arrived. I am not in prison today for preaching the gospel and I haven't been beaten by government officials for sharing Christ with others. HEY, I think I have made the point haven't I? When we think we have it hard someone else is having it harder. We dare not forget our blessings. Let each of us focus today on the blessings more than the difficulties. Take the day and make it one of rejoicing not one of complaining. As Matt Carmichael always tells me ," HAVE A GOOD ONE ." 

TODAY IN HISTORY

1. GROUND HOG DAY. Let us hope he won't see his shadow. AMEN!

2. 1895- A.J. GORDON DIED. This man was a great and famous preacher of the past. The last word he spoke on his daethbed was "VICTORY." He was a great pastor who started with a very cold and formal church. God used him to change this church into a wonderful church which was warm and on fire for Christ. He wrote several books that have been a blessing to this preacher. I love to read the "OLD TIMERS." Pray for your pastor's today. They carry a heavy load. It is not easy to guide dozens, hundreds or even thousands of peopel. It is always something. They need your prayers.

3. 1913- THE GRAND CENTRAL TERMANAL OPENED ITS OFFICE FOR THE FIRST TIME. - Mny things that trains do for us oftentimes. Much of our mail and supplies are transported by rail. Let us pray for all those in this system today. Give thanks for thsi form of transportation. 

 We had a another great Lords day. Pastor Ryan preached a great message in the morning at Liberty. He spoke from 1st Cor 4:1-4 on how we shouldn't be people pleasers but God pleasers. It really spoke to my heart. It was convicting and comforting to me and I am sure to many others. I again spoke to the New Hope Baptist Church congregation for the second Sunday in a row. God has been good we have seen the attendance grow considerably and for that we are thankful. Our desire is to help this church continue and become strong once again. It is only by the preaching of God's powerful, life-giving Word that this is possible. It is a privilege to preach His Word. Last evening at Liberty we had another wonderful Sunday eve service. The place was full with hungry believers seeking to hear God's voice. We are currently asking the lord to teach us to pray and last evening He came and did just that. We each heard Him teach us more about this life changing discipline. Thank you Jesus for meeting with us the entire day. We are a blessed people. Yesterday our entire ministry effort was able to minister to almost 900 people . PTL. This week our body of believers will provide Bible studies and preaching services on Monday eve, Tuesday eve, Wednesday eve, Thursday eve, Saturday morning, Saturday eve,  Sunday morning and Sunday Eve. During most days there will be council and discipleship going on at our counciling center. All the time we are trusting God's Word that it will not return void. In all this we only have one particular goal. That God be glorified and that people would be saved and after they are that they would become Christlike. Our prayer is for God to use us and that His kingdom on this earth would increase. All the effort isn't worth a thing if it doesn't transfer into God's glory and mankind's salvation. Another real burden to this preacher is that we are building deep and solid believers. Ones who will help to take us into the future and ones who will be doing what we are doing when we have gone on to heaven. We covet each of your prayers for God's leading and empowering for the tasks ahead of us. Thanks to each of you who are helping in many ways to see this ministry move forward for our deserving Lord. 

TODAY IN HISTORY

1.1789-THE FIRST PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES WAS ELECTED. We have had great presidents , and good presidents, and some really bad presidents and America has continued. What America needs most importantly isn't necessarily a great president but a GREAT LORD. The Lord Jesus Christ needs to rule our nation and each and every heart of its citizens.

2. 1790-  THE BEGINNING OF THE UNITED SUPREME COURT. Here is a part of our government that needs our prayers as much as any. We have tampered with the Bible in public school. We have tampered with unborn babies with abortion. We have tampered with prayer in the public schools. Because of our need for spiritual men and women in the Supreme Court let us pray for them today.

3. 1898-FIRST AUTO ACCIDENT INSURANCE POLICY WAS ISSUED. To Dr. T.J. Martin in Buffalo, New York. Today some of you should be praising God there is such a thing! Today would be a great day to pray for safety of all our families as they travel. Thank God for our automobiles and pledge to drive safely.