Daily Encouragement

Daily Encouragement (07/03/09) "People of Conviction"

2009-07-03T13:44:00.001-04:00

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A daily, Bible-based perspective of hope, encouragement and exhortation.

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Friday, July 3, 2009

A well-watered garden in Perry County, PA.
Click here for a large desktop version of the photo.

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"People of Conviction"

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people" (Proverbs 14:34). "They are a nation without sense, there is no discernment in them" (Deuteronomy 32:28).

Tomorrow is Independence Day here in America with many beginning to celebrate today and throughout the extended weekend. I realize many readers live outside of the USA but you can also apply today's brief challenge to the nation in which you live. In fact. in one way or another there's nowhere on earth this message would not apply.

Proverbs 14:34 describes two contrasting outlooks concerning the state of a nation in God's reckoning:

1) "Righteousness exalts a nation." Righteousness in this case refers to people seeking to live according to God's holy standards as expressed in His Word. As people seek to live this way a nation is exalted or elevated; it is upright. By "nation" we may think of a present day political subdivision but the sense here is a people group.

2) "But sin is a disgrace to any people." A great definition of sin is from the Westminster Catechism, a helpful learning tool developed during the Reformation which taught the faith with questions followed by brief answers. What is sin? "Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God." Sin is a disgrace or, as translated in many versions, a "reproach". It stains, separates, and brings shame to the transgressor.

Consider the disgrace of rampant sexual immorality, violence, idolatry, dishonesty, greed and so many other evidences of sin in our land. It seems day by day this disgrace increases and the pace has certainly accelerated here in the USA in recent years, and is even more visible in recent months. A depraved entertainer dies and the media and masses practically deify him. June was declared by our president a month to celebrate sexual perversions. Here in my state (Pennsylvania) our governor is an ardent gambling proponent and in the last several years casino gambling has been approved as a means of urban renewal and tax relief! A state-sponsored ad promoting gambling speaks of the players as "investing". What a sad, pathetic condition this land is in.

Deuteronomy 32:28 is taken from the context of a nation experiencing God's judgment; summed up with this description, "without sense, no discernment".

Today I write to the people of God scattered throughout the world and encourage you to pray and live out a godly life against the grain of popular culture. In this great spiritual darkness Jesus continues to call His followers to "let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). Calvin Coolidge observed that "the strength of a country is the strength of its religious convictions." It is obvious by the sin that abounds in our land that our spiritual convictions are very weak in our present day.

Let us, as Christ's true disciples, be people of conviction who will stand up for righteousness. May we be counted among those who exercise spiritual sense and discernment. By doing so our righteousness will have a part in exalting this nation and help to bring about spiritual change in the lives of those living within our nation!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, we want to live above the fray of this world as a people of righteousness set apart for Your purpose. We forsake the things of this world that bring disgrace to Your holy name and live for the purpose of bringing glory, honor and praise to You, our Father. We pray for our nation, for the turning away from our sins and turning toward the abundant life we find in Christ our Lord. You've called us to repentance and to share the good news of salvation to all who are lost. Help us to seek a fresh calling upon our lives to be obedient in this commission from Scripture. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

"Spiritual Revival"

To all of God's people who are interested in the study of His Word, in the development of their own Christian lives, in a revival of the spiritual life of the Church, in the conversion of sinners, and in the evangelization of the world:

Many thoughtful people have come to feel strongly that the hope of the church today is in a deep and widespread revival. We are confronted with difficulties that can be met in no other way. The enemy has come in like a flood - it is time for those who believe in a supernatural religion to look to God to lift up a standard against him. Oh, for a revival of such power that the tide of unbelief and worldliness that is sweeping in upon us shall be beaten back; that every Christian shall be lifted to a higher level of life and power, and multitudes of perishing souls be converted to God! Why not? God's arm is not shortened, nor His ear heavy.

The history of revivals proves that such a work must begin at the house of God. Who can doubt that if somehow the Church could be thoroughly aroused – not a mere scratching of the surface of our emotions, but a deep heart-work that shall make us right with God and clothe us with power in prayer and service – this century would witness the mightiest movements of the Holy Spirit since Pentecost!

Let us break up our fallow ground, seek a fresh anointing of the Spirit, and then move forward, expecting great things of God.

(D.L. Moody wrote the above message about Spiritual Revival to Christian workers, inviting them to attend a Conference at Northfield, MA, in August of 1899 (four months before his death at 62 years.) We include this message today because, though it was penned 110 years ago, its message is timely for our nation and our world.)

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"If My People Pray" Video Avalon

"Purify My heart" Video Brian Doerkson

"Restore My Soul" Audio

"Give Us Clean Hands" Video Chris Tomlin

The Westminster Shorter Catechism Here is a complete online version. I regret that a teaching method like this is not used more today, including in my own ministry.

Regardless of what country you may live in we all sure need a heaven-sent revival! This Sunday morning July 5 our church will join many others in participating in "Call2Fall", a nationwide prayer meeting. We encourage others to look into this, especially pastors here in America. Essentially this is a definite time during worship on Sunday, July 5^th when we get on our knees before the Lord in repentant prayer, pleading with God to reshape our lives, renew our land, and send times of refreshing (See 2 Chronicles 7:14; Acts 3:19).

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. Would you please consider a financial offering to support us in this daily encouragement ministry? Donations are tax deductible and will be receipted directly by my chaplaincy endorsing ministry. Thanks! See here for details. (2009 YTD financial offerings through 7/2/09: $5,770.00)

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Our other blogs:
"A Daily Prayer" - A blog simply posting the daily prayer. We keep this up each day since it's merely the prayer from the Daily Encouragement Net message!
"A Little Foolishness" - Humor/satire blog (a great outlet for non-serious writing but at times with a subtle message!) Last updated with the story of Mildred Swanson, who joyfully discovers her "spiritual gift" is sending forwarded emails! (Note: This material is satire!)
"Clear Minded" - Longer, periodic articles on specific issues impacting the faithful believer and church. (Actually this is my intent but I haven't done much with it!)
"Hymns of Hope" - Brooksyne along with two friends made a CD using classic hymns. Brooksyne tells the background story of the 11 hymns. We are distributing this CD without charge in our ministry. All of these songs are also available for download on the site. If any reader in this series would like a CD merely write us and request one.

Daily Encouragement Net is an affiliate of Christianbook.com. Any orders placed to Christian Book Distributers using this link or any specific product link to a recommended resource in a daily encouragement message will help our Daily Encouragement ministry through a small commission on the sale. Thank you for using these links when purchasing online through CBD!

Personal Mission Statement
"I am created by God to bring Him glory. Through God's Son Jesus Christ I have been redeemed and I make it my life's goal to please the Lord. My mission in life is to honor God through my faith and obedience and to prepare myself and all whom I may influence for eternity."

How to become a child of God

Scripture references are from The Holy Bible: New International Version. © 1984 by International Bible Society; NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, New King James Version (NKJV) Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. and the King James Version.

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
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"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
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Daily Encouragement (07/02/09) "A Safeguard For The Soul"

2009-07-02T10:24:00.000-04:00

Daily Encouragement Net Trouble reading this message? Read online or see archives

A daily, Bible-based perspective of hope, encouragement and exhortation.

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Thursday, July 2, 2009

Amish hay harvest
All through the summer there are different times for harvest.
This is alfalfa hay being harvested by my friends Eli and Jesse.
The team pulls the operation but a gasoline-powered generator is used to run the hay baler. Do you notice the puff of smoke in the background (center left)? That's the steam engine from the Strasburg Railroad.

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"A Safeguard For The Soul"

"Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again is no trouble to me, and it is a safeguard for you" (Philippians 3:1). "So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. And I will make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things" (2 Peter 1:12-15).

What do you think of when you hear the word "safeguard"? For many years it has been a popular brand of bath soap and we periodically use it in our home. I like the fragrance and supposedly using it is a "safeguard" against offensive body odors. We also serve as chaplains at a company called Safeguard that, among other things, makes pet homes and thus the name. But today's first text deals with another type of safeguard, one we will call a "safeguard for the soul."

For many as we get older we tend to be more forgetful and may speak of "senior moments" or as a friend shared in last night's Bible Study, "data overload". This is generally short-term memory loss (like forgetting where we put our wallet, coffee cup, car keys, cell phone, etc.). These are common sources of minor frustration in our home.

Apparently a different part of our brain is used for long-term memory and it is not necessarily related. When my mom's fall resulted in a major head injury over ten years ago we were advised to expect the greatest impact would be her short-term memory and that proved to be true. We need certain prompts to keep us on track, like some tying a string around a finger or post-it notes (we use a lot of those!).

Today we want to share about the most important memory prompts, reminders of spiritual truths.

I have on occasion taught a senior class. Most class members have been believers for many years and are familiar with the teachings of the Bible. I realize particularly with this group my function as a teacher is to remind and reinforce truths they already know and spur them on to faithfulness toward God. Now certainly I hope that I periodically share a new insight or perspective on an old truth but I am fundamentally committed to "earnestly contending for the faith once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 3). I am not interested in "tickling ears" (see 2 Timothy 4:2-4)

Let me ask you a question as a maturing believer (if we are a believer we should all be in the process of maturing whether young or old in age). How do you respond when you receive teaching that you are familiar with? Among some I have noticed a critical spirit expressed by a cavalier, "I already know that" attitude, while many clamor after "new teachings". I so appreciate those who have a sweet, receptive spirit and accept the reminders of truth with joy. That's how I want to be as I "mature" in years and Christian experience. May old well-known truths bring reassurance and refreshing to my inner soul.

The daily texts, although written by two different apostles (Paul and Peter), are similar and express an attitude we should have when we are reminded of truths of which we are already familiar. The apostle Paul was aware that he had shared the same things before with the Philippians but spoke of them as a "safeguard". That's a great attitude for us to have as we receive unchanging truth in this day where the shifting sands of relativism abound.

Although Peter was confident his readers not only knew the truths he shared but were also established in them, he pledged to be steadfast in reminding them of these things. He was determined to "make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things." That's a faithful minister!

Do you receive the reminders of truth with joy? I recall the line in an old hymn that puts it this way, "I love to tell the story, for those who know it best, seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest." That's how I want to be!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, may our hearts reflect that of songwriter Catherine Hankey who found it a privilege to repeat the gospel message to all who would hear. With each telling of the salvation story she found its message more wonderfully sweet within her own spirit. May we never weary of the basics of the gospel and never lose the awe and wonder of seeing a life that is changed when redemption takes place. We want to hunger and thirst after righteousness and never lose sight of the old, old story that will be our theme throughout eternity. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

An old memory! Brooksyne's paternal grandpa, Elbert Sherrell, was one of the godliest men I ever met. He and his wife lived in a very simple concrete block home on a desolate mountain ridge in northwest Arkansas which was reached after traveling about twenty miles of rugged dirt roads. He didn't drive and used a team of mules for farming. He and Brooksyne's grandma made a monthly trip to town with one of his children for food supplies. He had a very simple but extremely earnest faith that set him apart as one who loved the fundamental truths of the gospel. Over thirty years later I can still hear his earnest voice as he prayed nightly for his children and grandchildren. He was mentally as sharp as a tack until he died suddenly of a heart attack while going about his farm work.

One night shortly after we married we drove down from the Springfield MO area and visited her grandparents. We thought it would be exciting (or perhaps I did) to go back into a corner of the property and sleep out under the black canopy of stars in the back of our little pickup. Brooksyne had heard many stories of weird things (unsolved mysteries) that had happened on the mountain since childhood which she began to speak of as we lay in the wide open space. The sound of the summer insects and wild animal sounds in the mountains was practically deafening. Needless to say we didn't sleep very well. It was very scary and we were most anxious to see the sunrise in the very early morning hours! For the curious here's a google map of the location.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"I Love To Tell The Story" Video The Chuck Wagon Gang

"Wonderful Words Of Life" Video Gaither Homecoming

Safeguard Products We will visit this company today.

Regardless of what country you may live in we sure need a revival! On Sunday morning July 5 our church will join many others in participating in "Call2Fall", a nationwide prayer meeting. We encourage others to look into this, especially pastors here in America. Essentially this is a definite time during worship on Sunday, July 5^th when we get on our knees before the Lord in repentant prayer, pleading with God to reshape our lives, renew our land, and send times of refreshing (See 2 Chronicles 7:14; Acts 3:19).

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

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Daily Encouragement (07/01/09) "A Good Name"

2009-07-01T11:16:00.000-04:00

Daily Encouragement Net Trouble reading this message? Read online or see archives

A daily, Bible-based perspective of hope, encouragement and exhortation.

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Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Late yesterday afternoon we witnessed this brilliant cloud pattern
in the sky as the sun hid behind it.

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"A Good Name"

"A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold" (Proverbs 22:1).

Last week we passed a sign in New Jersey that caught our attention. I don't think I've ever seen a road named for Delilah and would find it interesting to learn of its origin. I wonder if it was named after a real person. Did they have knowledge of the Bible character? (See Judges 16)

Normally when we name a child after someone, especially a Bible name, we consider the character of the person who bears (or bore) the name. I've met a lot of men with names like John, Mark or Paul and women named Mary, Sarah and Rachel.

But certain Biblical characters have few people or places named after them. They just aren't "good names". I've never met a woman named Delilah or Jezebel, or a man named Nabal or Ahab.

"A good name is more desirable than great riches." When I was younger I assumed this meant having a name one liked. I've always liked my name since I am named after Stephen, a bold, uncompromising Bible character. My middle name is Clark and I like that because I think of the explorers Lewis and Clark.

But frankly there are certain names I am sure glad my parents didn't choose to name me. I won't mention these names, since it might actually be someone's name and I certainly don't want to offend!

But a "good name" in the text means a name that connotes a person of honorable character and good reputation. For instance when we refer to a business that is known for honesty and integrity, we often say, "It has a good name."

Having a good name is truly more desirous than possessing great riches which only have short duration. A good name is developed over time, really a life time, and the true judgment of success will not be known until this life is over and we personally meet the Lord. The highest standard will be to hear our Lord say these words directly to us, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Consider your name. What do you suppose others think when they speak your name or hear it spoken in various group settings (home, church, work, neighborhood, etc.)? Does it reflect a person who has a good name based upon integrity, truthfulness and godly character, one who is not self-absorbed but is concerned for the interests of others?

When you get right down to it, it's not what we've accomplished or how much we've accumulated that counts in the end. It's who we are as a person that will determine whether or not our name is spoken in a favorable way. Indeed, "to be esteemed is better than silver or gold."

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Jesus, Your name stands out above every name. When we speak Your name the demons flee, the sick are restored, the weak are strengthened, and those held captive to sin are freed. It is only in the name of Jesus that we find salvation, for there is no other name in heaven or on earth whereby we can be saved. We, as Christians, take on the derivative of Your Messianic name, when we receive You as our Savior. We want to honor You as we bear Your name before a cynical unbelieving world. May our actions and attitudes not bring blemish or present opportunity for the unconverted to mock and ridicule those who identify themselves as Christians. Instead may our lives be set apart for Your glory like Daniel, who purposed in his heart, not to defile his God. May we also have a good name like Daniel whose godless Babylonian administration could find no corruption in him because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. Though the world may not agree with our stand for You may we be seen as people who are honorable and trustworthy. It is in the name of Christ that we pray. Amen.

Note from Brooksyne: Speaking of names, mine has always distinguished me from all the rest (in school, church, work, etc.). People often inquire about the pronunciation and the origin as well. Brooksyne is pronounced Brook-seen'. I would be unable to count the number of times I've explained it and had to pronounce it since I was young enough to speak for myself. My father's name was Brooklyn and my folks were hoping for a baby boy, but surprise, I was a girl! Mom had to come up with some derivative and thus the name "Brooksyne" originated 53 years ago. In the past twenty-five years the name "Brooke" has become popularized and has made my name a bit less distinct. I would have welcomed that as a child, but I've come to appreciate the distinctness of an original name. But my heartfelt prayer is that my life will always reflect that of a person with "a good name" (not just because it's unusual, not because I'm perfect cause I certainly am not, but because I have lived a life set apart for Christ and tried to honor Him in all my ways.)

Stephen's note: Today's message causes me to ponder concerning a pet peeve I have concerning naming; that is naming a building or institution after yourself (or allowing others to do so) while you're still alive. I recall in Bible College a church in Springfield where the pastor had named a new educational wing after himself, or at the very least allowed others to name it after him.

In my lifetime several have named colleges they founded after themselves and in some cases later took a hard and notorious fall. I recall meeting a young man who had gone to one of these colleges and noted his embarrasment whenever someone asked him, "Where did you go to college?"

Now after you have passed away and finished the race faithfully if someone else wants to name something after you that's a different story!

Yesterday afternoon our longtime friends Ken & Nila came over and joined us for supper, along with their son David. Ken brought over a truckload of straw for our garden and David helped him unload it.

David is growing up quickly and learning to work and serve others just like his dad. He'll soon have his second birthday. Here's a photo I took on his literal birthday.

Later some new friends stopped by for an evening visit. Mike & Nikki are involved in ministry to motorcylists and lead the local Bikers For Christ chapter. We learned a lot about the biker culture and commend this couple for their efforts in reaching out to this people group. Here's the site for the Susquehanna Valley Chapter that Mike leads.

In today's message we referred to a road sign in New Jersey. We pass this road sign in Centre County as we travel through central Pennsylvania. We consider how it would be neat to live on Bible Road!

Many of you will recall a childhood song and if you're like us you'll immediately recall the words:

The B-I-B-L-E
Yes that's the book for me.
I stand upon the Word of God
The B-I-B-L-E.

Here's a second verse I found to the B-I-B-L-E song that I don't recall singing as a child. I like it!
The B-I-B-L-E
Yes that's the book for me
I read and pray, trust and obey
The B-I-B-L-E.

The B-I-B-L-E, yes that's the book for me! (audio mp3)

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

As I prepared today's message this book came to mind:

Bad Girls of the Bible
By Liz Curtis Higgs / Random House, Inc

Women everywhere marvel at those "good girls" in Scripture---Sarah, Mary, Esther---but on most days, that's not who they see when they look in the mirror. Most women (if they're honest) see the selfishness of Sapphira or the deception of Delilah. They catch of glimpse of Jezebel's take-charge pride or Eve's disastrous disobedience. Like Bathsheba, Herodias, and the rest, today's modern woman is surrounded by temptations, exhausted by the demands of daily living, and burdened by her own desires.

So what's a good girl to do? Learn from their lives, says Liz Curtis Higgs, and by God's grace, choose a better path. In Bad Girls of the Bible, Higgs offers a unique and clear-sighted approach to understanding those "other women" in Scripture, combining a contemporary retelling of their stories with a verse-by-verse study of their mistakes and what lessons women today can learn from them.

Whether they were "Bad to the Bone," "Bad for a Season, but Not Forever" or only "Bad for a Moment," these infamous sisters show women how not to handle the challenges of life. With her trademark humor and encouragement, Higgs teaches you how to avoid their tragic mistakes and joyfully embrace grace. Includes reflection questions at the end of each chapter.

Bad Boys of the New Testament: Exploring Men of Questionable Virtue
By Barbara J. Essex / Pilgrim Press

When teaching or preaching about biblical characters we tend to present them as perfect human beings and role models. If we look closer we will find that the Bible does no such thing. Along with the courageous and heroic character traits of a person the outrageous and underhanded instincts are depicted as well. This 8 week study of seven biblical men will deepen, broaden, and expand your faith as you examine the whole picture of humanity and are reminded of God's gracious and merciful love for us. Commentary, background, reflection questions, and suggestions for preaching and teaching the "bad boys" are included.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

You are currently subscribed to dailyencouragement as: stephencweber.dailyencouragement@blogger.com
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Daily Encouragement (06/30/09) "Covenant Keepers"

2009-06-30T12:51:00.000-04:00

Daily Encouragement Net Trouble reading this message? Read online or see archives

A daily, Bible-based perspective of hope, encouragement and exhortation.

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<Previous Messages · Archives · Archive/print edition

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Little Chiques Creek in Lancaster County, PA.
We often pass this refreshing creek and enjoying its winding view when we're on our way to church in Mastersonville. The large white rocks covering the banks makes this setting even more appealing.

Listen to us share this message on your audio player.

"Covenant Keepers"

"With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him" (Daniel 11:32).

From the time of the successful corruption of Adam and Eve the enemy has sought to continue the corruption in each of their descendants. And from the very beginning flattery has been one of the effective tools in Satan's diabolical arsenal. In the Garden Satan appealed to their pride declaring that, "You will be like God."

Today the great spiritual war rages on and as I prepare this message I consider this cosmic struggle underlying all that we may read about or see with our eyes.

Daniel faithfully served God about 2,500 years ago. The latter portion of his book is a series of prophetic messages dealing with events that stretch from his time through the various historically verifiable world empires to the present and beyond. It can be a tough read requiring much concentration. Today's verse is power-packed.

The flattering "he" in the daily text is a king who "will corrupt those who have violated the covenant." Although the specific "he" in the text may not be Satan, surely it represents his ongoing attempt to corrupt God's kingdom. Any violation of a covenant results in further corruption if there is no repentance offered. But the focus of this daily encouragement is the latter part of the text, which has such an application for all times.

"But the people who know their God." In every generation God has called out a people who know Him. Oh, how I cry out today to know God! Not in a static sense, not through other's experiences, but through a deepening of my understanding and through a more fully surrendered heart.

The apostle Paul wrote many years after his conversion experience when he initially came to know Christ, "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death" (Philippians 3:10). This surely speaks of an ongoing aspiration to know God in a greater and deeper way. When we walk in the resurrection power that comes from Christ we will overcome the sufferings that also come to the believer as we share in His sufferings. Too often we want the resurrection power, but resist the suffering that comes to those who identify with Christ in His death.

"Will firmly resist him." This growing knowledge of God will equip us as His people to unyieldingly resist the ploys of Satan. It is so easy to be deceived and led astray if we are not aware of Satan's tactics. We can learn about them since they are revealed all throughout the Scriptures. In my heart I have such a deep sense of the urgency of this warning and remind our readers to "be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings" (1 Peter 5:9).

Fellow follower of Christ, today let us pursue a growing knowledge of God as we surrender ourselves fully to His control, and let us firmly resist the enemy of our souls. Let us determine that we will keep our covenant with God.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, deep within our soul there is a yearning to know You more, to identify with You in Your power, and even in Your suffering, and also in Your victory over Satan. What a powerful example You give us when Jesus was tempted in the desert for 40 days and 40 nights. Satan had a plot, but You had a plan to refute every scheme he laid out when Jesus responded with Scripture. Scripture that was spoken and recorded long before the wilderness battle ensued. Help us to be like-minded, to learn and embrace the Scriptures, so that we will do battle with the enemy not by our might or strength that might actually be weakened in the midst of the battle, but in the powerful strength that comes through the inspiration of Your Holy Word meant for all time. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Berry Picking!

Yesterday we went berry picking. Along the back edge of our church property there is an abundance of black raspberries that I've been watching as they slowly ripened.

Some berries were easy to get to right along the edge and easy to pick, but the most plump and densely inhabited raspberries were deep into the patch, requiring considerable effort to pick.

Briars and thorn-covered branches taller than Brooksyne abounded, but as she picked she showed me a handful of the delectable juicy berries.

Roxie came along to warn us of any possible snakes that might make be hiding under the thick weed filled bedding of the berry plantings.

Here's a photo of Brooksyne working deep in the berry patch getting the best berries and below is a handfull of reward!

We had fresh berries on home-made ice cream last night. This morning all three of us enjoyed black raspberry jam on our buttered toast. Thanks to a generous friend who gave us 12 quarts in addition to our own picking Brooksyne canned over 22 cups of jams and jellies. It's more than we need for ourselves, but she enjoys making extra to give away.

Besides making jars of jam (which includes the pulp of berries), Brooksyne also made a batch of jelly where the pulp is separated and only the juice is used, as seen above with the pulp in the cheesecloth and the juice extracted for the jelly in the large bowl. With jelly you don't have seeds getting caught in your teeth, but then you don't get the full berry either.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"Resist him" 1 Peter 5:8,9 from the Integrity Scripture Memory Series (Open this page and click "play") These songs are a great way to hide Scripture verses in your heart.

"Oh, I Want To Know You More" Video Steve Green

"Knowing You" Video This is a great song of aspiration that many of you have sung. In fact we did so in our church this last Lord's Day.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

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Daily Encouragement (06/29/09) "Rich Reward For The Faithful"

2009-06-29T13:22:00.000-04:00

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Monday, June 29, 2009

Willows along Donegal Creek
Click on photo to view a larger version with Scripture verse.

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"Rich Reward For The Faithful"

"Help, Lord, for the godly man ceases to be. For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men" (Psalm 12:1). "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised" (Hebrews 10:35,36).

David expresses himself in our daily text in a way that we might also in our own day. His cry for help is directed to the Lord. His observation is that the "godly man ceases to be". David grew up during a time of great moral and spiritual apostasy. Certainly Saul's reign was not marked by spiritual revival or consistent obedience to God. It transitioned from the period of the Judges, which is summed up with the phrase "Each man did what was right in his own eyes." However there was a remnant of God's faithful followers during this period such as the prophet Samuel.

Thank God for those who remain faithful followers of Jesus Christ in our own day. Faithful ministers who preach God's Word in an uncompromising manner, dedicated lay persons who live out their faith before an oft-scorning world, married couples who take their marital covenant seriously, parents who raise their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord and church communities that continue to "forsake not the assembling together."

Today's verse is a great truth for all readers to memorize. We all deal with different temptations and issues in life as we seek to remain faithful to Christ. The believers addressed in Hebrews were facing persecution and were tempted to go back to their old way of life. Perhaps part of the temptation was that in doing so their persecutions might ease. There are many believers today under similar circumstances.

But going back to the old way of life remains a temptation in varying degrees for all believers, although for different reasons. For many readers it may be the busyness of life, affluence, the persistent barrage of godless, secular teaching and other issues we confront daily that lull us into complacency or pull us back into the world.

One that I have noticed is the heavy load that people bear as they overcome the consequences of many years of disobedience to God. It may be tobacco, drug or alcohol use, sexual immorality or indebtedness due to wasteful spending. Turning to Christ does not immediately negate the long-term consequences of these past sins. Though some receive miraculous deliverance, there are those who will endure weaknesses and temptations that require diligent prayer and daily overcoming.

The enemy of our soul may persistently murmur, "What's the use?" and tempt us to just throw away our confidence and simply give up. Sadly, I know some who have done just that. A major theme throughout Hebrews is, "Let us hold firmly to the faith we profess." The word translated "hold firmly" is in the present active and conveys the ongoing need to actively participate in this "holding on" to our faith.

But note the great promise in the daily text. I have been blessed by it often and committed it to memory: "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded." Any earthly rewards pale in comparison to the eternal rewards our heavenly Father bestows on the faithful believer. May the Lord's present and future promises strengthen your faith today and fill you with anticipation for the future when you will be "richly rewarded."

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, You lead us through the valleys and mountain top experiences of everyday life. Your ways are far superior to the path we might choose when guided by our own limited wisdom. We're so grateful for the strength and encouragement we receive from our brothers and sisters who bear our burdens and share in our joys. When considering the choice of walking faithfully with you or turning to our old way of life, we join with Simon Peter who weighed the options and declared, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that You are the Holy One of God." (John 6:68,69).

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"Today I Choose" Video Brian Doerksen

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Daily Encouragement (06/26/09) "Grace upon Grace"

2009-06-26T11:14:00.000-04:00

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Friday, June 26, 2009

"Like a mighty sea, like a mighty sea.

Comes the love of Jesus sweeping over me!"

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"Grace upon Grace"

"For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace" (John 1:16).

Yesterday I was sitting on a bench with Brooksyne looking out over the ocean at Ocean City, NJ. I glanced at her and took note of her quiet but pleasant expression and asked, "What is it that you like about the ocean?" She responded quickly, "It's so much bigger than man. People can take no credit for its vastness, for the way the waves just keep on coming to shore. It's one of the great wonders of creation."

Growing up in the Midwest I rarely saw the ocean as a child; only two times. Brooksyne didn't see it at all till after we were married so we especially enjoy spending time at the shore. We have walked nearly fifteen miles the last several days along the shore, mostly on boardwalks. Yesterday we walked the Ocean City boardwalk and enjoyed seeing scores of young families, seniors, middle-aged, and young people all enjoying the warm sunshine. There is such a great variety of food stands, beachwear, and amusement park rides. But far more interesting than all of these man made boardwalk attractions is the mighty ocean.

I've long associated the daily verse with the ocean due to a sermon I heard as a young Christian. Jeff Ronald was a fellow Bible School student who was preaching from John 1 and used the persistent, rolling waves of the ocean as an illustration of the phrase "grace upon grace."

John wrote his gospel late in the first century. Most believe his writings were the last in the Biblical canon. Some sixty years after his encounter with Christ and His earthly ministry he sits down as an old man to write his record.

Three other accounts had already been written (Matthew, Mark and Luke) but surely John's perspective in writing was long awaited by the early church. His purpose in writing is clearly stated in Chapter 20:30 & 31. "Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name." Thus his intent was in part evangelistic; hopeful that unbelievers would receive his account and respond in belief.

The daily text begins with the phrase, "For of His fullness we have all received." What an incredible blessing to be a recipient of His fullness!

The last phrase is "grace upon grace." The Amplified expresses, "one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift heaped upon gift." What a marvelous blessing grace is; this unmerited favor and undeserved gift. In understanding grace many have found helpful the descriptive acrostic "God's Riches At Christ's Expense" or "Gifts Received At Christ's Expense."

Do you believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God? By believing you may have life in His Name. That's the greatest gift of grace!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: God, You've given the greatest treasure that is available to all people. We don't have to fit into a particular segment of our population nor are we required to live during a certain time period to receive this unsurpassed gift. The gift of Your grace is available to every generation and exceeds any temporary material blessing that we'll ever receive. Your grace not only brings reconciliation through Your Son, but it continues to pour into us grace upon grace, much like the waves of the ocean. Thank you that You gave in abundance so that we could be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God through the incarnation of your Son, Jesus Christ. How unlimited and ceaseless is your grace upon grace!

Ocean City is a very family-oriented area, a marked contrast to Atlantic City, which is just ten miles away. Brooksyne always checks out the decorative planters when we travel to popular vacation sites. This year the planters at Ocean City are filled with colorful Wave Petunias. They're huge and surely thrive with the ocean air. Just about every home and condominium that border the oceanfront are accessorized with beautiful and heavily blooming hydrangeas. We didn't get photos but sure enjoyed the views as we walked along the sidewalks.

After a rather dreary week it was beautiful yesterday and this is what the beach looked like mile after mile. An otherwise bland sandy beach was decorated with multi-colored umbrellas and beach towels as sunlovers and swimmers took advantage of a perfectly warm sunny day!

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
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(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"Your Grace Still Amazes Me" (Video) Silvie Paladino

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Daily Encouragement (06/25/09) "A Pleasant Hope"

2009-06-25T11:45:00.001-04:00

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Thursday, June 25, 2009

Cape May lighthouse
This lighthouse is on the very southern tip of New Jersey.
We walked over five miles yesterday on sand and boardwalks during the peaks of sunshine and in the downpours of rain!

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"A Pleasant Hope"

"Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure" (1 John 3:2,3).

When Brooksyne and I got married in 1976 we lived near Pleasant Hope, a small town in Southwestern Missouri about twenty-five miles north of Springfield. In fact our very first joint checking account was opened at the Bank of Pleasant Hope. I don't know the basis of this name but the names of many geographical locations have a religious significance, as they were settled by devout people of faith. In Lancaster County we have a village named Mount Hope. Since devoted religious immigrants settled this area in the 18th century it likely represents an expression of faith.

Hope is one of the greatest of God's blessings. Our relationship with God always involves faith, and active faith in Him always leads to hope. When our faith in God is weak, inactive or non-existent we have either no hope or a misplaced hope.

Today we want to share about a pleasant hope that is the heritage of all true followers of Christ. We are included in the "beloved" that John writes to who are "Now (present tense) the children of God."

As children of God there's a lot about our future, both the immediate and distant, which is very unclear to us. I believe this in part is the sense of the expression from our text, "it has not appeared as yet what we will be." An old gospel hymn puts it this way, "Many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand, but I know Who holds tomorrow and I know Who holds my hand."

The aged apostle John writes with much certainty about the future, "we know that when He appears." His future appearance, although mocked and scorned by the world, is a fixed reality.

At that time "we will be like Him, and we will see Him just as He is!" Elsewhere the Scriptures refer to the return of Christ as the "Blessed Hope" and it truly is.

Today I am so blessed and challenged by the latter phrase in our daily text, "And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure." This hope is not a mere wish but an absolute certainty and leads to an unshakable confidence concerning the future promise of God.

As a result of this we, as God's children, will purify ourselves because our coming Lord is absolutely pure. A commentary notes, "The Christian life is a process of becoming more and more like Christ. This process will not be complete until we see Christ face to face, but knowing that this is our ultimate destiny should motivate us to purify ourselves. To purify means to keep morally straight, free from the corruption of sin. God also purifies us, but there is action we must take to remain morally fit."

This action, I believe, is staying true to the pure doctrine of Scripture, not just reading it but living it. We must be vigilant in keeping God's standards as our rule book, rather than the ever changing standards of this world that reflects people's human nature, not the spiritual nature that has been redeemed and refined by the inerrant Holy Word of God.

Genuine Christ-directed faith leads to a real hope and that leads to an amazing, unexplainable ability to rejoice whatever the circumstances. Surely some of you are facing very trying circumstances as you read this. Today I encourage you to focus on the hope we have in Christ and I end with a thought-provoking saying I really like: "Man's way leads to a hopeless end, but God's way leads to an endless hope." Amen!!!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, we share the sentiment Paul expressed when he wrote, "If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men." Our hope is not limited to this earthly existence, but rather it flourishes and yields growing anticipation as we contemplate the blessed future event of our Lord's soon return. Being aware of our unworthiness and inclination to sin gives us all the more motivation to fix our hope on You. We want to set our affections on things above, not on things of this earth, for we are dead to the world and our life is hidden with Christ through You, Father. Purify our thoughts, actions, and conversation as we with renewed determination fix our hope on the Everlasting One.

Yesterday's message prompted a Missouri reader who has a race car to share a photo of his car with Acts 20:24 along the side. He does so as a means of witnessing to other drivers and spectators!

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"The Lighthouse" (Video)

"My Hope Is In The Lord" Video

"The Solid Rock" Video "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" A beautiful acapella arrangement.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

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495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
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Daily Encouragement (06/24/09) "Lessons From A Coach"

2009-06-24T13:02:00.000-04:00

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Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Ocean sunset
(Click on photo to enlarge)

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"Lessons From A Coach"

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Hebrews 12:1,2).

Last night we joined some friends for dinner. Bill & Pat Preston just celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary and demonstrate a committed walk with the Lord, both turning to Christ early in their marriage. Pat has served with Christian Women's Clubs for many years. Bill is a college cross country and track coach. He has run in many marathons including the Boston Marathon. At 71 years of age he remains in excellent fitness and is a beloved coach to many.

In my younger years I enjoyed sports as a participant and actually ran in both cross country and track (long distance). I recall to this day how I esteemed my coach and for a number of years was a high school tennis coach when I lived in northern Pennsylvania.

My conversation with Bill has given me cause for considering a passage that has spoken to me for many years. Based on the illustrations the Apostle Paul uses, I believe he also enjoyed sports or at least recognized their value in "connecting" with his readers.

All of us who follow Jesus Christ are participating in a great contest. The writer of Hebrews alludes to this in our daily Scripture portion (many believe to be Paul but this is not specified). The writer speaks to us like a coach. Today let's examine some lessons from this coach!

This coach begins by reminding us that "We are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses." These witnesses are the men and women of faith chronicled in Hebrews 11.

These witnesses are those all throughout the age who have gone on before us after a life of faithful service to Christ. They include Biblical people of faith and well-known heroes in the church with names many of us recognize such as D.L. Moody, A.W. Tozer and other great gospel preachers and hymn writers such as Fanny Crosby.

But I also receive spiritual encouragement as I consider among the witnesses those who personally ministered to me such as my mom and dad, along with many dedicated people that most of you have never heard of like Pastor John Howard, Elbert Sherrell, Tracy Sutherland, Bill Shibilo, Earl Martin and many, many others.* (It might be well for you to develop a similar list with those unique to you.)

We are to take this event seriously and this coach instructs us to "Throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles." This speaks of singe-minded dedication, surrendering all to the Great Cause.

This coach specifically calls us to a race, "Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." This race is most analogous to a marathon, which begins the moment we accept Christ and continues throughout the remainder of our lives until we either meet the Lord in death or in the rapture. It's a lifelong race!

Coach reminds us that a great character quality essential in any athletic contest, but certainly a long distance race is expressed in the phrase "Run with perseverance." All great athletes are characterized by perseverance. They overcome pain, rejection, adverse weather, and all kinds of setbacks to achieve their goal.

Likewise, strong, persevering followers of Christ just keep pressing on in spite of the hardship. Coach calls us to keep looking unto Jesus our greatest example, "Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."

Today let us stay faithful and keep running this great race with perseverance!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Jesus, the race You've marked out for us doesn't require nearly as much physical stamina as it does spiritual endurance. Those who are physically weak due to disease, illness, and aging are just as qualified to run as those who have young athletic bodies. It's a spiritual race where You call us to perseverance as we discard anything that would trip us up or lead us on a disastrous detour. The great cloud of witnesses spur us on; those from the Biblical period, throughout history, and from our own generation. But above all we thank You, Jesus, that You endured the cross and all the suffering that accompanied it, being spurred on by the joy You knew that would be Yours afterward. You cheer us on by Your own example and by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit that sustains us in our struggle against sin. Keep us faithful to the end, for the end is only the beginning. Amen.

* So many have had a personal impact on me and of course most are not known but to a few. In fact I believe the greatest personal impact in each of our lives is from these types of people. As I do some reminiscing I could list many more. One I have written about is Bill Shibilo, a dedicated man in our church in New England who departed for heaven shortly before we left that area. See here.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"Find Us Faithful" (Video) Steve Green

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

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Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

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495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

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Daily Encouragement (06/23/09) "Follow After"

2009-06-23T12:54:00.000-04:00

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Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Flower arrangement on the Ocean City, NJ boardwalk.

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"Follow After"

"But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness" (1 Timothy 6:11).

Brooksyne and I are visiting along the New Jersey shore while Ester is attending a camp this week. Last evening we enjoyed a wonderful dinner in the home of our former New England district superintendent and his wife, Ed and Gladys Berkey, who make their summer home in Ocean City, NJ. Pastor Berkey led the district the first several years where I pastored in Massachusetts before his retirement in 1997.

They are long-time servants of the Lord who first met at a Bible camp in the 1940's and this fall they'll celebrate their 62nd wedding anniversary. They demonstrate a seasoned, mature walk with Christ, yet continue to learn and grow. Pastor Berkey showed me a chronological Bible he had just received for Father's Day and intended to begin reading. Like Paul he demonstrates a lifelong interest in growing in his knowledge of the Word. (See 2 Timothy 4:13.)

The Biblical pattern for the transmission of the faith is for one generation to faithfully pass on to the next. Moses passed to Joshua, Elijah to Elisha and of course Paul to Timothy and others. It remains the pattern through the church age. Paul elaborated on this in 2 Timothy 2:2.

The last several days we have been looking at three commissions given to Timothy by Paul. It is our contention that these commissions are for all who earnestly want to serve Christ. Friday's message was on Fighting the good fight of faith. Yesterday we examined Fleeing from the tempter. Today we want to consider Following after that which honors God.

Paul commands the man of God to follow after these six virtues: righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness. Certainly there many other virtues mentioned in Scripture for the follower of Christ including the nine fruit of the spirit listed in Galatians 5:22,23.

Being a model Christian would be so easy if we simply said a prayer and told God that we want the virtues to be demonstrated in our lives that are mentioned in today's text. But that's not how it usually works out in the lives of believers. In addition to prayer we develop these virtues through everyday experiences, the trials of life, even the human weaknesses that prevail in settings where we least want to display them.

Let me illustrate with the last virtue mentioned; that of meekness, which was evidenced in evangelist D.L. Moody's life in a setting in Northfield, MA where young men were being trained for ministry in the late 1800's.

It was a summer conference and each day the young men gathered under a tent to hear speakers challenge them to live holy lives and witness to others of their faith. A time of sharing would then follow where the men were given opportunity to speak out.

During one such session a young man started to speak out as he had on other occasions. Mr. Moody prevented it from happening as he said in front of all who were gathered, "Brother, you have spoken thirteen times in three days here, and perhaps shut out twelve other good men from speaking."

It was true. The young man had been presuming and overbearing. Perhaps a reproof in private would have been a more appropriate handling of the situation, but the story goes on in the way Moody responded to the Spirit of God who was dealing with his heart:

"'Friends, I answered my dear young friend over there very foolishly as I began this meeting. I ask God to forgive me, and I ask the forgiveness of my brother.' And straightway he walked over to him and took him by the hand. That meeting needed no after-meeting. It was dramatically and spiritually made perfect. The man of iron will proved that he had mastered the hardest words of all earth's languages, 'I am sorry.'"

A friend who attended the service wrote, "The evangelist had dropped a little from his standard of loving courtesy to his guests. He could have ignored this; the tide of his eloquence was full. Yet the most eloquent was to come. In my heart has ever since been written a memory which brings moisture into my eyes yet, and ranks itself unquestionably as the greatest thing I ever saw Moody do." *

It isn't always the perfection of these virtues flowing from our lives that speaks to others. At times it is our imperfection made right by the Spirit of God that speaks in a greater measure to others than if we were by nature "Super Christians." Let us be sensitive to the Spirit so that the nature of Jesus may be made manifest in what we say, what we do, and who we are.

Today we encourage you to consider these six virtues; "righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness" in the immediate context as well as other virtues listed in Scripture. Invite God to perfect that which is imperfect in our lives so that He is glorified as we daily live for Him.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, we don't pray for a life of ease since we know that virtues listed in Scripture are often refined in our lives through the challenges, the overcomings, the mistakes and the hours we spend in prayer seeking You above all else. May the nature of Christ be much more visible than our human nature so that we are truly a reflection of Your image that is stamped deep in our hearts. We desire to "follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness" so that we are truly fruitful in our pursuit of holiness. Amen.

* Our illustration was taken from "The Life of D.L. Moody" written by William R. Moody in 1900.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"My Jesus I Love Thee" (Video)

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

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Daily Encouragement (06/22/09) "A Time To Flee"

2009-06-22T07:17:00.001-04:00

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Monday, June 22, 2009

Open Bible
Photo by Doris High

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"A Time to Flee"

"But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house" (Genesis 39:12). "From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful, and David sent someone to find out about her" (2 Samuel 11:2,3). "Flee from sexual immorality" (1 Corinthians 6:18). "Keep yourself pure" (1 Timothy 5:22). "But thou, O man of God, flee these things" (1 Timothy 6:11).

Yesterday I issued a challenge to the men in our church to rise up as men of God with the solemn charge Paul gave to Timothy expressed in the final daily Scripture portion, "But thou, O man of God, flee these things." My main points were Flee, Follow and Fight. Often we hear the expression, "They fled the scene of the accident" and we immediately think that those who ran are trying to hide something or escape responsibility. But today I want to examine the positive aspect of the command to flee.

Our neighbors have a yellow parking lot type stripe at the end of their driveway about 20 feet from the road. They made the visible boundary for their 6 year old daughter to indicate how near the road she's allowed to go. From her youthful mind this stripe may seem restrictive but from her parents' perspective it's a safety measure. They aren't standing there hour after hour telling her to "Stop!", but the presence of the line, and what it stands for, is doing it for them.

God doesn't appear in person to restrain us in our hour of temptation, but when His commands are imbedded in our hearts they become a part of our conscience that says, "Stop! Don't listen to the evil one. He intends to do you harm; God wants to preserve your life."

When it comes to boundary lines established by God there is a proper time to flee. Today let's look at this matter particularly in regard to sexual temptation.

Due to our God-ordained hormonal constitution people in every generation have dealt with sexual temptation. One of the greatest examples of victory over sexual temptation is seen in the actions of Joseph. The Bible tells his story in Genesis 39 and today's first text records the essence of this victory. He was being seduced by Potiphar's wife and yet Joseph responded, "How then could I do this great evil and sin against God?" (v. 9).* Rather than yield to temptation "he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house."

Those who love God must hate sin. Matthew Henry describes Joseph's victory over temptation in this way: "He would not stay to parley with the temptation, but fled from it, as escaping for his life. If we mean not to do iniquity, let us flee as a bird from its captor, and as a deer from the hunter."

The Bible also forthrightly records failure and David's story is likely the most familiar. Today's second text records the essence of what led to his moral failure: "From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful, and David sent someone to find out about her." David didn't want to flee the temptation; instead he wanted familiariity with his temptress. Like Joseph, he should have fled. (Perhaps a dip in a cool fountain would have lessened his lust and taking a sominex might have solved his insomnia!)

But today we face a situation far more intense and distinct from those in previous generations. There is an acceptable flood of material condoning and even glamorizing immorality. In many cases it's even taught in public schools and through government agencies. Interestingly there is a parallel sense of condemnation by popular culture toward those who still maintain a Biblical outlook on morality who are seen as old-fashioned, narrow-minded and intolerant.

There are those reading our message today who have engaged in sexual immorality in the past but have repented and found the purifying scrub brush of the Holy Spirit brings renewal, cleansing and an invitation to start over according to God's design.

Some of you are presently fighting a battle. You know in your heart this message is for you. The apostle Paul wrote, "Flee from sexual immorality." Today we need to practice, maintain, and proclaim the Biblical teachings. Those who do so will be increasingly reviled.

Preachers who stay true to the Bible and faithfully proclaim the Word are branded old-fashioned and homophobic, if they merely repeat what the Bible says in regard to its unambiguous, forthright condemnation of homosexuality and hold to the Scriptural teachings concerning sexual morals.

Our word of encouragement today is to stay faithful to God's teachings. Honor the boundary lines that He has given to us through His commands. When the tempter comes don't entertain him. He'll leave when you recite the Scriptures and seek God's counsel. When you do so, victory is sure to be yours!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, it is Your desire that we stay faithful to Your teachings. Scripture gives many examples of those who knew to do right, but instead yielded to temptation. The consequences of their wrong actions inflicted a great deal of loss, life-long regret and emotional pain. Help us to avoid the traps Satan has set for the believers by not only reading the Word, but applying its truth to our lives, and standing firm when the temptation to do wrong is ever before us.

* It's interesting that Joseph had this conviction regarding sin even though at this point the Ten Commandments had not yet been given.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

I have a framed copy of an old hymn titled "More Men Like Daniel" that hangs on the wall beside my desk as I work. It's not well known and in fact I have rarely seen it in a hymnal. I have never sung it but sure appreciate the thoughtful words. It has long been out of copyright so I can share it here. We need more men like Daniel! I began my message on Father's Day by sharing the words of this hymn:

We need more men like Daniel to stand for God and right;
Men clean and strong, who hate the wrong,
And for the truth will fight.
When those controlled by evil their base designs pursue,
We need more men like Daniel who never prove untrue.

We need more men like Daniel their virtue here to show;
Men bold, sincere, who know no fear when called to face the foe.
Though dangers dark may threaten, they crave not ease or rest.
We need more men like Daniel who boldly stand the test.

We need more men like Daniel whose faith defied the king;
Who knelt and prayed when plans were laid
His shameful death to bring.
But God sent down His angel His all to guard and shield;
We need more men like Daniel whose hearts will never yield.

"More Men Like Daniel" Neal McAulay/Charles Gabriel © 1922 Homer Rodeheaver

"Purify My heart" Video Brian Doerkson

"Restore My Soul" Audio

"Give Us Clean Hands" Video Chris Tomlin

Pure Life Ministries Changing lives by leading men into purity.

The written tribute: A great way to bless your father.

Ester's favorite Father's Day gift to me was a singing Billy Bass she purchased at a Thrift store! Maybe it was yours at one time, but we're now enjoying the songs, "Don't Worry, Be Happy" and "Take Me to the River."

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

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Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
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"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
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Daily Encouragement (06/19/09) "Man Of God"

2009-06-19T10:59:00.000-04:00

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Friday, June 19, 2009

We have an abundance of beautiful perennial flowers all around our house and they are sure thriving with the abundant rain we've had!
(This is Malva from the Hollyhocks family)

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"Man Of God"

"But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith" (1 Timothy 6:11,12).

As I prepare for Father's Day I consider my dad who went to be with the Lord eleven years ago. As time goes by I continue to reflect on his example in living life and specific teaching moments borne out of actual experiences. He was a quiet man and his teaching was rarely verbal.

A lasting memory of this teaching method took place when I was in first grade. Up to that point in my life I had both sets of grandparents and I didn't know anyone who had died and had never even thought about death. We lived near an Air Force base and one December day a C-130 cargo plane crashed in a field several miles west of our home in Belton Missouri killing all seven men aboard. When my dad came home from work we drove out to the crash scene and he explained death to me, solemnly pointing out that these men had families who would not see them on Christmas. My dad had trained as a pilot during World War 2 so perhaps this scene also gave him some pause for consideration.

I hope many of you are able to consider similar teaching memories from your dad. What a vital role they have in our lives.

I am preparing to issue a Biblical challenge to men this Sunday on Father's Day to rise up as men of God. My main text is the solemn charge to Timothy expressed in the daily Scripture portion. My main points are Flee, Follow and Fight, but today I just want to consider the final point.

I have never enjoyed fighting. I recall a period in Junior High School when a class bully had the word out that he wanted to fight me. I was a skinny kid who could run a lot better than I could fight! I had no idea why he wanted to fight me but that was sure a hard several months. Thankfully, we never had the fight he threatened months earlier. To this day I would much rather avoid conflict than face it.

But there is an ongoing conflict in the spiritual realm that is unavoidable. We who have decided to flee evil and follow Christ are engaged in this conflict by virtue of the fallen condition of mankind. Supposed neutrality in this conflict is actually surrender and an alliance with the forces of evil. Paul wrote, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12).

Paul calls this "the good fight." This specific phrase is only used in the letters to Timothy. It is good in the sense that God desires his people not to surrender but to take an unyielding stand. The good fight is the ancient conflict that began with the fall of Satan that resulted in his expulsion from the heavenly realms. It was seen soon after Creation in the Garden and all through the Bible and human history.

As the great old hymn declares, "For still our ancient foe, doth seek to work us woe, his craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal."

Today we pray for all those fighting the good fight, seeking to contend earnestly for the faith once for all delivered to the saints and standing up for God's truth and righteousness. We are convinced the battle will get increasingly fiercer. Let us all remain faithful to our call and, men, let us be spiritual leaders in our household! Declare with us "As for me and my house we will serve the Lord!"

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, we pray for our fathers, grandfathers, husbands and sons that they will pursue godliness above any earthly pursuit. We pray that they will resist the temptation to fall into the devil's trap where foolishness and harmful desires will plunge them to ruin resulting in disappointment, loss and heartache. Help them to flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Help them to lead their families in the good fight of faith as they take hold of eternal life. Make them strong in their faith so that they throw away anything that hinders their spiritual walk. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"The Family Prayer Song" Video "As for me and my house we will serve the Lord"

"One Thing Have I Desired" Video

"To Be pleasing You" Video

The written tribute: A great way to bless your father.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

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Daily Encouragement (06/18/09) "Our Hope In Christ"

2009-06-18T10:06:00.000-04:00

Daily Encouragement Net Trouble reading this message? Read online or see archives

A daily, Bible-based perspective of hope, encouragement and exhortation.

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Thursday, June 18, 2009

A leaning silo in rural Virginia.
I wonder if it's still standing?

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"Our Hope In Christ"

"The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe" (Proverbs 18:10). "If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men" (1 Corinthians 15:19).

Andraé Crouch, a very popular Christian musician throughout the 70's and beyond, wrote a song that comes to mind this morning as I reflect upon our daily text. The words of one stanza are as follows:

"But if heaven never was promised to me.
Neither God's promise to live eternally,
It's been worth just having the Lord in my life;
Living in a world of darkness,
He came along and brought me the light."

Now I like that song and located it today as I prepared the message. I know what Andraé Crouch is trying to convey regarding the joys and blessings of the Christian walk in contrast to the dark void of living without Him. Crouch's thoughts expressed in this song are a sentiment that many believers would agree with.

When we were spinning out of control and had no real purpose for living, receiving Christ and His abundant plan for our lives turned our desperate situation into hopeful expectation. We are among "those who walked in darkness [who] have seen a great light!"

Having said all that, any allusion to heaven or eternity not being a part of God's future plan for the believer is contrary to Paul's statement in the daily text. The apostle Paul wrote, "If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men" (1 Corinthians 15:19). In the greater context of 1 Corinthians 15 Paul is giving his great defense of the resurrection of Christ.

"We are to be pitied" because, apart from the resurrection, the very foundation of our faith would be fatally flawed. The literal physical resurrection of Jesus Christ is the very foundation of our faith. Our hope of salvation hinges on Christ's resurrection. Our power to overcome sin is also based on His resurrection. In the very next verse Paul emphatically proclaims, "But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead" (1 Corinthians 15:20).

Otherwise His death was to no avail, since he would be numbered among all others before Him who died and was buried. The End! Those who have endured persecution and suffering for Christ would have done so for nothing. Those martyred for their faith would have died an early death in vain, instead of receiving "a crown that fadeth not away."

Christ truly makes a wonderful difference in earth's journey. Indeed, if this life is all there is to experience, His fulfillment and the order He brings is wonderful. However it's not only for this life that we have hope in Christ! We all face death and loss, but what an astounding difference for those whose hope is solidly anchored in Christ. We do not grieve as those who have no hope because our hope is not diminished at death. Instead the Spirit of God ushers us beyond the lifeless grave to heaven where our blessed hope is realized as we see our Savior face to face. (see 1 Thessalonians 4:13).

Life is fragile and unpredictable. Now is the day of salvation. Place your hope in Christ, in this life and the life yet to come.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, we thank You for Jesus and His obedience in dying for our sins that we might be forgiven and experience eternal life. We're so glad that You did not abandon Him to the grave, but instead You raised Him up on the third day so that we might have eternal salvation. We place our hope in You for all that concerns us in this life. We also look beyond the grave knowing that our greatest hope awaits us there. Keep us faithful in life's journey so that our hope on this side will be fully realized on the other side. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"If Heaven Never Was Promised To Me" Video Andraé Crouch

"My Hope Is In The Lord" Video

"The Solid Rock" Video "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" A beautiful acapella arrangement.

The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus
By Gary R. Habermas & Michael R. Licona / Kregel Publications
The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus, along with an interactive CD, will prepare you to make a compelling argument for the historicity of Christ's resurrection, even to those who do not accept the Bible as divinely inspired. The authors first develop principles by which a historical event can be accepted as true, then apply them to belief in Christ's rising from the dead, and finally offer sample scenarios illustrating the use of these principles.

Hope
By Jeremiah Burroughs / Reformation Heritage Books
The world today is lost in sin and full of despair. Yet there is hope for the world---hope found in Christ and His Gospel. In this never-before-reprinted book, Puritan preacher Jeremiah Burroughs examines the nature of hope, the object of hope, and the reasons why Christians should have hope in this world. One contemporary of Burroughs said that this work was especially helpful for putting to death the fears and doubts that assail us so that we might look forward to the future with confidence.

Regardless of what country you may live in we sure need a revival! On Sunday morning July 5 our church will join many others in participating in "Call2Fall", a nationwide prayer meeting. We encourage others to look into this, especially pastors here in America. Essentially this is a definite time during worship on Sunday, July 5^th when we get on our knees before the Lord in repentant prayer, pleading with God to reshape our lives, renew our land, and send times of refreshing (See 2 Chronicles 7:14; Acts 3:19).

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

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Daily Encouragement (06/17/09) "Worthless Idols"

2009-06-17T12:43:00.000-04:00

Daily Encouragement Net Trouble reading this message? Read online or see archives

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Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Sunset from our front yard brilliantly shining through my favorite distant tree, a huge black walnut.

Listen to us share this message on your audio player.

"Worthless Idols"

"Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs" (Jonah 2:8).

I recently spoke to a friend who shared his testimony with me. He was raised in a very strict religious system characterized by lots of man-made rules. He was led to believe that it was in keeping these rules that he was pleasing God. As he approached adulthood his dad actually discouraged him from continuing in the church telling him, "It's just too hard, you'll just go to hell anyway."

For many years he lived in the ways of the world. He was living with a woman when a pastor befriended them. They began attending his church and had a personal conference with the pastor where he shared the gospel with them. As they walked out of his office in silence my friend tells me that at the very same time he and his girlfriend looked at each other and said, "Wow, we are sure sinners." It was as though for the first time they actually stopped and, through the help of a dedicated believer, thoroughly evaluated the condition of their hearts.

The pastor properly identified their problem as sin and provided the solution of God's grace. They went on to accept this solution (God's salvation), chose to get married and since that time have been living for the Lord.

The Bill Gaither Vocal Band has a great song titled "Child, You're Forgiven" that has a powerful expression in it. "I've traded performance for amazing grace. What a relief, I can't earn my way."

Today we consider those who grew up in church and in religious homes and yet have an inferior understanding of grace. They may be extra hard on themselves and judgmental toward others. They may have difficulty accepting God's forgiveness and assurance of their personal salvation that leads to peace and the abundant life.

I'm not sure what kind of "worthless idols" Jonah was referring to in the daily text. Likely he meant the physical objects of worship that we normally associate with idolatry in the Bible. Incidentally, isn't this a remarkable verse that you wouldn't normally expect to find in Jonah!

However I believe religious performance is like a "worthless idol" that many cling to and thus "forfeit the grace that could be theirs." Do you identify with the expression in the song "what a relief, I can't earn my way?" This leads to the relief of truly resting in the all sufficient grace of Jesus! "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8,9).

Jerry Bridges notes, "God's grace does not supplement our good works. Instead His grace overcomes our bad works, which are our sins." Writer Erwin Lutzer observes, "when the mask of self-righteousness has been torn from us and we stand stripped of all our accustomed defenses, we are candidates for God's generous grace."

Good works are an outflow of God's amazing grace, not a replacement! Accept God's generous grace today and proclaim with the Palmist, "But with You there is forgiveness" (Psalm 130:4).

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, as we experience Your amazing grace through Your forgiveness of our sins it compels us to also show compassion to others who have not yet applied Your grace to their lives. As Jude writes, we are to "Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh." In reaching out to others who are still living in sin we must not lower our standards, nor do we want to appear more righteous then them. So give us the words along with a compassionate heart to reach the lost without losing our soul or lowering our standards, as we choose to love the sinner and hate the sin. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's story is altogether true and I have my friend's permission to share it. I see him regularly in the course of my chaplain visits to a local company. I clarified the astounding details with him; his dad's discouraging him from staying in the church since it was so hard with legalistic works righteousness always being the overriding theme of all he did and didn't do. I have invited him to our church to share his testimony and also sing some songs since he is a musician. Perhaps I will eventually be able to share it as an audio message!

We have a walkway with dry-laid brick. We have to regularly pull weeds out of the cracks all through the summer but will let this persistent pansy stay!

The most helpful book I have ever read on today's topic is "Transforming Grace" by Jerry Bridges. While properly emphasizing God's grace Bridges' also expresses the need to live holy and obedient lives. "Our love for God, expressed through obedience to Him, is to be a response to His love, not a means of trying to earn it."

Transforming Grace By Jerry Bridges / NAV Press
Funny how the riches of God's grace seem to run out the moment we're saved! From then on, we tend to base our relationship with him on our accomplishments rather than on his unconditional acceptance. In "Transforming Grace" Bridges addresses the "performance treadmill" and what can happen when we forget how generous God's grace is. Come back to the love that's waiting for you, and learn to trust His grace every day. Ordering information

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

"Child, You're Forgiven" Video Gaither Vocal Band This is the song referred to in today's message. This song really has some thoughtful words that are the experience of many.

"Amazing Love" Video Chris Tomlin

I'm forgiven, because You were forsaken.
I'm accepted, You were condemned.
I'm alive and well. Your Spirit is within me
Because You died and rose again.

"Grace Greater Than All Our Sin" Video This is one of our favorite hymns from our Bible College chapel days. In fact I still recall the hymn number (200) even though we haven't used that hymnal regularly in over twenty years!

Regardless of what country you may live in we sure need a revival! On Sunday morning July 5 our church will participate in "Call2Fall", a nationwide prayer meeting. We encourage others to look into this, especially pastors here in America. Essentially this is a definite time during worship on Sunday, July 5^th when we get on our knees and faces before the Lord in repentant prayer, pleading with God to reshape our lives, renew our land, and send times of refreshing (See 2 Chronicles 7:14; Acts 3:19).

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update
Revised 05/08/09

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

You are currently subscribed to dailyencouragement as: stephencweber.dailyencouragement@blogger.com
To unsubscribe click here
or send a blank email to leave-1530008-29778931.3ca482100b92072753461f79e13fb4f8@pr4.netatlantic.com