Greeting in the name of Jesus,
It is hard to believe that we are finishing up our 23rd month in the Caribbean. It just seems like yesterday we
stepped out onto the tarmack at the V.C. Bird Airport in St Johns, Antigua, and began the journey that God had ordained
for us. Time flies when you are having fun. And that really sums up our ministry here. It has been fun because
we have seen God do so many things in our lives, the lives of the team members who came for ministry, and
the lives of the people themselves here in Antigua, Montserrat and Dominica. We are excited about what the future
holds for our ministry here in the years to come. Please pray for us as we return home on August 1 and begin raising
our support to return in June 2010. We have many slots open to speak in churches that have not been filled, so
we encourage pastors to email us and get us slated in your churches. Laypersons, your pastor may be really busy
and has not had the time to schedule us, so encourage him to contact us.
This past month we have been busy with special services in some of the churches. I have been preaching quite
regularly, and Janice was busy organizing a “Mother’s Day” service at the Grays Farm Church. We have pictures
below of that service. Janice met with the children for about 3 weeks twice a week learning songs and memorizing
recitations. We had 17 children in all, and they were pretty excited about the program. The children also did a
craft which was making a picture frame for their picture we took of them, and they were able to present that to
their mom’s in the service along with a long stem red rose. We sent out personal invitations to each mother and we
had a good response. In a congregation of about 20 every Sunday, the Grays Farm church had over 50 in attendance
on that Sunday. It was a real blessing! I was asked to preach that Sunday by Pastor Michael and brought a
message entitled: “Hannah: The Model Mother”. Our hearts were really stirred when we saw the hurt in some of
the children’s faces whose mother’s did not attend. Two little sisters who practiced a special song to sing for their
mom, were heart broken telling us their mom wasn’t coming, but they did a great job singing “Moms Are Special
People”. We were excited that we were able to purchase the song online and download it to our iPod for them to
perform. We wish you could have heard their angelic voices. Their names are Nadine and Jessica. The church was
thrilled with the performances of the children. The grand finale’ of the day was a short tribute to moms created
by Janice. She came up with the idea of each child wearing a different hat that portrays what moms do. For example:
Nurse’s hat, chef ’s hat, chauffeur’s hat, policemen’s hat, ball cap, garbage man’s hat, cleaning lady hat, business
man hat, fashion hat. Each child had a short recitation about what the hat meant which related to what their
mom’s do for them. And at the end each child said, “We love you mom and our hats are off to you”. At that time
each took their hat off in honor of their mom. The church exploded with applause and we saw many mom’s shed
tears of appreciation. Janice is a genius at pulling these kinds of programs off and she has definitely been in her
element with children’s ministry while here in the caribbean. Oh, by the way, the church has asked her to do “Father;
s Day”!
Pray for us as we host 4 teams before we leave May 31-June6 Brandon & Lynn Baker; June 19-27 Shady Grove
Colfax Youth, July 4-11 High Pine Wesleyan and July 18-25 Gibsonville Brown Youth. To God be the glory!
In Christ-Ron & Janice Jones
May 2009
P . O . B o x 2 2 3 4 S t J o h n s A n t i g u a W e s t I n d i e s E m a i l : r o n n i e j o n e s 1 @ m a c . c o m
THE
ANTIGUAN WAVE
N e w s l e t t e r
“I can do all things through
Christ who gives me the
strength”. Philippians 4:13
http://web.mac.com/ronniejones1/Site/Home_Page.html
May 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
by Roger Campbell
LESSONS LEARNED FROM A GENTLE MAN
I met Orlen while in my twenties and serving my first church. He was the pastor of a thriving congregation. Like Paul, Orlen had poor eyesight, but his spiritual insight more than compensated for his limited vision. Impressed by his accomplishments and the relationship he enjoyed with his church, I once questioned him about how to have an effective ministry. “The Bible says the meek shall inherit the earth,” Orlen replied. “What do you mean?” I asked, a bit bewildered by his answer. “The pastor who is meek will inherit his church,” he explained. Orlen’s view was new to me, but, to my surprise, I found it to be true for leaders through the centuries. Moses, chosen to lead his people out of slavery, was known as the meekest man on earth (Numbers 12:3). Earlier, while in a position of power and influence, he had failed as a leader. Finally, after losing his high place in government and leading sheep for forty years, he was meek enough to lead people. It’s important to know, however, that meekness doesn’t mean weakness. Biblically speaking, meekness means gentleness or humility. Orlen was a gentle, humble man, like his Lord. No wonder he inherited his church, along with their love and devotion. My second lesson learned from Orlen came when our church joined his in aiding a needy family. The husband and father had recently been released from jail where men from our two churches carried on a weekly outreach to prisoners. Together our churches supplied food, clothing and lodging for this homeless family and made numerous attempts to help them find work so they could have a new start. As time passed with little progress being made in moving them to self-sufficiency, I began to be discouraged, doubting that this former prisoner was putting forth much effort to provide for his family. I saw our earnest efforts failing and the whole project as a poor investment, so voiced my concerns to Orlen. His response to my negative attitude has been unforgettable. “It is better that they fail us than that we fail them,” he said. An anonymous writer in a brief but powerful piece, titled “My Eternal Preference” summed up Orlen’s attitude about people and their problems: “When we are given our rewards, I would prefer to be found to have erred on the side of grace rather than judgment: to have loved too much rather than too little; to have forgiven an undeserving rather than to have refused forgiveness to one who deserved it; to have fed a parasite rather than to have neglected one who was truly hungry; to have been taken advantage of rather than to have taken undue advantage; to have believed too much in my brothers rather than too little; having been wrong on the side of too much trust than too much cynicism; to have believed the best and been wrong, than to have believed the worst and been right.” My third lesson from Orlen grew out of his view that newspapers are the most overlooked means of telling people of God’s love. I took his words to heart and started writing a column. You’re reading it. And that’s the rest of the story. Recently, I tried to call Orlen to thank him for his influence in my life, but found I had called too late. We ought to thank people while we can. This may be the greatest lesson of all.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
I met Orlen while in my twenties and serving my first church. He was the pastor of a thriving congregation. Like Paul, Orlen had poor eyesight, but his spiritual insight more than compensated for his limited vision. Impressed by his accomplishments and the relationship he enjoyed with his church, I once questioned him about how to have an effective ministry. “The Bible says the meek shall inherit the earth,” Orlen replied. “What do you mean?” I asked, a bit bewildered by his answer. “The pastor who is meek will inherit his church,” he explained. Orlen’s view was new to me, but, to my surprise, I found it to be true for leaders through the centuries. Moses, chosen to lead his people out of slavery, was known as the meekest man on earth (Numbers 12:3). Earlier, while in a position of power and influence, he had failed as a leader. Finally, after losing his high place in government and leading sheep for forty years, he was meek enough to lead people. It’s important to know, however, that meekness doesn’t mean weakness. Biblically speaking, meekness means gentleness or humility. Orlen was a gentle, humble man, like his Lord. No wonder he inherited his church, along with their love and devotion. My second lesson learned from Orlen came when our church joined his in aiding a needy family. The husband and father had recently been released from jail where men from our two churches carried on a weekly outreach to prisoners. Together our churches supplied food, clothing and lodging for this homeless family and made numerous attempts to help them find work so they could have a new start. As time passed with little progress being made in moving them to self-sufficiency, I began to be discouraged, doubting that this former prisoner was putting forth much effort to provide for his family. I saw our earnest efforts failing and the whole project as a poor investment, so voiced my concerns to Orlen. His response to my negative attitude has been unforgettable. “It is better that they fail us than that we fail them,” he said. An anonymous writer in a brief but powerful piece, titled “My Eternal Preference” summed up Orlen’s attitude about people and their problems: “When we are given our rewards, I would prefer to be found to have erred on the side of grace rather than judgment: to have loved too much rather than too little; to have forgiven an undeserving rather than to have refused forgiveness to one who deserved it; to have fed a parasite rather than to have neglected one who was truly hungry; to have been taken advantage of rather than to have taken undue advantage; to have believed too much in my brothers rather than too little; having been wrong on the side of too much trust than too much cynicism; to have believed the best and been wrong, than to have believed the worst and been right.” My third lesson from Orlen grew out of his view that newspapers are the most overlooked means of telling people of God’s love. I took his words to heart and started writing a column. You’re reading it. And that’s the rest of the story. Recently, I tried to call Orlen to thank him for his influence in my life, but found I had called too late. We ought to thank people while we can. This may be the greatest lesson of all.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Lonliness
CBN TEACHING SHEETS
Overcoming Loneliness
By CBN.com
CBN.com – I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever (John 14:16)
"Loneliness was the first thing that God's eye named not good." - John Milton
It was the sixth day. God Almighty had just finished creating all the living creatures that move along the ground. As He had at each stage of creation, God paused and evaluated His work. "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:25). Only one more task remained.
"And the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being" (Genesis 2:7).
Here was God's only creation that would not live its life in total ignorance of its Creator. Rather, made in God's image, Adam would fulfill a role no other creature could -- he would have fellowship with God and be the object of His love. But after placing Adam in the Garden, God observed that there was still something missing.
"The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him'" (Genesis 2:18).
God recognized Adam's need for contact with another human being -- a need God had built into him. More than just a fellow inhabitant of Eden, Eve would be the object of Adam's love and would love him in return. She would share the wonders of creation and the responsibilities of stewardship. With the creation of Eve, Adam's intimate relationship with God was complemented by communion and companionship with someone like himself.
By God's design we have an innate need to be loved and belong. As children we learn to give and receive affection and are taught the skills that will help us find acceptance in society. Through our relationships with family, friends, co-workers and others, we form our sense of individuality and find our place in the mosaic of life. It's when that need for affection and fellowship goes unfulfilled, that we become restless, unhappy...lonely.
If you are struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Everyone experiences seasons of isolation for one reason or another. Usually we overcome loneliness by meeting new friends, entering new social circles, or taking some other action that reengages us with people.
However, a variety of personal factors and other circumstances can sometimes short-circuit our ability to connect with others. Perhaps you have become insecure about meeting new people after the death of a loved one. Maybe some social setbacks have led you to think that no one would be interested in your company. Relocating to a new area may have left you yearning for old friendships and unable to start new ones. There are many ways that long-term loneliness can take over our lives.
Causes of Loneliness
Loneliness doesn't develop overnight. It can be the result of a lifetime of influences that shape our personality. Or it can evolve after a major transition or trauma. Often we are unaware of the subtle forces that can slowly lead us into self-imposed isolation.
Some people tend to be loners because of circumstances in their childhood development. For example, growing up with an unaffectionate or overly critical parent may make one shy away from intimacy with others. Some people simply never learn to communicate well or get along with their peers. Others have overly aggressive or demanding personalities that make people withdraw out of intimidation. Conversely, people with low self-esteem often withdraw from social situations they believe will lead to rejection. Loneliness can become a lifestyle for the person who struggles with poorly developed interpersonal skills.
There are also many social factors that contribute to loneliness. We live in an age in which modern technology has made it easier to do things without other people and without leaving our homes. Television is the chief culprit that robs us of time with relatives and neighbors. For some, especially the elderly, the increased likelihood of becoming the victim of a crime keeps them from venturing out of their homes. Also, because our society is more mobile than in the past, families may relocate several times for career advancement or other reasons, which tends to discourage the development of deep friendships.
Loneliness can result from "situational factors," circumstances in life that increase the possibility of isolation. People who are unmarried, divorced or widowed are more likely to encounter loneliness simply because they are more likely to be alone. However, loneliness can also occur when a marriage relationship doesn't produce the closeness we expect. The student separated from home, the leader who must remain aloof from his subordinates, the individual with a disability or disease -- all face a greater chance of loneliness due to a situation in their lives.
Often loneliness brought on by developmental, social or situational factors leads to problems that only worsen loneliness. Alcoholism, drug abuse, family breakdown and other social ills are frequently rooted in loneliness and usually lead to greater alienation from meaningful human contact. The proliferation of gangs, religious cults and other deviant social groups can be attributed largely to people's need to belong somewhere and their failure to find acceptance in a traditional setting.
Whatever may be contributing to your loneliness, there is a way out. It begins with confronting a cause of loneliness that every human being must come to terms with -- the spiritual loneliness of being separated from God. Each of us has a need to connect with something larger than ourselves in order to fill the spiritual vacuum that exists within us all. The Bible is God's plan for developing the most important relationship in our lives.
Loneliness and The Bible
As the story of Adam and Eve illustrates, God intends for us to share our lives with other people. The importance of personal relationships in God's eyes is evident in the amount of space devoted to them in the Bible. Both the Old and New Testaments have a lot to say about marriage, parenthood, friendship and church fellowship. But it is also clear from God's Word that there is one relationship that is preeminent from God's point of view. That is the fellowship He wants to have with us, which forms the foundation of all other relationships.
When we accept God's gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, we enter into communion with the Creator of the universe. God Almighty becomes our Heavenly Father and He places His Holy Spirit within us. Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the "Counselor" (John 14:16), whose presence would guide us into all truth (John 16:13). The Apostles Paul and John said God's Spirit would fill believers with assurance of our membership in God's family (Romans 8:16; I John 14:13). Day by day, through prayer and Bible reading, we can experience the wonderful fellowship that God wants to have with each of His children. He is never too busy to listen.
A dynamic walk with God is a solid foundation for building relationships with others. As God's children, we are members of an incredibly large extended family that encompasses the world. Our brothers and sisters inhabit every nation on the globe. Spiritually speaking, our "immediate family" is the group of believers with whom we attend church. They form an important support group that functions much like our natural family does. Christians who don't go to church or don't get involved in church activities cut themselves off from a rich source of companionship.
If you are a Christian who is suffering from loneliness, ask yourself if you have taken full possession of the abundant life God wants you to have. Are you spending regular quality time with your Heavenly Father? Are you active in a local church? Ask God to lead you into a deeper relationship with Him and greater involvement with fellow believers.
If you have never invited Jesus Christ to be your Savior, now is a good time to do so. Making Jesus the Lord of your life will put you on a path that leads to intimacy with God, new friendships with fellow Christians in this life and an eternal place in God's presence in the life hereafter.
Steps for Overcoming Loneliness
Perhaps you've heard these suggestions from well-meaning friends: "Why not join a club?" or "You should do some traveling." They aren't bad ideas but they aren't solutions to the problem of loneliness either. The following steps will help you break free from thinking, emotions and behaviors that may be at the root of your loneliness. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify actions you can take to overcome loneliness.
Admit the Problem - Only after you acknowledge that you are lonely can you take the steps necessary to escape from your isolation.
Consider the causes - Evaluate your life honestly in light of the factors mentioned above. Do any of them apply to you?
Accept What Cannot Be Changed - The death of a spouse, a relocation away from old friends, and other unalterable circumstances must be faced squarely. God can use transitions in our lives to open doors to new experiences, but we must be willing to let go of the past and move on.
Alter What Can Be Changed - Many of the causes of loneliness discussed above can be overcome. Do you fear rejection because you feel inadequate? Do you stay in your home watching television when you could be at a social function? Has your best friend just moved away? Regardless of the reason for your loneliness, you owe it to yourself to take measures that will meet the problem head-on.
§ Work on developing self-esteem by stopping destructive self-talk, such as telling yourself that you are unlikable. There are many good books on the subjects or rational thinking and misbelief therapy that can help you.
§ Practice looking at yourself from God's perspective. Study the Scriptures and meditate on verses that depict God's view of His children.
§ Make it a point to get out of the house at least once a week. Attend church activities; participate in community functions; take a class, etc...
§ Get involved in a cause. There are many groups looking for faithful volunteers who want to make a difference. Of course, working for a ministry or charity is also a great way to meet people.
Develop New Habits That Build Up Your Inner Self - As you become a stronger, more self-assured person, you'll find it easier to make new friends and encounter new situations. Try some of these strategies for self-improvement:
§ Meditate on God's Word for relaxation and to ease the effects of stress on your life.
§ Establish a schedule for a day, weekend or a week. Loneliness often seems more intense when we have nothing to do. Organize your time and be sure to include some outside activities.
§ Start exercising regularly. Take walks around your neighborhood, a local park or a shopping mall. You'll feel better physically and emotionally.
Make the most out of your time alone. Aloneness (as opposed to loneliness) can be a very positive experience. Aloneness, or solitude, gives us a chance to reflect on our lives, to meditate on God's will for us and to find healing for the wounds inflicted by the world. Many experts feel that we spend too little time alone and that we would all be better off by planning regular times of solitude in our lives.
Make an Effort to Make New Friends - Often all that is required to escape loneliness is the determination to seek out a new friend. Overcoming shyness and the fear of rejection are usually the biggest obstacles to initiating a friendship. Keep the following in mind as you try to establish new relationships:
§ Look for someone with whom you share a common interest.
§ Take the initiative and give the person a call. Chances are that person may be looking for a friend as well.
§ Build a friendship slowly. Don't overwhelm a new acquaintance with your problems and opinions. With time the openness to express feelings will develop. Give compliments and be thoughtful. Refrain from giving unsolicited advice. Be a good listener.
Consider Buying a Pet - Pets can be a wonderful source of companionship. Don't overlook the possibilities. Pets offer uncomplicated companionship and unquestioning affection. They can even become the catalyst for friendships with other pet owners.
Loneliness can be overcome. But it's up to you to take the steps necessary to break free from its grip. Ask your Heavenly Father for the courage to reach out to others and try new things. Trust Him to give you what He wants you to have -- an abundant life that includes intimate and faithful friends.
Overcoming Loneliness
By CBN.com
CBN.com – I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever (John 14:16)
"Loneliness was the first thing that God's eye named not good." - John Milton
It was the sixth day. God Almighty had just finished creating all the living creatures that move along the ground. As He had at each stage of creation, God paused and evaluated His work. "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:25). Only one more task remained.
"And the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being" (Genesis 2:7).
Here was God's only creation that would not live its life in total ignorance of its Creator. Rather, made in God's image, Adam would fulfill a role no other creature could -- he would have fellowship with God and be the object of His love. But after placing Adam in the Garden, God observed that there was still something missing.
"The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him'" (Genesis 2:18).
God recognized Adam's need for contact with another human being -- a need God had built into him. More than just a fellow inhabitant of Eden, Eve would be the object of Adam's love and would love him in return. She would share the wonders of creation and the responsibilities of stewardship. With the creation of Eve, Adam's intimate relationship with God was complemented by communion and companionship with someone like himself.
By God's design we have an innate need to be loved and belong. As children we learn to give and receive affection and are taught the skills that will help us find acceptance in society. Through our relationships with family, friends, co-workers and others, we form our sense of individuality and find our place in the mosaic of life. It's when that need for affection and fellowship goes unfulfilled, that we become restless, unhappy...lonely.
If you are struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Everyone experiences seasons of isolation for one reason or another. Usually we overcome loneliness by meeting new friends, entering new social circles, or taking some other action that reengages us with people.
However, a variety of personal factors and other circumstances can sometimes short-circuit our ability to connect with others. Perhaps you have become insecure about meeting new people after the death of a loved one. Maybe some social setbacks have led you to think that no one would be interested in your company. Relocating to a new area may have left you yearning for old friendships and unable to start new ones. There are many ways that long-term loneliness can take over our lives.
Causes of Loneliness
Loneliness doesn't develop overnight. It can be the result of a lifetime of influences that shape our personality. Or it can evolve after a major transition or trauma. Often we are unaware of the subtle forces that can slowly lead us into self-imposed isolation.
Some people tend to be loners because of circumstances in their childhood development. For example, growing up with an unaffectionate or overly critical parent may make one shy away from intimacy with others. Some people simply never learn to communicate well or get along with their peers. Others have overly aggressive or demanding personalities that make people withdraw out of intimidation. Conversely, people with low self-esteem often withdraw from social situations they believe will lead to rejection. Loneliness can become a lifestyle for the person who struggles with poorly developed interpersonal skills.
There are also many social factors that contribute to loneliness. We live in an age in which modern technology has made it easier to do things without other people and without leaving our homes. Television is the chief culprit that robs us of time with relatives and neighbors. For some, especially the elderly, the increased likelihood of becoming the victim of a crime keeps them from venturing out of their homes. Also, because our society is more mobile than in the past, families may relocate several times for career advancement or other reasons, which tends to discourage the development of deep friendships.
Loneliness can result from "situational factors," circumstances in life that increase the possibility of isolation. People who are unmarried, divorced or widowed are more likely to encounter loneliness simply because they are more likely to be alone. However, loneliness can also occur when a marriage relationship doesn't produce the closeness we expect. The student separated from home, the leader who must remain aloof from his subordinates, the individual with a disability or disease -- all face a greater chance of loneliness due to a situation in their lives.
Often loneliness brought on by developmental, social or situational factors leads to problems that only worsen loneliness. Alcoholism, drug abuse, family breakdown and other social ills are frequently rooted in loneliness and usually lead to greater alienation from meaningful human contact. The proliferation of gangs, religious cults and other deviant social groups can be attributed largely to people's need to belong somewhere and their failure to find acceptance in a traditional setting.
Whatever may be contributing to your loneliness, there is a way out. It begins with confronting a cause of loneliness that every human being must come to terms with -- the spiritual loneliness of being separated from God. Each of us has a need to connect with something larger than ourselves in order to fill the spiritual vacuum that exists within us all. The Bible is God's plan for developing the most important relationship in our lives.
Loneliness and The Bible
As the story of Adam and Eve illustrates, God intends for us to share our lives with other people. The importance of personal relationships in God's eyes is evident in the amount of space devoted to them in the Bible. Both the Old and New Testaments have a lot to say about marriage, parenthood, friendship and church fellowship. But it is also clear from God's Word that there is one relationship that is preeminent from God's point of view. That is the fellowship He wants to have with us, which forms the foundation of all other relationships.
When we accept God's gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, we enter into communion with the Creator of the universe. God Almighty becomes our Heavenly Father and He places His Holy Spirit within us. Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the "Counselor" (John 14:16), whose presence would guide us into all truth (John 16:13). The Apostles Paul and John said God's Spirit would fill believers with assurance of our membership in God's family (Romans 8:16; I John 14:13). Day by day, through prayer and Bible reading, we can experience the wonderful fellowship that God wants to have with each of His children. He is never too busy to listen.
A dynamic walk with God is a solid foundation for building relationships with others. As God's children, we are members of an incredibly large extended family that encompasses the world. Our brothers and sisters inhabit every nation on the globe. Spiritually speaking, our "immediate family" is the group of believers with whom we attend church. They form an important support group that functions much like our natural family does. Christians who don't go to church or don't get involved in church activities cut themselves off from a rich source of companionship.
If you are a Christian who is suffering from loneliness, ask yourself if you have taken full possession of the abundant life God wants you to have. Are you spending regular quality time with your Heavenly Father? Are you active in a local church? Ask God to lead you into a deeper relationship with Him and greater involvement with fellow believers.
If you have never invited Jesus Christ to be your Savior, now is a good time to do so. Making Jesus the Lord of your life will put you on a path that leads to intimacy with God, new friendships with fellow Christians in this life and an eternal place in God's presence in the life hereafter.
Steps for Overcoming Loneliness
Perhaps you've heard these suggestions from well-meaning friends: "Why not join a club?" or "You should do some traveling." They aren't bad ideas but they aren't solutions to the problem of loneliness either. The following steps will help you break free from thinking, emotions and behaviors that may be at the root of your loneliness. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify actions you can take to overcome loneliness.
Admit the Problem - Only after you acknowledge that you are lonely can you take the steps necessary to escape from your isolation.
Consider the causes - Evaluate your life honestly in light of the factors mentioned above. Do any of them apply to you?
Accept What Cannot Be Changed - The death of a spouse, a relocation away from old friends, and other unalterable circumstances must be faced squarely. God can use transitions in our lives to open doors to new experiences, but we must be willing to let go of the past and move on.
Alter What Can Be Changed - Many of the causes of loneliness discussed above can be overcome. Do you fear rejection because you feel inadequate? Do you stay in your home watching television when you could be at a social function? Has your best friend just moved away? Regardless of the reason for your loneliness, you owe it to yourself to take measures that will meet the problem head-on.
§ Work on developing self-esteem by stopping destructive self-talk, such as telling yourself that you are unlikable. There are many good books on the subjects or rational thinking and misbelief therapy that can help you.
§ Practice looking at yourself from God's perspective. Study the Scriptures and meditate on verses that depict God's view of His children.
§ Make it a point to get out of the house at least once a week. Attend church activities; participate in community functions; take a class, etc...
§ Get involved in a cause. There are many groups looking for faithful volunteers who want to make a difference. Of course, working for a ministry or charity is also a great way to meet people.
Develop New Habits That Build Up Your Inner Self - As you become a stronger, more self-assured person, you'll find it easier to make new friends and encounter new situations. Try some of these strategies for self-improvement:
§ Meditate on God's Word for relaxation and to ease the effects of stress on your life.
§ Establish a schedule for a day, weekend or a week. Loneliness often seems more intense when we have nothing to do. Organize your time and be sure to include some outside activities.
§ Start exercising regularly. Take walks around your neighborhood, a local park or a shopping mall. You'll feel better physically and emotionally.
Make the most out of your time alone. Aloneness (as opposed to loneliness) can be a very positive experience. Aloneness, or solitude, gives us a chance to reflect on our lives, to meditate on God's will for us and to find healing for the wounds inflicted by the world. Many experts feel that we spend too little time alone and that we would all be better off by planning regular times of solitude in our lives.
Make an Effort to Make New Friends - Often all that is required to escape loneliness is the determination to seek out a new friend. Overcoming shyness and the fear of rejection are usually the biggest obstacles to initiating a friendship. Keep the following in mind as you try to establish new relationships:
§ Look for someone with whom you share a common interest.
§ Take the initiative and give the person a call. Chances are that person may be looking for a friend as well.
§ Build a friendship slowly. Don't overwhelm a new acquaintance with your problems and opinions. With time the openness to express feelings will develop. Give compliments and be thoughtful. Refrain from giving unsolicited advice. Be a good listener.
Consider Buying a Pet - Pets can be a wonderful source of companionship. Don't overlook the possibilities. Pets offer uncomplicated companionship and unquestioning affection. They can even become the catalyst for friendships with other pet owners.
Loneliness can be overcome. But it's up to you to take the steps necessary to break free from its grip. Ask your Heavenly Father for the courage to reach out to others and try new things. Trust Him to give you what He wants you to have -- an abundant life that includes intimate and faithful friends.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Ascension Sunday
Luke 24:50-51 And He led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up His hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while He blesseed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.
Forty days after His resurrection on Easter Sunday, the Lord led His followers out of Jerusalem toward Bethany. This was the church being gathered by the Lord: disciples, tax collectors, women, and fisherman. Workers everyday folks like you and me. Behold, over this group the Lord of Easter lifts up His hands! And listen: from His resurrected mouth proceed words of blessing for this group. And "it came to pass, while He was blessing them" with His hands, then streteched out still--He rose from the earth, "was parted from them and carried up into heaven." Why, did Jesus lift His hands in blessing? The Son of God, church, had come to earth to work reconciliation between God and man. It was accomplised on the cross, Jesus gave up His life and with His last breath came the ripping of the temple veil separating the Holy of Holies to give us direct access to the throne of God.
Renew yourselves in the blessing of peace everyday. That is the message that the Lord Jesus would impress upon His church at His ascension into heaven, and that is the message that He continues to impress on His congregaion today. Lift up your hands, hearts, and voices with me today in praise to our Lord. Thank God for Him and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in your life.
Forty days after His resurrection on Easter Sunday, the Lord led His followers out of Jerusalem toward Bethany. This was the church being gathered by the Lord: disciples, tax collectors, women, and fisherman. Workers everyday folks like you and me. Behold, over this group the Lord of Easter lifts up His hands! And listen: from His resurrected mouth proceed words of blessing for this group. And "it came to pass, while He was blessing them" with His hands, then streteched out still--He rose from the earth, "was parted from them and carried up into heaven." Why, did Jesus lift His hands in blessing? The Son of God, church, had come to earth to work reconciliation between God and man. It was accomplised on the cross, Jesus gave up His life and with His last breath came the ripping of the temple veil separating the Holy of Holies to give us direct access to the throne of God.
Renew yourselves in the blessing of peace everyday. That is the message that the Lord Jesus would impress upon His church at His ascension into heaven, and that is the message that He continues to impress on His congregaion today. Lift up your hands, hearts, and voices with me today in praise to our Lord. Thank God for Him and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in your life.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
McGrady's-Missionaries to Ecuador-Update
Dear Faithful Friends of our Team, Greetings to everyone from Cuenca, Ecuador. We are so thankful to you for your support and prayers and interest in our ministry. We have updated our web site and we want you to take a look at all that God is doing through out ministry. Your faithful support has allowed us to see the following accomplished: 1. Read "Who Knew You Could Meet God on a Carport." http://straightpaths.org/news.aspx 2. Read about our Pastor Visit with Cora Gorman Missionary to Surinamehttp://straightpaths.org/pastorstomissionaries.aspx 3. Read what's going on with Jordanhttp://straightpaths.org/jordanscorner.aspx 4. Read about our plans for the summer months in the USAhttp://straightpaths.org/default.aspx Thanks again for the great blessing you are to our work and ministry. May God grant you peace to you and yours today and always. Ned, Marlene and Jordan McGradyRev. Ned R. McGradyGlobal Partners Pastor to Missionaries in EcuadorApartado 01.01.338Cuenca, Ecuador South AmericaEcuador Home Phone 593-07-408-2545
Celular: 593-08-049-8723Email ned@straightpaths.orgSkype ned.mcgradySkype Phone (727) 231-4151www.straightpaths.org
Celular: 593-08-049-8723Email ned@straightpaths.orgSkype ned.mcgradySkype Phone (727) 231-4151www.straightpaths.org
Monday, May 11, 2009
The Mother With A Singing Heart
NEWSPAPER COLUMN Roger Campbell
THE MOTHER WITH A SINGING HEART
When Susanna Annesley married young Samuel Wesley, she probably didn’t expect to give birth to nineteen children, eight of whom would die at birth. Nevertheless, as her life unfolded, making motherhood her main responsibility, Susanna learned to draw on her faith in God to gain strength to carry her through every trial and the world still benefits from her amazing example.
Eighteenth century England was a difficult setting in which to raise a family. One historian describes the conditions then as religiously stagnant and morally corrupt.
Churches were of little help to struggling families. Most sermons of that period are said to have lacked warmth and enthusiasm and were but dry, cold, colorless talks on morality. Furthermore, many ministers hobnobbed with the rich, neglecting their poorer parishioners.
Samuel and Susanna raised their children in a coarse and brutal society. Drunkenness was common, which, not surprisingly, compounded the problems of crime, poverty and domestic violence.
Susanna’s husband became the pastor of a church in rural Epworth, England, increasing her responsibilities to include serving in the church and setting a good example for the women in the congregation.
There must have been times when this mother of so many felt like throwing in the towel; like giving up in he face of her many duties. But Susanna had discovered a great stress reducer that carried her through the pressure periods: she had learned to give her daily difficulties to her Lord and expressed her secret of successful living and mothering
A SINGING HEART PAGE TWO Roger Campbell
in what has become one of her best known quotes: “Give others the sunshine. Give Jesus the rest.”
Samuel had a happy wife and his children had a happy mother.
When Susana’s eighteenth child, Charles, later wrote the well known hymn “OH FOR A THOUSAND TONGUES TO SING MY GREAT REDEEMER’S PRAISE” he was drawing on his childhood memories. He had grown up under the loving influence of a mother who was known for praising rather than pouting no matter what was going on around her
Susanna’s faith and discipline paid off. Her fifteenth and eighteenth children (John and Charles) shook their century for God and the tremors of that historic spiritual earthquake still rumble through churches around the world.”
So deep was Susanna’s devotion to her Lord that she prayed daily for her children to serve Him and her prayers were eventually answered. John and Charles finally entered into the genuine faith their mother had longed to see in them and for which she had prayed. They became the prime movers in what is now known as the Wesleyan Revival, a movement that changed their nation, impacted the world and gave birth to the Methodist Church.
Today, millions around the world worship God singing hymns composed by two men whose mother had a sunny disposition and a singing heart.
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist who was a pastor for 22 years.
He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
THE MOTHER WITH A SINGING HEART
When Susanna Annesley married young Samuel Wesley, she probably didn’t expect to give birth to nineteen children, eight of whom would die at birth. Nevertheless, as her life unfolded, making motherhood her main responsibility, Susanna learned to draw on her faith in God to gain strength to carry her through every trial and the world still benefits from her amazing example.
Eighteenth century England was a difficult setting in which to raise a family. One historian describes the conditions then as religiously stagnant and morally corrupt.
Churches were of little help to struggling families. Most sermons of that period are said to have lacked warmth and enthusiasm and were but dry, cold, colorless talks on morality. Furthermore, many ministers hobnobbed with the rich, neglecting their poorer parishioners.
Samuel and Susanna raised their children in a coarse and brutal society. Drunkenness was common, which, not surprisingly, compounded the problems of crime, poverty and domestic violence.
Susanna’s husband became the pastor of a church in rural Epworth, England, increasing her responsibilities to include serving in the church and setting a good example for the women in the congregation.
There must have been times when this mother of so many felt like throwing in the towel; like giving up in he face of her many duties. But Susanna had discovered a great stress reducer that carried her through the pressure periods: she had learned to give her daily difficulties to her Lord and expressed her secret of successful living and mothering
A SINGING HEART PAGE TWO Roger Campbell
in what has become one of her best known quotes: “Give others the sunshine. Give Jesus the rest.”
Samuel had a happy wife and his children had a happy mother.
When Susana’s eighteenth child, Charles, later wrote the well known hymn “OH FOR A THOUSAND TONGUES TO SING MY GREAT REDEEMER’S PRAISE” he was drawing on his childhood memories. He had grown up under the loving influence of a mother who was known for praising rather than pouting no matter what was going on around her
Susanna’s faith and discipline paid off. Her fifteenth and eighteenth children (John and Charles) shook their century for God and the tremors of that historic spiritual earthquake still rumble through churches around the world.”
So deep was Susanna’s devotion to her Lord that she prayed daily for her children to serve Him and her prayers were eventually answered. John and Charles finally entered into the genuine faith their mother had longed to see in them and for which she had prayed. They became the prime movers in what is now known as the Wesleyan Revival, a movement that changed their nation, impacted the world and gave birth to the Methodist Church.
Today, millions around the world worship God singing hymns composed by two men whose mother had a sunny disposition and a singing heart.
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist who was a pastor for 22 years.
He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
Friday, May 8, 2009
Guest Article:
Spirituality Between The Lines
by Heath Davis
In every sport there are boundary markers representing the field of play. As a kid who grew up playing baseball, something magical that transpired each time fresh white chalk graces the presence of the field. those fresh white lines down first an third meant only one thing. It was game day. I may have practiced on that same field a hundred times, but those white lines now transformed that field into something more than dirt and grass. It became the place where everything practiced was put on the line. You see even the novice athlete realizes that the game is not won during practice sessions. What matters most is what happens between the white lines on game day. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged in the Scriptures to train ourselves in godliness, join together with our teammates and receive coaching from those who can help us move forward. But, ultimately the proof of our discipleship, the test of Christian spirituality, is fleshed out in between the white lines of our everyday lives. Today, we live in a world that's inundated with talk about spirituality. The plethora of beliefs on spirituality that swim around our culture has led many to simply misunderstand Christian spirituality. Many who come to our churches hungry and searching have wrongly categorized Christianity as some esoteric feeling that comes over me when I have a "God-moment". Others are tempted to define spirituality as a tranquil state of consciousness or even good "vibe" that one gets when worshiping in church. These misconceptions of Christian spirituality ultimately reduce God to some feeling of emotional ecstasy. This view of God both depersonalizes His character and reduces His ability to transform our everyday experiences. True Christian spirituality at its heart is the surrender of my entire life for God's kind of life. Hence, spirituality for the Christian can never be divorced from the intentions, choices and behaviors that are fleshed out within those white lines we call "everyday life". Christian spirituality is the stuff of loving our spouse even when they are less than lovely on a given day. It is found in practicing patience at Wal-Mart when your unmotivated teenage cashier seems to be more busy scanning cute guys than the products in her line. It's discovered in releasing my emotional emptiness to God at the end of the day instead of turning to artificial substitutes to fill the void (junk food, shopping, Facebook, etc.). Jesus believed that all of life was spiritual. Therefore, every single moment of my waking life is the raw material God wants to use to transform my character into the character of Christ...even the seemingly mundane things like changing dirty diapers or flat tires. As spiritual leaders and guides, it is essential that we help those under our direction really get this. The Church must come to see that ll of life is spiritual. And, that starts with us as leaders. We must continue to nurture and encourage our church to assess itself by whether or not Christ is located between the white lines of everyday life. God has provided a field. It's called everyday life. Our objective is simple. Each day we are to strive in between the lines to be formed into the likeness of His Son little more than we were yesterday. Sure, God graces us with refreshing time-outs, much needed huddles, and refreshing sideline breaks along the way (and hopefully the church provides such necessities). But it's not long before our Father nudges us back towards the ominous field, the field of life, and waits for us to put to the test what we've worked on in practice. So what are we waiting for? Let's get in the game!
Adult Ministries E-News-Department of Spiritual Formtion-www.wesleyan.org
Spirituality Between The Lines
by Heath Davis
In every sport there are boundary markers representing the field of play. As a kid who grew up playing baseball, something magical that transpired each time fresh white chalk graces the presence of the field. those fresh white lines down first an third meant only one thing. It was game day. I may have practiced on that same field a hundred times, but those white lines now transformed that field into something more than dirt and grass. It became the place where everything practiced was put on the line. You see even the novice athlete realizes that the game is not won during practice sessions. What matters most is what happens between the white lines on game day. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged in the Scriptures to train ourselves in godliness, join together with our teammates and receive coaching from those who can help us move forward. But, ultimately the proof of our discipleship, the test of Christian spirituality, is fleshed out in between the white lines of our everyday lives. Today, we live in a world that's inundated with talk about spirituality. The plethora of beliefs on spirituality that swim around our culture has led many to simply misunderstand Christian spirituality. Many who come to our churches hungry and searching have wrongly categorized Christianity as some esoteric feeling that comes over me when I have a "God-moment". Others are tempted to define spirituality as a tranquil state of consciousness or even good "vibe" that one gets when worshiping in church. These misconceptions of Christian spirituality ultimately reduce God to some feeling of emotional ecstasy. This view of God both depersonalizes His character and reduces His ability to transform our everyday experiences. True Christian spirituality at its heart is the surrender of my entire life for God's kind of life. Hence, spirituality for the Christian can never be divorced from the intentions, choices and behaviors that are fleshed out within those white lines we call "everyday life". Christian spirituality is the stuff of loving our spouse even when they are less than lovely on a given day. It is found in practicing patience at Wal-Mart when your unmotivated teenage cashier seems to be more busy scanning cute guys than the products in her line. It's discovered in releasing my emotional emptiness to God at the end of the day instead of turning to artificial substitutes to fill the void (junk food, shopping, Facebook, etc.). Jesus believed that all of life was spiritual. Therefore, every single moment of my waking life is the raw material God wants to use to transform my character into the character of Christ...even the seemingly mundane things like changing dirty diapers or flat tires. As spiritual leaders and guides, it is essential that we help those under our direction really get this. The Church must come to see that ll of life is spiritual. And, that starts with us as leaders. We must continue to nurture and encourage our church to assess itself by whether or not Christ is located between the white lines of everyday life. God has provided a field. It's called everyday life. Our objective is simple. Each day we are to strive in between the lines to be formed into the likeness of His Son little more than we were yesterday. Sure, God graces us with refreshing time-outs, much needed huddles, and refreshing sideline breaks along the way (and hopefully the church provides such necessities). But it's not long before our Father nudges us back towards the ominous field, the field of life, and waits for us to put to the test what we've worked on in practice. So what are we waiting for? Let's get in the game!
Adult Ministries E-News-Department of Spiritual Formtion-www.wesleyan.org
Please Don't Stop...
Praying, yesterday President Barrack H. Obama signed a proclamtion making May 7, 2009 the National Day of Prayer. I urge you to continue on in those prayers. During the service that I attended at the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey FL, the following passage was read: First, I tell you to pray for all people, asking God for what they need and being thankful to him. 2 Pray for rulers and for all who have authority so that we can have quiet and peaceful lives full of worship and respect for God. 3 This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to know the truth. 5 There is one God and one mediator so that human beings can reach God. That way is through Christ Jesus, who is himself human. 6 He gave himself as a payment to free all people. He is proof that came at the right time I Timothy 2:1-6 (NCV) www.biblegateway.com
Also consider the upcoming Global Day of Prayer May 31, 2009, for more information go to www.waymakers.org. Shirley Dobson said it best for this years National Day of Prayer theme, "Prayer is America's Hope."
Also consider the upcoming Global Day of Prayer May 31, 2009, for more information go to www.waymakers.org. Shirley Dobson said it best for this years National Day of Prayer theme, "Prayer is America's Hope."
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
What can we do?
Don't just read the word, "Be a doer of the word." The disciples went about teaching and preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ with adversity on their left and on their right. The Jewish leaders were against them, the Romans were against them. All disciples continued on with faith in their saviour Jesus Christ, joy in their hearts and prayer for the new frail churches never ceased. What can you do? Make a decision today just step out in faith. Early in my walk a new opportunity arose, one that I had no experience in. I asked, "God should I do this thing?" He answered, "Judi, you have to start somewhere, go on." You too, just go on.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Habbuck 2:6-11
But all the nations the Babylonians have hurt will laugh at them.
They will make fun of the Babylonians and say, 'How terrible it will be for the one that steals many things.
How long will that nation get rich by forcing others to pay them?' 7 "One day the people from whom you have taken money will turn against you.
They will realize what is happening and make you shake with fear.
Then they will take everything you have. 8 Because you have stolen from many nations, those who are left will take much from you. This is because you have killed many people, destroying countries and cities and everyone in them. 9 "How terrible it will be for the nation that becomes rich by doing wrong, thinking they will live in a safe place and escape harm.
10 Because you have made plans to destroy many people, you have made your own houses ashamed of you. Because of it, you will lose your lives. 11 The stones of the walls will cry out against you, and the boards that support the roof will agree that you are wrong.
They will make fun of the Babylonians and say, 'How terrible it will be for the one that steals many things.
How long will that nation get rich by forcing others to pay them?' 7 "One day the people from whom you have taken money will turn against you.
They will realize what is happening and make you shake with fear.
Then they will take everything you have. 8 Because you have stolen from many nations, those who are left will take much from you. This is because you have killed many people, destroying countries and cities and everyone in them. 9 "How terrible it will be for the nation that becomes rich by doing wrong, thinking they will live in a safe place and escape harm.
10 Because you have made plans to destroy many people, you have made your own houses ashamed of you. Because of it, you will lose your lives. 11 The stones of the walls will cry out against you, and the boards that support the roof will agree that you are wrong.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Call to Worship
1 Corinthians 1:6-9 (New International Reader's Version)
6 Our witness about Christ has been proved to be true in you.
7 There is no gift of the Holy Spirit that you don't have. You are full of hope as you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to come again. 8 God will keep you strong to the very end. Then you will be without blame on the day our Lord Jesus Christ returns.
9 God is faithful. He has chosen you to share life with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
God is faithful, His desire is to have a close relationship with each of us. In order to do that spend time in His word the Holy Bible and attend a Bible Believing Jesus Following Church. My testimony, "I walk with God by following Jesus as guided by the Holy Spirit. Enjoy praise and worship today, fellowship with other believers, bring your tithe into the storehouse, share the gospel. These things are the very least we can do to please God while we are waiting here on Earth for our Heavenly Home.
6 Our witness about Christ has been proved to be true in you.
7 There is no gift of the Holy Spirit that you don't have. You are full of hope as you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to come again. 8 God will keep you strong to the very end. Then you will be without blame on the day our Lord Jesus Christ returns.
9 God is faithful. He has chosen you to share life with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
God is faithful, His desire is to have a close relationship with each of us. In order to do that spend time in His word the Holy Bible and attend a Bible Believing Jesus Following Church. My testimony, "I walk with God by following Jesus as guided by the Holy Spirit. Enjoy praise and worship today, fellowship with other believers, bring your tithe into the storehouse, share the gospel. These things are the very least we can do to please God while we are waiting here on Earth for our Heavenly Home.
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