thr3e Student Ministries

Odd Facts Known By Few

2010-02-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Sheep refuse to drink from running water.

The Power Team

2010-02-24T21:54:00.003-05:00

The Power Team

THIS SATURDAY NIGHT February 27, 7PM

at Fayetteville First Baptist Church

Free Admission (a love offering will be taken)

Meet at FBC Senoia at 5:45pm

We will leave on the church bus at 6:00pm

Please Facebook David Felton

(or email davejames478@att.net)

This event is for youth, kids, and adults.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2010-02-19T08:00:00.004-05:00

Charles Shultz, the creator of Charlie Brown and the Peanuts comic strip, was once turned down for a job at Disney.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2010-02-12T08:00:00.003-05:00

It is illegal to walk a pet snake on a leash in Osnago, Italy.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2010-02-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

The water in Lake Mashu in Japan is transparent to a depth of up to 136 feet, making it the clearest body of water in the world.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2010-01-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

Dust from the Sahara desert in Africa has been carried by the wind as far as Chicago, IL.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2010-01-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

Every time you lick a stamp, you consume 1/10th of a calorie.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2010-01-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

Shaggy's real name is Norville Rogers.

International Skeptics Day

2010-01-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not really sure that I believe in skepticism...what do you think, Mr. Cowell?

One of "Them"...

2010-01-09T08:00:00.004-05:00

You don't need any special tools to spot them. It's not hard to pick them out of a crowd. They are all around you all day long. You bump into them shuffling through your cafeteria line and sit behind them on the bus. Maybe you ARE one of them. Well, are you?

In case you are lost, "they" are the die-hard fans of the world. "Fans of what?," you may ask. The answer could be virtually anything. Maybe "they" are crazy for a certain sports team like the guys in the picture, willing to lay aside all pride and paint themselves up for the big game to show their team spirit. "They" could be passionate about a certain book series, hobby, or music group. "They" talk about it, read about it, even dream about it. Whatever "they" get excited about, it is obvious from just a few minutes around them; you can't help but notice the evidence everywhere.

Read 1 John 2:3-6, then go back and read verse 6 over again.

John explicitly tells us what the evidence of knowing God is in verse 3. What is it?
What are the commandments of the Lord? Is it limited to just the Ten we find in Exodus 20?
What should we expect to receive as we stay faithful to the Lord and keep the commandments He has given us? (Check out verse 5 for a hint...)
Verse 6 is the key to today's passage. What does it mean to "walk" as Jesus did? What would it look like in your life?
The evidence of a relationship with God is living by the rules He has made. If someone were to evaluate your life, what evidence is there that shows you know God?

John's purpose in writing this passage is to show that our relationship with the Lord will be evidenced in whether we keep the laws He has given. These are not only the Ten Commandments that He gave to Moses on those stone tablets. It's His complete Word that is to be followed as we seek to grow in Him. As we learn to walk as Jesus walked, remember that we cannot reach perfection this side of Heaven; however, it is to always be the goal for which we aim. Our Christian faith should stand out and be evident because we are to be known as those who love God and follow His will. "They" should be us!

Odd Facts Known By Few

2010-01-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

NERF stands for "Non-Expanding Recreational Foam"

On This Date in History...

2010-01-06T08:00:00.004-05:00

Samuel Morse first demonstrated his invention, the telegraph machine, in 1838 by sending the first telegram over 2 miles of wire in New Jersey. Using a systematic series of dots and dashes sent electrically, the telegraph opened up an entire new world of communication throughout much of the US.

*** BONUS POINTS: What was the message in the telegram that Morse sent on January 6, 1838?

WinterJam Promo Video

2010-01-05T10:45:00.000-05:00

January Newsletter

2010-01-04T10:30:00.001-05:00

Exercise more. Spend more time with family and friends. Get out of debt. Become more organized. These are just four of the top ten resolutions that will be made come New Years Day on January 1, 2010. Unfortunately, one goal noticeably missing from that list is to grow in the relationship we have in the Lord. No matter how long or short your journey with Him has been, we can all use this coming year as a time to cultivate a deeper walk with the Heavenly Father. If you have let yourself slide a bit in this area, why not make it a priority to rededicate your life and begin your relationship with the Lord anew.

It seems that so many New Years resolutions fade from memory within the first few weeks of the year. Two reasons stick out to me why this is the case. The first is that we set incredibly broad goals with no steps as to how to achieve them. If you desire to get closer to God in 2010, it can’t happen by just thinking, “I’m going to do better this year.” Steps have to be set so that you can know you are on the right track and see the progress you are making. Time alone in prayer and Bible reading, consistent church attendance, and sharing your faith are good benchmarks to set as you move forward in your walk with Christ.

Other resolutions fizzle out because they are seen as not worth the effort required to see them through to completion. It may very well be that a huge sacrifice must be made for you to have a few minutes in solitude with the Lord each day. But never fail to remember that your relationship God is to be the most important thing about you. We always make time for the things that are most important to us. Though it may require much effort and sacrifice, the Lord has promised that the reward for it all will be great.

The prophet Isaiah exhorts his readers in Isaiah 55:6, “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.” Now is your chance! No matter how many times you’ve started out trying to be a more committed believer, make this time the one that sticks. Make 2010 your greatest year following the plan and purpose that God has for you.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-12-25T08:00:00.001-05:00

In Australia, Santa's sleigh is pulled by kangaroos, not reindeer.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-12-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

A Japanese company has invented training wheels for high heels.

Chocolate-covered Anything Day

2009-12-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

The only question I can think of here is...ANYTHING?

4Him

2009-12-14T15:00:00.000-05:00

As we enter into the holiday season, you will undoubtedly hear many different songs related to Christmas and the birth of Jesus Christ. I really love the song by 4Him entitled "A Strange Way to Save the World." If you haven't heard it yet, take a minute to listen to it down in the playlist in the sidebar.

Written back in 1993, this song describes the questions that must have been running through Joseph's mind while he sat in the stable and watched the infant Christ in the manger. As the song continues, we get a vision of how the birth of Christ might have been different "if Jesus had come as He deserved." Born into a palace rather than a manger; surrounded by kings and royalty, not shepherds and livestock. Looking at His humble beginnings, one would never be able to comprehend that this baby would become of the Savior of the world. Yet God's plans are always far better than ours.

Accompanying "A Strange Way to Save the World" is a variety of other Christmas songs to fill your hearts and homes during the rest of the Christmas season.
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To view the complete lyrics to "A Strange Way to Save the World", click here.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-12-11T08:00:00.002-05:00

Ancient Egyptian children played with toy hedgehogs, like the one pictured above.

Christmas Card Day

2009-12-09T10:00:00.001-05:00

This day was created to honor the creator/inventor of Christmas cards, Sir Henry Cole. He produced the first commercial Christmas card in 1843, making the holiday tradition of sending Christmas greetings through the mail 166 years old.

If you haven't finished sending out your Christmas cards, by now, why not use today as an incentive to wrap this segment of the Christmas season.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-12-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

The average wink lasts 0.1 second.

National Fritters Day

2009-12-02T11:00:00.001-05:00

What is a fritter? It is pretty much anything that is coated in batter and then deep fried. It could be served for dessert, as a side dish, and sometimes even as a main course. The two most popular types of fritters in America are apple fritters and corn fritters. They may not look like much, but when you try them, you'll see they're good enough to warrant their own holiday.

December Newsletter

2009-12-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

Children have some of the biggest imaginations. I have learned this firsthand through our daughter, Caroline. Whether she is “cooking” food in her kitchen or talking on the phone to a pretend friend, her life is probably a lot like your children’s: filled with creativity and wild imaginative ideas.

I am reminded of where Paul attests to the Lord’s power in Ephesians 3:20 – “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think…” He can do more than we ask for in prayer, and He can do far more than anything we could ever think up. Every imaginative thought or plan that enters our minds, God has the power to bring to fruition. That’s the strength of our sovereign God! That’s why Paul continues on in verse 21 of that chapter with the words, “to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” That’s why He is worthy of our worship and praise.

This is the last newsletter of 2009. I will spare you the cliques of not believing how fast the year has gone by. But these twelve months have brought many blessings to me and my family, the most recent of which is our new son, Carter. No doubt, you as well can look back and see the Lord God providing for you and your family throughout this last year. As we wait expectantly to see His hand in the year to come, continue to put your faith into practice and trust in Him for everything.

Our youth group Christmas party will be on December 11 at our new house. We will head to Macon after Christmas for the Youth Evangelism Conference on December 28-29. For more details on these two events, see the youth bulletin board.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-11-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

Humans have about 1.4 million hairs on their body.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-11-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

American soldiers in Vietnam sometimes used a Slinky as a radio antenna.

On This Day in History...

2009-11-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Abraham Lincoln delivered one of the most famous speeches in history, The Gettysburg Address. (The real question is...can you read it here?)

Phil Stacey

2009-11-16T11:30:00.002-05:00

Compared to the groups and musicians from the last few weeks, Phil Stacey is a relative newcomer to the world of Christian music. Best known for his appearance on Season 6 of American Idol, he signed with Christian recording label Reunion Records in January of this year.

Stacey's song "You're Not Shaken," this week's Song of the Week, caught my ear recently on one of the local Christian radio stations. All throughout the song, the lyrics speak of the troubles that come up in a Christian's life. He finished off the chorus with the words, "I won’t let go of You now because I know You’re not shaken." How true it is that in our stuggles, God is not thrown off or surprised by the circumstances that have taken place. He is fully aware of our trials, what we have faced and what we will soon face. What a great feeling it is to serve a God who never gets caught off guard, but has a plan for everything and everyone even in the times when it all seems so dark.

In addition to "You're Not Shaken," I've included a few other songs with Christian themes from several former American Idol contestants down in the playlist in the sidebar.

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For the complete lyrics to "You're Not Shaken," click here.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-11-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Before 1920, it was technically legal to send children through the mail.

Veteran's Day

2009-11-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

To all of the brave men and women who have risked their lives for our freedom, we say, "Thank You." Words can never express the gratitude we have for the sacrifices you have made for your country.

Kutless

2009-11-09T11:45:00.002-05:00

Many Christian music groups have unique reasons for choosing the band name they record under. Kutless is an obvious example. Based on Romans 3:23 (For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord), the band members say that "He took our cuts for us...leaving us Kutless."

The Portland-based rock group has released our current Song of the Week, "Strong Tower." Every time I hear the song, I think of two things: Nahum 1:7 and The Wizard of Oz. Strange, I know, but hear me out.

In Nahum 1:7, the prophet writes, "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him." God is the one we run to in times of trouble; we can always find safety in Him. And who can forget one of the opening scenes in The Wizard of Oz when Dorothy's family and friends all spot the tornado approaching and rush to the storm cellar for safety. They trust that shelter to withstand the violent impending storm.

In much the same way, the Lord desires for us to have faith in Him so much that we take shelter in Him during the tough trials of life. Rather than trusting in ourselves or someone or something else to get us through the hard times, we must consciously decide to run only to the Lord, for He is the only one in whom we can safely take refuge.

I hope you enjoy "Strong Tower," plus a couple of other songs from Kutless in the playlist down in the sidebar.

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For the complete lyrics to "Strong Tower," click here.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-11-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Japanese apple farmers use turkeys to guard against monkeys.

Happy Anniversary...

2009-11-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

to Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Lincoln! On this date in 1842, old Abe married his sweetheart, Mary Todd. He may have been given the name "old Abe" because he was a good bit older than Mary, ten years to be exact. The couple went on to have four sons, and they spent a little over four years serving as President and First Lady of our country. Today, if they could, they would celebrate 167 years of wedded bliss!

November Newsletter

2009-11-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

What an exciting day High Attendance Sunday was for the youth group! We had the highest number of students that day in the two years that I have been here, eighteen in all. The next evening was the Youth Emphasis night at the revival, and around a dozen students came to enjoy the pizza prior to the service and the worship and preaching by Doug Stroup. God is really using each of the students to share about the church and invite their friends to Bible study. We have had several new faces that have begun to attend fairly regularly on either Sunday mornings or Wednesday evenings.

I wanted to share with all the youth parents about the Winter Retreat at the end of the year. We will be heading to Macon, GA, to take part in the 2009 Youth Evangelism Conference. Ed Newton, the speaker from our camp in 2008, will be teaching during the conference, along with Anson McMahon. The teaching points will be illustrated by the Skit Guys, two men whose presentations are as spiritually challenging as they are funny. Christian music artist Todd Agnew will lead the worship segments of each meeting, and the David Crowder Band will be in concert during the evening session.

Our group will be leaving the church during the early afternoon on Monday, December 28, and we will return the following afternoon. I realize this falls right into the middle of the holiday season; however, I feel it is a tremendous opportunity for growth in our group, one that we cannot pass up. I will be sending out a letter to parents in the next week or so giving information on cost and more specific details about the trip. Should you have any questions about the conference, please don’t hesitate to ask. Please be sure to see if there’s any possible way that your student can join us for the Youth Evangelism Conference, even in the busiest time of the year.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-10-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

The word "and" is used 46,277 times in the King James Version of the Bible.

It's Bill Gates' Birthday!

2009-10-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

What do you get for the man worth more than $40 billion and could buy anything and everything he would ever want for the rest of his life? Obviously you'd give him a spot on the thr3e Student Ministry's webpage!

Jeremy Camp

2009-10-26T09:00:00.005-04:00

Jeremy Camp has been recording Christian music for about five years, a relatively short time compared with some other contemporary Christian music legends. He has a wonderful talent for penning songs that detail his remarkable journey of faith. However, a tragedy in his personal life a few years ago has added a unique perspective to the songs that he writes.

Less than four months after he and his wife Melissa were married, she passed away due to cancer; she was only 21 years old. Through this heartbreaking trial, Camp maintained his trust and faith in the Lord as his provider. Out of this experience, a song he called "I Still Believe" emerged. This song is our Song of the Week. What a statement - after all that he went through in the passing of his wife and the questions that no doubt ran through his mind, to still be able to say unwaveringly, "I still believe in your faithfulness...Even when I don't see, I still believe." What faith!

A close second in the running of Camp's songs for SOTW is "Enough." This popular praise song has been on my mind for the last few days. The chorus, which talks about how the Lord God is enough to be able to satisfy all of our needs, has caused me to do an honest evaluation of my relationship with Him and how much I let myself be satisfied in Him. May it do the same in your life.

Philippians 4:19 - "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory." (Emphasis added)

Take a moment to listen to "I Still Believe," "Enough," and some other Jeremy Camp songs in the playlist down in the sidebar.

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For the complete lyrics to "I Still Believe," click here.

For the complete lyrics to "Enough," click here.

Law and Order

2009-10-24T08:00:00.002-04:00

"Juror number 141!" I looked up from my seat in the crowded court room when I heard the judge call the juror number I had been assigned earlier that morning. My first experience with jury duty had landed me a spot in a domestic violence case in Orlando, FL. As I filed out of my row and approached the jury box, it hit me that this was the moment I had waited all those long, boring hours for. After questioning each of the potential jurors, both the prosecution and the defense had felt that I would make a suitable member of the group that would decide the case against the defendant.

I felt like I was starring in one of those TV dramas about the criminal justice system. Throughout the day, we heard opening arguments from both sides, testimony regarding the evidence and facts surrounding the case, and the closing arguments led by the defense attorney and the prosecutor. Afterwards, the jury was ushered into a small "deliberation room," where we discussed all of the points made and evidence shown as we moved toward a verdict of guilt or innocence. Although it lasted only one (LONG) day, I gained tremendous insight into the inner workings of the judicial system and got an up-close view of what I had watched play out on TV so many times.

Read 1 John 2:1-2; vs 2 is the key in this passage.

Think back to the latter part of chapter one (vs. 5-10). How does it relate to today's passage? Why was it best for John to write 1:5-10 before moving on to 2:1-2?

Verse 1 says, "These things I write to you so that you may not sin." Is that really possible to live a life without sin? Then what's the point?

Our spiritual defense attorney, or "Advocate" as John calls Him, is Jesus. What makes Him able to fill that role for us?

Jesus is our "propitiation," or a substitute offering for the sins we've committed. Do you remember to thank Him often for stepping in and taking the punishment you deserve?

What does this passage teach about who Christ gave up His life for?

Much like that defense attorney the jurors and I heard during the trial back in 2002, if you are saved, Christ has become your Advocate, the one who represents you before God the Father. Because He has given His life so that you can be forgiven, He is able to stand before the judge's bench of God and pronounce your innocence. Sure, it is impossible for us to live a completely blameless life, even after we are saved. But each day, we are to make perfection our goal as we consider how to think, talk, and act. What awesome love Jesus Christ displayed, as He willingly offered up His life as substitute for the sins of "the whole world"! He is indeed worthy of our praise and worship!

** Today's devo is part of a series studying through the book of 1 John.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-10-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

A 30-minute cartoon may contain over 18,000 separate drawings.

Count Your Buttons Day

2009-10-21T09:00:00.001-04:00

If nothing else, this day has been created to prove that nothing is too boring, nothing too mundane to be recognized with its own holiday. It's probably also helped to raise the national awareness of button neglect. For example, right now I have 14 buttons on my shirt, and I most likely would have never realized that otherwise. (Thank you, Count Your Buttons Day!)

Third Day

2009-10-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

Not only has Third Day been around for a while, but the group was birthed not far from here in Marietta, GA. Recording Christian music for over 15 years now, Third Day's latest album Revelation contains this week's Song of the Week, "Born Again."

"Born Again" explores the idea behind the newness that one experiences after beginning a relationship with Christ. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul writes these words: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new." In the words of the SOTW's chorus, after your commitment to Christ, you also will say that "it feels like I'm living for the very first time in my life."

Hope you like listening to "Born Again," as well as some other popular Third Day songs in the playlist in the sidebar.

_________________

To read the complete lyrics to "Born Again," click here.

Caught in a Lie

2009-10-17T08:00:00.011-04:00

The story is told of four high school boys who couldn't resist the temptation to skip morning classes. Each had been smitten with a bad case of spring fever. After lunch, they showed up at school and reported to the teacher that their car had a flat tire. Much to their relief, she smiled and said, "Well, you missed a quiz this morning, so take your seats and get out a pencil and paper." Still smiling, she waited as they settled down and got ready for her questions. Then she said, "First question...which tire was flat?"

This story, while quite funny, leads us to a pretty good point: that it's very true that lying gets us nowhere. But do you realize how much people tend to lie without even giving a thought to it? Most of the time, the purpose behind a lie is to make the liar look better or be seen in a more positive light. We want people to see us how we want them to see us, so it seems so easy to stretch the truth to accomplish that.

Read 1 John 1:8-10; take an extra second to look at vs. 9 a little more closely.

Why would it be deceiving to tell someone that we have no sin?
How does admitting we are sinners relate to receiving salvation in Christ?
Verse 9 emphasizes the importance of confessing our sins. Is a one-time confession of guilt enough? Why or why not?
Not only do we live outside the truth when we lie about our sin, but there is also another result found in verse 10. What is it?

Who really wants to admit that they don't have it all together, right? Nobody honestly wants to have to come to grips with the fact that they have made mistakes in life. But it is nothing more than that old prideful nature rising up inside that would bring someone to say, "I haven't done anything wrong...ever." John is actually addressing some false teachers with his comments in this passage. Not only were they walking in darkness (vs. 6), but they actually had the boldness to claim that they were without sin!

Why, you may be wondering, would our unwillingness to acknowledge our sinfulness cause us to call God a liar? In many places throughout Scripture, but specifically through the word of an Old Testament prophet, God has told us that we are lost and sinners down to the core. Jeremiah 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?" God has said we sin; if we say we don't, we are telling Him that He's all wrong.

Consistent times of confession of sin are NOT necessary to keep from losing your salvation because salvation cannot be lost. But confessing your shortcomings to the Lord regularly keeps your relationship with Him intact and the way that it should be. Don't fall victim to the temptation to build yourself up by denying your mistakes. The one who recognizes and admits his errors regularly draws nearer to God.

** Today's devo is part of a series studying through the book of 1 John.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-10-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

65% of all Americans claim that TV is a necessity.

National Dessert Day

2009-10-14T08:00:00.005-04:00

If you could only eat one thing in your celebration today of National Dessert Day, what would it be? (Mine would be a big slice of chocolate chip cheesecake.)

Remedy Drive

2009-10-12T09:00:00.008-04:00

A fairly-new group to begin their journey of recording Christian music is Remedy Drive. Hailing from Lincoln, Nebraska, the group is made up of four brothers; it is this band that brings us our Song of the Week this time around.

"All Along" has been playing on Christian radio stations since Remedy Drive's Daylight Is Coming album was released in August 2008. The message of the song zeroes in on the character of God. With clever lyrics, the song exalts God as being "so much more" than anything else we could want or long for. The Psalmist writes, "My soul thirsts for God, for the living God" [Psalm 42:2]. That is the message behind "All Along," that no matter how long you search for things in the world to satisfy you, you will find that the Lord has had what you desired all along.

Take a minute to enjoy "All Along" and a couple of other Remedy Drive songs in the sidebar's playlist.
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For the complete lyrics to "All Along," click here.

Opposites

2009-10-10T08:00:00.008-04:00

On and off. North and south. Happy and sad. Ever since we were kids, we've understood the basic concept of the way opposites work. Opposites are characterized as being "contrary or radically different in some respect common to both." Two things that are opposites could not possibly be more unalike than they already are. In other words, there is nothing more different from the idea of light than the idea of darkness.

Read 1 John 1:5-7; focus on vs. 7.

Throughout these verses, John uses the words "light" and "darkness" as symbols. What was he really getting at?
What does verse 6 say results when you claim to have a relationship with God and do not live like it?
How can we tell if we are walking in "light" or in "darkness"? Which one would more accurately characterize your life right now?
What can you do this week to begin walking more in the "light" so that your relationship with God and other Christians will grow?
Have you come to a time when, as John writes in verse 7, the blood of Jesus Christ cleansed you from all unrighteousness?

Probably one of the simplest opposites we learned early on as a child were right and wrong. We are shown by our parents and teachers the right way to behave, and we are disciplined when we show the wrong way to act. In much the same way, these opposites play a tremendous role in our spiritual journey of becoming more and more like Christ. As we grow in our faith and maturity, we will be characterized more and more as walking in the "light" and less and less in light's opposite, "darkness".

Someone once said that "fellowship with the brethren [other Christians] is the proof of fellowship with God." Do you enjoy meeting together with other believers for the purpose of studying God's Word and praying together? This is a sign of growth in your love for the Lord and a consequence of walking in the Lord's will. As you continue down the path of faith, may it be said about you more every day that you are "walking in the light."

** Today's devo is part of a series studying through the book of 1 John.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-10-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

The average American only knows about 10% of the English language.

World Smile Day

2009-10-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

Why not show off your pearly whites a little more today...unless your smile tends to look a lot like his!

David Crowder Band

2009-10-05T15:30:00.004-04:00

The David Crowder Band will be performing during the Youth Evangelism Conference we are planning to attend on December 28-29. Their song "You Are My Joy" is this week's Song of the Week.

In Psalm 43:4, David refers to the Lord God as his "exceeding joy." It is in that vein that this song has been written by DC*B, as their name is abbreviated. When a Christian is truly living for the Lord, then whatever God has in store for that believer brings him complete happiness and joy.

Hope you enjoy this week's SOTW, "You Are My Joy," as well as a few other songs from DC*B down in the sidebar.

__________________

For the complete lyrics to "You Are My Joy," click here.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-10-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

On average, Americans as a whole spend two billion hours a year mowing their lawns.

October Newsletter

2009-10-01T08:00:00.002-04:00

This past month was the annual day of prayer at schools known as See You at the Pole Day. Students all across the country gathered around their school’s flagpole before school on Wednesday morning, September 24th. They spent time in prayer, Scripture reading, and worship through song. Several of our youth were involved at the prayer times at both East Coweta Middle School and East Coweta High School. This was a tremendous stand to take in front of their friends and peers. What a witness it is to come to school early to pray for the nation and its leaders, schools, and churches.

This month will be First Baptist’s annual Fall Revival. Monday evening of revival week will be the youth emphasis service. Our revival evangelist Doug Stroup will be bringing a special message for the students in attendance that night. Why not start inviting everyone you know to come be a part of this worship service? Be sure to be praying for the all meetings throughout the week as we seek for God to move among us as a church body through His Holy Spirit.

In the past few days, God has been bringing Jeremiah 29:13 to my mind regularly. Through the Old Testament prophet, God is found saying in this verse, “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” This verse highlights the reason why the Christian life is a continuous journey. We as believers are constantly in pursuit of the Lord and His desire for us. Were we to ever comprehend all there is to know about God, then our pursuit of Him would dwindle down to nothing. You don’t chase after something you already have. You run after those things that you desire and that are most important to you, but you have not yet obtained. May we always make the Lord our most important priority; for in doing so, we will learn more and more of Him as we devote our whole heart in our search for Him.

Aaron Shust

2009-09-28T09:00:00.001-04:00

Today's Song of the Week was written and recorded by Christian artist Aaron Shust. While he may not be as widely known as other recording groups, Shust has a tremendous gift for developing songs that focus on praising God and exalting His name.

The SOTW is called "My Savior My God," off of Shust's album Anything Worth Saying. John 20:28 finds the disciple Thomas making a very similar statement about the Lord Jesus Christ, calling Him "My Lord and my God." The song emphasizes the eternal nature of the Trinity, speaking of how God has, is, and will care for His children.

Hope you enjoy "My Savior My God," as well as some other songs by Aaron Shust in the playlist in the sidebar.

_____________

For the complete lyrics to "My Savior My God," click here.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-09-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

A million dollars in pennies would equal 597,916 pounds...almost 300 tons!

See You at the Pole Day

2009-09-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

We've talked about this day for the last several weeks in the youth group. Below are some photos taken this morning at ECMS and ECHS. If you have a story you'd like to share, please leave a comment and tell us how SYATP impacted your life today.

______________________________________________

Toby Mac

2009-09-21T16:00:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite Christian artists right now is Toby Mac. Formerly of the group dc Talk, Toby McKeehan has done fairly well since he released his first solo album. Now with several more albums under his belt, he provides our Song of the Week for today. It is "Lose My Soul" off of his Portable Sounds CD.

The song seems to come straight off the pages of Scripture when you read Mark 8:36 - "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?" If we choose to give up living for the Lord in return for the earthly pleasures of this world, then we will indeed forfeit the heavenly rewards meant for those who finish the Christian life strong and serve the Lord with their whole life.

Hope you enjoy the music of Toby Mac as much as I do. There's this week's song plus some others in the music player in the sidebar.
_____

For the complete lyrics to "Lose My Soul," click here.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-09-18T08:00:00.002-04:00

The longest one-syllable word in the English language is "screeched."

National Playdoh Day

2009-09-16T08:00:00.005-04:00

Two interesting Playdoh facts to pass the time with in celebration of today:

1) If combined, the total amount of Play-Doh Compound manufactured since 1956 would weigh more than 700 million pounds.

2) If all the Play-Doh Compound made since 1956 was extruded through the Fun Factory®, it would make a "snake" that would wrap around the world nearly 300 times.

Britt Nicole

2009-09-14T08:00:00.002-04:00

Today's Song of the Week comes from a fairly new artist in the Christian music world, Britt Nicole. The song "You" is from her first album, entitled Say It.

"You" is a really great song, focusing on the significance that God has to each of us. As the chorus goes, He really is "the only thing I know worth living for." Without Him in our lives, we would have no meaning and purpose. But, thankfully, we do have a purpose, and it is to glorify God and make His importance to us show by the way that we live.

Hope you enjoy "You," as well some other songs by Britt Nicole, in the playlist down in the sidebar.
__________

To read the complete lyrics for "You," click here.

SYATP Question - Round Two

2009-09-12T15:33:00.000-04:00

Many people equate See You at the Pole day with just prayer. Can you name two other activites done around the flagpole that day besides praying? HINT: check out syatp.com for some ideas.

Eyewitness

2009-09-12T08:00:00.003-04:00

"You just had to be there!" You know you've said this at some point to your friends, and you could have been talking about any number of things - a concert or game you attended, a joke you heard but struggle to recount, a crazy situation that you found yourself in and wondered how you got there. Even through you tried as hard as you could to relay the experience to another person, words could not really begin to describe all the details that took place. There's just something different about being there and seeing it happen with your own eyes, about witnessing it for yourself.

Read 1 John 1:1-4; reread vs. 3.

What was John describing here in the first verse? Who is the Word of Life?
After reading verse 3, what have you found that John did with what he heard and saw?
What is the expectation that will happen once the message of God has been declared to others?
What does this tell us about our responsibility to pass along our testimony to others?
Can you see God preparing friendships around you so that you have an opportunity to talk with them about Him? Will you speak up of your love for the Lord?

How awesome is it that this God we love, worship, and serve doesn't close Himself off from us. On the contrary, He has opened Himself up to us and allowed us the opportunity to experience Him first-hand. If you have accepted Christ as Lord of your life, then you too are an eyewitness of the miraculous work that Jesus did your life, wiping away your sin and changing you forever. We need to share what has happened to us with those around us. We should be just as excited in sharing with them about eternity in Heaven as we are when we are talking about how we spent our weekend. Be a strong eyewitness for Christ because you have seen Him work with your own eyes.

** Today's devo is the first in a series studying through the book of 1 John.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-09-11T08:00:00.001-04:00

Technically speaking, coffee is a fruit juice.

Guess what day it is...

2009-09-09T09:09:00.001-04:00

It's 09.09.09!

(How exciting...this will only happen once in our lifetime, unless you are Methuselah)

SYATP Question - Round One

2009-09-07T15:33:00.002-04:00

See You at the Pole was born out of the minds of a youth group during a DiscipleNow weekend. In what year and state did these students develop the concept for the first SYATP?

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-09-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

Houseflies hum in the key of F.

V-J Day

2009-09-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

It was on this date in history that World War II officially ended. On September 2, 1945, on the deck of the USS Missouri, Japan agreeed to terms of the Potsdam Declaration, thus completing the surrender of the Axis nations. President Harry Truman declared September 2 to be named V-J Day (Victory in Japan Day).

September Newsletter

2009-09-01T08:00:00.001-04:00

What an awesome God we serve! He has truly had His hands upon this church, molding it and shaping it so that He can use us as He desires. I am excited about the growth that I see happening among us. Our members are growing in the Lord and in their hunger for His Word. Wherever I look, it’s easy to see the hearts for service in you who call First Baptist your church home. We are excited to see more and more visitors come during the different weekly worship opportunities. This is an obvious sign of God’s blessing on our congregation!

God has entrusted this church with a tremendous responsibility: to reach our community for the cause of Christ. He has been preparing and growing each one of us in spiritual maturity to make us ready for carrying out that task. Take a look at where you are in your life, and realize that God has orchestrated every circumstance to bring you to that place for one purpose: to affect your sphere of influence for Him. Maybe it means approaching that long-time friend with the Gospel truth. Maybe it means sharing with someone how the Lord has brought you through a particularly hard time recently. Maybe for you it means simply inviting someone you know to a church service. If you are faithful to step through whatever doors God opens for you to share Christ, He will not leave you trying to figure out what to do next. He will guide you as you carry His message to the others in your life. Take God at His word; He will always be faithful to it.

Our youth are just beginning a new Nucleus study called “The Defense.” During the rest of this year, we’ll be looking into some solid reasons as to why we believe what we believe. Peter gives Christians two specific challenges in 1 Peter 3:15 – 1) set apart Christ as Lord in your hearts, and 2) be ready to defend your faith. Our study in apologetics, or providing reasons for our faith, will prepare us to face the questions and criticisms that Satan uses in his attempt to extinguish the fire of God in each believer’s life. If you’re a youth, there’s never a better time to jump into what’s going on than right now!

Newsboys

2009-08-31T09:00:00.005-04:00

The Newsboys have produced our Song of the Week this time around. The song is "In Wonder" off of their Go album. It reminds me of Psalm 19 where David talks about the heavens declaring the glory of God.

You can find this week's Song of the Week in the playlist down in the playlist in the sidebar, along with some other songs written and performed by the Newsboys.

_______

To see the complete lyrics for "In Wonder," click here.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-08-28T08:00:00.002-04:00

Bathrooms in British Ramada Inns are stocked with complimentary rubber duckies.

National Dog Day

2009-08-26T09:00:00.003-04:00

A dog may be man's best friend, but then again... there are limits to everything!

Could this be the next Food Network star??!!

Casting Crowns

2009-08-24T11:00:00.001-04:00

Today's Song of the Week is from Casting Crowns. With four albums already under their music belt, they have become a widely famous group within the genre of Christian music.

Off of their The Altar and the Door album comes this week's song, entitled "Somewhere in the Middle." It talks about the struggle between right and wrong that we face daily.

At one point in the song, we hear the phrase, "Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender without losing all control?" Although we say we have committed our life to the Lord, we still sometimes seem to want to keep control of a little part of our life. Galatians 2:20 says that we have been crucified with Christ and we no longer live, but Christ lives in us. If you're a believer, then you need to turn complete control over to God for His guidance and direction. Don't be stuck somewhere in the middle.

_____________________________

To see the complete lyrics of "Somewhere in the Middle," click here.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-08-21T08:00:00.001-04:00

20% of all road accidents in Sweden involve a moose.

It's National Aviation Day!

2009-08-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

Today honors the accomplishments of all those whose ingenuity brought about the great mode of transportation known as air travel. Aviation Day is always celebrated on August 19 because it commemorates Orville Wright's birthday.

Born in 1871, he and his brother Wilbur are the ones widely associated with building the first successful airplane. Although planes have been adapted just a little bit since this photo, we owe much to the bravery (and a little measure of insanity) displayed by these two men.

Playground Transformation

2009-08-06T11:21:00.005-04:00

The playground here at church recently got a facelift thanks to a Youth Mission Day. A fresh coat of paint and some new swings, and you'd think it was a whole new piece of equipment!

From this.....

to this!

Quite an amazing turn around if you ask me! Thanks so much to those who came out to work on this project. Your servant hearts really shine when you're willing to give your time towards something like this!

August Newsletter

2009-08-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

Although I am in no way condoning eavesdropping, you can pretty much tell what time of year it is if you listen to the conversations going on around you. If it’s late fall, you might hear, “Have you started your shopping yet?” Around April is when you are most likely to hear, “Only a few weeks left before the end of school!” I know it must be the beginning of August because I’ve been hearing a lot of “Man, where has the summer gone?!” comments lately. I’ve heard many of the students groaning, and surprisingly some giddy with excitement, as the beginning of school draws closer and closer.

This time of year is very familiar to most of us; it’s a time when we transition from the summer months of vacation to a new school year and back to our workplaces. A passage that’s great to keep in mind as we look toward getting back into daily routines is Ephesians 5:15-16 – “See then that you walk circumspectly [“with care or diligence”], not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” This month, as we head back to our classrooms and offices, let’s do all we can to make the most of the time we’ve been given by the Lord. As Paul said, the days we live in are evil, and we have been chosen by God to be His light in the world. Join with me in asking the Lord how He would like to use us best in the days ahead.

The youth group has had a great time during the summer break! We’ve been bowling, rock climbing (a new youth group favorite!), and to Dixieland Fun Park. Some plans for activities during the fall are in the works, so keep listening for details on these events coming up.

Living for His glory,
Bro. Ryan

July Newsletter

2009-07-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

“Can we please do Mission Camp next year?” Several youth asked me this question as soon as we got back from summer camp last year. What they didn’t know was that I also had an interest in looking into Mission Camp as an option for summer camp this year. We went to the Student Life Mission Camp in Talladega, AL, at the beginning of June, and what an incredible week it was!

Our group of students and adults had a great time helping the playground at C.L. Salter Elementary School in Talladega get a fresh coat of paint. It was a lot of work, but everyone really helped out and did their part. Their attitudes were always positive, and I heard “What else can I do?” countless times during our project.

The camp was a great chance for us to share the love of God through service, but it also proved to be a great time of spiritual growth for many of the students. Several made public rededications of the lives, while others shared how much the time of Bible study and worship was a huge benefit for their spiritual lives. Thanks to everyone who made this trip possible for us through your prayers and financial help.

While at camp, there was an opportunity for those interested in sponsoring a child in a foreign country to do so. A tremendous sign to me of the spiritual maturity of our students was that they came to me asking if we as a youth group could sponsor one of these children! After looking through the different ones in need of assistance, they picked out a 10 year-old girl from Kenya named Nadupoi Hannah Lataite. It is such an encouragement to me to see the heart that these youth have for the Lord and for making a difference in whatever ways they can.

Be sure to keep up with all of the other summer events for the youth group by checking out the youth board outside my office.

Living for His glory,
Bro. Ryan

Do You Know...

2009-06-28T08:00:00.002-04:00

What was Daniel's name changed to in Daniel 1?

Maybe you know the answer already in your head. Maybe you need to look to up. However you can come up with your answer, just make sure you are the first person to leave the correct answer in the comments section!

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-06-26T08:00:00.001-04:00

The average number of people airborne over the United States in any given hour: 61,000

Do You Know...

2009-06-21T08:00:00.001-04:00

In Numbers 11, what species of bird did God send to the Israelites after they had cried out for meat to eat?

Maybe you know the answer already in your head. Maybe you need to look to up. However you can come up with your answer, just make sure you are the first person to leave the correct answer in the comments section!

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-06-19T08:00:00.001-04:00

Honey is the only food that does not spoil.

Do You Know...

2009-06-14T08:00:00.001-04:00

What is the name of the blind man Jesus healed in Mark 10?

Maybe you know the answer already in your head. Maybe you need to look to up. However you can come up with your answer, just make sure you are the first person to leave the correct answer in the comments section!

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-06-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

The average lifespan of a major league baseball is seven pitches.

One Lucky Guy

2009-06-10T08:00:00.000-04:00

It was on this date, June 10, back in 1752 that Benjamin Franklin performed probably his most famous act of insanity. You all know the story... His diary entry for the day probably read something like this:

"June 10, 1752 -- Flew kite with key attached in bad rain storm. Kite struck by some strange light in the sky. (Note to self: don't do this again.)"

Do You Know...

2009-06-07T08:00:00.001-04:00

In Matthew 17, Jesus said that if we had faith the size of a certain seed, we could move mountains. Which type of seed was it?

Maybe you know the answer already in your head. Maybe you need to look to up. However you can come up with your answer, just make sure you are the first person to leave the correct answer in the comments section!

Are You Ready?

2009-06-06T08:00:00.003-04:00

Coming from a homeschool background, I missed out on the fire-drill days at school. But, while my wife Kim was a teacher, I was there at her school several times when the practice drills were done. Thinking about fire drills in your schools no doubt conjures up some kind of memories: that loud siren that makes you jump at first, standing out on the rec field, filing back in after the all-clear signal is given. When it's all said and done, it's comforting to know that the fire drill is just that - a drill, practice, and not real whatsoever.

If there were never a real possibility of a fire, then there's no reason to be ready. But it is a very real possibility, and so drills are conducted for that specific purpose: to prepare everyone for what steps to take if there should ever be an actual fire threatening the school. That's why being prepared is so important; so when the time comes to act, there's no question as to what you should do.

Read 1 Peter 3:15. Try to find the key words in the passage.

1) There are two verb phrases in today's verse: sanctify and be ready. Do you think there's a connection between the two? What is it?

2) Notice the manner in which we answer any questions we are asked - "with meekness and fear." Why is this so important?

3) What are some ways that you can prepare yourself to provide a defense?

If others around you know about your faith in Christ, the time will come before too very long when you will get asked question about what you believe. Some may be from peers who are just inquisitive about your beliefs; others will try to argue that you are ignorant or insane for holding the faith that you do. What Peter is stressing here is that we are prepared to answer whatever questions arise so that we may use those questions to explain about the miracle of salvation that is offered through Christ.

It's important for us to keep the right perspective on this verse. God is not a helpless individual desparately in need of someone to stick up for Him. He is perfectly capable of protecting Himself. The defense spoken of here that we are to provide is more of passive defense than it is an aggressive attack.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-06-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

Pigs are the only animals besides humans that can get a sunburn.

Say Again?

2009-06-03T08:00:00.003-04:00

Tell me how you would best celebrate today as Repeat Day.

Tell me how you would.........

June Newsletter

2009-06-01T08:00:00.001-04:00

As this article hits the website, the youth from First Baptist Church are away at a mission camp in Talladega, AL. Our group is made up of nine students along with three of our adult youth leaders. We are in the same location as last year, yet our purpose in being here is a little different. This year, we are spending several hours a day working on a project in the community as part of the schedule for the mission camp.

Our project specifically is to do some work at the C.L. Salter Elementary School here in Talladega. Over our days away at camp, we will be painting their playground equipment, washing some windows, and just doing some general cleaning up to give the school a fresh look. I am so excited about how our work here at the school and our time under the teaching of the Word will touch all those who are taking part in the camp this year. Continue to lift us up while we are away, that God may use our efforts to be a blessing to others.

The theme for this year’s camp is FLIP. The key verse comes from part of Matthew 20:16 – “So the last will be first, and the first last.” All throughout the Bible, Christians are told to act in ways that seem so opposite sometimes: love your enemies; rejoice in suffering; if you lose your life, you find it. Later on in chapter 20 of Matthew, Jesus is found saying, “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.” That’s what we want to do through our time of working at the school – though the service we perform here at the school may seem unnoticed, that it would be used to create a great impact for the Lord and His Kingdom.

Living for His glory,
Bro. Ryan

Do You Know...

2009-05-31T08:00:00.001-04:00

In Samuel 1, what were the names of Samuel's mother and father?

Maybe you know the answer already in your head. Maybe you need to look to up. However you can come up with your answer, just make sure you are the first person to leave the correct answer in the comments section!

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-05-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

The planet Jupiter is larger than all of the other planets combined.

What's Your Personal SPF?

2009-05-27T08:00:00.002-04:00

It's May 27th...what else could it be but Sunscreen Day!

Make sure you lather up with enough sunscreen to make it through this day. I'm sure this is probably the one day in the year when the sun tries to bake us all.

And let this be a reminder for all those headed to camp with us this weekend: bring lots and lots of lotion with you.

Uh-oh...There Go the Lights

2009-05-26T17:00:00.001-04:00

Think back to the last time you lost electricity in your home after dark. It was probably due to a big electrical storm or to power company repair work. Regardless of why these circumstances came about, as a result, you were left completely in the pitch-black darkness of night. As you stumbled around trying to find your way, your hands groped for something that would bring some light into the room and let you see better. Then your hands find that flashlight that you keep around for occasions such as this. Now you are not lost in your own home and will be able to see fairly well even with the power out...as long your flashlight's batteries aren't dead!

Read Matthew 5:14-16; focus in on verse 16.
1) What is the purpose of a light? Is that true when it comes to the Christian life?
2) In John 8:12, Jesus calls Himself the Light of the World. In light of today's passage, what kind of responsibility does that give us?
3) Who is ultimately praised for good works done?
4) What kind of light is being shone on the Lord from your witness?

The kind of light that Jesus referred to in this Scripture from the Sermon on the Mount can be closely compared with a flashlight. Once you pick up a flashlight and turn the light on, you no longer care about looking at the flashlight itself. Now your gaze is fixed on whatever the light is shining on. The purpose of the light is worthless if your attention is only on the source and not on what the light illuminates. In the same way, Jesus is saying that the purpose of our "light" as witnesses for Him is so that the Father in Heaven may be glorified. Sure, He says that they will see our good works, but we shouldn't get any credit for it; all of that will go directly to God. If our lives are to be characterized by the type of "light" that Jesus speaks of here, then our only goal through the things we do is to bring honor, glory and attention to the One who created us. We are to be that light pointing the way to the Lord.

Rush of Fools

2009-05-25T10:30:00.001-04:00

This week, I've chosen our Song of the Week by no accident. It is "Undo" by Rush of Fools. Those headed to camp with our church will get to hear Rush of Fools live as they will be leading the worship for the camp services.

This song's chorus talks about the forgiveness that God and God alone offers to those who cry out for it. He is the only one who can wipe away our sins and make us usuable for Himself.

Hope you enjoy this and some other ROF songs in the playlist on the sidebar. To read the complete lyrics for "Undo," click here.

Do You Know...

2009-05-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

What part of a ship does James compare the tongue to in James 3?

Maybe you know the answer already in your head. Maybe you need to look to up. However you can come up with your answer, just make sure you are the first person to leave the correct answer in the comments section!

Great Expectations

2009-05-23T08:00:00.003-04:00

One of the jobs that I had during my time in seminary was an overnight loader/unloader at UPS. After a few months on the job, I was promoted to a part-time supervisor’s position on the same shift. Before I was officially given the status of a supervisor, I was informed that the expectations that the company had for supervisors were higher than those they had for the loaders and unloaders. I would have to wear a UPS polo and khakis every night, never be late, keep my face clean-shaven and my sideburns to a certain length, effectively manage a group of employees, and generally conduct myself in a way that the company could be proud of.

Read Ephesians 4:1. Find the key words in this verse.

Why does Paul call himself a “prisoner for the Lord”?
What is the calling that he is referring to at the end of the verse?
If someone wants to “walk worthy,” what would that look like? (Check out the next two verses for some hints.)
Can we really ever be worthy of salvation? What do you think this verse is really getting at?
What does this say about the connection between our lifestyle and our witness for Christ?

Just as UPS or any company has high requirements and expectations for those representing them, Christians have a tremendous responsibility to do all we can to live up to God's standards. Of course, we will never attain perfection this side of Heaven, but that should not keep us from striving for it always. Verses two and three give some details as to how our walk as believers should be characterized: humility, gentleness, patience, love, unified. Which of these comes most natural to you? Which should you focus on trying to improve in this coming week? It is not acceptable in God's eyes to walk worthy in some areas but not in others. Let your life completely show the love God has for all His children and for those who will call on Him.

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-05-22T08:00:00.002-04:00

Alaska is the state with the highest percentage of people that walk to work.

Pick Strawberries Day

2009-05-20T16:22:00.005-04:00

Yes, that's right. There's even a day designated for going out and picking a fruit. We actually have some strawberry plants in our back yard, so if you're getting a late start on celebrating this wonderful day, give me a call. We wouldn't want anyone to miss out on picking their very own strawberry.

Ravic Who?

2009-05-19T15:00:00.003-04:00

Stop me when I mention someone you know: Hans G. Klemm, Donald Yamamoto, Deborah Jones, Clyde Bishop, Maurice Parker...ring a bell by any chance? Actually, I'd be surprised if they did. These five people have one particular thing in common. They have been sworn in as ambassadors from the United States to countries throughout the world. The purpose for each person serving as an ambassador for our nation is to represent the United States of America to a specific country. They have our country's best interest in mind, and they do all they can to project a positive image of us to others in the world.

It is in this same line of thinking that Paul said in 2 Corinthians 5:20, "Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleasding throgh us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God." Believers have been entrusted with the incredible responsibility of representing the One who sent them. Much like ambassadors, we are living in a world that is not our real home; rather, our final home is in Heaven. We need to spread the message of Christ in our own community and in the relationships we've been given. Just as you may not have known about who those names were in the beginning, no one may recognize you as any great preacher or missionary. But God knows the work and service that you give to Him through your life. We are the ones who are responsible to take the message "be reconciled to God" to those who are in need of a Savior.

Chris Sligh

2009-05-18T21:15:00.005-04:00

The Song of the Week (coming out later than I wanted) is from former American Idol contestant Chris Sligh. The song is entitled "Empty Me" and can be found down in the playlist. Unforturnately, I could not find other songs from this particular artist that I wanted to also include with the Song of the Week.

The second half of Ephesians 5:18 reads something like this: "be filled with the Spirit." The lyrics in Sligh's song point out that you cannot be filled up with one thing if you are filled with something else. If we are to be filled with the Holy Spirit as Paul encourages us to be, then we must make sure that we are emptied inside and ready to be filled. Usually what is keeping us from the filling of the Spirit is that we are filled up with ourselves.

The last line of the chorus is a great prayer for all those who are looking for guidance and direction in the Lord's plan for them: "Empty me of me so I can be filled with You."

Do You Know...

2009-05-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

In Jonah 1, what was the name of the city where Jonah was headed to try to escape from God?

Maybe you know the answer already in your head. Maybe you need to look to up. However you can come up with your answer, just make sure you are the first person to leave the correct answer in the comments section!

Odd Facts Known By Few

2009-05-15T13:00:00.002-04:00

Polar bears are all left-handed.

Anyone Seen a Little Green Man?

2009-05-13T08:00:00.003-04:00

Some people think they have. Today is widely celebrated in Ireland as Leprechaun Day, but that doesn't mean that we can't recognize it here in America as well. How you choose to celebrate it is entirely up to you. My advice would be to see if you can track down a leprechaun, for if you do, you will win their pot of gold.

You may want to head to Alabama if you're desperate to find a pot of gold. This news story below shows exactly why Mobile may be the perfect spot for a leprechaun to turn up: there's people there who believe that it's already happened.

(I love the reactions from the two news anchors in the studio. They make the video so much better!)