According to pewforum.org. a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world, 77% of adults in West Virginians believe in God. And yet only 64% of those ask believed that religion was important in one’s life. Only 46% believed that attending services was important. Notice the downward trend? It continues when ask the question of whether or not there is an absolute right and wrong only 43% of West Virginians thought that was the case. The frequency of participation in prayer, scripture study or religious education groups among adults in West Virginia, only 35% participate once a week.
As publisher of both a faith based and secular website, I believe I’ll be held accountable for every single word published on my websites. While truth concerns me greatly, it matters to less than half of the adults in our state when 57% believe that there isn’t an absolute truth.
So my question for the readers to ponder and perhaps weigh in on is this: “If 3/4 of the State believe in God, why is there only 1/3 attending church? It bothers me a great deal and I think about it most every day. I have friends and family who profess Christian faith, and yet never attend church. A friend posted a meme yesterday that said “You don’t go to God’s house on earth, yet you expect to live in His mansion when you die.” Do ya really? And why would that be so?
If your children never ever darkened your door step, never spoke to you, or showed any gratitude at all for what you’ve done, and you’ve done a lot! Would would will them everything you have? Some might say yes, because their blood. But do you understand what being ‘blood” beans with the Lord Jesus.
It’s not about being given birth to. Which I can attest is a painful event and certainly makes a child “blood.” But it’s about giving His life for ours on the cross. Dying an excruciating death of railroad spike size nails driven in the hands and feet, mockery and abuse as He hung on the cross, and saying “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do,” in His final breaths. And after that, rising again in victory to show us that He has the power over death and the power to raise us again too. And when He does, for those who have professed Him as Savior, they’ll live in that city four square, in those mansions that He has prepared. I get so excited when I think of that time. But then I get so concerned about the people I care about not being there with me.
When you look at the statistics, where are you?
The truth of the matter is, those statistics mean nothing in the scope of eternity to us individually. As a Nation and how God deals with us now, yes. But when all is said and done you alone will stand before God’s throne and answer for how you’ve lived your life. You will have no defense unless you’re truly a child of God.
For clarity I will say that attending church doesn’t make you a Christian. Going to church is what you do to build your relationship with the Lord and have peace in your heart about where you’ll be in eternity. Salvation comes from believing that God is Who He says He is and His Son did what He said He did. It’s believing that the Bible is the inerrant word of God. Every word is truth. We may not understand it cover to cover, but it makes it no less the truth. It makes you accountable whether or not you read it.
That’s a great deal to fathom if you have not been raised in church. it’s why you need to start from where you are and find you a good, bible preaching church and don’t let go until Jesus comes to get you.
Got questions? Please ask. If I don’t have the answer, I’ll find the answer!
I am one who does shy away from unnecessary confrontation, (unnecessary is a relative term dependent on my mood of course) but I am not one to shy away from controversy and differing opinions, especially when it is something that I feel convicted over. My absence over the last week from the Jesus Chick site, FGGAM.org and social media has been because of a busy life of grand parenting, parenting, working, ministering and exhaustion. I’m back on today because I felt the need speak out on the current state of our country, state and county. All of which, I am a proud card carrying member. I love America. Not what she has become because of idiot, evil, spineless politicians. I love the State of West Virginia, not the fact that we are giving away money that could be used for programs all across our state rather than paying people to take a vaccine. That’s beyond ridiculous. I love living in Calhoun County, no other place I’d rather be, however, it ain’t utopia. This is where God called me to minister. I minister to the young, old and in between because I am somewhere in between. I look for opportunities to help people and encourage people, but I am often met with more discouragement in return. Which is where I’ve been of late.
This is is where controversy rears it’s ugly head.
I adore my grandchildren. And they in kind adore me. There is no controversy there. I love the time that I get to spend with them, but I don’t want to have spend my time teaching them because they’ve been quarantined. I might not mind so much if it didn’t bring out the fact that the school system is once again failing my grandchildren and calling it their fault. As I helped one grandchild on Monday and Tuesday do a full days schoolwork in 20 minutes, I questioned why there wasn’t more. They didn’t know. But they were glad they were done. And why wouldn’t they have been? They’re children. Homework isn’t fun. This is America, this is West Virginia, This is Calhoun county. We’re raising a country of low expectations, and I’m calling the “educators” out. You are funded by my tax dollars. You consistently scream you are underpaid and under appreciated. I speak collectively of course. Don’t bring that topic up to me without an answer as to why my grandchild can do what you supposedly teach them in 6 hours in 20 minutes.
Now that that controversial topic is laid on the table. Let’s talk about the vaccine. For which I’ve had. But I by no means think that it is my responsibility to tell anyone that they too should have it. Nobody in the medical field can guarantee the safety of the recipient. But I’ll just add this, many of the same people who are delegating that you have to put a vaccine in your body to keep them safe, are the same pro-abortion people that say they have the right to kill a child inside their body who is alive and has the potential to be a wonderful person. Don’t bring up that topic unless you can look me in the eye and say a child’s life isn’t important.
Now for my favorite side of the aforementioned topics: What sayeth the Lord? And why did He make this my business as the Jesus Chick?
When it comes to wisdom, God used Solomon to write the books of wisdom. Not because Solomon himself was wise, but because he was humble, God made him to be wise. I myself am humble… but God doesn’t trust me with great earthly wisdom, He knows I’d blow stuff up. And then I’d feel bad about it. Because that’s who I am. But not the world of today. No…. We kill people, those in Afghanistan and those in the womb without regret or apology. And through Solomon God addressed wisdom and stupidity.
Don’t Get Mad too Fast, take it Slow
Ecclesiastes 7:9-23 KJVS
[9] Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools. [10] Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this.
The subtitle is the Bible according to Shari. But it’s how I broke down verses nine and 10 to my understanding. There is no need to look back because every day is a new day and every day most of us are doing the best we can. Except the stupid people. Those for which were put into office by people with poor judgement. But regardless, we’ve got to move forward. Anger seldom creates anything but division. But wisdom spoken with the foundation of truth without an agenda could fix a multitude of sins from the past days. How we handled Afghanistan, the Vaccine, and the School System could be overcome by the words, “I made a mistake” by some adults acting like children, and some adults who need imprisoned.
Don’t Get too Big for Your Britches
[11] Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun. [12] For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it. [13] Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which he hath made crooked? [14] In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him.
There is nothing in this world that God can’t make, or make over. But because of mans arrogance and vanity God allows us to make our bed and lie in it. And sometimes, many of us have to lie in a bed made by somebody else. Life is full of struggles for me. Some that I created and some that others created. But God allows me to calm and center myself on the fact that He has the final say. And that the arrogance of this world will one day meet the King of Control. Glory!
Don’t Assume God’s Children are Without Issues
[15] All things have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a just man that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man that prolongeth his life in his wickedness. [16] Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise: why shouldest thou destroy thyself? [17] Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time? [18] It is good that thou shouldest take hold of this; yea, also from this withdraw not thine hand: for he that feareth God shall come forth of them all. [19] Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city. [20] For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not. [21] Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee: [22] For oftentimes also thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself likewise hast cursed others. [23] All this have I proved by wisdom: I said, I will be wise; but it was far from me.
Solomon didn’t give those warnings to waste his breath. Solomon was the wisest of the wise and he had 1000 women in his life. If the wisest of the wise was dumb enough to do that, surely we are far from above mistakes. I’m not going to throw rocks at Joe Biden. I won’t say I wouldn’t like to. I’m not going to throw rocks at the Governor of the State of West Virginia, I might hit Baby Dog. I’m not going to throw rocks at the Calhoun County Board of Education, although I could because they’re a mile from my house. But I am not going to be silent as stupidity reigns. God gave me a mouth and He gave me a platform. And He gave me the passion to take care of my people and defend the gifts I’ve been given. I pray you too will be vocal and defend the innocent that is under attack both far and near to our hearts. Hold leadership accountable. It’s biblical.
I love to hear the stories of my families faith. Some of it I grew up with, but was unsaved and ignorant to its meaning in my life, and much of it took place before there was me, or I was too young to understand at all. And such was the story of my Dad, Gene Paul Hardway, as told to me by my cousin Jerry Hughes. Jerry, fortunately for me, not only has great faith, but he has a great memory of spiritual matters with family. I could listen to o him for hours because now, it has meaning. Great meaning.
The story was told (as well as I recall) that at an old time revival in the hills of Braxton County, West Virginia my Dad stood to testify and the Holy Spirit took charge. His testimony went from testifying to preaching, and as he preached on the old wooden platform, he danced. My Dad’s dancing was a cross between a clogging style and a soft shoe. Not showy, just softly. I witnessed him do that many, many times as a child and as an adult. He loved to dance. But this night he danced in the Spirit. Jerry said that Dad apologized to the congregation for the dancing, to which they responded for it to continue as long as he liked because they too knew that the Spirit had a hold of my dad. .
It was such a sweet story.You’d have understand my Dad’s demeanor to appreciate the story. He was the most kind hearted, gentle man I ever knew. He never cared if he had the latest and the greatest. He knew and lived apostle Paul’s verse in Philippians 4:11 KJV, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” A matter I’ve struggled with.
So on this Father’s Day weekend, in honor of my earthly Father who is now with my Heavenly Father I share this story and these thoughts on Psalm 149.
Don’t be Shocked
PSALM 149 [1] Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. [2] Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.
My heritage (and yours) goes back much farther than that time in the hills of West Virginia when my Dad danced. I have to wonder if Adam didn’t dance in the garden. It doesn’t say he did, but I’d imagine it to be the case. What was the music? Maybe the song birds. Only God knows. But since then, dancing has got a bad rap. Literally. I really don’t understand why unless Matthew 11: 15-19 is an indication.
[15] He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. [16] But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, [17] And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. [18] For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil. [19] The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
Religion! Always a sour note in life’s song. Far be it from any of the religious tribe to dance. They are far too “dignified” (aka dead) for that. Regardless of what those in the Spirit do, the dead will make light or evil of it. They did in Jesus’ day, and they do in ours. Judgement abounds in the church setting.
Do I think we should dance in the church. No. It’s not that I would mind if someone did (so long it was of the Spirit’s leading) But the problem is there are always those who find the need for showmanship. And while my Dad was of a meek and gentle spirit, not everyone is. But from Christ’s own words he acknowledged the deadening of the religious and it was not good.
Dancing is only mentioned 37 times in scripture both old and new. So from that I think we can surmise that it was not be be a major part of worship. But we also should not be shocked if it happens!
Don’t be Stupid
PSALM 149 [3] Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. [4] For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. [5] Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds.
The song of salvation! Of what joy those words bring to my heart. I understand my Dad’s dance. I understand it so well I got me some clogging shoes a few months ago. I hope to learn how to clog just for the fun of it. (Not in worship… although I might praise Him while I dance,) especially if I don’t collapse from a heart attack! But what struck me as pertinent to our blog today from this verse is the fact that David said God would beautify the meek. What my Dad did in that little country church was a beautiful thing. He was overcome by the Spirit with gladness in his heart for the salvation Christ had afforded him. Like me, my Dad was in his 30’s when he accepted Christ as his Savior. There was a lot of water (and sin) under our bridges. We knew what God had saved us from and we are grateful! I believe it was because of Dad’s “meekness” that God was glorified in that moment. He wasn’t behaving out of control (stupidly). He was in the perfect control of the Spirit of God.
Don’t be Silenced
PSALM 149 [6] Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand; [7] To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people; [8] To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; [9] To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the Lord.
It’s an honor to be a mouthpiece of the Lord. I was born for that! My Dad used to call me Charlie because of a character played by Bernadette Peters, who was a loud mouthed woman on a sitcom back in the day. For some reason, I reminded Dad of her. Go figure! But Dad may have seen in me (at least I hope) the potential that Christ would get a hold of this mouth and use it for His glory.
On this Father’s Day weekend, I’m so proud to be the daughter of the meek Gene Paul Hardway. But, I’m even prouder to be the child of the King along with my earthly Father. I hope you enjoyed this memory as much as I did, and I pray you have a blessed Father’s Day!
I have read and written from the book of Nehemiah multitudes of times. It’s a book of encouragement from the standpoint of the defense and rebuilding of a nation. If we were truly a Biblical nation, this would be a reading assignment for every American. But we are not. Like Nehemiah and Israel our Nation is under duress and in great danger, and yet we’re Christmas shopping, singing carols in our cars and pretending as if life outside our home is normal. Until you realize it’s not. But then we feel overwhelmed and wonder what to do next.
I called upon folks Monday to contact their Senators. I’m doing it again. Like Nehemiah take your place on the wall and tell the world we will not be silenced. We want a nation we can have pride in and a governmental system that we can trust. And that won’t happen until the people tell the leaders. You’re it. You are the people. We cannot wait for someone else to do it for us.
Nehemiah 4:11-15 KJVS
Like Israel, we’re under attack from within
[11] And our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, till we come in the midst among them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease.
We’ve been warned by those who honestly report the news*
[12] And it came to pass, that when the Jews which dwelt by them came, they said unto us ten times, From all places whence ye shall return unto us they will be upon you.
It’s Families who will cause the defense of America, else it won’t happen
[13] Therefore set I in the lower places behind the wall, and on the higher places, I even set the people after their families with their swords, their spears, and their bows.
One Prophet started it all, the church has got to stand up
[14] And I looked, and rose up, and said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, Be not ye afraid of them: remember the Lord, which is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses.
Please, get to work and write or call your elected officials and tell them you know the truth of the attack against our Nation
[15] And it came to pass, when our enemies heard that it was known unto us, and God had brought their counsel to nought, that we returned all of us to the wall, every one unto his work.
Copy it, or write your own. But what ever you do, do with passion and prayer!
Dear Senators Capito and Manchin:
As a proud citizen of West Virginia, and a prouder citizen of Heaven (Ephesians 2:6) it has broken my heart to see the sad state of affairs of the United States. And while I realize you are but 2 of the many representatives of our nation, you represent the people of the great state of West Virginia who made their voice clear when they re-elected President Trump. Yes, I believe, and I figure you know, that the election was a farce and nothing short of tyranny on the side of the National Democratic Party. If you allow this to go unchecked and unanswered for you are not worthy of the calling you have received as Senator. I don’t say that lightly. The Bible tells me to respect those in authority and I take scripture serious. That word also goes for you.
I know I’m not alone when I voice my concern for the system of rightful election that has always had issues but is now on the edge of extinction. If you do not stand up for what’s right you can guarantee the next election will be far worse and less participated in and the blame will lie with you and all others in Washington who haven’t bothered to straighten their back bones, remove their yellow stripes and stand up for the rights of their people.
We are at a crossroads. You either defend us, or you you stand before God and Nation answering for your sins. And yes, it’s a sin to know to do right and not do it. James 4:17 KJV says “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” Case closed.
So, I implore you to do what we have elected you to do. Defend us. And stand on the principles of the Christian faith you profess. There is no election fraud acceptable. Please join the Eighteen states who have joined a Texas lawsuit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton against the states of Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Georgia.
We need to rebuild our country, and it starts by rebuilding faith in the officials we elected.
For the most part, the quarantine hasn’t effected me too much. I still work, with the water system being an “essential” part of our community. So I’m out and about. I go the store for myself and my mother, and I feed and water the chickens. I was the broadcaster of our Sunday service so I was under the spout where the glory comes out. But from my mother’s stand point, I realize the world is not so blessed.
I imagined a true quarantine being much like that of the leper’s in biblical days. Luke 17 has the story of 10 very famous men of quarantine that I thought were a good illustration for a message on the Statewide day of Prayer. I personally don’t know much about our Governor Jim Justice, but I must say that I was very touched as he announced the Day of Prayer. It seemed heart felt as he (under comment persecution) said that we needed to spend the day lifting our precious people to the Lord. Glory! I say! It may not seem like much to the world, but us of faith know that prayer can be a game changer!
The Day of Prayer
Luke 17:11-17 KJVS
[11] And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. [12] And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
THEY WERE QUARANTINED
It was a desperate time for them. Much like we are experiencing now. There was no cure and there was no hope without God’s intervention. These men could not experience family, nor could they experience love and hope. They were social outcasts and loudly humiliated having to yell to those who walked near them “unclean, unclean!” So they’d know not to be socialized with. How sad. But today, those who wish to stay well are the ones having to distance themselves from others. And the disease is silent.
The Day of Proclamation
THEY WERE NOT QUIET
[13] And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. [14] And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
Just like now! Today we need to cry as the lepers did, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” Those who are saying separate church and state obviously have no concept of hopelessness. Their hope is in this world which is nuts! There is no hope outside of the Lord’s intervention in this day we are in. The fact that our Governor (who personally doesn’t strike me as a man of faith, and that’s me being judgey in all honesty) gives me great hope! Because I don’t think that decision came easy for him. He knew there would be ramifications from a liberal thinking society who wants to throw God under the bus at every opportunity, forgetting that He is the only one with a license to drive.
Today is our opportunity to cry out to the Lord for healing! It’s not a time to be quiet. It’s also not a time to doubt. Before they had experienced the healing, Christ’s order was for them to go tell the priests they were healed. Hmmmm. Should that not tell us something. We’ve got to have faith going into this that God will do what He says!
2 Chronicles 7:14 KJVS
[14] If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
He’ll heal our land! But it takes a humbleness to acknowledge that God is God! And that He will do what He says if we do what we are asked to do.
The Day of Promise
ONE WAS QUICK TO PRAISE, NINE WERE QUICK TO FORGET
[15] And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, [16] And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. [17] And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?
The fact that scripture mentions that the one who turned back to praise God was a Samaritan, makes me wonder if the nine were not Jews? It also makes me think of our own religious tribes who will say “these people only cry to God because they are desperate, not because they know Him” which is probably true. But it still didn’t stop God from healing them. And it caused the Samaritan to acknowledge that Christ was God. And the religious went on and enjoyed their healing. God’s not in religion, He’s in relationships. He wants us to spend time getting to know Him, to turn back! Just as it said in 2 Chronicles. Then we receive the promise.
President Trump’s Easter wish. I heard and seen the mocking of the President’s desire for the country to be back to normal by Easter. Well, I bet their were mockers of the lepers to, who cried out to God. Well… who’s laughing now?
That’s going to be a part of my prayer today! “Lord heal our land, and please do it by Easter!”
Will He? I don’t know, I’m not God. But I know Him and I know He can. And I want Him to shut that liberal, Devil servin’ crowd up! I want Easter Sunrise services across our country to have new life and great praise!
Amen!
Where ever you are, PRAY! PROCLAIM OUR GOD AND HIS PROMISES
“The BRANCH” is a Bible Lesson that I composed for the teens at Victory Baptist Church. There are questions within the lesson that, although it was written for teens, I consider them young adults and treat them as such. Feel free to read and enjoy or use it for your ministry if you so desire.
Spring branches are a visible reminder of the new life we celebrated on Easter Sunday. The same God that the Jews longed to meet in the Old Testament, but refused to submit to in the New Testament was the BRANCH. Listed in scripture in all capital letters, which for me is like God shouting His name! It makes me want to know more about why it was listed that way, and what information God wants me to know.
Zechariah 6:12
12 And
speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The Branch; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the
temple of the Lord:
The BRANCH is what caught my attention,
but the context of the scripture begins in verse 9:
9 And the word of
the Lord came
unto me, saying,10 Take of them of the
captivity, even of Heldai, of Tobijah, and of Jedaiah, which are come from
Babylon, and come thou the same day, and go into the house of Josiah the son of
Zephaniah;11 Then take silver and
gold, and make crowns, and set them upon the head of Joshua the son of
Josedech, the high priest;12 And speak unto him,
saying, Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The Branch; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the
temple of the Lord:
Joshua. A name we’re
very familiar with, and a named that is translated from Hebrew Joshua to the
English, Jesus. Joshua is also the common alternative form of Yeshua.
So Zechariah is being
told by God to tell Joshua the Priest that he is a figure of the one to come.
Jesus, the Messiah, now being referred to as “The BRANCH.” And just like the
branches of this season come to life, The BRANCH was going to be born (come to
life) in Bethlehem, but raised in Nazareth. And just like the spring branches
that we have in view now, Jesus was going to spring forth, full of life and
glory for God.
There are two roles
of Christ that we’re going to talk about by unpacking the scripture references
in Zechariah and those two roles are Priest and King.
We too are referred
to as priests and kings in Revelation 1:5-6
Revelation 1:5-6
5 And from
Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead,
and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us
from our sins in his own blood,
6 And hath
made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion
for ever and ever. Amen.
So how does it make
you feel to know you are considered a priest or king?
Is that a position
you’re comfortable with now, or is it something that you think you’re going to
grow into? At what age, or state of mind do you suppose you’ll arrive there?
Jesus grew up just
like kids of today. He may not have had an iPhone, but He had family, friends,
siblings, and all the common things of that day, and things that we’re used to
having as a family unit.
When you think of
growing up in biblical times, what do you think the cultural differences and
likenesses of that day were in comparison to ours?
What would teens have
done for fun?
What would church services
have been like for teens?
The scripture says
that Jesus was going to grow up out of that place, the place called Nazareth.
That was His place. Nazareth or Netzer, means “The branch from a multitude of
plants that grew there.” Another branch in our story
Our place is where we
live now. Far from a kingdom view. But so was Nazareth during that day. It was
said to be an “insignificant village.” Even the religious of the day said “can
anything good come out of Nazareth?”
Have you ever had
that feeling about our small town?
While Nazareth wasn’t
a big city of that day, it’s now the largest Arab city in the country of
Israel. And clearly something Amazing did come from the Nazareth. So why can’t
God do something amazing here?
Pastor John Powell of
Wadsworth, Ohio was born and raised in Calhoun County, West Virginia. But like
many of his era who were born in the 30’s, he left our area to find work. But
before that he had a back story. He had a Nazareth village.
When he was just a
few months old he got pneumonia and his mother had no money to buy medicine, so
she went to her father to borrow it. But instead she had to give John to him at
the age of 5 in exchange for the medicine. He was used for child labor and
treated very poorly. But even in that state he rose above others as an athlete
and in popularity. God called him into the ministry while in Akron, Ohio and it
was there that he graduated Bible College and became a man of great means
through investments. But the most important thing to know about John Powell was
that he reached thousands for Christ and was known for his generosity and
kindness all over the world.
The man from Calhoun
County.
Jesus grew up in
Nazareth and didn’t travel very far in the lifetime of His ministry. One study
said about 90-120 miles. In this day and age, that’s not many. But we have to consider
His travels were by foot. But look at the impact He made in those 100 miles.
What’s the furthest
you’ve traveled, and where do you desire to go?
Jesus’ time on earth
was spent preaching the Kingdom, and building a temple not made of hands. What
temple has Jesus built?
When Jesus prophesied
of His resurrection He said in three days I’ll rebuild the temple, which made
the religious of the day angry because they thought He spoke of a building.
Which was not so.
We too are considered
a temple, how?
There are three ways
to build the temple we’re in charge of building
We listen (preaching
and teaching)
We learn – (Study to
show ourselves approved)
We live (Sharing the
word of God)
That is how we build
the temple, ours and the body of Christ.
It’s the same thing
that Christ did as a young person. When Christ disappeared from His parents and
was found three days later it says in Luke 2:46
And it came to pass,
that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of
doctors, both hearing them, and asking questions.
That’s how we grow in
the Lord, we ask questions. If we want to grow and feel worthy of our royal
positions of priests and kings, we need to do what Jesus did.
If a child never ate
physically they would die. They’d also die of boredom if they ate the same
thing over and over again. The same is true of our spiritual lives.
Eat. Work! Because as
we grow we also need to build.
The new temple that
Christ said He was going to build in three days wasn’t what they expected or
wanted. They wanted it on this earth. That was not the plan. They wanted the
royalty to be here. That was not the plan either. And that’s why it’s hard for
us to comprehend that we are priests and kings. Because we live in red neck
country. Not Jerusalem.
Just as Joshua was
active in the building of the temple, Jesus was going to be the Master Builder
of the Spiritual Temple that we call the church today.
Zechariah 6
13 Even he (The
BRANCH) shall build the temple of the Lord; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his
throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace
shall be between them both.
All
for the Glory of God.
So
what are the responsibilities of priests and kings?
I
view it as one governs and the other guides.
So,
what do we govern, and what do we guide on this earth.
1
Corinthians 12:27-28
27 Now ye are the body
of Christ, and members in particular.28 And God
hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly
teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments,
diversities of tongues.
Not everyone is a
prophet, teacher, etc. but everyone has a purpose. And every one of us are a
part of the body of Christ if we’re saved. So we are overseeing the business of
the Lord until His return. We are in charge of guiding others. We truly are a
part of the Royal Family. And not the one in England, but the one in Heaven.
Zechariah 6
14 And the crowns shall
be to Helem, and to Tobijah, and to Jedaiah, and to Hen the son of Zephaniah,
for a memorial in the temple of the Lord.15 And they that are far
off shall come and build in the temple of the Lord, and ye shall know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me unto you. And this shall come to pass,
if ye will diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God.
There were earthly examples like Adam
and Joshua that God put on earth as examples of Christ. We are to be the
examples of the Lord set before the generation we’re now a part of. We are the priests and kings of this
generation, even if they don’t know it, or want it.
When someone is born into a royal
family, only the head of that royal family can kick them out. God’s the head of
this family, and He says that none shall be lost. (John 18:19)
That the saying might be fulfilled, which
he spake, Of them which thou gavest me have I lost none.
So whether the world likes it or not, we
are the royal family. The BRANCH’S government. Not a branch of the government.
We will have our day of sitting with the royal family in person, but today
we’re ambassadors in this foreign land.
So the question is, to who, where and
how are you an ambassador? Pray and seek the Lord’s will for the land the Lord
wants you to cover. And don’t ever think that He can’t take a kid from Calhoun
County, and do something amazing for the Kingdom. Because you are children of
the King.
Don’t forget …
Isaiah 62:3
Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy
God.
Online casinos like login joker123 are no longer just about individual gaming sessions and solitary play. In recent years, the social aspect of online gambling has grown significantly, making virtual casinos more interactive and community-driven. Players can now connect, compete, and collaborate in ways that were once reserved for physical casinos. From live chats and multiplayer games to tournaments and communities, online casinos have become vibrant social spaces where players experience a sense of connection and camaraderie.
In this article, we will explore the various social features in online casinos that are reshaping the gambling landscape, making it more engaging and community-oriented.
1. Chat Rooms: Connecting Players in Real Time
One of the most immediate ways players connect in online casinos is through chat rooms. These virtual spaces allow gamblers to communicate with each other in real-time, turning what was once a solitary experience into a communal one.
Socializing While Playing
Chat rooms are available in many different types of games, from live dealer experiences to slots. Players can share tips, strategies, or simply engage in casual conversation. In games like live poker or blackjack, chat rooms allow players to talk to one another, making the game feel more like a social gathering than a digital pastime.
Live Dealer Interaction
For players who enjoy the human element of gambling, live dealer games take social interaction to the next level. Players not only get to chat with each other but can also interact directly with the dealer. This interaction brings the experience closer to that of a land-based casino, providing players with the sense that they are part of a larger gaming community.
Building Relationships
While the primary purpose of chat rooms is to enhance the gaming experience, they also serve as a way for players to form relationships. Longtime players often encounter familiar faces in these virtual spaces, allowing them to develop friendships that extend beyond the game. This adds an additional layer of enjoyment, as players become part of an online casino’s social fabric.
2. Tournaments: Fostering Competition and Community
Tournaments have become one of the most exciting social features in online casinos, bringing players together to compete for prizes, recognition, and community involvement. The competitive nature of tournaments not only adds excitement but also helps create a sense of belonging among players.
Types of Tournaments
Online casinos host a wide variety of tournaments, including poker, slots, and blackjack competitions. These events typically involve a large number of players competing against each other, with leaderboards tracking performance in real-time. Whether it’s a weekly slot tournament or a high-stakes poker event, tournaments attract players from around the world, fostering both competition and connection.
Real-Time Competition
During tournaments, players often engage in real-time chat, discussing their progress, sharing tips, and sometimes even engaging in friendly banter. This adds a social dimension to the competition, allowing players to experience the thrill of victory or the frustration of a close loss alongside others who are going through the same emotions.
Shared Achievements
Winning or even placing in a tournament is not just a personal achievement—it’s a social one. Many online casinos publish tournament results on their leaderboards, where the top players are recognized for their skills. For players, seeing their name on a leaderboard or receiving praise from peers adds an extra layer of pride, creating a sense of community recognition and respect.
3. Multiplayer Games: Collaborative and Competitive Play
Multiplayer games are another way that online casinos have evolved to offer more social experiences. Unlike single-player games, multiplayer options bring players together to collaborate or compete in real-time, often resulting in more dynamic gameplay and social engagement.
Team-Based Games
Some online casinos have introduced team-based games where players collaborate to achieve a common goal, adding a cooperative element to gambling. Whether it’s working together in poker tournaments or participating in special team-based events, these games encourage communication, strategy, and shared success, fostering a sense of unity among players.
Competing with Friends
In multiplayer games like poker or baccarat, players can invite their friends to join the table, making it a social experience. Being able to compete directly against friends or other players in real-time not only adds excitement but also strengthens the bonds formed through the game.
4. Casino Communities: Clubs, Forums, and Loyalty Programs
Beyond individual games, many online casinos have built entire communities through player clubs, forums, and loyalty programs. These platforms allow players to engage with the casino and each other in more meaningful ways, beyond the gaming floor.
Player Clubs and VIP Communities
Player clubs are exclusive communities within online casinos that reward loyalty with special perks, including invitations to private tournaments or access to high-stakes games. Players who belong to these clubs often form tight-knit groups, where they exchange tips, discuss strategies, and celebrate each other’s wins.
Forums and Social Platforms
Some online casinos also host forums or social platforms where players can discuss various topics related to gaming, share their experiences, and seek advice from others. These forums create a space for players to connect outside of active gaming sessions, fostering a sense of community even when they’re not playing.
Social Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs are often gamified, encouraging players to level up and earn rewards based on their activity. These programs sometimes include social aspects, such as leaderboards or point-sharing with friends, turning loyalty rewards into a communal experience.
5. Live Dealer Games: A Human Connection
Live dealer games have become one of the most popular forms of online gambling, offering players the chance to interact with real dealers in real-time. These games, which include blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, replicate the feel of a land-based casino, providing a more immersive and social experience.
Engaging with Dealers
Players can communicate directly with the dealer via chat, asking questions or simply engaging in casual conversation. This human element adds a personal touch that traditional online casino games lack, making the experience more interactive and enjoyable.
Shared Experiences with Other Players
In live dealer games, players can also chat with each other, sharing their thoughts on the game or discussing strategies. This interaction adds an extra layer of excitement, as players collectively celebrate wins or commiserate over losses, creating a shared experience that enhances the social aspect of the game.
6. The Rise of Social Casino Games
For players who enjoy the social aspect of casino gaming without the need for real-money stakes, social casino games have become a popular option. These games, often available on platforms like Facebook or mobile apps, allow players to enjoy traditional casino games in a more casual and community-oriented environment.
Playing with Friends
In social casino games, players can connect with friends, share their progress, and even send each other gifts or bonuses. While there’s no real money involved, the social aspect is often the main draw, as players compete for virtual currency, bragging rights, and leaderboard positions.
In-Game Chat and Collaboration
Like traditional online casino games, social casino platforms often feature in-game chat, allowing players to interact with one another while they play. This turns the experience into a shared event, as players collaborate on strategies, share in-game achievements, and celebrate their successes together.
Conclusion
The social side of online casinos has transformed the way people experience online gambling. Whether through real-time chats, multiplayer games, or community features like tournaments and loyalty programs, online casinos have become vibrant social environments where players can connect, compete, and share experiences. As technology continues to evolve, the social aspect of online gambling will likely become even more prominent, offering players deeper engagement and a greater sense of community.
On April 17, 1952, President Harry Truman signed a bill proclaiming the National Day of Prayer into law in the United States. President Reagan amended the law in 1988, designating the first Thursday of May each year as the National Day of Prayer, and so we gathered today in front of our local government offices to pray for our nation.
As I stood there on the courthouse steps and listened to each Pastor take his turn in prayer for our military, law enforcement, EMS and Fire Departments, Schools, Students and Staff, Leaders all over the land and our community as a whole, my heart was humbled and broken. Those in attendance were few in number, but faithful. I’ve seen most of them each year I’ve attended. There were a few that showed up for the lunch cooked by the Hospital Chaplin Association and others that were there in support of the event, but what I observed summed up the state of our Nation.
The Pastors
They were doing their best to serve the community but it was a struggle. The struggle was actually with the hot dog grill that wasn’t cooperating. Try as they might, they couldn’t get it to catch fire. Pastors all across America have the same problem with their churches. People want canned regulated sermons that are controlled with a temperature gauge, not too hot and not too cold.
Revelation 3:15-16
I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.
The People
They were few in number, but faithful. Much like the churches on Sunday morning, while Sunday night and Wednesday night services have all but gone by the way side in most churches. People who wonder why our country is in such a state of disrepair need not look at the Whitehouse, but rather to the church house. People have no concern for the wellbeing of the security of the souls of their family, yet they expect the nation’s leaders to be concerned for the wellbeing of their security of people they don’t even know. People who don’t bother to vote, or if they do they don’t vote with a conscience of God, but expect the leaders to have that conscience. That’s not how it works…
Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.
The Purpose
The Lord was scantly represented today, but there’s still a few of us left. And I feel honored to have been among them, I believe wholeheartedly that it is why God has had mercy on our Nation as long as He has. But that mercy will end one day.
Of just the few people that was there I also seen a representation of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
He is the Healer (two cured of cancer, one of a heart condition, that I knew of, there were likely others)
He is Comforter (a widow who lives alone and often struggles, but continues to find comfort in her Savior.
He is Father (several prodigals that returned home in attendance)
He is Provider (Nobody there was starving, even without the hotdogs at times)
He is Spirit (On the steps of a Government that welcomes Him not, His Spirit can be felt)
He is Faithful (The world may not show up for Him, but He shows up for us in so many ways)
2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
Continue on faithful servants, men and women of God! May our circles be Unbroken…
***
This blog is in it’s 8th year. Hosted on godaddy.com for the past five. Expenses incurred for the operation of this site are without complaint and with gratitude for the opportunity. If the Lord would impress you to give to help cover some recent technology issues, I’d be grateful. I’ve not been in the world’s workforce for 3 years and for that I glorify God. It’s given me the opportunity to not only write and work on music, but minister to nursing home patients, volunteer in the Christian School teaching art and help other ministries with marketing. All of which require technology, communication, time and gasoline. Again it’s without complainT… but just in case you have a desire to help, or have “extra money” 🙂 Know that I would be eternally grateful.
