shrmp volunteer devotions

7/31/2019 SHRMP Volunteer Devotions

1/43

June 3, 2012

Prayer for Summer Ministries Workers

For this reason I kneel before the Father,

from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name.

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you

with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,

may have power, together with all the Lords holy people,

to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,

and to know this love that surpasses knowledge

that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,

according to his power that is at work within us,

to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations,

for ever and ever! Amen.

Ephesians 3: 14-21

Today, use this scripture as a prayer for every person taking part in summer ministry.

Return to it as often as the Lord leads.

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2/43

June 4, 2012

Mark 1:35; Mark 9:29; Mark 14:32, 35, 38

Pray First

A pastor once said, The women in our church wake up in the morning with both feet

running before they hit the floor. His statement wasnt a criticism but merely an

observation. Most of these women had large families to care for so living life at a run wasoften a necessity.

Do you wake up with a mind already filled with the days seemingly impossible

schedule? In todays society, most of us do. According to a survey conducted by the

American Psychological Association; on a scale of 10, the average Americans stress levelactually dropped from 6.2 to 5.2 in 2011. That sounds like good news until we look at the

reason cited for this drop: "Americans have adapted to living a life of stress."

In the months ahead, we will be entering a time of concentrated ministry. This will

naturally give rise to times of concentrated stress. Our flesh will be tempted to react to thisstress in wrong ways while our enemy, Satan, will press the battle against the ministry in

every way. Do we follow the example of the world and grit our teeth, muddle through, andadapt to the stress or do we follow the example of Jesus? Of course, as Christians, we want

to follow Jesus example.

And in the morning, long before daylight, He got up and went out to a deserted

place, and there He prayed. -Mark 1:35

The men who have done the most for God in this world have been early on their knees.

He who fritters away the early morning, its opportunity and freshness, in other pursuitsthan seeking God will make poor headway seeking Him the rest of the day.

- E.M. Bounds

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3/43

June 5, 2012

Deuteronomy 32

Words of Life

Moses stood before the Israelites and recited what is commonly known as The Song ofMoses. Knowing his earthly life was drawing to an end, he reminded the Israelites

that Gods word is all important because it is actually life-giving.

"Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day...They are not

just idle words for you; they are your life. - Deut. 32: 45-47a

Moses pressed the people to understand that Gods word wasnt just something to beheeded in times of distress, grief, or on holy days, but the Living Word that would bring

them to life as Gods people.

Jesus said, "The words I have spoken unto you are spirit and they are life. John 6:63 "For the word of God is living and active... - Hebrews 4:12:

As Christians when we read and study the word of God we come to life spiritually. The

more time we spend in the Bible; the closer we draw to Him. Gods word nourishes our

soul while the words of unregenerate man are idle words profiting us little.

George Muller, after having read the Bible through one hundred times made this statement: "For more

than half a century I have never known one day when I had not more business than I could get through. For 4

years I have had annually about 30,000 letters passed through my own hands. Then, as pastor of a church

with 1,200 believers, great has been my care. I have had charge of five immense orphanages; also, at my

publishing depot, the printing and circulating of millions of tracts, books, and Bibles; but I have always made

it a rule never to begin work until I have had a good season with God and His Word. The blessing I havereceived has been wonderful."

As we go out to ministry this will be a good time to lay aside some of the idle words we

may be in the habit of consuming. Let us spend the needed time in Gods Word to bespiritually nourished. His word makes us lively servants.

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4/43

June 6, 2012

Matthew 6:25-34

Seek

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness.- Matthew 6:33

Seeking His kingdom first in our lives requires us to spend time seeking His plans, thensubmitting to them instead of our own. Doing a good deed for another person or work for

the church may not necessarily constitute seeking His kingdom first in our lives if we

haven't spent time seeking His will.

We can't assume the Lord is directing our paths if our time with Him is a quick prayer onour way to the day's work. The Lord wants us to draw aside for a quiet time alone with

Him. We need this time to seek Him, love Him, and to get our marching orders.

God has a perfect plan for each of our lives. As we spend time in seeking that will, He

will reveal it to us.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not

to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29: 11, 12

Is it possible that life often frustrates us because we haven't sought His will in the thingswe're doing?

As a Child of God, Prayer is Like Calling Home Every Day.

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5/43

June 7, 2012

Matthew 6: 19-24

Seek First

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; orabout your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more

than clothes? ...For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father

knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all

these things will be given to you as well. - Matthew 6:25, 32-33

Jesus spoke to his disciples that they not let their spiritual lives be quenched by worry

about life and material comfort. He told them to overcome worry by seeking first thekingdom of God.

The dictionary gives the following definition for seek.

seek (sk)

1. To try to locate or discover; search for2. To endeavor to obtain or reach

3. To go to or toward

4. To inquire for; request

Seeking indicates an active effort on our part. Notice the words: locate, discover,

endeavor, obtain, reach, go to, inquire, and request.

Have you ever watched a child look for a lost item? Generally, they walk into a room,

turn around once, and leave proclaiming, I can't find it. Do we seek the Lord to that

extent? If so, it is doubtful that we will find Him.

5


6/43

June 8, 2012

Matthew 6: 25-34

Seek First (Part II)

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or

about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more

than clothes? ...For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father

knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all

these things will be given to you as well. - Matthew 6:25, 32- 33

An internet search for the word seek reveals some interesting facts:

The first five results are websites for job listings.

Next, we find the definition, science, success stories, and more job listings.

Finally, page three reveals a result for Seek and Find a Church."

The next time we see a result involving anything scriptural is on page nine, which

has a listing for Matthew 7:7 - "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you

will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.But, that could still be

considered more along the lines of seeking for self.

Page 18 finally reveals, But seek ye first the kingdom of God.

Just think eighteen pages before the world's foremost information source mentionsseeking first the kingdom of God.

In all fairness, be it known that a search for But seek immediately turned up results for

Matthew 6:33. The problem is few people other than Christians would enter a combinationof these two words into the search engine. So, we see again that the world does, indeed,

seek after a kingdom other than the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness. However,

we are not here to discuss what the world seeks after but to ponder the question: Howmuch time do we as Christians spend seeking another kingdom and how much importance

do we place on Seeking First the Kingdom of God?

We belong to Gods Kingdom, not the "shadow lands" of this world.

- C.S. Lewis

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7/43

June 9, 2012Matthew 4: 1-17

Why Do I Need to Seek First the Kingdom of God?

It was Jesus Central Teaching

Jesus went throughout Galileepreaching the good news of the kingdom

- Matthew 4:23

From that time on Jesus began to preach, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is

near. - Matthew 4:17

I will give you the keys to the Kingdom. Matt. 16:18

Christ Is the Center of the Kingdom

I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.- John 3:3

And God placed all things under His feet and appointed him to be head overeverything for the church Eph. 1:22

I am the vine; you are the branchesapart from me you can do nothing.

- John 15:5

Christ Is Our Ruler

Then Jesus came to them and said, *All authority in heaven and on earth has beengiven to me. Matthew 28:18

God placed all things under His feet and appointed him to be head over everything

for the church. Eph. 1:22

Our purpose for living is to please the King.

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8/43

June 10, 2012

Matthew 6: 1-18

Hindrances to Seeking the Kingdom of God

Worry about our lives.

Spending more time consumed with physical well-being than spiritual well-being.

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink.- Matthew 6:25

Worry about our bodies

More time spent on physical well-being than spiritual well-being.

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your body, what you will wear.- Matthew 6:25

Worry about tomorrow

More time spent on physical and emotional well-being than on spiritual well-being.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each

day has enough trouble of its own. - Matthew 6:34

Wrong Priorities

There is a human tendency to put other priorities ahead of the seeking of Gods

kingdoms interests.

Jesus prayed, Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Unconfessed Sin

Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and

renounces them finds mercy. Proverbs 28: 13

Our enemy, Satan

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the

authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of

evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12

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9/43

June 11, 2012Matthew 6:19-34

Benefits of Seeking the Kingdom of God

A Greater Sense of the King Reigning Over All - peace

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come

- Matthew 6: 9

All These Things our earthly needs provided

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given

to you as well. - Matthew 6:33

Knowing a Kingdom Other Than the World - comfort

Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

- Psalm 73:25

The earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.

- Isaiah 11:9

Unites the Believers in Purpose - focus

All the believers were one in heart and mind. Acts 4:32

Accomplishing His Will - obedience

your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10

If a commission by an earthly king is considered an honor, how can a commission by a

Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice? - David Livingstone

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10/43

June 12, 2012

The Lords Prayer

Our Father in heaven,hallowed be your name.Your Kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as in heavenGive us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins,as we forgive those who sin against us.

Lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours.Now and for ever. Amen

Spend todays devotion time in concentrated prayer for the ministry outreaches takingplace now and for those to come throughout the summer. Make a commitment to give His

will first priority in your own life. Pray the Lords will be done in your own life and those

of your fellow labourers. Pray for Gods protection for all that is attempted for His glory.

Spend time praising Him. Pray that many will enter His kingdom as a result of theseoutreaches.

Spend special time in prayer about any ways in which the Lord is speaking to you.

10


11/43

June 13, 2012Romans 15:1-7

Honk, If You Love Jesus

In the Fall when you see geese flying south for the winter, they will most likely be flyingin a V formation. They fly that way on purpose. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an

uplift for the bird immediately behind. By using this flying formation, the entire flock adds

about 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own. When

a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag of trying to go it alone, andquickly returns to the formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the flock. As the

lead goose gets tired, he rotates to the back of the formation and another goose flies the

point. You will also hear the geese honking at one another. Many believe that this is their

way of encouraging those in the lead.

Today, look around at those who are ministering around you. First, consider the oneimmediately behind who perhaps doesnt have a task in the forefront. What is God telling

you about creating a greater flying range for that person? Is someone bogged down under

a heavy responsibility, feeling as if they are going it alone? Come alongside that one andhelp them feel the lifting power of the flock. If your leader is tired can you find a way to

fly the point? so the leader may rotate to the back for a rest? Above all, dont forget to

give a honk of encouragement to each person who ministers in the many outreaches. This

wont be an impossible task, but you may have to change your usual place in formationin order to do it.

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please

ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For

even Christ did not please himself May the God who gives endurance and

encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus,

so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord

Jesus Christ. -Romans 15:1-3, 5

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12/43

June 14, 2012

Matthew 5:38-42

Second Mile Christians

If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.- Matthew 5:41

Great crowds followed Jesus as he ministered in Galilee. When he saw the crowds, he sat

down on a mountainside to teach. We read Matthew chapter 5 as those who have heard it

many times and are not surprised by its teachings but we must remember that Jesus waspresenting these teachings for the first time. These were radical thoughts to those hearing

them. Some in the crowd likely took them to heart, others probably wondered about this

strange man and his strange teachings that went against the teachings of their upbringing,

while some, no doubt, openly scoffed at his ideas.The nation of Israel was at this time under Roman rule. A first compulsory mile would

likely be ordered by a Roman soldier and the Israelite would have little choice but to obeyorders. Who, in their right mind, would go a second, not mandatory mile for a hated

Roman?

Today, the phrase Going the Second Mile is used so often it has become almost amotto. There exists a Second Mile Radon Testing Company, Second Mile Used Furniture,

and even The Second Mile Wedding Films. Have Christians also allowed Going the

Second Mile to become more of a motto rather than the radical idea presented by Jesus?

What would happen in our lives if we went back to the radical idea of actually alwaysgoing the second mile? What would it mean to my life if I actually watched for

opportunities and listened to Jesus for direction in going the second mile?

As Christians we walk the first compulsory mile for Christ by obeying His teachings. Thesecond mile is a suggestion, a leading, an urging in our hearts by His Spirit. Often we pat

ourselves on the back considering ourselves pretty special for going the first mile, not

realizing the second mile is an offering we bring to Him- an offering that brings greatrewards to ourselves and others at the same time.

At times we are afraid of the second mile afraid of what He may ask us to do or where

He may lead us, or worse still, what He may ask us to give up. Then, there are those times

when by His grace we are enabled to ask, How much can I give Him?

The teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is not, Do your duty, but is, in effect, Do what is not your

duty. It is not your duty to go the second milebut Jesus said that if we are His disciples, we will always do

these things. J.Oswald Chambers

Note: SNBC has more second mile Christians in membership than I have seen in churches in a long while. It

is not the intention to discourage a wonderful group of people but to plant seeds of thought into hearts that

need it and to encourage the second-milers. You know who you are.

Based on the book, Second Mile Christians by Isobel Kuhn

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13/43

June 15, 2012Matthew 5:38-42

Second Mile Christians (Day 2)

The story is told of a man who is walking when he notices a small boy trying to press a

doorbell on a house across the street. The doorbell is too high for the boy to reach. After

watching the boys efforts for some time, the man steps across the street to help. Being a

second mile Christian, he places his hand on the child's shoulder, leans over, and gives the

doorbell a firm ring. Crouching down to the child's level, he smiles and asks, "And now

what, my little man?" To which the boy replies, "Now we run!"

Does going the second mile mean I am always rushing from one thing to the next,

striving to go further until I drop exhausted at bedtime? Do I help the elderly lady cross thestreet, carry her groceries home for her, put them away, vacuum her house, and cook a pot

of soup before rushing off to the next second-mile? This scenario is possible, but not likely.

We never see Jesus rushing, bewildered, or, other than in Gethsemane, exhausted.Therein lays the answer to going the second mile. It is by the Holy Spirits leading and not

in our own striving.

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, Set apart

for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them. So after they

had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. The two of

them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from

there to Cyprus. Acts 13: 2-4

The distance of the second mile will never be too far or too hard although I may

think it is.

I will never be alone on the second mile He will walk beside me.

Once I begin the second mile, my eyes will be opened to see the many people also

on that journey.

The second mile is traveled by the Holy Spirits leading and not by my own

striving.

13


14/43

June 16, 2012

Luke 6: 27-36

Give What?

Give him my what?Your coat.

Hey, its cold out here.

The coat, please.Why?

He asked for it.

Oh, okay.Now, dont you feel good?

Actually, I feel a little chilly and whats that guy saying now?

Hes asking for your shirt.Is he insane?

Not really.

Its thirty-two degrees out here.

Just give him the shirt.The shirt off my back?

Yes, the shirt, please.

Alright, already; heres the shirt.

Now, dont you feel lighter?I sure do. Im so light the next gust of frigid air is going to blow me into the gutter where

Ill freeze to death. Im going home now.Not yet. Walk with him.

What? He wants me to walk to where? No way am I walking a mile.

A mile isnt so far.

Im freezing out here.A good walk will warm you up.

Id rather have a cup of Starbucks.

Hes starting to walk alone.Im walking; Im walking.

Dont you feel good now? Didnt that nice walk get your blood stirring?

My bloods stirring like a slushy machine and this guys asking me to walk another mile.

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15/43

June 17, 2012

Luke 6: 27-36

Give What? (continued)

You can stand in the cold and be miserable or you can walk.

Huh-h-h; okay, Ive gone the second mile. Can I go now?

We arent quite finished.Ouch! Did you see that? The guy smacked me in the face. Arent you going to do

anything about it?

Here, let me help.

What are you doing? Why are you turning my other cheek toward this looney? Ouch! Iknew that was going to happen. My face hurts.

How much money do you have in your wallet?

Twenty bucks.

Give it to him.No way; its my last twenty dollars.

Its just a loan.Yea, Ill give it to him; I can collect some interest on it.

No interest.

Huh? Whatever.We can go now.

Thank goodness. Where are we going?

To my house.

Really? Great! Things are finally looking up. I love your house; its the best place Iveever seen. Its a mansion. Its unbelievable. Its like heaven.

Yes, it is.

Is that other guy coming with us?Not today but hell be thinking about the things you did. Hell figure out you did them for

me. Then hell come.

But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, blessthose who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one

cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from

taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to

you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. "If you

love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love

them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you?

Even 'sinners' do that. And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment,

what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in

full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to

get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most

High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your

Father is merciful. Luke 6: 27- 36

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16/43

June 18, 2012

A Heart for Children

One hundred years from now,

It will not matterWhat kind of car I drove,

What kind of house I lived in,

How much I had in the bank

Nor what my clothes looked like.

One hundred years from now,

It will not matter,

What kind of school I attended,What kind of computer* I used,

How large or small my church,But the world may be

a little better because

I was important in the life of a child.

- Margaret Fishback Powers

Jesus said, Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the

kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. Matthew 19: 14

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, Who, then, is the greatest in the

kingdom of heaven?He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them.

And he said: Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you

will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position

of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. -Matthew 18: 1-4

Pray for Babysitting & Baseball Camps to be conducted at SNBC June 18-22

*Typewriter changed to computer for clarity.

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17/43

June 19, 2012

I Corinthians 9:19-27

All In, All the Time

One man challenged another to an all-day wood chopping contest. The challenger workedvery hard, stopping only for a brief lunch break. The other man had a leisurely lunch and

took several breaks during the day. At the end of the day, the challenger was surprised and

annoyed to find that the other fellow had chopped substantially more wood than he had. I

dont get it, he said. Every time I checked, you were taking a rest, yet you chopped morewood than I did. But you didnt notice, said the winning woodsman, that I was

sharpening my ax when I sat down to rest.

If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill willbring success. - Ecclesiastes 10:10

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not

need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. II Timothy 2:15

Run in such a way as to get the prize. I Corinthians 9:24b

As entrepreneurs, we have zero sense of balance. Were all in, all the time. It doesnt matter if its day or

night, weekday or weekend each of us focuses on our vision with a single-minded passion.

- Jeff Stibel, Chairman & CEO Dun & Bradstreet Credibilit Corp.

June 20, 2012

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18/43

Isaiah 12; 60: 1-3

Love and Soccer

Sixteen -year-old Misaki Murakami lost his home and everything in it during Japansdevastating tsunami of March 2011. Shortly after the tsunami, debris formed a mass in the

ocean off Japans coast and spread out across the Pacific. NOAA had said currents would

carry much of the debris to the coasts of Alaska,

David Baxter, a radar technician from Kasilof, Alaska, found a soccer ball in March ofthis year while beachcombing on Middleton Island 70 miles south of the Alaskan mainland.

When I first saw the soccer ball I was excited to see it and I thought it was possible it

came from the tsunami zone, Baxter told The Associated Press by email.

Baxters wife, Yumi, of Japanese descent, was able to confirm that writing on the ball

was Japanese and was able to translate it. The ball, which had messages of encouragementwritten on it, was given to Murikami in 2005, when he was in third grade, as a goodbye gift

when he transferred to another school. Baxters wife reached Murakami with help from aJapanese reporter. They planned a trip to Japan in May to return the ball.

Murakami, from the town of Rikuzentakata, was surprised and thankful the football, or

soccer ball, had been found more than 3,000 miles away.

It was a big surprise. Ive never imagined that my ball has reached Alaska, Murakamitold public broadcaster NHK. Ive lost everything in the tsunami. So Im delighted, he

said. I really want to say thank you for finding the ball.

Why did God decide to return one soccer ball to a particular child? We may have to wait

until eternity to find out the particulars but we know He truly loves all the children of theworld. He desires for us to spread the message of His love through whatever means at our

disposal. Soccer balls, Vacation Bible School, Summer Camps, and loving people may be

the means of bringing many children and even adults to Christ. Will we be willing to go tothe lengths to tell others of Christ that this couple did to return a prized possession? After

all, shouldnt we work to bring Gods possessions back to Him?

Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; makeknown among the nations what He has done Isaiah 12:4

June 21, 2012

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19/43

Romans 15: 1-13 Cordless Jump Rope?

Perhaps you have heard about the latest invention. This report came through the AP news

service this week: "If you think keeping fit is merely mind over matter, Lester Clancyhas an invention for you -- a cordless jump-rope. That's right, a jump-rope minus the

rope. All that's left is two handles, so you jump over the pretend rope. For that idea theU.S. Patent Office awarded the 52-year-old Mansfield, Ohio, man a patent.

It's perfect for the clumsy, Clancy said. If you are jumping, you're still using your

legs as well as your arms, and getting the cardiovascular workout. You just don't have

to worry about tripping on the rope.

It is also good for mental institutions and prisons where rope is a suicide risk, said

Clancy, who works as a laundry coordinator in a state prison. And low ceiling fans

aren't a hazard any more, he said.

Oh........kay. I hesitate to ridicule the idea too much because it may become the nextbig fad in this country. But, come on now; a cordless jump rope? As one professor

pointed out in the article, you could accomplish the same thing using two toilet paperholders!

And yet, there are things in the spiritual realm that are just as ridiculous. There aresome who want to hold on to the handles of faith without a rope of works. There

are others who want to hold onto the handles of a God of mercy and grace without a

rope of a God of justice and holiness. There are some who want to hold onto the

handles of Christianity without a rope of love. There are some who want to holdonto the handles of accepting Jesus as Savior, but want to leave off the rope of

accepting Jesus as Lord of their lives.

In so many ways, we think we're jumping rope while we're lacking a vital part of

the jump rope -- a full understanding of who God is and what our responsibility to Him

is. While it certainly may be easier to jump rope that way, the truth is that, in the end,we're simply left holding a couple of sticksonly a piece of what God intends for us

to have.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that

you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Alan Smith; A Thought for the Day, 2006

http://www.tftdonline.com/content.asp?CID=19316

Serve the Lord With Gladness

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20/43

June 22, 2012

Matthew 19: 13-15

Reasons to Love Childrens Ministry

People were asked to answer one question Why do you love childrens ministry?

I love to watch the lights come on when they start to understand Gods love.

It is my mission field - Children have open hearts for the Gospel.

Its when I feel most like Jesus.

I love the energy that kids bring to worshiping God.

Because children are gifts from God.

I learn more about God working with kids than anything else I do.

Its better toprepare kids now, rather than trying to repairtheir lives after the

world has beaten them down.

Children have such pure, complete and simple faith in God.

Jesus said the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them.

It is never ever boring!

When you do something simple as having cupcakes for them, they respond with

hugs and kisses.

Play Dough and Snack Time!

Kids are never afraid to ask hard questions.

They talk about faith like its normal, unlike grown-ups.

I learn things from them, like Dont jump on the bed is one of the TenCommandments.

These kids are the church leaders of tomorrow. Its the only ministry where you can sing silly songs at the top of your lungs.

Many of the kids I minister to would otherwise never hear about the Savior.

I love the way children love unconditionally.

I love hearing an awesome testimony from the parents because of something the

kids learned from me.

I love seeing two-year olds walking around with their little bibles, especially when

they say God told me.

To God, every child has infinite value.

When kids learn John 3:16 and get so excited they repeat it a hundred times.

I can still play with Legos.

It gives me joy to think of the chain reaction of right choices that began in onechilds life because of our ministry.

It is the only thing that uses all my Spiritual Gifts at one time. (Teaching, Patience,

Grace, Mercy, Encouragement, Discernment, and Love.)

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the

kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19: 14

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http://ministry-to-children.com/110-reasons/

VBS - June 23, 2012

South Norfolk Baptist Church

Vacation Bible School

June 25-29, 2012

Favorite VBS & SS memories from members of SNBC:

My grandmother always took meshe took me to Sunday School, church; everything.

My favorite part was lining up outside the church building and marching in together,

then singing songs.

We had a program on Mothers Day. The children lined up in front with big letters to

spell Mother. I was the T.

We had our classes sitting under a big live oak tree in Conway, S.C.

The year we made a praying hands craft of Plaster of Paris. It was the first time Id ever

done a craft that was so involved. I kept it for years.

We always sang We Are Daily Building and we had grape Kool-aid and chocolate chipcookies every day.

From the children: My favorite part of VBS.

The fun games.

Going to classes.

The water games.

The praise dances and songs with hand motions.

Learning about God.

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http://ministry-to-children.com/110-reasons/http://ministry-to-children.com/110-reasons/


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Pray for all the VBS Ministries this summer.

VBS June 24, 2012

Matthew 18: 4-6; 19:14

Jesus Loves the Little Children

Jesus calls the children dear,Come to me and never fear,

For I love the little children of the world;I will take you by the hand,

Lead you to the better land,

For I love the little children of the world.

Refrain

Jesus loves the little children,

All the children of the world.

Red and yellow, black and white,All are precious in His sight,

Jesus loves the little children of the world.

[Alternate refrain:

Jesus died for all the children,

All the children of the world.Red and yellow, black and white,

All are precious in His sight,

Jesus died for all the children of the world.]

Jesus is the Shepherd true,And Hell always stand by you,

For He loves the little children of the world;

Hes a Savior great and strong,And Hell shield you from the wrong,

For He loves the little children of the world.

Refrain

I am coming, Lord, to Thee,

And Your soldier I will be,For You love the little children of the world;

And Your cross Ill always bear,

And for You Ill do and dare,For You love the little children of the world.

Refrain

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http://www.allaboutgod.com/jesus-loves-the-little-children.htm

VBS June 26

Matthew 19:13-14

No Maam, I wontEver

I saw him in the church building for the first time on Wednesday. He was in his mid-

seventies with thinning silver hair and a neat brown suit. Many times in the past I hadinvited him to come. Several other Christian friends had talked to him about the Lord and

had tried to share the Good News with him. He was a well-respected, honest man with so

many characteristics a Christian should have, but he never put on Christ, nor entered thedoors of the church.

Have you ever been to a church service in your life? I had asked him a few years ago.

We had just finished a pleasant day of visiting and talking. He hesitated. Then with a bittersmile he told me of his childhood experience some fifty years ago. He was one of the many

children in a large, impoverished family. His parents had struggled to provide food, with

little left for housing and clothing.When he was about ten, some neighbors invited him to worship with them. The Sunday

School class had been very exciting. He had never heard such songs and stories before. He

had never heard anyone read from the Bible. After class was over, the teacher took him

aside and said, Son, please dont come again dressed as you are now. We want to look ourbest when we come into Gods house.

He stood in his ragged, unpatched overalls. Then looking at his dirty bare feet, he

answered softly, No Maam, I wontever. And I never did, he said, abruptly endingour conversation.

There must have been other factors to have hardened him so, but this experience formed

a significant part of the bitterness in his heart. Im sure that Sunday school teacher meant

well. But did she really understand the love of Christ? Had she studied and accepted theteaching found in the second chapter of James? What if she had put her arms around that

dirty, ragged little boy and said, Son, I am so glad you are here, and I hope you will come

every chance you get to hear more about Jesus.Yes, I saw him in the church house for the first time on Wednesday. As I looked at that

immaculately-dressed old gentleman lying in his casket, I thought of a little boy of long

ago. I could almost hear him say, No Maam, I wontever.And I wept.

Jesus said, Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the

kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. Matthew 19:14

Story: The Handley Herald1Shirley Ward, No Maam, I WontEver, A. A. Baker, ed.The Christian School Parent(Taylors, SC:Honeycomb Publishing, August 1997), p.1.

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VBS June 27Ephesians 4: 1-32

You Can Only Give What You Have

The story is told that when Berlin was being divided into East Berlin, controlled by the

Communists, and West Berlin, part of the free world, a group of East Berliners dumped a

whole truckload of garbage on the west side. The people from West Berlin thought theydpick up all the garbage, put it on a truck, and dump it back on the east side. Then they

decided that wasnt the way to handle it. Instead they filled a dump truck with canned

goods and other non-perishable food items, went over to the east side, stacked it neatly, and

put a sign beside it. The sign read, Each gives what each has to give.The point for us here is clear: We can only give what we havenow; were not talking

about money or canned goods, but something much greater. You can only lead others to

where you have already been. You cant give your students spiritual depth and

understanding if you dont already have that spiritual understanding. You can only give thediscipleship that you already have.

Growth involves moving toward the goal of maturity. When we are first born again as a

child of God, we are spiritually immature. As time passes, we should grow toward the

qualities which the Bible says belong to a mature Christian.

Many Scriptures describe the need to grow and mature spiritually:

Ephesians 4:11-15 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, theevangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that

the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in theknowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of

the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the

waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and

craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we

will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is,

Christ.

2 Peter 3:18 - But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus

Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

2 Thessalonians 1:3 - We ought always to thank God for you, brothers andsisters,and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of

you have for one another is increasing.

Philippians 1:9 - And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more

in knowledge and depth of insight,

If you have internet access, watch this video on making disciples.www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJWkQ9UP_m8

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Story: John Maxwell,Be All You Can Be

VBS June 28

Matthew 6: 1-8

Evangelism

When Gypsy Smith was converted as a boy, he became interested in his Uncle Rodneys

salvation and began to pray for him. In those days it was not considered proper for a childto speak to his elders unless he was spoken to, especially about spiritual matters. So the boy

prayed and waited for his opportunity.

One day the uncle asked, Laddie, why are your trousers almost worn out at the knees?The boy answered, Uncle Rodney, they have been worn out through praying for you. I

want so much for God to make you a Christian.

The uncle put his arms around the boy, and a few minutes later fell upon his knees andcried out to God for salvation.

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anythingaccording to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask -

we know that we have what we asked of him. -1 John 5:14-15

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who

is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

- Matthew 6:6

This Sunday School has been of help to me, greater perhaps than any other force in my Christian life, and I

can ask no better things for you than that you, and all that shall come after you in this great band of workers

for Christ, shall receive the same measure of blessedness which I have been permitted to have.

- John D. Rockefeller

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VBS June 29

Matthew 25: 31-46

Love for the Unlovely

John Blanchard stood up from the bench, straightened his Army uniform, and studied the

crowd of people making their way through Grand Central Station. He looked for the girlwhose heart he knew, but whose face he didnt, the girl with the rose. His interest in her

had begun thirteen months before in a Florida library. Taking a book off the shelf he found

himself intrigued, not with the words of the book, but with the notes penciled in the

margin. The soft handwriting reflected a thoughtful soul and insightful mind. In the front ofthe book, he discovered the previous owners name, Miss Hollis Maynell.

With time and effort he located her address. She lived in New York City. He wrote her a

letter introducing himself and inviting her to correspond. The next day he was shipped

overseas for service in World War II. During the next year and one month the two grew toknow each other through the mail. Each letter was a seed falling on a fertile heart. A

romance was budding. Blanchard requested a photograph, but she refused. She felt that ifhe really cared, it wouldnt matter what she looked like.

When the day finally came for him to return from Europe, they scheduled their first

meeting7:00 p.m. at the Grand Central Station in New York. Youll recognize me, shewrote, by the red rose Ill be wearing on my lapel. So at 7:00 p.m. he was in the station

looking for a girl whose heart he loved, but whose face hed never seen.

Ill let Mr. Blanchard tell you what happened: A young woman was coming toward me,

her figure long and slim. Her blonde hair lay back in curls from her delicate ears; her eyeswere blue as flowers. Her lips and chin had a gentle firmness, and in her pale green suit she

was like springtime come alive. I started toward her, entirely forgetting to notice that she

was not wearing a rose. As I moved, a small smile curved her lips. Going my way, sailor?she murmured.

Almost uncontrollably I made one step closer to her, and then I saw Hollis Maynell. She

was standing almost directly behind the girl. A woman well past 40, she had graying hairtucked under a worn hat. She was more than plump, her thick-ankled feet thrust into low-

heeled shoes. The girl in the green suit was walking quickly away. I felt as though I was

split in two, so keen was my desire to follow her, and yet so deep was my longing for the

woman whose spirit had truly companioned me and upheld my own.And there she stood. Her pale, plump face was gentle and sensible; her gray eyes had a

warm and kindly twinkle. I did not hesitate. My finger gripped the small worn blue leather

copy of the book that was to identify me to her. This would not be love, but it would besomething precious, something perhaps even better than love, a friendship for which I had

been and must ever be grateful.

I squared my shoulders and saluted and held out the book to the woman, even thoughwhile I spoke I felt choked by the bitterness of my disappointment. Im Lieutenant John

Blanchard, and you must be Miss Maynell. I am so glad you could meet me; may I take

you to dinner?

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VBS June 30, 2012

Matthew 25: 31-46

Love for the Unlovely (continued)

The womans face broadened into a tolerant smile. I dont know what this is about,son, she answered, but the young lady in the green suit who just went by, she begged me

to wear this rose on my coat. And she said if you were to ask me out to dinner, I should go

and tell you that she is waiting for you in the big restaurant across the street. She said it wassome kind of test!

Its not difficult to understand and admire Miss Maynells wisdom. The true nature of a

heart is seen in its response to the unattractive. In the last sermon recorded by Matthew

(Matt. 25:31-46), Jesus told the story about the sheep and the goats and sets a spiritualthermometer through which to gauge a heart by a persons concern for the undesirable.

Jesus has called us to love the least lovely as well as the lovely and to love those whom no

one else will love. You might say it is a testA test to measure the depth of our character.

The same kind of test Hollis Maynell used with John Blanchard. The rejected of the worldwear the roses. Sometimes we, like John Blanchard, have to adjust our expectations.

Sometimes we have to re-examine our motives. Had he turned his back on the unattractive,he would have missed the love of his life. If we turn our backs, we will miss even more.

Then the King will say to those on his right, Come, you who are blessed by my

Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the

world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you

gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes

and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came

to visit me.

Then the righteous will answer him, Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed

you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and

invite you in or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison

and go to visit you?

The King will reply, Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these

brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.

Then he will say to those on his left, Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the

eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.For I was hungry and you gave me

nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and

you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in

prison and you did not look after me.

They also will answer, Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger

or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you? He will reply, Truly

I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.

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July 1, 2012

I Peter 2: 1-12

Christian Customers

A friend shared the following commentary at a group meeting one evening:

Hardly anyone cooks Sunday dinner these days. A huge number of Christians descend

upon restaurants after Sunday services every week. We need to see it as an opportunity for

Christians to be a positive force in the world. We can be a witness for Christ simply by ouractions.

I believe Christians in restaurants on Sundays should be the best customers the servershave seen all week. We should have a smile on our face, be kind and easy to please, and

leave the best tips. After all, we have just come from church and they know it.

Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak

against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall

behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. - I Peter 2: 12

Restaurant personnel are serversChristians are servants.

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July 2, 2012

Proverbs 8: 32-36

Holy Paparazzi

The film LaDolce Vita tells the story of a journalist named Marcello who covers

sensational news such as movie stars, religious visions and the decadent aristocracy. He is

accompanied by a photographer colleague, Paparazzo. From this film comes an oftenheard term in our societypaparazzi. The definition of paparazzi is: a newspaper

photographer who follows famous people about in the hope of photographing them in

unguarded moments. Paparazzi go to difficult and even extreme lengths to follow the stars.One of their chief tactics is lying in wait for them outside their homes.

Jesus says blessings will be bestowed upon those who wait to hear from Him; for those

who watch and wait outside His home just to hear a word from Him. We receive no

rebuke, broken cameras, or tabloid headlines when we set ourselves to extreme lengths toseek Him as the paparazzi seek the starsjust blessing. Maybe the paparazzi are searching

for the wrong star.

In Revelation 22:16 Jesus says: I amthe bright Morning Star.

Joyful are those who listen to me, watching for me daily at my gates, waiting for me

outside my home! - Proverbs 8:34, NLT

Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my

doorway. Proverbs 8: 34, NIV

Lord, Jesus, make me to be your ardent paparazzi.

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July 3, 2012

Luke 21: 5-28, Revelation: 11: 15-18

The American DreamAccording to a report by the Washington, D.C.-based Pew Research Center,Fewer

Americans now than at any time in the last half century believe they are moving

forward in life.

An AOL news article suggests: The American Dream is wounded.

The phrase, The American Dream was coined by James Thurslow Adams in his book,The Epic of America. He states: The American Dream is that dream in which life

should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each

according to ability or achievement.

Apparently, The American Dream is wounded. It seems our world is in a sad state ofaffairs (nothing new) and most of us are pretty sure its going to get worse, not just for

America, but for the entire planet. The good news is: As Christians we dont live forthe American Dream or any other dream but by Gods plan for our lives.

In Luke 21:28, after describing the terrible things that are to befall the earth, Jesus said,

When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because

your redemption is drawing near.

Is The American Dream Crumbling? If you belong to His Kingdom; dont be afraid.

Were moving forward, up, and out.

The kingdom of this world has become the kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ,

and He will reign for ever and ever and ever. Revelation 11:15

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July 4, 2012

Another Declaration of Independence

The minds of millions of Americans are on the Fourth of July holiday and what it

represents: our freedom as a nation. This freedom is a precious thing, bought with the

sweat, toil and blood of countless Americans who initially fought to obtain it

(Revolutionary War), as well as those who have fought tosecure it in the centuries since

that fateful day in 1776. Gratitude without measure wells up in our hearts when we

consider the brave men and women of the American military who, this Fourth of July, will

be fighting to combat the tyranny of terrorism.

But even as we prize our freedom as Americans, we must be moved to consider a greater

freedomour freedom in Christ. It is the freedom that comes with being a disciple of JesusChrist. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, If you hold to my teaching, you

are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

- John 8:31-32

This statement was shocking to Jesus' audience. These proud men thought they already

had all the freedom they needed by virtue of being offspring of Abraham. - John8:33

Jesus proceeds to point them beyond any national, social or religious freedom they might

enjoy to the freedom that comes through His person and work: Truly, truly, I say to you,

everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin So if the Son sets you free, you will be

free indeed - John8:34, 36. Contrary to what Jesus' listeners thought, they were in

bondage to sin and subject to the tyranny of it.

Even as Christians we can fall prey to the temptation to trust in other things for our

freedom from the tyranny of sin: status, money, good works, associations, etc. But the true

disciple finds freedom in Christ and Christ alone.

What do I trust in today?

The Fourth of July is a wonderful time to consider our freedomas Americans and as

Christians. Our national freedom is precious, but our freedom in Christ is of infinite worth.

- Excerpted from the article by Mike Pohlman

July 5, 2012

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Luke 14: 25-34

Counting the Cost

Charles T. Studd was a famous sportsman in England, captain of the Cambridge cricket

team. A century ago he gave away his vast wealth to needy causes and led the Cambridge

Seven to China. His slogan was, If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrificecan be too great for me to make for Him.

Charles Borden left one of Americas greatest family fortunes to be a missionary inChina. He only got as far as Egypt where, still in his twenties, he died of typhoid fever.

Before his death he said, No reserves, no retreats, no regrets!

A generation ago, Jim Elliot went from Wheaton College to become a missionary to theAucas in Ecuador. Before he was killed, he wrote, He is no fool who gives what he cannot

keep to gain what he cannot lose.

...I [Billy Graham] have chosen Christ not because He takes away my pain but becauseHe gives me strength to cope with that pain and in the long range to realize victory over it.

Corrie ten Boom said, The worst can happen but the bestremains.

And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Wont you first sit down and estimate the

cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation andare not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, This person

began to build and wasnt able to finish. -Luke 14:27-30

July 6, 2012

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Luke 4: 1-8

Worship

When C.S. Lewis was a new Christian, he sought to be closer to God. Many people toldhim that God demanded to be praised. He couldnt understand this concept feeling that is

sounded like a dictator demanding adulation. The day came when he finally realized, It isin the process of being worshipped that God communicates His presence to men.

They lay their crowns before the throne and say: You are worthy, our Lord and

God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your

will they were created and have their being. - Rev. 4: 10-11

In this scripture, falling speaks of submission. Laying crowns before the throne indicates

a desire to live for Christs glory alone. We must be willing to lay aside our own desire for

honor, glory, and power in order to worship Him.

When we worship Him, we are made more fully conscious of His presence in our spirit.Once we have experienced His presence in worship, we must be careful to obey the inward

promptings of the Holy Spirit when He calls us to worship.

Jesus answered, It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.

Luke 4:8

Worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness. Psalm 16:29

Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord Psa. 95: 6

It is in the process of worship that God communicates His presence to men. And yet, this

vital truth has been neglected. - C.S. Lewis

July 7, 2012

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The How of Worship

Come in the morning for a time of aloneness with God. Let this be a time of fellowship

separate from a time of Bible study and intercession. Deal with personal sin before thistime; get in the habit of dealing with sin immediately.

Come in dependence on the Holy Spirit for drawing the heart out in worship. Concentrate

on the Lord, trying to forget all else. If it is possible, pray aloud, expressing your

ascriptions of worth to Him.

Using words of scripture and making them your own is a good help in worship. Use

scripture that is occupied with Him. The words of hymns or praise songs that focus on

His worth are also helpful in private worship time. Study the names and attributes of

God.

And they sang a new song, saying: You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its

seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons

from every tribe and language and people and nation. Revelation 5:9

LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory

in the heavens. Psalm 8:1

Your love, LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.

Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep.

You, LORD, preserve both people and animals. How priceless is your unfailing love, O

God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance ofyour house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the

fountain of life; in your light we see light. - Psalm 36: 5-9

South Hampton Roads Mission Project

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July 8 13, 2012

SHRMP - July 8, 2012

Big Boy School

A young woman attended open house for her sons Kindergarten class at school. The

teacher discussed all of the routine material then took questions. One mom asked, What

do I do when my child doesnt want to do homework?The teacher answered without hesitation, Tell him what I tell my own children: This is

big boy school and this is your part in life, so do the homework.

You cant put it more straightforward than that. We Christians are in Big Boy School.We have our part in life; weve just got to do it.

For each one should carry his own load. - Galatians 6:5

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told

them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus

came to them and said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the

Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I

have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

- Matthew 28: 16-20

Comment seen on the internet: Imagine if you went to McDonalds and the grill cook

was running around singing praises to McDonalds....going around testifying about

how good McDonalds has been to him, but he's not cooking burgers...


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I Corinthians 4:9-13; I Cor. 1: 17-31

Fools for Christ

A woman had been through consultations, tests, surgery, and various medications with

her doctor. Through it all he was one of the best doctors shed had; knowledgeable, kind,gentle, and honestly caring. When she went in for a check-up, she was told that he had

taken an indefinite amount of time off. He was a rather large man so she assumed it hadsomething to do with weight loss surgery or maybe he was just tired of working and needed

a rest. The doctor she saw was a nice man but encouraged her to have a new test. Her

doctor had never mentioned it so she went home and did some research. After finding out itcould be very painful, she decided to wait for her regular doctor to return.

Quite a few months later, she called to make an appointment with her regular doctor.

Is Dr. _____ back in the office?The nurse answered in a sweet and compassionate voice. No, honey, Im sorry but Dr.

_______ died last week.

The woman broke into tears of shock. Can you tell me what he died of?It was cancer. His obituary was in last Sundays paper if you would care to find a copy.

Still in tears she answered, Ill call back later.

The receptionist replied, Im so sorry.

The woman spent more time in tears before the thought struck:I dont even know if hewas a Christian. Surely, at some point during all those visits I could have simply asked.

There was a time in my life when I would have asked. Why didnt I ask?

She thought of the zeal of the early Christians. They believed so deeply that they spenttheir entire lives telling the world about the saving power of Jesus.

Yes, but if I acted like that everyone would think Im a looney, the woman whispered.

The answer came clear and plain: The world thought the early Christians were loonies.

Thats why they suffered such persecution.

We are fools for Christ.- I Corinthians 4:10

For the foolishness of God is wiser than mans wisdom- I Corinthians 1: 25

But God chose the foolish things of the world to confound the wise - I Cor. 1: 27

In a speech made on April 9, 1996 by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia before the Mississippi

College School of Law.He said, "Devout Christians are destined to be regarded as fools in modern

society ... We are fools for Christ's sake . . .We must pray for courage to endure the scorn of thesophisticated world . . . Surely those who adhere to all or most of these traditional Christian beliefs areto be regarded as simple-minded."

SHRMP July 10

Hebrews 11

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On the Right Trail

African-Irish American George Washington Bush was an early pioneer on the OregonTrail. He took his family in search of a place to live as the free man he was. Sadly, when

their party reached Oregon they found he wasnt welcome there as he had hoped.Seeking a place to own land, he decided to push on into unsettled area. The other

members of the group, although white, chose to move on with him believing this treatment

to be unfair. Their travels involved many grueling days of trailblazing through denselyforested area until they came to the area now known as the state of Washington.

He is considered largely responsible for settling that part of our nation. That settlement

was the impetus for Great Britain to surrender the land to the Americans.

Consider the what ifs? of this story:

What if George Washington Bush said, I knew I had to be on the wrong trail.What if he had given up, turned around and gone back to Missouri?

What if hed said, This is so unfair, and started a riot in Oregon Territory?

What if his friends had said, Hope it all works out for you buddy, but weve got tothink of ourselves and stay here.

What if his wife had called him crazy and refused to go on?

Its so easy to believe were on the wrong trail when things start to get complicated.

When that trail ends in a seeming dead end were tempted to wonder if God was in it from

the beginning.

Hebrews 11 recounts some complicated situations that were all overcome by faith:

Noah, who had never seen rain, was called by God to build a huge boat.

Abraham was called to move his family but didnt know where he was going.

Abraham was asked to offer his son of promise as a sacrifice on an altar.

Moses chose disgrace for the sake of Christ over a life of ease and treasure.

Rahab hid the spies who had every right to condemn her.

Gods servants shut the mouths of lions, their weakness was turned to strength,

were tortured and refused to be released, chained and put in prison, stoned,

destitute, persecuted, and mistreated.

These were allcommended for their faith. Hebrews 11: 39

But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe

and are saved. Hebrews 10: 39


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I Peter 2: 19-25

Forgiveness

During the Lebanese civil war, 1975-1992 Mary Khoury and her family were forced to

their knees before their home. The leader of the Muslim fanatics who had raided their

village waved his pistol carelessly before their faces. His hatred for Christians burned in hiseyes. If you do not become a Muslim, he threatened, you will be shot.

Mary knew Jesus didnt have to die either, but He chose the cross. So Mary said, I was

baptized as a Christian and His word came to me: Dont deny your faith. I will obey Him.Go ahead and shoot. The report of a gun from behind her echoed in the valley and Marys

body fell limply to the ground.

Two days later, the Red Cross came into her village. Of all her family, Mary was the only

one still alive. But the bullet had cut her spinal cord, leaving both her arms paralyzed. Theywere stretched out from her body and bent at the elbows, reminiscent of Jesus at His

crucifixion. She could do nothing with them. More words from the Lord came to Mary.

Even though she was now handicapped, she knew God had a plan for her life.

Everyone has a vocation, she said. I can never marry or do any physical work. So Iwill offer my life for Muslims, like the one who cut my fathers throat, cursed my mother

and stabbed her, and then tried to kill me. My life will be a prayer for them.

- Mary Khoury, 17 years old, Damour, Lebanon,

And while being reviled, He [Jesus] did not revile in return; while suffering, He

uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously.

- 1 Peter 2:23


Matthew 11: 25-30

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Facing the Difficult

Two Actual Diary Entries: 6-30-96 - I give up.

6-20-97 I gave up, but God didnt.

Dont forget the possible level of need in those you minister to today. Give them Godsmessage to those who belong to Him. It should be difficult to reject a Savior with such

a message:

Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. Hebrews 13: 5

If you are facing discouragement and the temptation to quit; the message is also for

you.

O give them to understand that they have only to come with their emptiness to Him

who has all to give and delights to do it. Not what they have to bring to the Father,

but what the Father waits to give them.

let us hold still and just quietly say:

My Father Sees

My Father Hears

My Father Knows

- Andrew Murray With Christ in The School of Prayer

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

- Matthew 11: 28


When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion

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When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion,

We were like them that dream, We were like them that dream.

Then was our mouth filled with laughter,

And our tongue with singing:

Then said they among the nations,

The Lord has done great things,

The Lord has done great things for them.

The Lord hath done great things for us;

Whereof we are glad.

The Lord hath done great things for us;


Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as the streams,

As the streams in the south, As the streams in the south.

They that sow in tears shall reap in joy,

They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

He thatgoes forth and weeps,

Bearing precious seed, shall doubtless,

Come again with rejoicing, Come again with rejoicing,

Bringing his sheaves with him.

The Lord has done great things for us;


The Lord has done great things for us;


When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion,

We were like them that dream, We were like them that dream.

July 14, 2012

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Those who go out weeping,

carrying seed to sow,

will return with songs of joy,

carrying sheaves with them.

- Psalm 126:6

God bless each one who has labored in the South Hampton Roads Ministry project thisyear. Pray for the remaining Summer Camps at South Norfolk Baptist Church.

July 16-20 - Cheer, Drumline, Football, T-Ball, & Drama

July 23-27 - Creative Journaling, Kindercooks, & Softball

July 30 August 3 Sizzlin Seniors & Computer Graphics

August 6-10 Soccer

August 13-17 Joy Jumpers & Art

August 20-24 & August 27 31 Praise Band

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shrmp volunteer devotions

Documents