Tempting Thoughts

Picture of a child resisting one marshmallow in order to get three.

Walking in the Word


Luke 4

 ¹ Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, ² where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.

Responding to the Word

So why did I post that cute little boy holding the marshmallow?  Temptation.  The above study wanted to see if children could resist eating one marshmallow in order to get more.  Most didn't.  The Bible says that Jesus was "led" into the desert just after baptism.  Led into temptation!  God led His son to be tempted by the devil in order to teach us that we too can stand against temptation.  And what did Jesus use to defend himself against the trio of temptations?  The Word of God.  The same Word of God we have today.  So the next time you're tempted and feel the urge to give in, remember His Word and realize that He will indeed make a way out.  And that's some pretty good news!

Praying in the Word

Father, I know the temptations that Jesus faced are different from the ones I face.  And yet, I realize that by giving in I give credit to Satan and sin against You. Please deliver me from all temptation and keep me from evil. I praise and give honor to the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.  Thank you for such a deep and meaningful prayer meeting last night.   In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Making Him Smile

Walking in the Word

Luke 3:21-22 (New King James Version)

  
²¹ When all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened. ²² And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.”

Responding to the Word

It's awesome to see the mighty work of God and hear His voice.  Jesus was the Son of God and had all authority (meaning He could do anything He wanted), but instead He chose to follow the command of His father.  Jesus was obedient to his father in and through baptism.  Have you made a decision to follow Jesus?  To ask Him into your heart as Lord and Savior?  Your next step would then be baptism.  And even though a dove will probably not descend from the sky into the church, you can be sure that God is very proud of you.

Praying in the Word

Father, I pray that I would be completely obedient to Your will.  Thank you for your Son who not only showed me how to live, but gave His life as a ransom for all.  Thank you for such a loving Son.  In His Name, Amen

Fire from Heaven

Walking in the Word

Luke 3:16 (New King James Version)

¹⁶ John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Responding to the Word

John the Baptist was sent to prepare the way for Jesus.  He preached repentance and baptized people in water.  John boldly proclaimed that Jesus would not choose to use the cool refreshing element we call water, but FIRE!  Don't worry.  You don't have to come to Jesus in a flame-retardent jumper.  The "fire" he's referring to is the uninhibited passion He will put into your life.  A passion to see God work in our family and schools today.  A passion to see friends (and enemies) come to Christ and make Him the Lord and Savior of their life.  A passion to raise your heart, sole and mind to the Maker and Creater of everything seen and unseen.

Praying Through the Word

Father, I pray the "fire" you have placed in my life never dies out.  I pray the passion I have for You will spead like wildfire throughout our children's dept as well as our whole church.  Lord, I pray our
Faith teams will see Your hand move in mighty and magnificant way in Faith Evangelism tonight. In Jesus' Name, Amen

Heavenly Store or Honoring the Father

Walking in the Word

Luke 2:48-50 

⁴⁸ So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
⁴⁹ And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” ⁵⁰ But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.

Responding to the Word

I love toy stores.  The lights, displays and all the "stuff" to play with for free (as long as you don't take it out of the store.)  The only problem is that my kids love it as much as I do.  Now why is that such a major problemo?  I can never find my kids in those stores.  I'm not sure if they're they have the issue of wondering off or I do?  And when their found, they only excuse is that they where hanging out in the the Barbie, Video Game, Action Hero or Bike Isle.  Today, we have one of the only snapshots of Jesus as a child.  A twelve year old child who didn't hang out in toy stores or camel markets, but in the Temple.  And even more interesting, check out His twelve year old response to His family.  "What do mean you couldn't find me?  I've been here ALL day.  You must know that I have to do what I must do - be about my Dad's business." Pastor Bill's translation.  Are you about the Father's business?  Here's a cool challenge for today.  Let your mom or dad surprisingly find you not playing video games or watching same episode of "whatever" on the TV, but spending time in God's Word and Learning His ways.  Then, you too will be about the Father's business.

Praying through the Word

Father, Your ways are awesome and plans are wonderful!  How I thank you for giving us a glimpse of your son at a young age.  Please allow my heart to join your son and always be about your business.  Thank you God for an Incredible day yesterday in Church. May your blessings fall on Dr. Hill as he indeed been an example of seeking You and your business for over 62 years of ministry.  In Jesus' Name, Amen

I wanna be like ????

Walking in the Word

Luke 1:57-60 (New King James Version)

  
⁵⁷ Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. ⁵⁸ When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.

Responding to the Word

I'm not a HUGE basketball fan, but I do remember and still marvel at the height and length Michael Jordan could jump with a basketball.  It was incredible.  Some thought he had "magic shoes" that he later went on to sell.  "I want to be like Mike" was the saying on the town.  It was on our t-shirts, on our posters and on the television set. But in all honestly, I want to be like John.  John the baptist was a cool dude!  He didn't shop at the store the other men of God shopped at.  He wore camel-skinned clothes and locust (bugs) and wild honey (now that's not bad.)  And what did he do over 2000 years ago when he lived?  He prepared the way for Jesus.  He proclaimed everyday and in everyway that the Messiah (Jesus) was coming and that people needed to repent (seek forgivness for their sins and turn from their wicked ways) and seek the face of God.  Today, we are to be preparing for Jesus' return.  The fact that Jesus is coming again shouldn't be America's best kept secret.  We need to proclaim it in our schools, on our sports teams and to every friend we meet.  No, you might not eat bugs or wear odd clothing, but you CAN be faithful in sharing Jesus with all you come into contact with.

Praying Through the Word

Father, Your plans are incredible.  I'm thankful You see tomorrow before today.  You know all things.  Help me to have a heart like John in that he was happy to decrease as Jesus had to increase.  I pray others see Jesus in me.  Father, I pray for Life Change Sunday.  May Your will be done in our church, community and country.  I also lift up those in Japan who have been devistated.  May your grace and love be in abundance there.  In Jesus' Name, Amen

Way To Go!

Walking in the Word

    Luke 1:30 

³⁰ Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.

Responding to the Word

Isn't great when we get a "way to go," or "I'm so proud of you" comment from your mom and dad?  It just seems to perk us up.  It's great to know our mom or dad is proud of us, but what about the Greatest Father in the World?  God chose Mary to be a special "mom" for His Son Jesus.  But what made Mary look so good in the Father's eyes?  Faithfullness.  She loved God and was available for whatever He wanted to do in her life.  I hope you and I can say the same thing about our lives as well.

Praying Through the Word

Father, I am thankful for Mary and all those in the past who have been faithful to your purposes.  You are a great God and should be called Holy, Holy, Holy as you gave us your one and only Son.  Thank you for loving this world and all that is in it.  Thank you for a great night in church.  The kids sang great and Lord was indeed glorified.  In Jesus' Name, Amen

He has Risen.

Walking in the Word


Mark 16:6-7 (New King James Version)

⁶ But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. ⁷ But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.”

Responding to the Word

I love those contest where you compete to get a key that could open a new car.  Some car companies try this advertising method in order to get more business.  I have never played but would like to be the "one" that received the right key to open that new car and drive it home.  Jesus is more than the right key.  He is the Way, Truth and Life.  His resurrection made it possible for us too to be one day with him.  How does that key story fit in?  He said that no one can come to the Father, except through him.  Have you thanked him for this awesome event.  He's risen!  Just like he had said!

Praying through the Word

Thank You Father for giving us your Son.  How my heart REJOICES as I ponder that first Easter morning.  Jesus, you are worthy of all that I am because I am yours.  Father, I pray for a night of miracle with our Faith Outreach Program.  Please give us all boldness as we proclaim the wonderful Name of Jesus.  In His Name I pray, Amen.

Can You Hear Me Now?

Walking in the Word

Mark 15:38 (New King James Version)

³⁸ Then the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.

Responding to the Word

I hear many kids talk of growing up in the times of the cowboys and Indians.  Yup, that would be pretty cool.  But do you know how you had to communicate with someone far away?  Horseback!  Letter carriers would pack their saddlebags full, and set out to deliver your mail.  Today, things are much different.  I can call my family from inside my car and write a letter to a friend in Japan in an instant!  Cell phones and the Internet has made all of this possible.  As we approach the season we call Easter, let's remember what Jesus did for us.  Not only did he die a very painful death on a cross to pay the penalty of our sins, but also made a way for us to talk with God.   The tearing of the curtain represented our access to Father.  You don't even need a cell phone or computer to talk to God and for Him to talk with you.  Cool!

Praying through the Word

Father, I am thankful that this prayer can go up to you.  Thank You for allowing Your Son to pay the ultimate price for me and those I love.  Father I pray for an incredible day this Sunday with Evangelist Junior Hill.  May You bring many to hear the life-changing message of the Gospel.  Thank You for this day.  May I be found faithful in it.  In Jesus' Name, Amen

It's All About Me

Walking in the Word

Mark 14:35-36 

³⁵ He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. ³⁶ And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”

Responding to the Word


Sometimes we have the tendency to think everything revolves around US.  There are even several shirts with the slogan, "It's All About Me" on the front front.  This is a normal stage of development for children but sometimes adults too struggle with it.  Jesus came to a point of struggle in the Garden of Gethsemane on the eve of His Crucifixion.  He knew about the intense pain that was ahead of him and asked the Father if there was any other way.  But just look at what he said, "not what I will, but what You will."  Jesus knew it wasn't all about him, (even though He was son of the most high God).  A will is like a "plan of action."  It was and is all about the Father.  You see, God has a good and perfect will for our lives.    Trust God today ask Him to reveal His will in your life and be ready to say, "Yer Sir!" 


Praying Through the Word


Father you are the giver of life and grace.  All love comes from your being and everything that will happen today is under your control.  I pray you would find with me and heart that only says "Yes Lord."  Would your grace so richly fall upon my friend Mrs. Mary Hallman and husband Bill today.  In Jesus' Name, Amen

Memory Verse


Psalm 119:37-38

 37 Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,
         And revive me in Your way.
 38 Establish Your word to Your servant,
         Who is devoted to fearing You.

What A Smell

Walking in the Word


Mark 14:3  

 ³ While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head


Responding to the Word


I remember a time when Sunday morning consisted of several men in three piece suits and  women wearing long and flowing dresses.  We had a pretty strict dress code in our small church up north.  Today, we focus more on what's inside a person than what's on the outside.  The dress code has drastically changed.  But we should always remember that we are "honor" the Father, Son and Holy Spirit each and every day of our lives.  The women in today's story honored Jesus by anointing his head with perfume.  She may not of been aware of the significance of her actions, but Jesus sure was.  Not only was Jesus pleased with her sacrifice, but He said that her story would be 'linked' to the Gospel message throughout history.  Have you honored the Lord today?  Why don't you pause right now and tell Him just how much you love, honor and adore him?


Praying Through the Word


Father, I know you look at the heart.  I pray you find within me a heart that is honoring only You.  Lord, I know I have much to learn about Your will and ways.  Father, may my mind and heart be open to Your good and perfect will.  I honor you Father.  You are not simply above all other gods, you are the only God! I again lift up my friends Bill and Mary Hallman.  I pray for your divine touch in her life.  I also pray for Greg Howards mom in Tampa General.  Lord, I pray for good recovery after some pretty extensive surgery.  In Jesus' Name, Amen


Memory Verse


Psalm 119:37-38

 37 Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,
         And revive me in Your way.
 38 Establish Your word to Your servant,
         Who is devoted to fearing You.

Ready and Waiting!

My son Billy ready to soar high at the Festival

Walking in the Word


³² “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. ³³ Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. ³⁴ It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. ³⁵ Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— ³⁶ lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. ³⁷ And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”  Mark 13:32-37


Responding to the Word


   Have you ever made "Shrink-e-dinks?"  They're the coolest thing ever.  When you first get them, they are large and without color.  Directions tell us to first paint or color the Shrink-e-dink any way you want.  Then put them in a preheated oven registering 350 degrees.  Do you know what happens?  They shrink! And they shrink really fast.  My whole family stands there looking into the window of the oven as to miss the big event.  Jesus told his followers to "watch" for the second coming of the Messiah.  We watch by spending time in the Word of God, by singing and praying together in corporate worship (that means church), and by having meaningful family devotions.  He's coming again my friends.  Will you be watching or sleeping?


Praying through the Word


   Heavenly Father, I bow my heart and body to You and Your will.  My heart is filled with excited and wonder as I see the events around me unfolding.  Your Word tells us that much of what we are seeing today will take place before the second coming of Your Son Jesus.  May you find me ready and not asleep.  Father, I pray for the people of Japan.  I pray for the families that have been devastated by disaster.  Would your peace and protection go out to all who call upon You.  In Jesus' Name, Amen


Memory Verse


Psalm 119:37-38 

 ³⁷ Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,
         And revive me in Your way.
 ³⁸ Establish Your word to Your servant,
         Who is devoted to fearing You.

Temples and Timelines

Cool RA Snacks.  They're making trucks.

Walking in the Word
  
 ¹ Then as He went out of the temple, one of His disciples said to Him, “Teacher, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!”
² And Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down."   
³ Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Him privately, ⁴ “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when all these things will be fulfilled?” Mark 3:1-4


Responding to the Word


Do you feel like you worship God better in church?  I know I do.  But I must always remember that the "Church" is not a building made with bricks and mortar.  The "Church" is the people of God!  If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, you are the church!  The building we worship in today will one day not be here.  In the above passage, Jesus referred to the Temple built by King Herod for the Jews.  It was grand and beautiful.  So when he said, "Not one stone shall be left on another," he got more than a few strange looks.  How could anyone destroy that beautiful temple?  But that's exactly what happened about 70 years after Jesus lived.  The temple was destroyed!
Temples and built and temples fall down.  Churches are build and churches fall down.  But that's OK.  Our faith is not in buildings made with bricks and mortar, but in the name that is above every name - Jesus Christ.  Aren't you glad He's got the whole world in His hands?


Praying through the Word


Father, You are more than just God on Sunday mornings.  You are God today and forever.  You have always been and always will be.  I bow before you today to worship you and you alone.  Father, I pray for the first night of Faith Evangelism.  I pray that many will come to know your Son as their personal Lord and Savior.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Loving Him with Everything

New York Trip 2011

Walking in the Word

Mark 12:29-31 (New King James Version)

²⁹ Jesus answered him, “The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the LORD our God, the LORD is one. ³⁰ And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. ³¹ And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”

Responding to the Word

I love a lot of things around me. I love my wife, my children and city I call home.  I love the church and all the children that make me smile everyday.  But I love God even more.  The Bible says to love Him with "everything we have and everything we are!"  Thats a pretty big order.  But do you know the coolest thing ever?  If we give God all of our love, everything else seems to fall into place as well.  When I love God more, I love my family more.  When I love God more, I love my children and church more.  I guess its just an "added blessing" that God gives to His children.  So, how much do you love God???

Praying through the Word

Father, Please forgive me for the times I do not love you the way I should.  Please forgive me when I love the "things around me" or "the stuff" more than You.  I do love and adore You today and forever.  Thank you for bringing Mr. Cluade and Mrs. Shiela Walker home from India safely.  I ask this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, the Name of above every other Name, Amen.

Don't be afraid to ask.

My son Jacob about to launch into the air at the Strawberry Festival

Walking in the Word

⁵¹ So Jesus answered and said to him, “What do you want Me to do for you?” 
The blind man said to Him, “Rabboni, that I may receive my sight.” 
⁵² Then Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.


Responding to the Word


It seemed like everything always changes when Jesus is around.  Mark tells us the people around this "blind man" warned him to be quiet and not make a scene.  And what was his response?  He just yelled louder, "Have mercy on me." Jesus said that sometimes we have not because we ask no.  This blind man asked for his sight to be restored in faith.  And in faith, it was restored.  Is there something that only Jesus can do in your life right now?  Ask Him.  Just be sure to ask Him, "in faith!"




Praying through the Word


Dear Father, You are a good and patient God and I praise and adore you today.  Father, I pray my faith in You would be strong.  Lord, I believe, please help my unbelief.  Father, my friend Mrs. Mary Hallman is in desperate need of Your touch.  Please help her transition home to be safe and good.  Please bring her back to the children at First Baptist as soon as possible because we all miss her dearly.  Thank You Father for hearing this prayer, In Jesus' Name, Amen 

Coins and Camels

Walking in the Word

²³ Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” ²⁴ And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! ²⁵ It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
²⁶ And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?”
²⁷ But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”   Mark 10:23-27

Response to the Word

I used to always think of a camel going through the eye of literal needle.  But that's not exactly what Jesus is saying here.  The "needle" was a small door in the large gate of a fortified city.  At night, the gate would be closed to keep out a possible invasion.  The small door was there to let in residents and travelers seeking lodging.  The only problem came when the traveler had a camel.  He had to wrestle and coach that camel to kneel and creep through the small door and into the city.  Rich people sometimes trust more in thier riches than in Jesus.  It's a sad but common truth.  But just when we think we're in a hopeless situation, Jesus has the power to help anyone who wants to put thier faith in Him, and not money.

Praying through the Word

Father, How I thank you and praise You for who You are and for the blessings you have given to me and my family.  Lord, please keep my heart focused only on You and never on money or possesions.  You are worthy of all my love, praise and adoration.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Following All The Rules

Walking in the Word

²¹ Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”   Mark 10:21

Response to the Word

Isn't great to come to church and sing about Jesus, pray with our friends and learn from His Holy Word?  God delights in the praise and prayer from his people.   But God is looking from more than simply what we do on the outside.  He's looking for those who put Him first and love Him with all their hearts, soul and strength.  He's looking on the inside.  We see in the above passage that The Rich Young Ruler followed all the rules but lacked one thing:  Getting rid of the "stuff" that came between him and Jesus.  It's nothing wrong having a little "stuff" in our homes and lives.  But when we in turn begin to love it more than God, we're in trouble.  Pray to God today and ask Him to help you identify anything that might be in the middle of you and a rich relationship with Him.

Praying through the Word

Dear Father,  I want to love you with all of heart.  Help me to be like the disciples when they cast their nets aside, turned from their boats and followed your Son Jesus Christ.  Please help me identify anything on this Earth that is taking anything away from you and thank you for allowing each of us to have real treasure - the treasure in Heaven.  In Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen

Calling in the Big Guns

Walking in the Word

²⁸ And when He had come into the house, His disciples asked Him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?”
²⁹ So He said to them, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting.” 
Mark 9:28-29

Response to the Word

Jesus had sent the disciples out to teach, preach and cast out demons.  We are led to believe that they did have incredible success in their journey as they traveled two by two.  However, here we see a man who was "unsatisfied" with the disciples attempt to cast the demon out of his son and brought him to Jesus. (by the way, the best thing we can do for anyone we love is to bring them to Jesus).  Jesus then went ahead and casted the demon out.  When the bewildered disciples asked Jesus why they couldn't do it, he replied that it was an issue of "Prayer"! 
How important is prayer in your life?  Is it something you do before meals and bedtime or is it an avenue to the Heart of God?  Prayer changes everything!  Today, seek the heart of God by praying with the ACTS strategy.  A- Adoration - Adore the Father in Heaven.  C- Confession - Confess your sins.  T- Thanksgiving - Thank God for what He has done and will continue to do.  S - Supplication - Big word for all the requests you have written down in your journal.  So go ahead and talk to the Father.  He's listening.

Praying through the Word

Father, I do indeed want a richer and fuller prayer life.  I read about the testimonies of miracles that happened only as a result of prayer.  May I "pray without ceasing" every day and in every way.  In Jesus' Name, Amen

Is that Jesus?

Walking in the Word


⁴⁷ Now when evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land. ⁴⁸ Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by. ⁴⁹And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out; ⁵⁰ for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” ⁵¹ Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled.  Mark 6:47-51


Applying the Word


I have enjoyed the short winter here in Florida but I'm very excited about the summer.  I love summer days.  I love hanging out in the yard and swimming in our pool with the kids.  Speaking of the pool, I believe we have more pool toys than water.  We have inner tubes, arm floaties, Noodles, rings, diving sticks and a bunch of other stuff.  We need that stuff to play ON top the water.  Isn't it cool to realize that we know someone that doesn't need a inner tube of noodle to stay above water?  Jesus walked on the water!  The Bible says that he not only walked on water but also calmed the wind and waves.  You see friends, Jesus is Lord over the wind, waves and water.  Is He Lord over your life?


Praying Through the Word


Father, I confess that I am saddened by the verse that told us that the disciples hearts were hardened.  And that they were hardened immediately after the feeding of the five thousand!  Please Father, give us pure hearts and clean hands.  Help each of us to "transfer" our faith in what we read in the Bible to faith within our own lives.  Thank you for such a wonderful turn out at the Faith Banquet.  I pray that many will serve in this life-changing ministry.  In Jesus' Name, Amen

Lunch

Walking in the Word

³⁷ But He answered and said to them, “You give them something to eat.”
And they said to Him, “Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give them something to eat?”
³⁸ But He said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.”
And when they found out they said, “Five, and two fish.”
³⁹ Then He commanded them to make them all sit down in groups on the green grass. ⁴⁰ So they sat down in ranks, in hundreds and in fifties. ⁴¹ And when He had taken the five loaves and the two fish, He looked up to heaven, blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to His disciples to set before them; and the two fish He divided among them all. ⁴² So they all ate and were filled. ⁴³ And they took up twelve baskets full of fragments and of the fish. ⁴⁴ Now those who had eaten the loaves were about^[f] five thousand men.  Mark 6:37-44

Applying the Word

I have read this story a hundred-thousand times from childhood up to this morning.  And I still marvel at the unassuming power of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  The Bible reading today told us that Jesus was tired and hungry and still had "great compassion" for the people.  He said they were like "Sheep without a shepherd."    And what did He do?  He became their shepherd and fed them.  His miracle was so abundant that they even collect a boat-load of bread and fish when everyone was well fed.

This story helps each of us to understand that we are like sheep running around in fear and concern and that Jesus is our Shepherd.  We can have great faith in a God that cares about meeting our daily needs as He is in the big things of life.  Lets keep God FIRST in everything we say and do.

Praying through the Word

Father, we acknowledge You and Your great power!  How You formed that Earth and everything that dwells within it.  You are a great and wonderful God!  How I would have loved to see your Son reach into that basket time and again and bring up food.  How incredible!  You are a giving God and I thank you.  Please Lord watch over all the children at Plant City's First Baptist.  Please help them during the FCAT time as well as in their homes.  In Jesus' Name, Amen

Pack it up!

Walking in the Word

⁷ And He called the twelve to Himself, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them power over unclean spirits. ⁸ He commanded them to take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bag, no bread, no copper in their money belts— ⁹ but to wear sandals, and not to put on two tunics.   Mark 6:7-9

Applying the Word

I love camping!  I grew up in large family were Disney vacations and five night Cruises were out of the question. We could however always afford to go camping.  The only part of camping I didn't like was the preparation time.  We had to pack shirts, pants, underwear, towels, soap, sheets, blankets, food, drinks, bikes, Smores roasting sticks and a BUNCH of other stuff.  Don't get me wrong, I was glad to have all of that stuff at the campground.  But Jesus had a different idea in mind when he sent out His disciples.  He sent them out with the clothes on their back and shoes on their feet.  That's it!

Jesus was teaching his disciples that God will indeed take care of them when they are are in the center of His will.  And God did just that.  The Bible tells us that the disciples went out in twos preaching the Gospel and casting out demons.  Not that's cool!  Are you in the center of God's will?  Are you spending time with Him each day and in His Word?  If so, have no fear.  He is there for you.

Praying through the Word

Dear Father, Please forgive me when I begin thinking everything is on my shoulders.  Please forgive me when I spend more time planning do things than I do praying.  I do have faith in You.  Father, I lift up Mrs. Mary Hallman today and ask that your bless her with her back.  I also lift up Katie Philips for your healing touch.  In Jesus' Name, Amen