Community Kingdom Blogs

Computer Backup - Carbonite versus LiveDrive

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:22:37 -0500

Wednesday, Jan 25, 2012 10:22 pm EST
Benjamin Faust

For about two years now, I've used Carbonite to keep my hard drive backed up. For about a year now, it's stayed at between 42% and 48% (how much of my drive is backed up). After getting a new computer running Windows 7 64 bit, Carbonite would freeze or pop up errors saying there was an "error backup up" my files. Support couldn't solve the issue, and ended up going in one complete, time-wasting circle.

The thought that around 55% of my files would be forever lost if my drive went bad, was very frightening, since I keep all my client work and music and ministry files on my computer. So I did some research.

The service I decided to try is LiveDrive. I completely uninstalled Carbonite to avoid any conflicts, signed up for the free 14-day trial, and installed the software. After tweaking a few of the configuration options, it was good to go.

My wife and I just got home from church. After just a few hours of running, it has backed up more than Carbonite would in two weeks! Perhaps it's because Carbonite throttles your uploads after you have 300GB of data backed up. Perhaps it's because LiveDrive's software isn't freezing or erroring out. Whatever the cause, LiveDrive will definitely be able to keep up with my work, and will keep all my important and unreplaceable files safe, and that's worth the extra $2 or $3 per month.

So long...

Mon, 09 May 2011 11:29:58 -0400

Monday, May 09, 2011 11:29 am EST
Jennifer Faust

I guess I kind of forgot about this site :-S That's not good.

So, what is going on in our life? Well, some things never change like Ben's goofiness! ;-)

I've had some health issues: PCOS, thyroid, back. Most of that has been taken care of though.

Ben still works from home. We are in a different place. We live in the 'wilderness' so to speak. I'll have to post some pictures.

Second Life church is going really well and we are having some great services in real life and in Second Life.

I guess that's it for now. Hopefully when I post on my other blog, I'll remember to post it here, too!

God's blessings upon you!

Sponsorship Request at Christmas Season

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 06:32:18 -0500

Monday, Dec 06, 2010 6:32 am EST
Africa Humanitarian Foundation

Letter to People of Goodwill

Good Citizens of the World,

Let me tell you a little story.

Once upon a time – in early 2005, I visited the very impoverished neighbourhood of Mabeta New-Lay Out, Limbe, Fako Division of Cameroon, West Africa and stumbled upon about eight kids tip-toeing on some stony and dusty playground, kicking a bunch of wrapped papers. That was their soccer ball. It was a mixture of papers, leafs and rubber from trees – all, craftily congested and thoroughly wrapped in a plastic paper bag to form a round object. They were all covered in dust and played so excitedly under the scourge of the sun and summer heat -- smiling from ear to ear and shouting on the top of their voices. One could easily discern they passionately enjoyed their game despite the risky and very unfavourable conditions and environment under which they played. What bothered me was that they were playing on a school day. They weren’t at school!

I managed to assemble the kids at one corner of their neighbourhood. I sat with them on the ground. We had a magnificent shade – a tall mango tree and we enjoyed the fresh forest breeze.

The state in which I found the kids is not the issue here. Rather, the issue is the content of the discussion we had: the ambitions of medical doctors, pilots, lawyers, administrators, professional football stars at stake. I read all of these on their faces, felt them in their hearts as they struggled to narrate their sorry tales.

I saw in them very ambitious kids, their strong yearning for better life and their burning enthusiasm cum insatiable thirst to go to school. Except for one of the kids, their parents were poor peasants who didn’t have the money to send them to school and they had just been sent away from school for lack of approximately $US 25 for a whole school year. And yes, you read me right – 25 dollars for registration fees, PTA levy, text books, uniforms and other miscellaneous expenditure for an entire school year.

“If I were in their shoes, I wouldn’t have been what I am today”, I thought.

And then a feeling of pity and so much concern dawned on me.

Escaping economic stagnation and joblessness in Cameroon, I left for China with a scar on my mind – the medication to it being to return home as quickly as I could and help my people as far as possible. So I embarked on saving up while in China. I wasn’t successful in the first three years but God blessed me abundantly in the fourth and fifth years. For the sake of helping others live better lives, I have dug deep into my small savings and I earmarked 2,000 dollars to help create a not-for-profit orgnaisation, and the Africa Humanitarian Foundation has been born.

While the process of changing bad governments in Africa is lengthy and time-consuming, you wouldn’t want to ignore a kid who goes to school on bare feet and without a shirt on. You wouldn’t turn a blind eye to our mothers who seek healthcare. You wouldn’t pretend not to see a fire outbreak or some other natural disaster that devastates entire communities. I know that in such cases, you really want to help but you do need a genuine instrument through which you want your donations put to concrete use. This is the basis upon which the Africa Humanitarian Foundation was created. And I trust that you cannot afford to let me do all the work alone.

Your genuine spirit of solidarity and your hunger to alleviate human suffering can be strengthened through a preparedness that makes it possible to act more efficiently. And you know deep in your heart that human suffering can be effectively and swiftly relieved or even prevented (in some cases) by means of an instrument that facilitates national and international assistance and cooperation with the African people. Ours, is such a preparedness and instrument and we feel an irresistible urge to take action to help humans live with dignity. And we are substituting depression with action!

In the nutshell, The Africa Humanitarian Foundation, AHF, has since September 2006 been an apolitical, non-racial, non-denominational, financially self-sustainable, not-for-profit organization that seeks to alleviate and where possible, prevent human suffering of all kind by providing charity and humanitarian assistance to the lowest income earners and the jobless who seek education, healthcare, housing, jobs and training; giving relief to those who have been struck by natural and or man-made disasters such as floods, earthquakes, fires, war, civil strife etc by mobilizing social and humanitarian missions; educating and empowering the youths of Africa through community participation and by building links with governmental and Non-governmental organizations.

We have crafted five departments to help us effectively face our vision. Our ambition is very huge but we hope to start from somewhere. We are beginning with the Department for Promoting Primary School Education in Africa through which we hope to send 300 pupils to schools in the Cameroons in 2011/2012 academic year. This, plus our need for a permanent accommodation from where to work is our greatest challenge at this time. Please, help us to help others. Go to www.africahf.com and see how you can sponsor these two projects so that come November, we shall leapfrog this foundation to higher heights.

The huge challenge ahead of us is what gave me and a few others, some of whom are now board members, the zeal to personally begin sponsoring pupils privately since 2006 when we procured our legal permit to begin this foundation. The road ahead is so long but with concerted efforts and great resolve in our hearts, I can only promise you, with all my strength that you wouldn’t regret investing in and helping the African people through our very humble organisation – the Africa Humanitarian Foundation.

Humanity expects everyone to do their duty; we of the Africa Humanitarian Foundation thank God you are on our site to do yours! Please make a small donation to our foundation as a Christmas gift to kids you don’t even know and have never met before by sponsoring one of our current projects.

Thank you very much indeed for reading this and may God bless us all.

Regards,

Akoson Raymond,

Board Chairman.

How is everyone ?

Tue, 25 May 2010 12:03:44 -0400

Tuesday, May 25, 2010 12:03 pm EST
Karene Walls

Hi,

Hope everyone is doing well. It has been a long time since I have been here. I have have had a lot of challenges lately that have needed most of my attention. But praise God for he has and continues to give me the strength I need to get through the challenges I am facing.

Today the weather in Southern California is beautiful, but is expected to rain by the end of the week> the weather has really been weird lately: changeing form week to week at a drastic pace.

My sinus' have been giving me a lot of problems due to the weather.

Hope to hear from you all soon. Have a great week.

God Bless,

Karene

Email: karenew4@gmail.com

--Re: How is everyone ?

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 07:41:11 -0500

Friday, Dec 17, 2010 7:41 am EST
Africa Humanitarian Foundation

Dear Child of God, Let me tell you a little story. Once upon a time â in early 2005, I visited the very impoverished neighbourhood of Mabeta New-Lay Out, Limbe, Fako Division of Cameroon, West Africa and stumbled upon about eight kids tip-toeing on some stony and dusty playground, kicking a bunch of wrapped papers. That was their soccer ball. It was a mixture of papers, leafs and rubber from trees â all, craftily congested and thoroughly wrapped in a plastic paper bag to form a round object. They were all covered in dust and played so excitedly under the scourge of the sun and summer heat -- smiling from ear to ear and shouting on the top of their voices. One could easily discern they passionately enjoyed their game despite the risky and very unfavourable conditions and environment under which they played. What bothered me was that they were playing on a school day. They werenât at school! I managed to assemble the kids at one corner of their neighbourhood. I sat with them on the ground. We had a magnificent shade â a tall mango tree and we enjoyed the fresh forest breeze. The state in which I found the kids is not the issue here. Rather, the issue is the content of the discussion we had: the ambitions of medical doctors, pilots, lawyers, administrators, professional football stars at stake. I read all of these on their faces, felt them in their hearts as they struggled to narrate their sorry tales. I saw in them very ambitious kids, their strong yearning for better life and their burning enthusiasm cum insatiable thirst to go to school. Except for one of the kids, their parents were poor peasants who didnât have the money to send them to school and they had just been sent away from school for lack of approximately $US 25 for a whole school year. And yes, you read me right â 25 dollars for registration fees, PTA levy, text books, uniforms and other miscellaneous expenditure for an entire school year. âIf I were in their shoes, I wouldnât have been what I am todayâ, I thought. And then a feeling of pity and so much concern dawned on me. Escaping economic stagnation and joblessness in Cameroon, I left for China with a scar on my mind â the medication to it being to return home as quickly as I could and help my people as far as possible. So I embarked on saving up while in China. I wasnât successful in the first three years but God blessed me abundantly in the fourth and fifth years. For the sake of helping others live better lives, I have dug deep into my small savings and I earmarked 2,000 dollars to help create a not-for-profit orgnaisation, and the Africa Humanitarian Foundation has been born. While the process of changing bad governments in Africa is lengthy and time-consuming, you wouldnât want to ignore a kid who goes to school on bare feet and without a shirt on. You wouldnât turn a blind eye to our mothers who seek healthcare. You wouldnât pretend not to see a fire outbreak or some other natural disaster that devastates entire communities. I know that in such cases, you really want to help but you do need a genuine instrument through which you want your donations put to concrete use. This is the basis upon which the Africa Humanitarian Foundation was created. And I trust that you cannot afford to let me do all the work alone. Your genuine spirit of solidarity and your hunger to alleviate human suffering can be strengthened through a preparedness that makes it possible to act more efficiently. And you know deep in your heart that human suffering can be effectively and swiftly relieved or even prevented (in some cases) by means of an instrument that facilitates national and international assistance and cooperation with the African people. Ours, is such a preparedness and instrument and we feel an irresistible urge to take action to help humans live with dignity. And we are substituting depression with action! In the nutshell, The Africa Humanitarian Foundation, AHF, has since September 2006 been an apolitical, non-racial, non-denominational, financially self-sustainable, not-for-profit organization that seeks to alleviate and where possible, prevent human suffering of all kind by providing charity and humanitarian assistance to the lowest income earners and the jobless who seek education, healthcare, housing, jobs and training; giving relief to those who have been struck by natural and or man-made disasters such as floods, earthquakes, fires, war, civil strife etc by mobilizing social and humanitarian missions; educating and empowering the youths of Africa through community participation and by building links with governmental and Non-governmental organizations. We have crafted five departments to help us effectively face our vision. Our ambition is very huge but we hope to start from somewhere. We are beginning with the Department for Promoting Primary School Education in Africa through which we hope to send 300 pupils to schools in the Cameroons in 2011/2012 academic year. This, plus our need for a permanent accommodation from where to work is our greatest challenge at this time. Please, help us to help others. Go to www.africahf.com and see how you can sponsor these two projects so that come November, we shall leapfrog this foundation to higher heights. The huge challenge ahead of us is what gave me and a few others, some of whom are now board members, the zeal to personally begin sponsoring pupils privately since 2006 when we procured our legal permit to begin this foundation. The road ahead is so long but with concerted efforts and great resolve in our hearts, I can only promise you, with all my strength and fear of God that you wouldnât regret investing in and helping the African people through our very humble organisation â the Africa Humanitarian Foundation. Humanity expects everyone to do their duty; we of the Africa Humanitarian Foundation thank God you are on our site to do yours! Please make a small donation to our foundation as a Christmas gift to kids you donât even know and have never met before by sponsoring one of our current projects. Thank you very much indeed for reading this and may God bless us all. Regards, Akoson Raymond, Board Chairman. www.africahf.com Physical Address: Mabeta New Lay Out, P.O Box 13, Limbe, Fako Division, South West Region, Cameroon Secretariat: Tel: (00237) 78 35 80 29 75 37 47 22 E-mail: akosonako@yahoo.com ahfoundation@myway.com Website: www.africahf.com

How is everyone doing ?

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:34:51 -0400

Monday, Oct 12, 2009 11:34 am EST
Karene Walls

HI,

My life has been stressful and full of many trials. I am having a hard time trying to define who I am as an individual. I have spent so many years doing things for my family that I find it hard to do things for myself sometimes. But Praise God for he is by my side 24/7 seeing to my needs.

Love and hugs,

Karene

--Re: How is everyone doing ?

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 07:45:30 -0500

Friday, Dec 17, 2010 7:45 am EST
Africa Humanitarian Foundation

Missing mom..depressed.

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:21:29 -0400

Monday, Apr 20, 2009 1:21 pm EST
Glenda G (I dont give my real last name out on the net, s

I miss mom. Praise god for my brother. this time he understood and didnt be critical of me but encouraged me nad said I was a better person than to let things get to me, but that my feelings are a natural part of the grief process. One day ill be fine the next it will come like a time bomb. The relay for life ministered to me about that and said jesus wept so I can too, and not to let anyone make me feel stupid for it.

Forgive me god for blaming you today for mom's death. you gave her plenty of chances to get her life right and would have healed her if she'd met you half way and taken the healings you gave her with the surgeries and so fourth. So you took her so she'd not have to worry anymore. I know your will is best, I just dont understand it.

Please come soon dear lord...

major depression

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 19:22:24 -0400

Friday, Apr 17, 2009 7:22 pm EST
Jose Aponte

i hate my life al things i have in my life get taken away people who i love dont love me back i been told im not a man a real man see im on ssi i been on it all my life so all women i met alot of them didnt care but one and this is the one i wasÂ in love with i did alot for this woman i cooked ,cleaned gave all my money to her took care of her two kids and in the end i was the fool i still love this woman alot she showed me who god was i never new who he was till i met this woman she a good woman but i just wasnt the man for her we was still talking but she stoped i dont know where my life will go from here but i pray back to her where my life was most happyer at was in the stat of tacoma,wa i miss my church the peoplein it i miss walkin and talking to my friends i miss playing with the kidsÂ but for now im here in hell kennesaw,ga i hate my life the way it is ipray to god to help me to get back to tacoma,wa but intil then i have to just hope & wait and see if she will call me or even want me to come home soon i been in ga for about 8 weeks i cant stay here for the summer i dont want to i want & need to be home where i can do for peopleÂ theres not a day that go by that i just want to just die i wish i didnt have to wake up til the day she tell me to get on that plane but we will see i told her may was the time i want to come home i hope she will let me

This is all new to me

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:49:36 -0400

Monday, Sep 08, 2008 1:49 pm EST
Natalie Skipper

This is all new to me so I actually don't know where to start. I have suffered with clinical depression for a long long time. I have used medication off and on and it seemed to help. I am currently taking Cymbalta. I have all of the symptoms of depression and I thought this place might just offer me some venting with people who know what it is like to deal with this day after day.

Want to reach your NEXT LEVEL???????

Sat, 16 Aug 2008 09:07:12 -0400

Saturday, Aug 16, 2008 9:07 am EST
Malissa Barbosa

Then check out my new Blog on WordPress!

NEXT LEVEL

Stepping Out of the Ordinary into the ExtraOrdinary

is a blog that will inspire you to reach for the dreams that God has birthed in you. With a Christ-Centered focus and writings that are Spirit - Led, NEXT LEVEL will challenge you to move pass your comfort zone and launch out into the deep.

The World is waiting for the manifestation of the Sons and Daughters of God to emerge from their complacency and to come forth in the light and brilliance of God.

YES, THIS IS YOUR SEASON!

YES, THIS IS YOUR TIME!

NEXT LEVEL

Stepping Out of the Ordinary into the ExtraOrdinary

www.malissambarbosa.wordpress.com

Words from Friday May 2nd, 2008 Prayer Meeting

Mon, 05 May 2008 10:48:34 -0400

Monday, May 05, 2008 10:48 am EST
Jennifer Faust

Jesus is holding out His hand for the rich and the poor, the black and the white, male and female, young and old, AIDS patient, prostitute, homosexual, lame, deaf, blind, mute-all who are broken, all who are in need and in want. all that we need to do is reach out to Him.

Sometimes we have masks on when we come to Jesus. Some lay them down at His feet. Jesus sees right through the others. He sees our heart. No sin or lie can be hidden.

I want to be Jesus' Ambassador. I don't care if I am politically incorect, but i stand on the Rock that is Jesus. Though all around me is falling, Jesus will never fail me. My Rock is ever strong, ever true, everlasting.

Jesus Said: Feed On Me

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:21:05 -0400

Tuesday, Apr 01, 2008 5:21 pm EST
Christina

Wanted to share my devotion with you.

Feed On Me, 03.24.08

"And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins." (Matthew 26:26-28).

As much as we Christian's love Jesus we can not help ourselves at times to lose our focus on Him. Life takes a turn and all of a sudden we are lost and confused and hungry for some sort of resolution. We starve for a glimpse of hope in that everything will be taken care of.

Of course, that resolution is Jesus and although He does not promise that we will not face struggles, He does promise that He is always with us to lead us into victory over them. The second we accept Jesus into our hearts He sends the Holy Spirit to dwell in us, that is why we suddenly feel at peace. The Holy Spirit never leaves us, but it is up to us to keep the fire burning. It is when that fire begins to smolder that we lose our focus and then Satan begins to get us back into our old way of thinking.

Which is why as we observed the wonderful resurrection of our Lord Jesus yesterday I could not help, but also be excited to know that it was a day of recognition. This was the day that the Lord showed me that all of the past was behind me and was crucified with Jesus on the cross and a new life begins.

All that sadness and depression over things that I can not control were meaningless and only feeding Satan's ego. I was sinning against myself in that I was afraid that the past would repeat itself. I was not letting the past die which kept Jesus from accepting my plea for forgiveness. It was time to let go and let God take control of the situation.

Jesus truly is the bread of life and as long as we feed on Him we are never hungry or thirsty. That is why it is so important to seek Him daily, especially when we do not feel like it. That is a guarantee that Satan sees our struggle and will use it against us. Feeding on Jesus enables us to fight back. I will let you in on a little secret, when I feel that Satan is attacking me I will start screaming at him to get away from me and start singing to Jesus. You know I get the craziest looks...lol, but I also find peace and hope that I will see victory and that is a wonderful feeling. Satan might try and control my thoughts, but he can not control the Holy Spirit that dwells in me and that is what turns those negative thoughts to postive ones.

You too can have victory over the past, Jesus will help you through it, all you have to do is call on Him.

Have a blessed day,
Christina

Visit A Spiritual Guide
www.aspiritualguide.net

Tamarazz

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 12:42:41 -0500

Friday, Mar 07, 2008 12:42 pm EST
Tamarah Zabaleta

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Tamarazz

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 12:27:52 -0500

Friday, Mar 07, 2008 12:27 pm EST
Tamarah Zabaleta

Well, I am supposed to be getting the car fixed today. Yesterday it was ready and when I picked it up, the brakes went out and I had a wee accident. Hopefully today it will be ready and Monday I can pick it up. I had a job interview in real life yesterday, and I think it went well. This job will be a well paying good job, plenty of space for moving up too, for more money. I still tho, will not have medical insurance and what not, but maybe with a job I can reapply for assistance through the county. Since also, I moved to a new county just recently. We will see how this works out. God always helps through prayer and supplication, so I know this is just YET another TEST of my love for him.

Faithful God

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 04:02:33 -0500

Sunday, Feb 17, 2008 4:02 am EST
Leroy Meadows

Last post, I mentioned that standing was all we could do sometimes while waiting for the fulfillment of God's promises to us. And He has done just that! We were in a situation we haven't been in for a long time and we had to just place our trust in Him. He provided a financial blessing that was severely needed. Thank you Jesus. You are Jehovah Jireh, my provider!

Standing

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:48:56 -0500

Tuesday, Feb 12, 2008 9:48 pm EST
Leroy Meadows

It has been awhile since I posted here. A lot has happened in the last 5 weeks or so. Giants won the superbowl, Mike Huckabee has a strong showing in the primaries, and a lot of nervousness and confusion over the economy.

Around the first of the year, my wife and I renewed our commitment to support the work and ministry of the Lord through our tithes and offerings. Ever since, it seems like one thing after another is trying to get us distracted from our commitment. Car repairs, illness, medication, things breaking down. When will it all end?

My guess is that it is a temporary attack from the enemy to see if my wife and I would stand by our covenant with the Lord or if we would back away and be dishonorable with our finances. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that God will bless 90 percent when we give Him our first 10 percent so that it would go further than if we had kept all 100 percent. Standing in the midst of wondering how things are going to play out isn't easy. But as my wife and I keep standing in prayer, our faith being placed in Jesus, I know that He will provide for all our needs according to His riches in glory!

If you are in the midst of something that seems like it might take you down, please know there is not only someone (my wife and I) going through the same thing, but there is also One who has been there and for His complete faithfulness is sitting at the Father's right hand. Let Christ help you to stand, having done all else you know to do. Let Christ guide your steps. Let us examine ourselves to make sure that Christ is our first priority and that there are no other gods before Him!

can somebody tell me?

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:20:21 -0500

Friday, Feb 01, 2008 6:20 pm EST
Lortrisha Goldsberry

i know though preyer anything is possible, but i also know preying certains ways you can get a better answer. I was wondering in what way could i prey for God to help me see something in my life/relationship that i may not be seeing now.

im really needing an answer for something but if he has already showed/told me im not understand. so now i need some insight on how to increase my preyer.

The First Day Towards a New Life

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 14:38:33 -0500

Wednesday, Jan 30, 2008 2:38 pm EST
David Raglin

Hello All,

Today I have paid for my entire course with Ames. I have already started my first lessons, and I feel a great sense of happiness and calm over me. Its refreshing to have this aspect. For the first time in years, I feel like I have a sense of direction towards life. I am so grateful that the Lord has given this opportunity to all of us. God Bless the Lord, and God Bless Ames College for providing an excellent way to gain more knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Dave

Sorrow & Pain

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 23:30:06 -0500

Thursday, Jan 24, 2008 11:30 pm EST
Samantha Hutsell

As we go along are road in life, we often wonder, "what is our goal?" "why am I here?" I still have yet to figure that out, alhtough in the last year, I have found sorrow and pain to be part of that road, but our of that I have found so much love from my church and the new family that came from it. But most of all I have found that my new friendship with God has made that sorrow and pain easyer to handle.

On Oct, 24th I lost my mother to storke, although God gained an angel. That was the hadest day of my life and each day it seems to get easyer, but nothing will be more joyious than the day I get to see her again. I still have days that cry for her, but I know she is without pain or suffering and that alone puts me at ease.

As my first Christmas without her was fast aproached, my fathers health was starting to fail. Although my mother and father had been divorced since 1992, he took moms death very hard. Harder than my only sister and I had expected. On Christmas day, we got the call he was not doing well. We made it there just in time, for me to say and prayer and ask God to take him home, As I said Amen, he left us to spend Christmas with Jesus and mom that year.

I find hope and love in the fact that God loves me and cares enough to show me that he wants me to not feel pain in my life even thoug his own son had to feel pain for all my sins. I thank him for that. I can't wait to meet my Lord and savior and be re-united with my mom and dad again.

Sammijo

What I Have been Up To

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 02:03:57 -0500

Wednesday, Jan 23, 2008 2:03 am EST
Jerry Simmons Jr

Well It's my birthday today,another year has past,but I don't consider it a wasted year because I have gotten a lot accomplished during the year.First of all I have my poetry book that I am selling online for a fair price and if you want to buy it click here I also have started an online community that's called Great Southern Gospel,now with the name you would think it was only for people who like southern gospel music,but that isn't the case,the reason for the name is because southern gospel music just happens to be my favorite,so anyone can join and I hope everyone will,just click here to join.

I still have been writing my poetry and I still write songs and short stories,I have one short story called Kelly's Journey and I am working on part 2 of that one and when I get all of the stories written I will be selling that book online as well.

So as you can see,I have been keeping busy,life has it's ups and downs but through it all it has been great.Well I guess that is all for now,and I will start posting on here alot more.God Bless and goodnight.

TO SAY HELLO TO ALL THE STUDENTS

Sat, 19 Jan 2008 00:28:22 -0500

Saturday, Jan 19, 2008 12:28 am EST
Sherry W.

I just wanted to say hello to all Ames Bible Students and to say I am glad I have this opportunity to fellowship with you in the Lord Jesus Christ.

I hope everyone of you are Blessed and doing well. I also hope to meet new friends here and to increase my knowledge of the Word of God in order to teach others raising up disciples for His Kingdom.

I am not much on blogging daily, but do try to check my messages, the chat room, and the forum board. I hope to see you there!

God bless each and every one of you and may we march on for our Lord Jesus Christ being shining lights here on earth for His glory.

Praise God and Amen!!!

You Can Create Metabolic Balance for a Healthier Life.

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 20:21:35 -0500

Friday, Jan 18, 2008 8:21 pm EST
Chris Litz

Everything you do—eat a meal, drive to work, even walk around the block—produces metabolic waste and toxins. Your body usually can’t eliminate metabolic waste as fast as it is produced. Poor diet, excessive stress, strenuous workouts, and pollutants in the air you breathe can increase the rate at which waste builds, creating metabolic imbalance in your system.

Prolonged metabolic imbalance leads to a breakdown of cellular tissue structures and functions, resulting in a condition known as metabolic stress, characterized by a variety of symptoms:

Trouble focusing, moodiness, irritability

Lack of energy, feeling “run down” or sick

Difficulty keeping weight off

Unhealthy cholesterol levels

Glucose and insulin imbalances

Build-up of environmental toxins in the body

Cell damage caused by free radicals that come from oxidative stress

If left unchecked, metabolic stress can develop into full-blown metabolic syndrome, which currently afflicts about 50 million Americans. Metabolic stress and metabolic syndrome are identified as precursors to:

Heart Disease

Diabetes

Strokes

Obesity

Macular Degeneration

Until now, there was no way to reduce metabolic stress and bring your body back to metabolic balance.

Introducing MERIDIUMXN™. The solution to metabolic imbalance.

MERIDIUMXN™ is a powerful remedy that acts directly at the molecular level to restore metabolic balance.

Scientific research indicates that the active ingredients in MERIDIUMXN™, when taken daily, can help your body eliminate metabolic waste and may prevent the harmful chemical reactions associated with metabolic stress and metabolic syndrome.

Get a FREE 30 day supply of MeridiumXN and try it for yourself!

I want to try it now!

Why it has taken sooo long for me to..

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 22:18:32 -0500

Tuesday, Jan 15, 2008 10:18 pm EST
Maggie Cavanaugh

...blog here again--I have written a novel, have the sequel in the oven; and two other novels started! *pant, pant*--I'm running in place, but have kept UP the pace! Maybe I can put a chapter or two here. Soon. Very, VEEERRRYYY soon!

please prey for me...ill prey for you.

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 01:27:19 -0500

Tuesday, Jan 15, 2008 1:27 am EST
Lortrisha Goldsberry

Hi my name is Lortrisha, i am new on here. yesterday/this mornigi was having a bad day. I was really trying not to let nothin get to me and i kept telling myself God dont give out more than you can handle..i preyed off and on through out my day and now. I just moved to Florida and im very close to my family...so being this far away is all new to me, my family is in ky. I really began to miss them alot and today is my birth day and im away from them so i go sad. I guess the devil put negative thought into play for me....some what i allowed it i guess. at the moment i have a part time job i work picking up trash out of 3 story apt complex and i work under the table so to speak.....the 19 of this month will be a month i have worked there and i have not got paid...which is hard i have no other income..coming to me. i dont drive and where i live is kinda a way from jobs. i dont know anyone here in the area. so i had got more depressed........see how things kept going down hill...well all in all just please keep me in your preyers for postive thing to come to me and for me to be able to help others in some way.
if you leave me your name i will prey for you also. thank you to anyone who does prey for me and God bless you.

Back to square one...

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 19:09:52 -0500

Saturday, Jan 12, 2008 7:09 pm EST
Jennifer Faust

No, I am not pregnant. I am going to get healthy...i.e. lose weight (I'm overweight!), get my thyroid taken care of (I have a low thyroid). With these things taken care of and me doing my part to get ready...I pray that God will then bless us with children. I really don't know why we aren't having them...BUT I do know that I need to start doing my part. Plese pray for me and my husband as we get ourselves ready. Pray that we continue on the path God has set for us. Thank you.

For those who don't know, Rev. Ben Faust is my husband.

~Jen

Hopeful

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 21:18:10 -0500

Wednesday, Jan 09, 2008 9:18 pm EST
Jennifer Faust

Today at my psychiatrist appointment, my doctor had them take blood to see if I am pregnant. (Last period was November 9th) So, on Friday I call the nurse back to find out the results. I am looking forward to it, but all kinda scared...anxious. So yeah...please pray for me. :-) Thanks. I have wanted a baby for a long time now.

~Jen

Blessed New Year

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:40:56 -0500

Tuesday, Jan 01, 2008 6:40 pm EST
Leroy Meadows

What a time of year! The season of "the holidays" are a busy time of year, even for those of us who do most of our shopping online. Even though I don't go to the malls and stores for the most part, it seems like I still get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season.

Now that New Year's Day is here, not only am I looking forward to getting back into the routine of things, but I'm also looking forward to new things that God has in store this year. I'm so excited!! His mercies are new every morning and His love never ends! I can't wait to see how Jesus will reveal Himself to me and my family. Happy Birthday Jesus and I pray that Your will be done in my life!

Happy 2008!

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 13:39:16 -0500

Friday, Dec 28, 2007 1:39 pm EST
Chris Litz

I want to wish everyone a blessed and happy new year. As an entrepreneur and business coach, I want to remind all of you who may own a home business that God wants us to have success and to prosper.

3 John 1:2 says: " Beloved, in regard to all things I pray that you prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers."

I've been blessed this past year by others who have mentored me and showed me secrets to success that I've applied and prospered from. You can begin moving your business in a new direction.

www.christopherlitz.com

www.litzcashflowsystem.com

God Bless you all!

Chris <><

Just finished up the Books of the Law

Tue, 25 Dec 2007 14:01:09 -0500

Tuesday, Dec 25, 2007 2:01 pm EST
Katie Farmer

I just finished up on the books of the law. Will be doing History tomorrow. I am glad to have a nice friend to share what I learn with this helps me retain what I learn from memory and pass my self tests without having to look for the answers.

I'm on to the second group of books in the Old Testament. It's going really well. can't wait to dig into the deeper stuff soon. i know this will help me draw closer to God and give me the Godly Character and Maturity I need developed.

Just finished Exodus

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 17:10:42 -0500

Friday, Dec 21, 2007 5:10 pm EST
Katie Farmer

I just finished Exodus and will be working on Leviticus Tomorrow.

I am looking forward to getting through the OT and on to the other studies. This will equip me for what I want to do.

I'm really excited to be progressing so well and it only has been a week. I'll be on Leviticus tommorrow.

Back into the Routine

Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:54:12 -0500

Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 4:54 am EST
Leroy Meadows

Back into the routine, for the most part. It was nice to get back to work. I was going stir crazy here at home for so long. I DID learn my lesson, though and it came in very handy. The night before last (Friday) I was at work with 4 hours to go until the weekend and I ended up getting hurt. After filling out the necessary paperwork, I was able to go off the production floor for awhile and ice my shoulder. My foreman asked if I wanted to go to the hospital but I refused. I figured that it was just a pulled muscle or something and that within 24 hours I'd feel much better. I don't. I can't raise my arm even with my head and am in a lot of pain. If I go to the company hospital, I'll have to drive about 50 minutes since the hospital is about 15-20 minutes east of work and I live 30-35 minutes west.

Even if I make the decision to go to the hospital later today, I know that there is One Doctor that I can completely trust. Doctor Jesus may choose to give the docs at the hospital wisdom on how to treat my shoulder or He could just outright work a healing Himself. I know Jesus heals. Jehovah Rapha (means "the God that Healeth) is my ultimate source of healing whether it be instant or through the working of medicine. In the meantime, I'll let God be God, let Him choose how to work healing, and pray that if healing is slow in coming, that I can at least work.

Even though it's discouraging not being able to use my left arm much at all, let alone lift anything, I thank you Jesus that you are not only the God that healeth me, but the Good Shepherd that leads me beside still waters and gives rest for my soul.

Great to be here

Sat, 15 Dec 2007 14:43:34 -0500

Saturday, Dec 15, 2007 2:43 pm EST
Oscar Broome Jr

Looking forward to this School. I have done most of these courses at Harvest Time but feel the need to go to College and get a Certificate. Debating now on changing to Accredited Program.

Bible reading plan

Sat, 15 Dec 2007 11:30:40 -0500

Saturday, Dec 15, 2007 11:30 am EST
Katie Farmer

I just started the completed bible reading plan. I began with December and will go on to January all the way through. I will be learning more in depth study of the word of God. I'm also on lesson 2 of the Old Testament survery. where it summarizes each book of the bible. I have two friends who are letting me teach them what I am learning which helps me in my studies and scripture memorization.

I'll be working on lesson 2 some more this afternoon before proceeding to lesson 3 of the OT Survey. I am making good progress with it thus far.

I finished lesson 1 and am now starting lesson 2

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 09:45:28 -0500

Friday, Dec 14, 2007 9:45 am EST
Katie Farmer

I just finished lesson 1 and did the self test from memory. I passed it. I am now on to lesson 2 with the bible reading plan. I will do the completed bible plan since I want to go in deeper in the word.

I will start working on some of it tomorrow and go in order of the pages reading the materials. I'll begin with December and go do all that and then January on through. I know this will get me a lot deeper in the word.

I really enjoy learning the bible thus far and can't wait to do all the courses. I'm so glad its free otherwise I wouldn't be able to do it.

Excited about bible college

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 12:42:03 -0500

Wednesday, Dec 12, 2007 12:42 pm EST
Katie Farmer

I will be working on bible college. I am so glad to find a free bible college program. to where I can have a deeper study of the word and be equipped for the ministry. I really need the deeper relationship with God to. To draw close on God's truths of his word.

I just wrote out the notes for lesson 1 (no printer ink). I can't wait to start. I want to take my time and really memorize the scriptures and not rush in to fast. That way to I will have the word in my heart also.

I do really need to come up with a study schudule though. to where I really dig in the word and read the scriptures daily and the notes. Then answer the questions from memory before going to lesson 2 of the bible.

looking forward to crossing the finish line with all the courses. complete everything.

Lord Use The Chains.

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 23:52:03 -0500

Monday, Dec 10, 2007 11:52 pm EST
joseph woodriff

"LORD, USE THE CHAINS"

I wish it was easy to figure out what is happening in life. Don't you? Do you ever wonder, "Is everything trying to kill me? At every curve in life's highway it seems some force wants me to wreck. Something always is trying to turn my life upside down. I try to make good decisions. I try to use good judgment. I try to make wise choices. But I look up, and life is out of control. I am just dragged along.

Is that how you feel? Do you feel like something is always dragging you around, always trying to turn your life upside down? It is your parents' divorce. It is your critical wife. It is your selfish husband. It is your impossible children. It is your deceitful boss. It is your dishonest competition. It is corrupt officials. It is your addiction. It is the death of someone you love dearly. Something constantly tries to turn your life upside down. It happens so consistently that we get nervous when things are going too well.

Then we face the most difficult question of all: is God behind what is happening, or is the devil behind what is happening? Is God trying to rescue us, or is satan trying to destroy us? That is one of life's most complicated questions.

Hebrews 12:7-10 It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? But if you are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Furthermore, we had earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them; shall we not much rather be subject to the Father of spirits, and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness.

Jonah was determined not to do what God wanted done (the book of Jonah).
God told him to go to Ninevah, the Assyrian capitol, and tell them that they would be destroyed for their great wickedness (1:2).
Jonah wanted God to destroy them; they were Israel's enemy.
Jonah was afraid if he went to Ninevah that they would repent and God would forgive them (4:2).
So Jonah tried to run away from God (1:3).
God turned his life upside down and brought out the chains.
A huge fish swallowed him (1:4-17).
Jonah cried to God for help (21-9).
The big fish vomited him out on land (2:10).
Jonah went to Ninevah unwillingly as the worst missionary that ever worked for God; he warned them; they repented; and God forgave them (3).
And Jonah was so angry at God that he asked God to let him die (4:1-3).
I do not know what happened to Jonah.
He certainly did not want to assist God's purposes.
Turning his life upside down did not change his attitude or his heart.
Elijah genuinely wanted to turn the ten tribes of northern Israel back to God (1 Kings 18,19).
From the time that these people became an independent nation, they worshipped idols (1 Kings 12:25-33).

Elijah, one of God's greatest prophets, lived among them.
On one occasion Elijah knew that he proved that God was the living God and that idols were nothing.
He and the prophets of Baal had a contest on Mount Carmel that was witnessed by many of the nation.
Elijah won the contest; four hundred fifty prophets of Baal were executed by the witnesses; and Elijah knew that the nation would turn back to God (18:19,40).
But in less than twenty-four hours Elijah knew that the nation would not turn back to God (19:1-3).
He fled into the wilderness asking God to let him die, and God directed Elijah to a cave where God had a talk with Elijah (19:4,10).
God said, "Elijah, you are not the only man who serves me in this nation."
"There are 7,000 prophets here who have never worshipped Baal" (19:18).
"Go back; be controlled by my purposes" (19:15-17).
"It is not all up to you; stop acting like it is."
Peter believed he was the strongest, most loyal disciple Jesus had.
When Jesus told him that he would deny Jesus three times before the night was over, Peter thought that was preposterous.
"If I need to, I will die with you."
But Peter never believed that Jesus would be arrested and tried.
After Jesus was captured, Peter ran fearfully into the night.
Later he slipped into the courtyard where Jesus was being questioned by Jewish authorities.
Three times he was recognized; three times someone said, "You are one of his disciples; three times he denied knowing Jesus."
The third time he cursed and swore that he did not know Jesus; Jesus looked at him; and he fled into the night weeping.
That night his life was turned upside down, and in John 20, Jesus fastened the chains.
Three times Jesus asked, "Peter, do you love me?"
Three times Jesus told him to take care of his sheep.
Paul experienced having his life turned upside down and the chain experience (Acts 9; 22:6-21; 26:2-18).
He was on his way to Damascus, Syria, to arrest any Jews at the synagogue who had become Christians.
A light brighter than the noon sun drove him to the ground (26:13,14).
The Jesus whom he said was a fake, an impostor, a grave threat to the will of God spoke to him.
Jesus: "Why are you persecuting me? All you are doing is hurting yourself" (26:14).
Paul: "Who are you?" (9:5)
Jesus: "I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting. I am making you a minister and a witness, and I am sending you to open people's eyes so they will turn from darkness to light in order that they may receive forgiveness and the inheritance of those who are sanctified by faith in me" (26:15-18).
For three days Paul was blind, and for those three days he prayed and fasted (9:9).
Then Jesus sent Ananias to him (9:10-12).
Jesus told Ananias, "He is my chosen instrument. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name's sake" (9:15-16).
Among the things that Ananias told Paul was this: "Get up, and be baptized, calling on his name" (Acts 22:15).
And the great Christian persecutor became the great Christian servant.
But not before God turned his life upside down.
But not before God dragged him to Christ.

I do not pretend to think like a turtle. But a couple of things are obvious. When that exhausted turtle crawled deep into the sand dunes, it was convinced that it knew what it was doing and where it was going. Had someone tried to turn the turtle toward the ocean, the turtle would have resisted.

We are like the turtle. We are so sure that we know what we are doing. We are so sure that we know where we are going. If anyone dares try to help us understand that we do not, we resist him or her. Oh, how we resist him or her!

So, exhausted, we wind up deep in the dunes far from life and close to death. The sun in the hot sand is sucking the life out of us. "Sometimes it is hard to tell whether you are being killed or saved by the hands that turn your life upside down."

Question: do you want God to rescue you? "I do not need rescuing!" You answered the question. "Yes, I want God to rescue me, but I do not want Him to turn my life upside down doing it." You answered the question. "Yes, I want God to rescue me, but there has never been an emergency." You answered the question.

If God sees you dying in the hot sand dunes of life, what do you want God to do? If God just knows the direction you are going will kill you, what do you want God to do? Do you want God to do anything necessary to rescue you--even if it means turning your life upside down, and dragging you with chains to where you need to be.

I am not talking about God taking any person's will or power of decision from him or her. I am talking about God placing us in circumstances that let us choose life instead of death. Do you want God to do anything necessary to place you in those circumstances?

--Re: Lord Use The Chains.

Sat, 19 Jan 2008 00:40:32 -0500

Saturday, Jan 19, 2008 12:40 am EST
Sherry W.

I understand well the things life can bring your way on this walk with the Lord. I am still going through the fire of being persecuted and feeling alone in this walk. Oh ,I know the Lord is with me leading me through it all. I just can testify that it is hard some times to determine who you are wrestling with God or the enemy. I have been there and done that one. Just as Jacob wrestled with the angel of the Lord, so we do at times striving with our Maker and walk away with a limp to remind us of who is in control.

Purpose Now To Become An Encourager Of The Brethren.

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 23:42:24 -0500

Monday, Dec 10, 2007 11:42 pm EST
joseph woodriff

But that you also may know about my circumstances, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make everything known to you. And I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts. Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with a love incorruptible. (Ephesians 6:21-24)
Life can be discouraging. We live in a society that can chew people up and spit them out. In our high-tech age we have forgotten how to be high-touch. People who are eager to climb the corporate ladder are often selfish and cold. We exalt as virtues things which are not virtuous. Attitudes like pride, selfishness, and greed are portrayed as desirable characteristics. All of this can be terribly discouraging.
Someone has described our society as a rat-race. While that may be fine for rats, what about the rest of us? Others have described us as a dog-eat-dog society. In fact, before the Soviet Union dissolved, someone was trying to compare our society to theirs. They said that in a capitalistic society it was dog-eat-dog. But in a communistic society it was precisely the reverse! The point is that in all societies there is a blatant disregard for others. It is truer today than ever before.
What we need is some encouragement. We need people who are encouragers. There certainly are times when I need encouragement. I'm sure that you will admit that there are times when you need encouragement. Indeed, there are probably few times when we do not need encouragement.
As I study the life of the apostle Paul, I am struck with the fact that he was an encourager. Paul could certainly speak in a straight forward and blunt manner. He did not shy away from speaking the truth to someone, even when that truth was harsh and hard to take. But at his heart Paul was very much an encourager of others. At the core of his being, he desired to build people up, not tear them down.
As we come to the closing words of the book of Ephesians, we see Paul doing what we all need to do for one another. We see him wishing the very best that God has to offer on others. Paul expresses his heart-felt desire that the peace, love, faith, and grace of God be fully realized by these Christians in Ephesus.
Paul gives us an example of how we should encourage others. What is it that you desire for others? Do you rejoice when others succeed? Do you truly desire to see God's best be realized in the lives of other people? Let's look at some of the things Paul desired for others.
Peace
Peace to the brethren . . . (6:23a)
Paul's first desire is for peace. This is both a Jewish and a Christian benediction. The Jews wished for shalom. Shalom was a sense of well-being or peace. We see this in the benediction of Aaron:
The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you
And be gracious to you;
The Lord turn His face toward you
And give you peace.
(Numbers 6:24-26)
We all need real peace in our lives. Only God can give us true peace. And God desires to do so. In Jeremiah 29:11 we read, "For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the Lord, `plans for welfare [literally shalom] and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.'" This is what God desires for all of us.
Jesus said, in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you." Jesus gives us a peace that the world cannot match. For the world, peace is simply the absence of strife. For the Christian, peace is the present activity of God. True peace comes from trusting in the Lord.
You can search the world over and still not find peace. I heard of a retired couple, who were alarmed by the threat of nuclear war. Some years ago they began a serious study of all the inhabited parts of this globe. They were trying to find a place which was the least likely to be effected by nuclear war. They both traveled and studied. At last they found The Place. At Christmas they sent cards to their friends in the United States from their new home. It was the Falklan Islands. It was the soon-to-be battleground between Britain and Argentina. You see, you never know where you can find true peace, until you come to Jesus. He alone can provide peace.
We all need peace. Paul wished for peace for all Christians.
Love
Peace be to the brethren, and love . . . (6:23a)
Not only do we all need to experience real peace, we all need to experience true love. Several years ago, there was a popular song which began like this: "What the world needs now is love, sweet love." Although some years have passed, that is still what the world needs now. It is what you and I need. The desire in each of us to be truly loved is probably the greatest desire we have.
In the a Reader's Digest article we find this from a Sunday School teacher:
For St. Patrick's Day, I asked the five-year-olds in my Sunday school class to bring "something green that you love." The next Sunday they brought the usual green hats, green sweaters and green books. But one boy entered with an especially big grin. Behind him, wearing a green dress came, his four-year-old sister.
Are there those that you love --- red . . . and yellow . . . black . . . and white? I'm sure there are.
But love should not be simply something we wish for someone. We should show our love to that person while we have a chance. We are told over and over in the Scriptures to love one another. We are also told that our love ought not to merely be in word, but also in deed. Real love is something we do.
Sometimes love is costly. At the very least, it is a risk. But love is always like that. No one ever said it better than C.S. Lewis:
To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket --- safe, dark, motionless, airless --- it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable . . . . The only place outside Heaven where you can be perfectly safe from all the dangers of love . . . is Hell.
But we must take the risk to love. We must risk it because we need love. We must risk it because others need love.
It is true that sometimes taking that risk can lead you into trouble. Maybe you heard about the guy who fell in love with an opera singer. He hardly knew her, since his only view of the singer was through binoculars --- from the third balcony. But he was convinced he could live "happily ever after, married to a voice like that." He scarcely noticed she was considerably older than he. Nor did he care that she walked with a limp. Her mezzo-soprano voice would take them through whatever might come. After a whirlwind romance and a hurry-up ceremony, they were off for their honeymoon together. She began to prepare for their first night together. As he watched, his chin dropped to his chest. She plucked out her glass eye and popped it into a container on the nightstand. She pulled off her wig, ripped off her false eyelashes, yanked out her dentures, unstrapped her artificial leg, and smiled at him as she slipped off her glasses that hid her hearing aid. Stunned and horrified, he gasped, "For goodness sake, woman, sing, sing, SING!"
Generally love is very much worth it. But those who deserve love the least probably need it the most. Let's face it, all of us need to give and receive love.
Faith
. . . love with faith . . . (6:23b)
We not only need love, we need love with faith. By faith we mean simple trust in God.
When a missionary was translating the Bible for a South Seas Island tribe, he discovered that they had no word for trust or faith. One day a native who had been running hard came into the missionary's house, flopped himself into a large chair and said, "It's good to rest my whole weight on this chair." "That's it," said the missionary. "I'll translate faith as resting one's whole weight on God.'"
Don't you feel like that sometimes? Life is tough; people are difficult; you are tired; and you just want to rest your whole weight on God. That is the kind of faith I'm talking about. It is a simple trust that you are in God's hands, and that whatever happens, He is in charge.
Believing that is no easy task sometimes. Often I feel I need more faith. At times I feel like the Roman Centurion who said, "Lord I believe; help thou my unbelief." We all need faith. We need God to grant us faith. We need to pray for faith for ourselves and for others. And we need to encourage faith in others.
The way we get faith is not to concentrate on faith, but to concentrate on our relationship with Christ. Faith does not spring from logical analysis, but from a relationship with a living God. Someone has said, "For those who believe, no explanation is needed; for those who do not believe, no explanation will be enough." To know God is to have faith. A little child will trust that his father will catch him if he jumps off the bed. We must trust that God will take care of us no matter what.
Grace
Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with a love incorruptible. (6:24)
Paul finally wishes grace upon these believers. Someone once defined grace as God's Riches At Christ's Expense. Grace is also defined as God's unmerited favor.
The story is told of a man who appeared at Heaven's gate and was met there by an angel who told him, "It will take 1,000 points to get you in. Tell me about yourself so that I will know how many points to give you." The man smiled and said, "Well, I've been going to church almost every Sunday all my life." "Excellent," the angel said. "That will give you three points. What else?" The man was shocked. "Only three points?" he gasped. "Well, I was a Sunday school superintendent for a while, and I tithed, and I tried to be a good neighbor." "Very good," the angel said. "That will give you ten points." The man gasped again. "At this rate," he said, "I'll never get in except by the grace of God!" If the truth were known, all of our good works would add up to less than zero. We need God's grace because we need God.
Here is a penetrating comparison of the difference between revenge, justice, and grace. If someone brutally murders your son and you take things into your own hands, that's revenge. If you're content to allow the law and the courts to arrest and punish the offender, that's justice. But if you pardon the murderer, adopt him, and take him home to live with you as your son, that's grace! That is precisely what God did. Our sin murdered His Son. And He has not only pardoned us, but He has adopted us as His children.
Grace is the goodness of God given freely to all of us. We need grace. Others need grace.
The best way we can be an encouraging person to others is to desire God's best for them. We should not only desire that, but we should pray for one another that God would bless us and build us up. We should carefully consider one another with a view to building up one another in Christ. Life is tough enough without our adding to the discouragement.

Purpose now to become an encourager of the brethren.

Extreme Power and Glory be with You,
Rev. Joe Woodriff

Faith in God Prevails

Sat, 08 Dec 2007 07:06:40 -0500

Saturday, Dec 08, 2007 7:06 am EST
Leroy Meadows

What a week! What started off as a busy week at work and home has turned into a quiet weekend at home. After the safety investigation at work in regards to the accident, I was given 3 days off without pay. I expected that. I was reassurred by the union leadership that I would not face "double jeopardy" by being terminated upon my return to work. Whew! Now, when I return to work on Monday, I will be back doing my job which I like very much and everything will return to normal.

In the midst of not knowing what was going to happen earlier in the week, I had no choice but to place my faith in Him and let the chips fall where they may. Most certainly I had a mixture of feelings and emotions ranging from sorrow for someone getting hurt in the accident to not knowing if one second of lapse would cost me my job. Many other emotions and concerns flooded my mind as well. It was in the midst of experiencing those emotions that I had to consciously choose to place my future in the hands of our loving Saviour and force all of my emotions to align with where I had placed my faith. It's never an easy thing, especially when faced with losing your income right before the Christmas holidays and the prospect of having to find work that will pay all the bills. All I want to say now is a big "Thank You Jesus" for being my provider, healer, saviour, deliverer, and friend. When I am weak and fail You, You never have failed me. Ever. May Your name be lifted high and may the world see You for who You are... Our lover, our friend, and the One who cares so much more about us that our own care and concern for ourselves pales in comparison.

Thank You, Jesus!

The Unkown

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 01:45:11 -0500

Thursday, Dec 06, 2007 1:45 am EST
Leroy Meadows

Fear of the unknown is what drives many people to stay the course and never take a chance to make improvements in their lives. I've had things so easy by faith for awhile now and now I am having to completely put my future in the hands of the Father. Monday, I was using a motorized hand truck to move loads at work and my load bumped another hand truck. The other hand truck was pushed back and the person standing behind it was pushed back and he fell. Now there's a safety investigation underway. I have gone through the re-training process for vehichle safety in the manufacturing plant where I work, but with the other gentleman having to file a workman's comp claim, my future with the company is up in the air. Local management are giving me indication that I will still have a job but the question is with the company owners. They could come in at any time because of this incident and release me from my job.

Now I have to put my faith to the test and totally rely on Jesus for guidance on how to respond to the investigation as well as placing my employment future into His hands. I enjoy my position and would hate to lose it. I also know that when something is removed from our lives, the Father wants to prune away the bad so the good fruit will be evident in our lives. The guilt I feel for hurting someone and that person having to go to the hospital is stressful. My only prayer is 1) That my friend physically recovers completely and 2) God's will and work will be done in my life so that He can have all the Glory.

I'm Finished!!!!

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 23:23:14 -0500

Wednesday, Dec 05, 2007 11:23 pm EST
Bud Burnett

To all my friends at AMEs !!! I have finished ALL of my studies and have submitted my final grades to Pastor Vince! I will be going on to the Ames University and there with God's help earn my BA degree in Christian Counseling! I wish you all the best in continuing your Biblical education and if I can be of service please contact me at: pastorbuddy@comcast.net

Blessings,

Rev. Bud Burnett

Charleston, SC USA

What if?

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:04:08 -0500

Wednesday, Nov 28, 2007 12:04 am EST
Chris Litz

What if there was one molecule-a single natural compound-that represented one of the greatest breakthroughs in medical science, ever?

What if this molecule had the ability to significantly reduce anyone's risk of coming down with degenerative health conditions?

What if more than 60 studies and papers backed the claims made about this molecule published in the most respected scientific and medical journals?

And, what if the company that holds the patent rights for the only bioavailable form of this molecule committed millions of dollars to harness the power that well-being creates?

What if the company created a new paradigm for distribution that offered predictable success?

What if the company helped set you up in business to transform your personal drive into health and wealth?

That company is BioNovix, Inc., a visionary company that combines unique products that address a comprehensive set of chief health concerns with a sophisticated distribution system that relies on the passion, trust and drive of its Independent Business Consultants (IBCs) for mutual success.

Visit www.health-4-u.org

I would like nothing more than to share this opportunity to be blessed and to bless others with you.

Contact me now at health4u.now@gmail.com for more information on this outstanding business!

Two down and Two to Go

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 00:52:54 -0500

Wednesday, Nov 21, 2007 12:52 am EST
Leroy Meadows

I almost forgot... I finished module 2!!!! Two down and two to go!!! The last class I finished last week was dealing with spiritual warfare. It was so awesome! I learned so much from it. I'm starting to see things in more of "the big picture" than before. I encourage everyone who takes the class to spend some extra time in prayer. That was one in-depth class!

Vacation is here!!!

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 00:39:53 -0500

Wednesday, Nov 21, 2007 12:39 am EST
Leroy Meadows

Vacation time is here!!! After working 76 hours last week, it couldn't have come at a better time. Yesterday, I was able to do a lot of laundry and some cleaning around the house. Today I spent 3 1/2 hours mowing my grass. Normally it would only take about 25 minutes or so but I hadn't mowed the grass in awhile and with the TONS of leaves in the yard, it took all afternoon just to get through all the leaves and tall grass. Now, it looks pretty good. Just have to let the wind blow away the little leaf and grass clippings and my lawn will look neat.

After having left all the yard work go and put it off, I can't help but to think back at all the times I've put off my personal study of the Word and spending time in prayer with my Jesus. How many times do we as Christians know to do right, but we decide we need (really it's just wanting) to do our own thing. Consider Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. In His greatest hour of trial Jesus prayed to the Father "Take this cup from me." Jesus so wanted to find another way to redeem man and bring us into reconcilliation with the Father. He prayed so fervently that His sweat were as great drops of blood. Jesus was in some deep, serious prayer. Jesus knew, though, that there was no other way. That's when He prayed "Nevertheless, not mine own will, but Yours." Jesus submitted to doing the right thing even though it would cost Him His life. If Jesus could be obedient in the face of death, how can we not be obedient when He's only asking us to live holy, pure, and to spend time in study and in prayer to the Father? Jesus is our example. Let's not let His example go to waste. Let's make an extra effort to build our relationship with Him so that it can be just as intimate as His relationship is with the Father.

Sensing the Second Coming

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 18:02:27 -0500

Monday, Nov 19, 2007 6:02 pm EST
Scott Shields

Jesus told us to be on watch and viligant and that His Second Coming would come unexpectedly. Watching world events things seem accelerated as if the time is coming. Anyone interested in talking and preparing for the Second Coming I would like to hear from you.

Counting Down...

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 04:38:46 -0500

Wednesday, Nov 14, 2007 4:38 am EST
Leroy Meadows

It is so nice to have the privilege of taking my vacation during the week of Thanksgiving (next week). Although I'm working dilligently and putting forth a great amount of effort and hours (probably around 75 hours this week) the thought of having next week off lingers in the back of my mind. Two nights down and four more to go before I have the opportunity to catch up on some work here at the house as well as rest. Then there's all those leaves in the yard, and not a single one has been raked up yet lol.

It seems so hard to focus on the task at hand while I'm dreaming of getting soooooo many things accomplished next week. That appears to be true in our spiritual lives as well. Some folks are waiting anxiously for the rapture to come and take them away that they aren't making the most of the time the Lord Jesus Christ has given them here on this earth. Sadly, some go the opposite extreme and focus so much on this world that they lose sight of the true purpose for living which is to "Fear God and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man"(Ecclesiastes 12:13). How crucial it is for us to be balanced between our duty here on earth and our hope that awaits us when Christ returns to take us home to be with Him. To lean too far one way makes us so heavenly minded that we're no earthly good. To lean too far the opposite way makes us so worldly minded that we're not fit for the kingdom. May we pray that the Holy Spirit shows us how to achieve a balance so that we can share Christ's love with others while maintaining intimacy with Him. In the end, it all comes down to knowing Him and making Him known to others.

May the peace of the Lord be with you

Leroy

THERE ARE NO MANY FATHERS

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 09:02:20 -0500

Monday, Nov 05, 2007 9:02 am EST
Stephen Kirabira

I want to thank the lord so much for having given me an opportunity of being in ministry and would like to share some great exprience with some one out there who is strugling or passing the same way i did.

Igot converted in 1990 from a religious church to having faith in jesus christ and since then i have leant many lessons and i want to share one of the greatest of all.

When i was converted i found a church and after sometime the lord led me to join moris cerullo school of ministry and was involved in care interssors later i shifted from a town to the city and there i joined a church.But through morris cerrullo video school of ministry i learnt many things.My new church was doing well but latter the church exprienced leadership problem which led to the pastor to sellth e church land and we endded up no where but the lord led a few of us to remain together as we were praying this was a start of a new spiritual jouney which was more difficult and challenging all the former friends of the man of God abadoned the flock and no body cared some of dear people back slide some are still nursing deap heart woundsup to today (it was 1994).

The lord had spoken to some of our friends that we should not scater but wait up him for he was doing some of us.we went to sought for help from those close friends of the man of God but they only wanted us to join their churches but remenmber the remenants had gathered and were fellowshiping,some of them told us GIVE US THE MINISTRY,according to the bible the ministry is Gods gift so how can i give you my minisrywas the question.BRETHREN OUT THERE WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO GIVE YOUR MINISTRY TO SOME BODY PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!!! IF ONLY WE HAD PEOPLE WHO HAVE A FATHERS HEART WHO WOULD HELP THE MINISTERS OUT THERE NEGLECTED NOT BECAUSE THEY ARE DISOBIDIENT BUT BECAUSE OF THE WORK THE LORD HAS BESTOWED INTO THIR LIVES PEOPLE ARE LOOKING TO BE MORE RULERS THAN GROW THE KINGDOM OF GOD.

This is time we need men with a heart that thinks of the expansion of the kingdom of God and there will be groeth and also its needful to find out why and what of every stiuation but if we will take every thim=ng them same we will not progress the work of th lord we need those who want to advance the work like God he gave out what he loved to help the neglected rejected and un loving people rebellious but latter through this people his purposes are fullfiled.I have seen the ministries that can impact the nations are surfering,SPIRITUALLY,MATERIALLY,EMONTOIONALLY,FINACIALLY,SOSIALLY,MORALLY,and this leaders are strugling(ICORTHIANS12:26) but most of the people think that those who have big churches and big minisrties are the ones doing the work of God and those are the ones that must be surpported and are called fertitle ground read MATHEW 34:40.WHEN YOU DO TO THE LEAST YOU DO IT UNTO THE LORD.Therefore you who in this kind of journey LOOK UNTO THE LORD HE WHO BEGUN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL ACOMPOLISH IT IN YOU WILL ACCOMPOLISH IT ,Phil 1:6.Thou you surfer now you will rejoice in the end God will not let you down.TRUST AND OBEY HIS VOICE SEE YOU ARE WINNING AND YOU WILL BE A WINNER IN JESUS NAME .I SEE YOU OVERCOMING TAKE COURAGE.

SEND IN YOUR COMMENTS THANK YOU.

Planning Vacation for Next Summer

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 02:56:46 -0500

Monday, Nov 05, 2007 2:56 am EST
Leroy Meadows

After reviewing the many ways one could spend a week of vacation, I have decided to go out of state. I will probably be travelling to see Perry Stone preach. I've been thinking about either seeing him in Louisville, KY or going back to the motherland (where my family is from) in Huntington, WV. Having lived there for about 15 months and previously attended Marshall University, I have a special affection for "home" even though I was born and raised up north in Ohio. Having my cousin who just passed away last week, it would be nice to go back to Huntington and visit the rest of the family since I wasn't able to make the funeral. I am sensing that my "vacation" will be an awesome time of refreshing and rest being in the presence of the Lord all week long.

I'll keep things updated about which location I am going to see Brother Perry Stone. I'm so excited!!!!! Yee-hawwwww!!!

A Weekend of Rest

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 02:50:48 -0500

Monday, Nov 05, 2007 2:50 am EST
Leroy Meadows

Ahhhh.... it has been a nice, peaceful, relaxing weekend. It has been sooooo nice. After working 60+ hours per week for the last couple months (a couple of weeks were 70 hours) this past weekend of rest was very much needed.

I am sooooooooo excited!!!! I got a cd in the mail that I had ordered. It has the Christmas song "Leroy the Redneck Reindeer". Although I obviously don't belive in Santa or Rudolph, that song has been a favorite of mine since it first came out about 10+ years ago. Having West Virginia roots, enjoying some country and country Gospel music, owning a pickup truck, it's no wonder why I like the song so much. Maybe I've lost touch with reality, but I enter into a different world everytime I hear that song....LOL. I also had ordered a couple of worship cd's by Don Moen. I love, love, love praise and while these cd's were mostly of worship, they are so touching. I can sense the anointing of the Lord while I am listening to them. I would encourage anyone who loves anointed music to get any of the cd's by Don Moen. I'm pretty sure they can be found at any Christian bookstore as well as places online like Amazon.com.

I pray that the weekend was a time of rest and peace for everyone that reads this blog. I don't know how many do, but I pray that the Lord may use something I've written in the past, present, or future to bless and encourage you.

Urgent Prayer Request!!!!!

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 04:47:54 -0400

Wednesday, Oct 31, 2007 4:47 am EST
Leroy Meadows

My former pastor needs your prayers desperately. On Saturday, October 20, Pastor Mark Petric and his wife were shot at their home just before 7 p.m. His daughter Heidi and her husband found them moments after the shooting occurred. Pastor Mark is in critical condition but has finally regained conciousness. Sue, pastor Mark's wife, was pronounced dead at their home where the shooting occurred. The suspect is their 16 year old son Daniel. He is in jail awaiting trial. He is being charged as an adult and faces life in prison without the possibility of parole. Please pray for continued healing in pastor Mark. He was shot in the head just above the jaw. He was told just last Thursday or Friday about his wife being in Heaven now. Her funeral was this past Saturday. Pastor Mark's church has about 80-100 people or so and over 500 attended Sue's funeral. Please pray not only for Pastor Mark's healing, but also for his son Daniel. He needs Jesus now more than ever. Please join me in prayer and intercession that Jesus would turn what the devil intended for evil into a testimony that glorifies Him. Also, please pray for Heidi, his daughter who called 911, and her husband. I can only imagine what they're going through having seen the horrible scene. Pastor Mark also has a younger daughter Holly. Please pray as the Spirit leads.

Thank you,

Leroy

Long time, no type...

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 04:38:45 -0400

Wednesday, Oct 31, 2007 4:38 am EST
Leroy Meadows

It has been awhile since I've made an entry. Lots of things have been happening lately. Business has picked up at work so my workweeks range from 60-70 hours a week. Add to that studying and spending time with my wife, it's not hard to see why I haven't been posting as much recently. Even my studying got offtrack for a moment, but here I am to soak in as much of God's word as I can.

I am absolutely loving the course dealing with spiritual warfare. How I needed it!!! I am really learning a lot. It's not like I didn't know a lot of different things about the enemy, demons, angels, etc. but with this course, it's all put together for you to see the whole picture. I am very glad I am taking this class. No wonder the enemy has tried to keep me busy at work...he thinks I won't spend time reading, studying and praying. Boy he's got another thing coming!!

If anyone reading this has been or in the process of working through this class, I'd like to hear back about what you're learning and experiencing as the Holy Spirit illumines you.

A Much Better Day!

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 01:14:01 -0400

Saturday, Oct 20, 2007 1:14 am EST
Kathryn Slay

Last night, I prayed a lot and asked God to help me with my struggles with my family. Of course, He responded with love and offered my heart peace. Making the right decisions is not always easy. I have reflected upon this many times. Why isn't it easy? If it is the right thing to do, shouldn't that be the way our hearts lead us? But, we are not wired that way. Many times, I find prayer helps me with these difficult decisions. The choice is obvious but taking the steps isn't always easy.

Sometimes when I am having a dandy of a pity party, I will think of Paul. The torment that I go through in this life is nothing compared to what Paul endured. I understand that it was the grace of God that helped Paul through his trials. He truly is an inspiration. However, if he was human and was able to endure torture of several types, then surely I can handle my little problems, with the help of God, of course.

I have been learning the gift of self-control. When I worked, it was not a big deal to go to the grocery store and spend whatever I felt needed to be spent. The money was there. But now it is not. And I am quickly learning the value of a dollar, along with some much needed financial responsibility. At the same time, I feel a calling to work in the ministry. However, I am quite confident that I will not be a headlining evangelist, unless God calls my husband into evangelism, too. This could happen. But, I think that I am being taught a financial lesson now so that I will be better able to serve Him later. Evangelists rely on donations and contributions, so I would imagine that financial responsibility is really important. This all makes sense to me.

Well, the children are long asleep and so is the puppy. Again, my husband is at work. I have finished a productive day of learning. I am tired but not sleepy. I think that I will relax and enjoy my children sleeping. I love to watch them sleep. Children are such miracles, aren't they? I have never felt so unworthy as when they were born and I realized that God trusted me with His children. What responsibility! Go enjoy your family, too.