Archive for the ‘Christian Living’ Category
“You Can’t Live In the Past!”
“You Can’t Live In the Past!”
Sis. Connie, Bro. Carl Ballestero 1955
That’s what she said. She said that the church’s holiness standards and dress codes weren’t relevant today. “This is a different day.” She wanted me to know that Pentecost had moved to another level. “This is not your Father’s Pentecost! My generation is progressive!”
I said, “My generation felt it was in a new day when we invented the computer, the microwave, and the stereo. We felt it was a new day when we first orbited the earth, and when we walked on the moon. Each generation, quite possibly, has been able to make some boasts as to its uniqueness and advancements.
So?
Did Cain and Abel say to Adam, “Pops, this is a new day!” (Actually it was!) My point is, that argument is nothing new.
However, it is becoming more common for me to hear the statement, “You can’t live in the past.”
Concerning holiness and standards, I am encouraged to be more progressive and be relevant to this generation. I am confronted by those who laugh at holiness minded people, and make fun of their style of dress and modesty. They explore every taboo of previous generations and dare anyone to tell them ‘no’.
That statement about not living in the past may be true about many things. It has been said to people recovering from broken relationships, and to those that are tightly held in the grasp of grief, for example. There may be times when we may offer that advice, but NEVER for Salvation, and NEVER for Holiness and Separation from the World.
I HAVE PROOF:
1. PAUL orders his son in the Gospel, Timothy, to teach his generation what has been taught to him. He is commissioned to impart to them all of the ‘Past’ that he can. That seemed to be Paul’s heartbeat. There was a reason, a good reason.
- 2Tim. 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
2. PAUL compares Timothy’s spirit and love for the faith, to his Mother’s and Grandmother’s love for the faith.
- 2Tim. 1:5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.
3. JOB made the statement, “We are but of yesterday.” We are what we are today because of yesterday.
If we can’t live in the past, then we need to quit singing songs about the past; songs like: “This Is My Christian Heritage.” Why sing about the past and then reject it? Holiness rejecters, are rejecters of all of God’s yesterdays.
When the same crowd hears about the ‘sure mercies of David” however, they chose to claim that part of the past. They want God to be the same, yesterday, today and forever, but we have those among us that reject the Apostolic church of the past. They don’t want the church to be the same yesterday, today and forever.
Holiness Is Not Yesterdays News!
- 1Pet. 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
It’s Present tense. ‘Be’ ye holy. Present tense means it’s relevant.
- 2Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
“Is profitable”. That’s relevant! Doctrine is not to be kept in the past. It IS profitable. The preaching and teaching of Doctrine, is meant for every age of the church.
4. JEHOSHAPHAT – Walked in the ways of his Great, Great, Great, Great Grandfather David. God used David, the Ruler of Yesterday, to measure the Ruler of Today.
- 2Chr. 17:3 And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto Baalim;
Jehoshaphat was the 6th king of the Davidic line (he was preceded by David, Solomon, Rehoboam, Abijah, and Asa.)
In God’s mind, David, six generations prior, was the standard to measure all the following generations.
GOD STILL USES YESTERDAY, TO MEASURE US TODAY.
What would make some say, concerning holiness standards, that we can’t live in the past? There’s a reason they talk that way. Evidently, old-time Pentecost conflicts with their love for the world. The Holiness of the past is supposed to make them feel uncomfortable in their shorts, short skirts, tight apparel, jewelry, cut hair and makeup. It is supposed to make Hollywood feel uncomfortable on their conscience. They do not wish to be convicted, so they reject the past on a wholesale basis.
I fear they are no longer Apostolic, but apostate, and don’t even know it. I pray they haven’t been turned over to the spirit of delusion.
The book of Judges mentions, that in those days, every man did that which was right in his own eyes. I am now seeing a repeat of those times.
Speaking of ‘Apostolic,’ did some get ashamed of the word and take it down from their church sign so they could be more relevant? (Just asking!)
I worry that some have fallen into the Colossians’ trap.
- Col. 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
- Col. 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
5. ESAU.
Remember him? God hated him and wouldn’t even let him repent. You know why? Because he refused to honor what was of yesterday. The Birthright was the blessing of yesterday, but it was also to extend into all of Esau’ families in their ‘tomorrows’. It was to be the blessing he could pass down to his son. But no, he sacrificed the eternal on the altar of the immediate. God hated him for that.
God called him a fornicator. Not because he was morally impure, but because his heart wasn’t faithful to God.
He was called profane. That word in Hebrews, meant: ‘to treat with common place’, or like it was nothing special. The birthright didn’t mean anything special to Esau. He was only interested in the ‘right now’ of his life. He ignored the meaning of ‘the past’.
6. ISRAEL. – Built altars and memorials so that generations to come would know the history and importance of the moment. God wanted future generations to stay connected with their past.
- Josh. 4:5 And Joshua said unto them, Pass over before the ark of the LORD your God into the midst of Jordan, and take ye up every man of you a stone upon his shoulder, according unto the number of the tribes of the children of Israel:
- Josh. 4:6 That this may be a sign among you, that when your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean ye by these stones?
- Josh. 4:7 Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever.
7. JEREMIAH. When he was fourteen years of age, he stood before the King of Israel and prophesied. This young teenager did NOT say to the King. ‘Your majesty, this is a new day, and we can’t live in the past.”
This young teen bold announced his love for the past when he said, “
- Jer. 6:16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.
The 21st century is not a new day in that respect; they rejected the past back in Jeremiah’s day too. And he was a young person pleading for his nations return to the principles of the old paths.)
This may be a new day for technology, science, medicine, and people comforts, but it’s NOT a new day for truth rejecting.
If they are rejecting the holiness, the modesty, and the separated life style of the our Pentecostal forefathers, then they are not a friend of God. They are not even a God chaser.
They may vote out all the rules and standards out of their local church or organization if they want, but that doesn’t change the Book. The Apostolic Church will never have a future if it lets go of it’s past.
Today, I humbly echo Jeremiah’s advice. Ask for the Old Paths, that’s the good way. Ask for Yesterday. Walk in Yesterday. You will find rest there for your soul.
Your soul will never find rest or be at peace if you reject the old paths. If you want a future you must hold on to the past.
Mom said, “What If I Forget God?”
Mom said, “What If I Forget God?”
Yesterday I cried. I cried about several things. I cried about things that I couldn’t fix. I cried about things no one can fix. (It may not be prudent or wise to share this, but I will.)
Sis. Connie Ballestero
My youngest sister, Nila Marxer, lives in Southern California. She has taken care of my 88-year-old Mother in her home for six years or so. Nila is an Angel sent from God to our family. Mom lives in an apartment inside Nila’s home.
My Mom’s health is not very good anymore. Her short-term memory loss has alarming worsened recently. It makes my phone calls to her, extremely painful for me. Mom has a problem of not remembering even the day of the week.
A few days ago, she wandered out of her room before midnight and went into the main living room. She turned all the lights on. At 2am, Nila came out of her bedroom and found Mom standing there looking around.
She said, “Mom, let me take you to your room and put you to bed.”
When they got to Mom’s room, Mom said, “Is this where I’m staying?”
“Yes, Nila said.
“Oh,” she said, “I didn’t know where I was supposed to sleep.”
That was unwelcome news. It was like one of your worst fears coming true. I am very grateful to Nila for being so loving and patient.
Last night while on a Skype video call to my sister, I got to see her, her husband Eric, and my Mom. Mom was all smiles.
With her voice breaking, Nila talked to me about Mom, with Mom sitting beside her. She talked about health issues that Mom was currently dealing with. Then she said that her and Mom had talked about her memory loss. Mom expressed her greatest fear to Nila.
Mom said, “Nila, what if I forget God?”
That statement ripped my very heart out. Of all people, my Godly Mother who has had the Holy Ghost for 80 years. She labored with Dad in the ministry for over 50 years. And now, she worries that in her memory losses, she might forget about God.
I cried.
Nila said, “Marty, quote the first part of a Psalm and see if Mom can quote the rest of the verse.”
I looked at Mom and Nila seated in front of their computer and I started with Psalms 100.
I said: (Psa. 100:1) Make a joyful noise unto the LORD,
Mom said: all ye lands.
I said: (Psa. 100:2) Serve the LORD with gladness:
Mom said: come before his presence with singing.
I said: (Psa. 100:3) Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
She said: we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
I said: (Psa. 100:4) Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,
She said: and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
I said: (Psa. 100:5) For the LORD is good;
She said: his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
My tears still flowed.
In a day when so many are willfully forgetting God, my heart is overwhelmed by the fears of my sainted Mother.
“What If I Forget God?”
Someone’s Praying For You!
Someone’s Praying For You!
There are times when you can’t even pray for yourself. Your pain is overwhelming, your faith is low, your friends and family mean well, but you still feel like you are dying on the inside.
It was at a time like that, over 50 years ago, that my parents, Carl and ‘Connie’ Ballestero were going through the darkest point of their life. They had accepted the pastorate a church that had some serious spiritual issues.
Dad was coping with the problems the best he could. They were major. The attacks felt like they were orchestrated by hell itself. It was a spiritual warfare that had soon turned ugly. Dad spent three nights in a row praying into the wee hours of the morning. He kept praying late every night until he felt he eventually prayed the burden through and felt victory. He had desperately needed a miracle from God.
Months later, at the General Conference, Brother Rasnacheck, a missionary from India, came up to my father, and said, Bro. Ballestero, I don’t know what you were going through several months ago, but on “such an such a date “ (He named the dates.) for 3 nights in a row, God gave me a vision of you on your knees, desperately praying. I could see you were in great trouble and in much pain. The Lord told me to pray for you, and I did. I prayed through the night, three different times, until I felt victory. (Those were the very nights my father had been in prayer.)
Dad had not prayed the problem through alone. Even though he thought he was fighting the battle by himself, God had reached down in India, and had given Brother Rasnacheck, the missionary, a vision. The missionary had responded, and the miracle through prayer, was accomplished.
- Someone’s Praying For You.
We’re all a product of prayer. The devil seems to enjoy making God’s children feel alone, forsaken, and uncared for. But you are not. He has seen to it that key people are in place to pray for you.
- Someone’s Praying For You.
Jesus said to Simon: “But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. “ Luke 22:32
- Someone’s Praying For You.
Paul the Apostle To The Church In Rome – “For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;” Rom 1:9
- Someone’s Praying For You.
The Church Prayed For Peter – “Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. Acts 12:5
- Someone’s Praying For You.
Parents Pray For Their Children, and Grandchildren.
- Someone’s Praying For You.
Like Samuel, Your Pastor Prays For You: “Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way: 1 Sam 12:23
Another place the Scripture mentions that Samuel prayed all night long for Saul.
- Someone’s Praying For You.
Always remember that “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16
- Someone’s Praying For You.
Be encouraged today. No matter how alone you feel, no matter how serious this battle is that you’re fighting, you are not fighting this battle alone.
- Someone’s Praying For You.
The Peace Prize
The Peace Prize
He sat there stunned. The huge room was filled with people from everywhere. The Presenter of the highly esteemed “Peace Prize” was listing all of the qualifications a potential candidate must posses in order to receive the award.
The winner would be given an unbelievably large sum, plus a myriad of perks and benefits. Receiving this award would be someone’s dream of a lifetime.
He looked around the room at all the others there. He recognized quite a few. He wasn’t even sure he should be here.
- He wasn’t a rocket scientist.
- He wasn’t a well know politician.
- He wasn’t a world leader.
- He wasn’t a hero of any kind.
- He wasn’t a famous doctor with a large laboratory.
- He’d never discovered a cure.
- He didn’t even have a fancy degree.
- He was just a private citizen.
Yet, now he found himself sitting in this international assembly of people. Some of them are amazingly gifted. He felt so small compared to them.
He is brought back to reality at the mention of his name. They just called his name! His name! He is being announced as the winner of the “Peace Prize.”
He’s stunned. What did he do to win this? With his brain in a whirl he somehow stumbles to the stage.
He stands there modestly, while the Presenter begins to read his accomplishments to the audience. He drops his gaze and looks at the floor while he listens. Tears begin to trickle down his face. He remembers the things that are now being read.
He never did those things to win a prize or for any recognition. He’d only done it out of love.
Besides receiving all the “Peace Prize” benefits and provisions, he is handed a beautiful certificate with his name inscribed on it, signifying him as the winner. It simply says:
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
Matthew 5:9
An Old School Lesson – “If You Can Take It, You Can Make It.”
An Old School Lesson – “If You Can Take It, You Can Make It.”
I was mingling in the headquarters hotel lobby in Grand Rapids during the 1965 UPCI General Conference. At 21, I was a newlywed of two (2) months. I saw a familiar face, and turned to greet a treasured family friend, Bro. Howard H. Davis.
From my early childhood, the Ballestero and the Davis families have been close friends. Over the years, my father had talked to me in revered tones about all five of the Davis brothers. They all were Pastors or Missionaries. I grew up with an ingrained respect for them.
After we shook hands and hugged necks we greeted each other with small talk. He looked at me and said I’d like to talk to you a minute. I readily agreed.
Martyn & Marcia Ballestero 08/14/1965
He said, “Brother Marty, I know you’re married now and evangelizing. But you don’t look like you used to look. You’ve changed the way you comb your hair to one of these worldly hairstyles. I liked the “old” Bro. Marty better.
“You don’t look like a holiness preacher now. You don’t look like the son of Carl Ballestero. You don’t look like the Bro. Marty I used to know.”
I quickly tried to review in my mind, the reasons that I had changed to this “new look.” My wife had said it was “nice” and I guess that meant she liked it. There had even been a few compliments from friends my age. I really didn’t have a good answer why, except that I liked it. Maybe it was my vanity that started all this. I thought I looked “cool.” I didn’t consider if God was pleased or what injury I might do to my ministry, or lose in the respect of my Elders.
I knew in my heart that it took some love and bravery to walk up to the son of your friend and extend admonishment like Bro. Davis had, in hopes of helping me.
I was certainly caught off guard. Maybe the word stunned even comes to mind. I didn’t interrupt him. He was my Elder. He was my father’s dear friend. He then, in my mind, was my friend too by inheritance.
When he finished. I apologized for disappointing him. I told him how much I appreciated him loving me enough, and being brave enough to tell me what I needed to do. I told him that I would immediately go upstairs to my Hotel room and change my hairstyle back to the “Old Marty” look.
We hugged necks and I went to my room.
While I stood in front of the mirror, my wife asked in a gentle tone, “Baby, what are you doing?”
“I’m changing my hair back like I used to comb it,” I replied.
“But I like the other way,” she offered.
I replied, “So do I, Baby. So do I.”
When I was done combing my hair, I kissed her and left the room. I wanted to go downstairs to the Lobby again. When Bro. Davis spotted me from across the big room, he nodded my way and smiled. I nodded and smiled back.
Neither of us knew then, that someday he would become my Step Father-In-Law. I have privately thanked the Lord that I did not show a bad spirit or attitude that day. That I understood that he was brave enough to help a friend’s son stay on track. I will forever honor him for that alone.
Nearly twenty years later, 11 couples of pastors and their wives went together on a Caribbean cruise. It was the best trip ever! This was an opportunity to get better acquainted and relax. We all had great fun and enjoyed the fellowship of each other. I got a close-up look at Bro. Howard Davis. I watched him laugh, tell stories of his travels, and have a great time.
When we talked now, it really felt comfortable. I was no longer the little kid talking to grownups. I enjoyed the conversations, and camaraderie immensely.
Years later after the passing of their spouses, my Mother-in-law, June Starr and Howard Davis became acquainted. In private conversation one day with “Mom” Starr, I confided to her my opinion of Bro. Howard Davis.
I said, “If I was stranded on island for 6 months and allowed to have 3 friends with me, He would be one of them. He’s wise. He’s very knowledgeable about life. He’s balanced, He’s kind and He’s fun. He’s easy to be around. You’ll not be sorry if you marry him.”
One of my life’s happiest moments is when I was honored to walked down the aisle with my Mother-in-law on my arm to give her in marriage to Bro. Howard Davis.
He has become the father image in my life today. He’s a stabilizing factor for me in a changing world. His wonderful ministry is probably the best-kept secret in Pentecost.
I Love Bishop Howard H. Davis with all my heart! When my father died, my Pastor died also. I felt vulnerable and alone. I believe everyone needs a Pastor in the their life. I asked “Dad” Davis to be my Pastor and submitted myself to him. I am happy to call him, “Dad Davis” and Pastor!
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Epilogue:
My ‘Other’ Mother, Sis. June Davis, has written a Biography Of Bishop Howard Davis. You will want to get this book.
The book is entitled: ‘Man With A Purpose’
The book is 119 pages of Howard’s history, from childhood to US Navy man, Minister, Church builder, member UPCI 60 years, Pastor {same Church 42 years}, world traveler, Ordained Bishop, and His Article, NIGHT OF CONFLICT; 8 chapters about the last night of World War Two, with Him as a teenage backslider on the USS Wiley, DD597, a Destroyer under attack at 2:30 A.M. by Japanese Zeros and Bombers, at the Island of Okinawa.
Those of you who know him will want to get this book. If you are a Pastor, You will want to get some copies for your members.
Price: $10.00 plus $2.00 mailing, each book. Mailing for more than 1 book will be different.
Send orders to.
Marian June Davis
735 Greenwood Ave
San Bernardino, CA 92407
Poor Old Joe
Poor Old Joe
Joseph was well respected among the followers of Jesus. Everyone seemed to honor and respect him, if not love him.
Because Joseph was such a common name, it was not unusual for a man to have additional identifying names. Even nicknames. Joseph had three names. Joseph, Barsabas and Justus.
He was present that day in the upper room with the 120, and there he received the Holy Ghost along with the others. Before the Spirit was poured out however, there was business to attend to among the disciples.
Judas had committed suicide. There was a vacancy among the twelve that needed to be filled. Peter spoke to them all and asked the 120 to submit two names they thought worthy of the office of ‘Apostle’. Someone had to be chosen to be one of the twelve Disciples.
Two names were brought to the ‘floor’. The first one they nominated was Joseph. Matthias was the second name mentioned.
- Acts 1:23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.
- Acts 1:24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,
- Acts 1:25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.
- Acts 1:26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
It appears that Joseph’s life and reputation were impeccable. Just by the meaning of the names given to him in later life it is fairly easy to see why many respected Joseph. Nicknames were commonly given to describe their personal attributes.
- Barsabas: “Barsabbas” is Aramaic for “son of the sabbath,” perhaps because he was born on the sabbath. (Bible Background Commentary)
- Justus: “Just”, a name given to him because of his integrity.
Apostle Matthias
Poor Old Joe. He didn’t get chosen. Matthias did. After this selection by the casting of lots, we never read another word about the good man Matthias. It’s like Scripture ignores the rest of his life.
It appears however, that Joseph the un-chosen, is mentioned again. Barnes Notes and other commentaries suggest that he was the man mentioned in Acts 4. They feel he’s the one that sold his property and laid the money down at the feet of the Apostles.
What did Joseph do when he didn’t get chosen?
- Did he get his feelings hurt?
- Did he leave the fellowship circle?
- Did he quit church?
- Did he sit cross-ways with the Apostles?
- Did he become critical of Matthias?
- Did he go start something of his own when he didn’t get voted in?
The answer is ‘No’. Not at all!
If this is indeed the same man, then he not only continued to be a follower, but he chose to be of service too. Insomuch so that he was willing to give his all… literally, to the work of God.
Don’t feel sorry for Old Brother Joe. His reward is securely laid up in Heaven.
- Mark 10:29 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s,
- Mark 10:30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
Oh, one more thing. Acts four says that he laid the money at the Apostles feet. He laid at their feet in an act of obedience and willful submission. That could have been him up there, if the lots had chosen him. But his name Justus, (Integrity) still stood him in good stead. He submitted to the Headship of the body of Christ.
Give us more Brother Joes.
The Danger Of Premature Launches
The Danger Of Premature Launches
Things in life don’t always turn out well until it’s the right time. Wisdom dictates we wait until it’s the right season, or until all the pieces are in place.
Sister Nona Freeman, our beloved woman of God told a story about wishing she was ‘perfect’ when she was a young saint in the local church. Her pastor looked out the window at her garden in the backyard and said, “Sis. Nona, I’d like to have some corn on the cob”
“Why pastor, I’d be happy to fix you some, but I don’t have any.” She replied.
“Isn’t that corn in your garden?”
“Yes sir.”
“Then I’d like you to fix me some, please.”
“But I can’t,” was about all she could say.
“Why can’t you?” The pastor persisted.
“I can’t she said because it’s only this high,” she demonstrated holding her hand about a foot off the floor.
“What’s that got to do with it? Corn is corn regardless of its size.”
“I know, but I can’t, because it isn’t matured yet. There’s nothing there but leaves and stalk.”
“Sister Nona, that’s what the word ‘perfect means in the Bible. It’s talking about reaching maturity.”
What happens when things are done prematurely?
I recently heard Bro. Carlton Coon at the General Conference. He briefly spoke of his fear concerning the premature launching of Home Missions projects. His descriptive use of that phrase prompted me to consider the value of his fear. I find many other areas of life that give additional enlightenment on the subject. Here are a few.
Launching a Play
Who ever heard of having a play without having a play practice?
Launching A War
Imagine a President talking to the General of his Army and ordering him to attack the enemy when the Army is ill prepared. It would mean certain death, to go to war unless the troops are in place, the supply line is there and the men are equipped with ground and air support.
There’s a time for war, a time to fight. There’s a time to stand down.
Launching A Ship
Even God waited until Noah finished the Ark. If the ship is not completed, why launch it and let it face certain disaster? Finish the boat, then launch.
Launching A Business
Why open a grocery store with only one gallon of milk, two loaves of bread and a jar of pickles? Yes, you may have a sign and some shelves. You might even have a cash register, but what you need is enough on the shelf to keep the customer coming back.
- A wannabe barber doesn’t open a shop just because he found a pair of scissors.
- A mechanic wouldn’t be successful if he used dish soap instead of fuel injector cleaner.
Launching A Marriage
“God’s got the right girl for you son.” We hear statements like that when we are young. As true as that may be, other things factor in. She might be 12 years old when you meet her. It’s the right girl; it’s just the wrong time to marry her.
Launching A Ministry
A ministry is God’s call on your life. Just because he has called you doesn’t mean it’s time for you go immediately.
David was anointed King many years before he took the throne. You may not want me to say this, but he spent years in preparation. He also spent time in caves, in confusion, in despair, and in running for his life.
But when God was ready, it took place. David never tried to force the issue. It became a thing of beauty.
Launching A Church
The burden for lost souls, and un-churched cities tears at all of our hearts. The reality check is that although the burden is great, planning is still important.
Suppose you move to the new town, on Wednesday, and decide to have the first service in you living room on Sunday. You don’t know anyone, you have no sign, but you have a burden. If no one shows up, you are crushed. You are sure God wanted you to come to the town, why wasn’t there a better response? Was it a premature launch?
I would never attempt to diminish your burden or dampen your spirits. The truth is, that if you went in without some basic things being in place you may not be pleased with the results you see, and you may find yourself confused, discouraged or disheartened.
Some have given up and gone back home feeling ashamed and never wanted to do anything else for God. Others have backslidden because of their disappointment and embarrassment. But it wasn’t God’s faults. It was just a premature launch.
Much can be said about having the guidance of your pastor, and his moral support through the process. His blessing on you makes it easier for other pastors to give you the much need moral support. The prayers and blessings of the mother church is a Godsend and necessity.
I would advise you to only go, when you have your pastor’s blessing on your launching of the new church. I would wait until he gives the green light. I wouldn’t tell him I was going; I would ask him to tell me, when it was time to go. There’s a big difference.
Oh, and may I be the first to say, “May God bless in your work for God. Bless you for doing it right, and for doing it in God’s time, not yours.
Disappointed At A Top 10!
Disappointed At A Top 10!
I have flown hundreds of times on airplanes. Often in the airline’s magazine there will be ads for steak houses proclaiming their membership among the “Top 10 Steak Houses in America.”
Well, I have lived long enough and traveled far enough, that it has been my privilege to visit several of them.
Imagine the hype built by my host as we sit down to eat lunch. “This is one of the “Top 10 Steak Houses in America,” he said!
“Wow,” was about all I could come up with. Imagine. Me, an ‘everyday Joe” getting to eat at a joint like this! Wow, again!
The table had a starched white linen tablecloth, accented by black cloth napkins. The silverware was stylish, the goblets were chosen carefully, the chairs were comfortable and the ambience was perfect. The fellowship the best anyone could hope for. I felt honored to be here.
Just by the impressive look of the closed menu, it was easy to tell that a loan may need to be taken out just to eat here. Everywhere I looked, the word expensive came to mind.
The tall server was pleasant and efficient. It was evident that a gender transformation was in progress. The low voice and the dress did not compliment each other well, however.
I wasn’t really hungry for a steak, but since I am sitting in one of the “Top 10 Steak Houses in America,” I figured I might as well eat steak since I’m here. Our wives each ordered the Lobster and Crab Bisque with a Spinach Salad garnished with Strawberries and Glazed Pecans.
Both of us men ordered the only steak they served during the daytime, the New York Strip. We both ordered the potato and veggies as well.
The women couldn’t stop bragging on their choice of entrée and salad. My friend and myself had a time eating our steaks. The steak knife was not a SharpenedKnife and took great effort to saw through the meat. The steaks were quite tough. They were seasoned OK, but I once ate a more tender steak at Waffle House. I ate all of mine, but he ate less than half of his and stopped.
The “Top 10” experience had left something to be desired in our lunch. Was it two bad steaks? Was it an “off day” for the chef? Was it just us? I have cooked steaks this tough myself, but I expected more because of the big ads.
Regardless, we may never get to see the inside of the place again. Disappointment was unspoken, but still felt. When a customer goes to a place that is advertised world wide, expectations run high. When those expectations are not met, disappointment is soon to appear.
In the Bible, the Psalmist declares in Psalms 84:10 For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand.
Better than a thousand? A thousand what? He doesn’t spell it out, but in my mind, he is saying it’s better than a thousand of anything!
Again, his love for the House of God is declared in Psalms 27:4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple.
No disappointment in Jehovah is detected here. Jehovah’s House lived up to the Psalmist’s expectation, and more besides.
The Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon. She had heard the glorious reports of the Temple and of King Solomon. When she listened to his wisdom and looked at the glory of the House of God, she was in awe. When she saw all that a gentile was allowed to see, she was overwhelmed. When Solomon finally ascended the stairs to the Temple, The Queen looked at this glorious event and fainted for joy.
She said in 1Kings 10:7 Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me. The House of God far exceeded her expectations.
What do sinners and visitors think when they visit our churches. Are they touched by the worship? Are the moved by the preaching? Does the Spirit convict them? Are they filled with the Holy Ghost?
The Apostolic Church is not just ‘A’ church in the “Top 10 Churches In America”. This Church is THE Church. God’s only church! God forbid that hungry hearts come to our church services and go home disappointed in their experience.
Let’s determine to live up to our name and reputation. Whether services are held in a storefront or a cathedral, glorious services should await those who are hungry for God. There should be no disappointment in Jesus!
Psa. 65:4 Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple.
Psa. 36:8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
If we are experiencing disappointment in church and in living for the Lord, it’s NOT His fault! The Father wants His children to be satisfied.
The World’s Greatest Spousal Insurance Policy!
The World’s Greatest Spousal Insurance Policy!
Today Marcia, my beautiful wife of 45 years, and I were riding down the Turnpike in Tulsa listening to XM Radio’s Enlighten on Channel 34. It’s a Southern Gospel Station. Presently a familiar sounding group came on and I read their name on the player. It confirmed what my ears were hearing.
My mind went back many years. I thought of the times I had been in church services with these people, but those days are now forever gone. They are just distant memories.
They once were Jesus Name, Apostolic. I knew them when the ladies in the group had long uncut hair. They wore no makeup or jewelry back then. The men had good haircuts and no facial hair. Somehow, things changed for them. They left the Oneness people seeking more popularity and acceptance from the Trinitarians. They compromised their beliefs about salvation’s requirements and the God-head in the process.
Along the way, they all met with divorce. Their divorces didn’t draw them back to God or to a place of rededication, but their new spouses helped push them even further away from the old landmarks and from truth.
Thinking on these things, my mind reflected on the history of the city of Bethel in the Bible. It was made famous by Jacob, his dream and his covenant with God. At that time, Bethel was only a flat rock that Jacob used for a pillow that night.
The next time we read about Bethel, it is a place filled with people who did not stay loyal to God. Idols were now very common in Bethel. It even became a headquarters for idolatrous calf worship. In Bethel, of all places!
The prophet Amos said that Bethel would “come to naught.” Amos 5:5. Jeremiah hung his head and said that Israel “was ashamed of Bethel.” Jer. 48:13.
Later, Hosea called Beth-el, (which means the house of God) ‘Beth-aven’ which means a house of adultery.
Thinking on that sad progression from the House of God, to House of Idolatry, and then to House of Adultery, I became deeply bothered in my spirit.
In prayer some years ago, I asked the Lord, “How did Bethel go from idolatry to adultery?”
It was like the Lord dropped this thought into my spirit… “The progression was easy. They’re both fathered by the same spirit, the spirit of unfaithfulness.”
If that’s true, then the greatest insurance policy any of us can give our spouse is to be faithful to God. Because, if we are faithful to God, then we will also be faithful to our spouse! It’s that simple. Are you FAITHFUL to God?
Do You Know What Drowning Looks Like?
Do You Know What Drowning Looks Like?
The Monthly Feature from the Medical News TODAY
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/196538.php
If you and your family are planning to spend some of this summer by the sea, by the pool, or perhaps even a river or lake, perhaps you should ask yourself, would you be able to spot someone in trouble in the water, in time to save their life: do you really know what drowning looks like?
Mario Vittone, a writer on maritime safety, tells a story about a former life guard, now a boat captain, who spotted a potentially fatal incident from fifty feet away. The captain jumped off his own boat, and sprinted toward a family swimming between the beach and their anchored boat: he sped past the astonished parents, to save their nine-year old daughter, who had been quietly drowning not ten feet behind her father.
Vittone, whose articles have appeared in many magazines, including Reader’s Digest, said he was not surprised when he heard this story: he knows a thing or two about drowning, having served nineteen years in the US Navy and Coast Guard, and his strongest message is “Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning”.
Furthermore, says the CDC, many parents have watched their child drown without realizing what was happening. They did not know what the captain who saved the little girl in Vittone’s story was trained to notice and her parents were blissfully unaware of: the signs of Instinctive Drowning Response, a term coined by Dr Francesco A. Pia, a water safety expert.
Vittone and Pia wrote about the Instinctive Drowning Response, in the Fall 06 issue of On Scene, the journal of the US Coast Guard Search and Rescue. Pia says it is what people do to avoid suffocating in water: they don’t splash much, they don’t wave, and they don’t yell or call out. Quite different to what many of us might expect.
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When reading this today, all the alarms in my soul went off. How many do we know that have drowned spiritually in front of our eyes and we didn’t see the signs of their unspoken struggles?
I’m not talking about those whose overt actions and speech give away their desire for the world. It’s those that we know whose struggle for survival is inward and their pride keeps them from admitting they need help.
Pastors, evangelists, youth leaders, Sunday school teachers, parents and concerned saints have ALL experienced the horror of losing someone dear to them. Some of us were oblivious to the spiritual drowning.
God help us all to be more aware of the needs of our sisters and brothers.
Apostolic Expository Series
Christy Ballestero (My Beautiful DIL)
http://marciaballestero.com/
Pastor Anthony & Kim Ballestero, New Destiny Worship Center, Clearwater, FL (My Son)
Pastor Bryan & Christy Ballestero, Temple Of Pentecost, Raleigh, NC (My Son)
James Groce Blog – "Toward The Mark"
Kenneth Bow Blog
Kingdom Speak Podcast
Philip Harrelson – "The Barnabas Blog"
Verbal Bean Ministries
Holy Ghost Radio
The Ballestero Blog 