Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
Using Verbal Crutches and Fillers (aka… Sermon Suicide)
This is a plea to all ministers and church service leaders.
I have no permission or authority to speak on this subject or attempt to correct or adjust anyone’s speaking habits. But I will tell you something that your listeners won’t tell you. Your family and friends, and pastor may never say a word either, so you think you’re doing just fine, when you’re really not.
Although I’ve never graduated from a Bible school or seminary, and sadly, I have no degree, I was home-schooled in the ministry by my father and pastor, Carl J. Ballestero.
In my nearly 80 years of going to church, I have listened to some of the best preachers in Pentecost and have even heard a few who made me cringe.
After preaching over 10,000 sermons, I understand about being being nervous in the pulpit.
But you should never forget that your loud voice and fast talking does not necessarily mean you’re anointed. One can even teach a Wednesday night Bible class in conversational tones and be very anointed.
To me it is a spiritual crime to have God give you a word for His church, and then, while you try to deliver it, you allow your insecurities, lack of study, and absence of self-awareness to turn off your listeners.
Verbal crutches and fillers have destroyed thousands of sermons.
Verbal crutches and fillers like:
- Amen!
- Amen?
- Praise God
- Hallelujah
- Glory to God
- God Almighty
- Almighty God
- Brothers and Sisters
- Uh.
- Umm.
- I can’t hear you!(Isn’t that lying?)
- Turn to someone and say…
One minister who preached for me when I pastored in South Bend, IN said, “Do you hear me?” 154 times in one sermon. I cannot remember what he preached about. The constant “Do you hear me” killed the sermon for me. I never asked him to come back.
As a teen-age preacher, I’d visited a well-known pastor in the deep South. It was common for him to say, “Bless God” throughout his sermons. I came home, and when I was asked to preach on a youth night, I, too, said, “Bless God” often in my message. My father cautioned me afterward about using verbal crutches. He said, “When you say, ‘Bless God’. You’re not really blessing Him, You’re just taking His name in vain.”
I never said that again.
Preacher? Remember that there really are people in your audience who will count all of your amens and hallelujahs and completely lose track of your sermon thought.
Listen to yourself online, sometime, and count your verbal crutches and speech fillers; then be self-aware enough to stop saying those things.
Imagine what Acts 2:38 would have sounded like if Peter used verbal crutches
Or the 23rd. Psalm?
Or Isa.9:6?
Imagine Peter saying…
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, Amen… and be baptized every one of you, Amen… in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen… for the remission of sins, Amen… and ye shall, Amen… receive the gift, Amen… of the Holy Ghost…Amen…
Acts 2:39 For the promise, Amen… is unto you, Amen…and to your children, Amen… and to all that are afar off Amen… even as many as the Lord our God shall call…Amen.
Try quoting that for your altar call, and see how much conviction is still left in the house.
Imagine Isaiah saying
Isa. 9:6 For unto us a child is born, Brothers and Sisters…unto us a son is given, Brothers and Sisters…: and the government shall be upon his shoulder, Brothers and Sisters…: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Brothers and Sisters…The mighty God, Brothers and Sisters… The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace, Brothers and Sisters…
(Imagine trying to read that at your Christmas service.)
How about David using fillers?
Psa 23:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. Praise God
Psa 23:2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: Praise God…he leadeth me beside the still waters. Praise God
Psa 23:3 He restoreth my soul Praise God… he leadeth me Praise God in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Praise God
Psa 23:4 Yea, though I walk Praise God through the valley of the shadow of death, Praise God I will fear no evil Praise God… for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me, Praise God…
Psa 23:5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Praise God thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Praise God
Psa 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy Praise God… shall follow me all the days of my life: Praise God and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Praise God… Praise God
(Everyone would stop quoting the 23rd. Psalm.)
Neither the prophets nor the apostles used verbal crutches or fillers in their speaking. Why do you? Stop it, please!
Father’s Day2022, And I Am So Proud To Be A Dad!
I’ve received a lifetime of continuous love, honor, and sweet words from my children. I feel, of all men, that I am most blessed! I am grateful and humbled by every word and expression of their love to me. My family honors me beyond what can even be imagined. I certainly am a very rich man.
From my heart and with tear-filled eyes I say, “Thank You!”
How Did I Get To Be A Father Who Is So Fortunate To Be Loved Like This?
The answer is very simple and only three words long… Marcia Starr Ballestero!
On this day, most dads receive presents and affectionate words. But, today my heart feels like re-directing the attention from myself to my wife. She is one who deserves all the credit that I enjoy today.
“But”, you say, “you’ve worked hard to put food on the table and you’ve made many sacrifices.”
While there may be truth in what you say. Remember that even if I had been childless or a bachelor, I still would have had to work hard and make sacrifices. We all do. It’s called life.
Now… Let Me Get Back To Talking About My Wife!
She is the one who endured discomfort, pain, and sleepless nights.
She is the one who carried them for nine months.
She is the one who walked right up to death’s door and brought home beautiful babies.
She is the one who nursed and cared for them during all hours of the night.
She is the one who washed their dirty clothes and made their beds.
She is the one who picked up their dirty clothes from the floor.
She is the one who mopped up the trail of mud on the kitchen floor.
She is the one who cooked their meals and washed their dishes.
She is the one who made a house into a home for them to forever cherish.
She is the one that dressed them all for church and then got herself ready.
She is the one who cleaned up after their messes.
She is the one who had to wrangle them through the store while she bought groceries.
She is the one who gave kisses, comfort, and put bandages on their ouchies.
She is the one who maintained their proper level of decorum during church services.
She is the one who cooked the best meals a kid could ever eat.
She is the one who had to cook in a hot kitchen.
She is the one who taught them manners and respect.
She is the one who taught them how to pray.
She is the one who taught them about the love of Jesus.
She is the one who taught them right from wrong.
She is the one who taught them about dressing godly.
She is the one who taught them about the manifesting the fruits of the spirit.
She is the one who taught them what an Apostolic should be.
She is the one who taught them to be Christ-like.
She is the one who taught them how to live for God.
She raised up our children in the way they should go.
She is also the one who taught them to be sweet to their daddy.
She taught them all that and MORE!
I would just walk into the house at the end of the day, and enjoy the love and affection from all my babies because of her.
(It was their Mother, after all, who made me a Father.)
Today, I am enjoying Father’s Day fully knowing that it was my beloved wife who did all the work so I could enjoy this great honor! She deserves all the credit. But, today, I get the thanks!
Thank you, my Darling Marcia, for making me a Daddy!
Father’s Day, And I Am So Proud To Be A Dad!
I’ve received a lifetime of continuous love, honor, and sweet words from my children. I feel, of all men, that I am most blessed! I am grateful and humbled by every word and expression of their love to me. My family honors me beyond what can even be imagined. I certainly am a very rich man.
From my heart and with tear-filled eyes I say, “Thank You!”
How Did I Get To Be A Father Who Is So Fortunate To Be Loved Like This?
The answer is very simple and only three words long… Marcia Starr Ballestero!
On this day, most dads receive presents and affectionate words. But, today my heart feels like re-directing the attention from myself to my wife. She is one who deserves all the credit that I enjoy today.
Kingdom Speak Podcast
The Kingdom Speak Podcast
With Pastor Daniel McKillop
Did you ever find something that you immediately knew was a goldmine just for you? Well, I did! I want to tell everyone about the treasure I found! No, it’s not money. It’s even more valuable than that!
It is my great honor to introduce all of my readers to Kingdom Speak. This is a Podcast produced by my cherished friend, Pastor Daniel McKillop of Plaster Rock, New Brunswick, Canada. If you love Revival, being Apostolic, Living for God, and desire to be used of Him, then this is a must for you.
Here is the direct link to the Kingdom Speak Playlist where you’ll find all Episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGIAc2AUof3DLcrQxSEJ0u3Iv6t6QvWQn
Also, here is the direct link to the Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/kingdom-speak-with-pastor-daniel-mckillop/id1509081156
“Just Stay On The Bus!”
“This Bus Is Going To Chicago”
I often flew out of Chicago’s O’Hare Airport when I lived in South Bend, Indiana. It was about 120 miles away. Many times, it was cost-effective for me to take a shuttle bus from the South Bend Airport to the Chicago Airport rather than to drive to Chicago and pay to park.
My wife dropped me off at the Ground Transportation area in the South Bend terminal. I hurriedly picked up my reserved bus ticket.
The waiting area was large and comfortable. I sat where I could see the buses pull up. The bus line originally was called 
United Limo, and then it later merged with Tri-State Coach and Coach USA. Its company serves Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin.
I watched as buses with their destinations showing above their windshields began to arrive. I looked for the one that said ‘Chicago’. When it finally pulled up, it was in Lane 2.
I promptly stood up and waited for the announcement over the intercom that it was time to board.
When the bus departure was declared, I hustled outside and presented my suitcase to the Driver. His name tag said ‘Steve.’
“This bus is going to Chicago,” Steve said, verifying I was getting on the right bus.
“Yes sir,” I replied, “That’s where I’m going.
He stowed my suitcase underneath, punched my ticket and I climbed on board.
I settled down for the 2-hour ride to O’Hara. I saw a few others lay their seats back to relax. It looked like a good idea, so I joined them.
About 20 minutes later, I felt the bus swerve onto an off-ramp. I curiously looked around wondering what the deal was. They told me this was the Chicago bus and this wasn’t Chicago.
I sat up and waited. The driver looped around behind an old service station/café building and stopped in the front. The air brakes hissed as the Driver announced, “LaPorte”
We sat there a few moments and several more passengers got on board. No one got off. In five minutes we were back on the highway again.
Another twenty minutes or so later we again turned off the big four-lane highway and stopped in front of a motel. This time driver said, “Michigan City.” One got off, and one got on.
Once again, we were rolling down the road. This time we were on the I-94 west-bound. We did good for a while, then the driver stopped again. This time, the name he said on the bus intercom was, “Portage.” Four more got on board. No one got off.
I wondered, how many more stops before we get there? I was not surprised when the bus turned off the road again and stopped at Griffith. Three got off there, but seven or eight got on board. The bus was pretty full.
The last hour of the ride was non-stop. We finally pulled up to the Bus Parking Area of the Airport’s lower level.
“Chicago,” Steve said. I stood up. I had made it to my destination. It wasn’t anything I did. It’s what I didn’t do that got me there. I didn’t get off the bus. I just stayed on the bus, even when others got off.
I could have gotten off at any of the stops along the way, but I didn’t. That’s why I arrived at my destination. I just stayed on the bus.
I do not believe in individual predestination. I do believe in corporate predestination, however. The Word of God firmly declares, that His Church is predestined for Glory. All you have to do is stay on the bus and since the bus is predestined; you will go where it goes. Just don’t get off this bus.
Some may be tempted to get off the bus along life’s journey. You can if you want too, but you should know, this is the only bus going to Glory. Don’t get off. Someone else will take your seat if you do.
I don’t care who else gets off, or what the attraction or distraction is, just stay on the bus!
“This Bus Is Going To Chicago!”
Just Stay On The Bus!
Hey, You Know That Brother You Don’t Like?
Hey, You Know That Brother You Don’t Like?
A brother, in the Bible, is not necessarily someone who is connected to you by earthly DNA. He may not even like you, or you like him. At first glance, you may not even think you have that much in common. Imagine having a brother you don’t know, don’t want to know, don’t want to like and sure don’t want anything to do with him. What if he’s a jerk? What if he’s irritating? What if he’s too odd for you to feel comfortable around. What if he has strange convictions and non-biblical standards?
Part One:
Rom 14:15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.
The Apostle Paul forces us to focus on the first and last portions of this verse. He wanted us to remember that though we may differ with our brother on some things, that Christ died for him too, just like He did for you.
Yes, some folks are harder to like than others. Many adults have acquired a bias or some prejudice over the years. Some put people in categories. They even have names for people they don’t like.
- Redneck
- Yankee
- Trailer Trash
- Stupid
- Liberal
- Ultra-Con
- Democrat
- Republican
Sometimes it’s hard to believe Jesus would actually die for someone like that. But, if Jesus died for him, how then can we hate him and say we love Jesus?
We say, “But Lord:”
- He’s a grumbler.
- He’s a complainer.
- He’s a fault finder.
- He’s rebellious.
- He’s irritating.
- He has an attitude.
- He’s a Pharisee.
- He’s carnal.
- He’s bitter.
- He’s annoying.
- He’s mean.
- He’s proud.
- He’s unthankful.
- He’s halfhearted.
- He’s lukewarm.
- He lays out of church.
- He’s hit and miss.
- He runs hot and cold.
- He’s undependable.
- He’s got a personal agenda.
- He’s working against me.
- He doesn’t like me.
- He’s not right.
- He’s really weird.
- He’s crazy.
- He’s messed up.
That May Be True… But He’s Still “Thy Brother… For Whom Christ Died.”
It’s hard to believe that the Lord would die for someone like that. We can’t imagine dying for them. Our heart experiences dark emotions and horrible opinions in dealing with some people. We sometimes experience dislike, racism, bias, prejudices, name-calling, and avoidance. But He’s Still, “Thy Brother… For Whom Christ Died.”
We may struggle with the idea of including him into our fellowship, our inner circle, our church, and especially our home. But He’s Still “Thy Brother… For Whom Christ Died.”
The Apostle Paul wrote this charge to the church in Rome.
He, like the all the Disciples, had to get past to his Gentile prejudices.
Paul even had problems with Demas and John Mark. He also had to deal with the saints who sinned and all those with moral and spiritual problems in the churches in Asia. What gave him a center of balance in his handling these difficult people was that he understood… they too were people for whom Christ died. He couldn’t hate them and be saved. Neither can we.
Matt. 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
Matt. 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Matt. 5:45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
Matt. 5:46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
You know that person who you wouldn’t think of inviting to your church? The one who is not like you? Christ died for them too. Open your heart’s door to them, and the doors of your church, too. Jesus is watching because he’s still “Thy Brother… For Whom Christ Died.”
Part Two
I Am Your Brother
Psa. 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
(Here are some things that your “brother” has often wanted to tell you… but was afraid!)
Dear Brother:
We really didn’t have any choice. God somehow in His wise providence, has chosen to put us together, for our mutual benefit. I am your brother. Here is a list of things that have been bothering me. I plead for your understanding.
- I have problems with myself. I know it and I don’t like it either. Be patient, please. I am your brother. I am still working on myself. Thanks for your tolerance.
- In recognizing my own problems, and knowing how much I loathe them, I know they must bother you and others too. Please bear with me while I’m trying to get the victory over myself. Just like I am bearing with you.
- It frustrates me too that I’m not perfect. I want to be. That’s my prayer.
- Sometimes it frustrates me that you’re not perfect…. but that’s when I remember, I’m still your brother!
- There are so many good qualities in you. I gain strength from them all. I just hope that some of my good qualities can also be seen.
- I hate the fact that Satan tries to capitalize on our shortcomings and magnify them in the eyes of others. My hope is that you’ll be able to see the good in me and not just my faults.
- Thank you for respecting my feelings even when you didn’t understand them. (Sometimes I don’t understand my own feelings either.) I wish to make every effort to respect yours too. I am your brother.
- I guess I’ve wanted to put you into my mold and make you exactly like I wanted you to be. That just doesn’t work. Neither can I fit into your mold.
- As my brother, I allow you the liberty to pick friends of your own choosing, and have good times with them, (even without me), and not be resentful or jealous.
- Likewise, I may choose some friends and occasionally be with them. From time to time I’d like to have fun and fellowship with them and not worry about slighting you.
- However, you are welcome wherever I am. Don’t ever feel you are ever intruding. And please don’t “hang back” if you weren’t personally invited by me to join the crowd. You also belong. You’re my brother. Your friendship is highly valued and enjoyed. There will always be room for you in my world.
- Thank you for the security I feel between us. Even if we haven’t talked for a while, when we do, it is a comfortable conversation and picks right back up where we left off. I like that.
- Those you love can hurt you the most. Let’s be careful in our treatment of each other, lest we do irreparable damage to ourselves. We must never grieve the Holy Ghost to the point that we’re both damaged, bitter, or lost.
- Let’s not have a “hot and cold” relationship that changes with the weather. We need to be able to count on each other. Brethren are supposed to have the next-to-the-closest relationship in the world. Only Jesus is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. I am going to stick by you. I am your brother.
- I pledge to defend your name and honor during your absence. I am your brother.
- Likewise, I know that I can depend on you to do the same for me.
- As long as there are people, there will be rumors, criticisms, remarks, opinions and second-guessing. When my back is turned, you are my only defense. I need you to watch my back, as I will watch and guard yours. You can trust me. I am your brother.
- I love you, brother! Not just because I must love you, but I really want to love you!! (If I say I love God and don’t love you, I am called a liar)
1 John 4:20-21 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
- Brother, if you see me and can tell that I have a problem, don’t go tell the world, help me. Don’t be afraid. God put you in my life to help me make it.
Gal 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness: considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
- Brother, I “prefer you”. I pray for your success and blessing. I pray that all your efforts receive their due honor. (Without my harboring any jealousy or envy.)
Rom 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love: In honor preferring one another.
Please!! Should I ever be blessed or promoted above my fellows, it would kill me to think my brother was jealous. I want to ‘prefer’ you. I want to be happy with your successes. So please be happy with mine. I am your brother. We’re on the same team.
- It is God’s will that the law of kindness guides us in our relationship. He wills that we be kind to each other.
2 Peter 1:5-8 And besides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to your virtue… brotherly kindness… for if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I can’t thank you enough for your kindnesses to me, nor can I tell you how much I truly appreciate them.
- Brother, God won’t hear my prayer if I’ve got something in my heart against you! If I ever need to ask forgiveness or apologize, please forgive me. Then, don’t crucify me and alienate me because I was trying to be conscientious. Realize we’re both just two brothers trying to be saved.
Here’s what we are supposed to do if you have a problem with me, or I have a problem with you:
Matt. 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;
Matt. 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
- Too often, lines are drawn in our minds between ourselves and our brother. We choose not to fellowship him because he is UPCI, WPF, ALJC, or Independent. (What if God is in fellowship with those you choose not to be in fellowship with. Will you have to explain to God on the Day of Judgment why you were too good or too holy to fellowship a brother whom Christ died for?)
More than ever, I appreciate you. I thank God for allowing us to lean on each other. I need you like you won’t believe. Don’t fail me. I will not fail you. I am your brother!
I Love You Brother!!
Part Three
Now, Let’s Have Revival!
Revival only happens when there is unity. Something wonderful happens when God’s people are gathered together for one purpose. Being in one mind and in one accord was the major ingredient on the Day of Pentecost. It is still the key to continual revival today.
- Unity only happens when men choose to overlook each other’s differences and choose not to be offended.
- Unity happens to those who forgive their brothers and prays for them.
- Unity happens when brethren unite for one purpose or goal. Even if there are only two or three who are gathered in His name, God chooses to be in their midst.
- Pray for unity and God will give you revival.
- Unity is no accident.
- Unity brings peace.
- Unity creates an atmosphere for Worship and The Word.
- Unity opens the door for a major move of God.
Just like parents who are happy when their children love one another and get along. Our Heavenly Father is well pleased when His children love each other, too.
Hey, You Know That Brother You Don’t Like?
Never Forget, He’s “Thy Brother… For Whom Christ Died.”
“Go Play With Your Doll”
“Go Play With Your Doll”
“Don’t touch that right now, baby. Daddy’s not done, yet. I don’t want you to break it!” Three-year-old Melina Ballestero quickly pulled her hand back. Her daddy was too slow in her opinion. The Princess Castle being assembled was just too pretty not to touch, and it was taking too long to put it together.
“What do you need to do?” Her daddy asked.
The well-taught toddler said, “Be patient.”
Just because she knew the words and how to say them… in reality, it didn’t completely help solve her impatience.
Andrew, her daddy said in exasperation, “Melina, go play with your doll.”
The little girl obediently found her little doll and it momentarily distracted her attention. Before too long The Princess Castle was complete and little Melina was thrilled to be in charge and allowed to enjoy her long-awaited treasure!
Things never really change much for us as we mature and grow older. We pray for a certain thing to happen for us. Then our Heavenly Father begins to work on our project and as soon as we see His handiwork in progress… we want to put our hands on it. God, knowing that men easily mess up His workings, sometimes has to distract us and give us something else to concentrate on while He finishes our castle of dreams.
Don’t be offended if God orders you to go play with your toys. It just means He’s almost done and He wants it to be perfect for you.
The Skid Row Church
The Skid Row Church
A flashing red neon sign interrupted the dark. The Salvation Army Rescue Mission across the street was hard not to notice. The homeless drifted up and down the sidewalk looking for a hand-out. The window of the new storefront church had a hand-scrawled welcome sign inviting one and all to come in.
As the door opens, the smell of fresh paint announces the recent renovations. Battleship Gray paint was on the walls, the old wooden floor and on the home-made benches. Everything in the church was painted gray except the pulpit and the piano.
The piano had been pushed up against the wall on the main floor. Sitting close to the six-inch-high platform. It was positioned to the left of the pulpit. The pastor’s wife played sweetly. It was like she was anointed. She sat facing the wall, but when she looks into the antique mirror fastened on the old upright, she can see her husband, the pastor and watch for his direction. Oh, how they sing! They sang with all their heart. The presence of the Lord was easily felt.
There were no songbooks or microphones. A tambourine and the rhythm of hands clapping complemented the evening worship service. The pastor’s small children sat respectful and quiet. They knew not to play during church.
There are five children in the pastor’s family. The oldest was barely in his teens. They live in a migrant farm workers camp. The one room, clapboard shanty has been their home for a year. The shack they live in has no running water, no electricity, but it does have a wooden cook stove. The restroom facilities are about 200 feet away. One double bed, a built-in bunk bed, and pallets on the floor provided sleeping arraignments for them. Their little “house” looked just like the 75 or so others in the worker’s camp. Unpainted, no lawn, no porch, just shelter.
The whole family had picked apples in the local orchards when they had first arrived. It was harvest time. The ladders that the fruit pickers used, leaned tediously against the tree limbs. Canvas bags were strapped around the laborer’s necks that held the apples and became very heavy very fast. It was not easy work. It was piece rate labor.
Everyone one else living at “Schwarter’s Station was Hispanic. Their light skin stood out. The pastor finally got a day job at Libby’s Cannery and his wife worked nights at Del Monty’s Cannery to help make ends meet. Their 14-year-old son learned to help cook for the family on the old wood cook stove.
An older retired couple had lived in town for several years and had not gone to church anywhere because there was not a Jesus Name church in the area. They had grown cold spiritually. Now, they had rejoiced over the prospect of having a church in town. They were more than glad to help the new pastor start a church.
They found pails of old gray paint in the barn and felt, that though it might not look pretty, at least it would make the place look clean. There also was enough lumber in the shed to make a small platform and eight benches.
Counting the old drunk on the front row that only came inside because of the weather, there were ten people present and five of them were children. The drunk awoke during the altar call and left. The faithful few gathered around the front. They were disappointed that one got away. There was always the next time, if Jesus tarried.
The small group had no support from anyone, just a burden for souls.
This was Home Missions 1958.
(The Skid Row Church was in Yakima, Washington, and is still thriving today.)
I Watched An Angel Grow Up!
I Watched An Angel Grow Up!
It’s true! I actually watched an Angel grow up! She will deny that she is an angel, but I know angels when I see one. The first time I ever saw her was on May 2, (a few years ago). She was very tiny and I was the first man to ever hold her, kiss her baby forehead, and tell her I loved her. She didn’t respond much at the time, but I wanted her to get used to hearing the words… “I Love You” Because, Angels love with their ears and wise men know that.
She wrapped her baby hands around my finger and when she did that, she wrapped my heart around her little finger. We decided to name our little Angel, Marisa June Ballestero.
I was most honored of all men to watch her grow, play, sing, express joy, and have fun. She was so sweet and affectionate with her Mom and I. Even though we knew she was really an Angel, she even took on the human role of Daddy’s girl!
I watched her grow up. I watched her fall in love. I watched her marry and raise a family. I watched her blossom into a beautiful Angel who is drop-dead gorgeous , talented, loving, and more astounding to me than any Wonder Woman!
One of life’s greatest honors is for me to say, that I watched an angel grow up in my own home. Her birth certificate says that she is the daughter of Marcia and Martyn Ballestero. But her Mom and I know who she really is. She is actually an Angel, a real Angel sent from above!
S0, today is the day I get to say Happy Birthday to my Angel, Marisa June Ballestero Hartzell!
I Will Always Love You!
Your Old Dad
(Life President Of The Marisa Hartzell Fan Club)
I Held An Angel In My Arms
I Watched Her Grow Up
I Watched Her Choose Friends
I Watched Her Fall In Love
I Watched Her Have Fun
I Watched Her Raise A Family
I Was Happy When She Made Another Little Angel That Looked Just Like Her
Happy Birthday Marisa!
XOXOXO
Every Judas
It is my great honor to have The Together Magazine publish this article in their current issue. For those readers who may not have access to this wonderful publication, I am posting a copy of it here: – MB
Every Judas
Just ten miles from Hebron and eighteen miles from Jerusalem was the little known village named Kerioth. It was a haven for bandits, thieves and highwaymen. People from the area were known to be assassins, murders.
Into this environment a man named Simon raised his son Judas. In Holy Scripture he was called Judas Iscariot, signifying that he was from the town of Keriot(h)
Simon must have been somewhat responsible for his son’s raising and behavior. His name is always mentioned together with his son’s name. He was called Judas, Simon’s son.
We know nothing of the boy’s mother. What was she like? What kind of teaching did she give him as a boy?
By the time the scriptures introduce us to him, we quickly see that Judas was outspoken and didn’t hesitate to disagree with what he saw.
“Why wasn’t this sold and given to the poor?”
That’s what he said criticizing Mary’s extreme sacrifice. But the Bible is quick to point out that he cared not for the poor, but was a thief and that he held the bag. There was a reason that was said. Why would Jesus allow him to carry the bag?
As a Judean he was a misfit among the disciples. The other disciples apparently were Galileans. He was no doubt a loner. He couldn’t let them see him sneaking money from the bag. He was a thief. I am sure that Judas had a less than stellar past before he met Jesus. Some Commentaries even call him a murder.
The sad news is, that no amount of the preaching and confronting that Jesus did seemed to change Judas into a John The Beloved. The same is true today. If all the words and actions of Jesus could not transform Judas in the Bible days, then neither will our preaching and confronting convert a modern day Judas.
Thirty is number of pieces of silver Judas agreed on to betray Jesus. There are thirty obvious and negative characteristics of a Judas. The Judas Iscariot of the Bible may be dead, but his spirit is still alive today.
Here Are Some Keys To Recognize The Judas In Your Midst.
- Every Judas Shows Enough Potential To Be Placed In A Leadership Role.
- Judas was hand picked. He was allowed to be a privileged disciple. He was chosen to be in charge of the group’s finances.
- Confidence was placed in him.
- Every Judas Thinks And Acts Like He Owns His Appointed Position.
John 12:5 Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?
- Every Judas loves to take the finances with him when he goes.
- Every Judas Lives On A Carnal Level And Is Oblivious To The Spiritual.
John 12:5 Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?
- Every Judas Lets His True Colors Show At The Wrong Time.
John 12:6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.
- Every Judas Has A Personal Agenda That Is Separate From The Leaders.
John 12:6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.
- Every Judas Gets Disenchanted With His Leader.
- He is willing to sabotage the whole thing if there is enough in it for him.
- Every Judas Receives A Warning From The Lord But Continues Anyway.
John 6:70 Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?
John 6:71 He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.
- Every Judas Sees The Same Miracles And Hears The Same Sermons But Is Unaffected, Unconvinced And Unconverted.
Luke 9:1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
Peter Talked About Judas In The Upper Room
Acts 1:17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.
- Every Judas Plans His Move Carefully.
Matt. 26:16 And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.
- Every Judas Is An Opportunist.
Matt. 26:16 And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.
- Every Judas Is Driven By Greed.
Matt. 26:15 And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.
- Every Judas Courts Those Whom He Thinks Can Help His Cause.
Luke 22:4 And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them.
- A modern Judas may recruit his people with private meetings,
- Private dinners
- Facebook likes
- Every Judas Possesses An Evil Spirit.
Luke 22:3 Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.
- Every Judas Can Even Fool His Own Friends And Brothers.
John 13:27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.
John 13:28 Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.
- Every Judas Gets His Key Players In Place Before He Makes His Play.
Luke 22:4 And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them.
- Every Judas Gets A Divine Warning And Still Ignores It.
Matt. 26:24 The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.
- Every Judas Should Have Been Still Born.
Matt. 26:24 The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.
- Every Judas Gets Revealed By The Lord And Has A Chance To Repent.
Matt 26:21 And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.
- Every Judas Lives In Denial To The Truth And Deceiving Himself And Others.
Matt. 26:25 Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.
- Every Judas Makes His Move When He Thinks The Odds Are In His Favor.
Matt 26:16 And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.
- Every Judas Is A Hypocrite.
Matt. 26:49 And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.
- Every Judas Is Controlled And Guided By Satan.
John 13:27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.
- Every Judas Displays False Affection Toward The Leader.
Matt. 26:49 And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.
- Every Judas Is Surprised When God Still Manifests Himself In The Midst Of The Betrayal.
Luke 22:50 And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear.
Luke 22:51 And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him.
- Every Judas Is Temporarily Happy.
- He could go back to doing what he was doing before.
- He had brought Jesus down in his own mind to the point that he no longer believed in Him.
- He actually believed he could live with his choice.
- Every Judas Has Second Thoughts.
Matt. 27:3 Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
- Every Judas Tries To Appease His Guilty Conscience.
Matt. 27:3 Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
- Every Judas Wakes Up To His Horrible Sin Too Late.
Matt. 27:4 Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.
- Every Judas Repents Too Late.
Matt. 27:4 Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.
- Every Judas Will Hang Himself.
Matt. 27:5 And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.
In Spite Of Judas
In Spite Of Judas – The Will of God was accomplished.
In Spite Of Judas – Jesus rose from the dead.
In Spite Of Judas – The Holy Ghost was poured out.
In Spite Of Judas – The Church was established.
In Spite Of Judas – Revival came.
In Spite Of Judas – The Gates of Hell did not prevail.
In Spite Of Every Judas Today
In Spite Of Every Judas Today – God still has a triumphant church.
In Spite Of Every Judas Today – The church will prosper and go forward.
In Spite Of Every Judas Today – The Glory will fall when the bad spirit is gone.
In Spite Of Every Judas Today – The church will rally and unify like never before.
In Spite Of Every Judas Today – Worship will be better than ever.
In Spite Of Every Judas Today – The Pastor will be loved more than ever.
Judas Was Replaced With A Man Named Matthias.
His name means, “Gift of God.”
There was a gift of God for the church back then. There will be a gift of God after your storm today.
Have You Had To Deal With A Judas?
Take hope, your Matthias, your Gift of God is coming!
Please Read – “Anthology” The Life And Times Of Thomas L. Craft
Anthology – The Life And Times Of Thomas L. Craft
I just finished reading Anthology the biography of Bishop Thomas L. Craft and loved it. I would encourage every one of my readers to do the same.
The Ballestero family has loved and cherished the friendship of Bro. Craft since I was a small child. My father referred to him as his 5th Friend. (It’s in the book.)
Once in a lifetime God may allow you to meet a man like Bishop Thomas L Craft. No one ever met him or heard him and walked away the same. He is truly a Pentecostal treasure and an unchanging landmark on the Gospel Highway.
- What a Burden for souls!
- What a Vision!
- What a Passion!
- What an Accomplishment for the Kingdom!
- What an anointing!
- What a Godly man!
- What a Preacher!
- What a Friend!
It’s a Life Honor to call him Friend!
Click This Picture To Go To His Website.
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 