Broken? Bending? Standing Strong!
Blessed is the person who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord! Blessed is the one who meditates on God’s Word day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither-whatever they do prospers. (Psalm 1) Paying attention to a healthy tree, what do you notice right away? We see the tall, solid trunk, the strong branches, buds, blossoms, fruit, and the leaves. Now, imagine (or maybe you’re actually seeing) then describe an unhealthy or diseased tree! What we don’t see is the root system of these trees. The roots go deep...
Read MoreWho Me? Forgive My Family?
Joseph was a truly gifted boy! Well-loved by His father, Jacob! Jealously envied by His big brothers, as you remember, they sold him as a slave. He serves the most important person in Egypt now! Joseph is miles and miles away from his distant father and family; yet, not from his future, which GOD planned! His Father GOD is mapping out the most amazingly beautiful plan! God designed it just for Joseph (and all the older brothers)! God’s perfect plan includes more mistreatments-lies-false accusations-prison just to name a few! Do you recall one of Joseph’s gifts? Exactly, dreams! God gifted him with dreams concerning things that would happen in the future! Genesis 41 Joseph stood before Pharaoh, calm and sure. He had spent years in prison, forgotten by those he...
Read MoreLife Is A Family Affair
During this special season of Lent, we focus on being more like Jesus! One of the ways we learn how to grow in the ways of CHRIST is through studying more about the lives of Biblical families. We know about twin brothers Esau and Jacob. Our hearts are thankful they finally, by the mercy and grace of God, mended their very long, hurtful, and poor relationship. But do families live happily ever after? Not if we look at the sons of Jacob. Joseph is a truly gifted and special boy! One of his many gifts involves his dreams. Remember this about him! Brother problems are in this family still! Joseph is Jealously envied by all of His big brothers. Well-loved by His father, Jacob! Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons because he had been born to him in...
Read MoreFamily Is God’s Idea
Your family, mine, and most are similar to other families; yet each family has their own God-designed uniqueness. “God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.” (Psalm 68:6) Does everyone in your family seem to tell jokes? Enjoy the same activities, foods, music; clothing; colors? Is your family mostly serious; relaxed; or somewhat strict? Is your family made up of almost complete opposites? However, your family shows up. Know and remember that family is a GOD idea. Family time is an opportunity to grow closer to God, Jesus, and the relatives who share our genes, traits, and appearance. It’s a chance to intentionally let God teach us how to be more like Jesus—loving,...
Read MoreWhat Difference Does ‘IT’ Make, Anyway?
Let’s ask GOD and thank Him for His help in doing good as we look toward the Cross. “Do I have to do it again?” “I am tired!” “Why ME?” “No more practice today!” We feel tired for reasons. If you feel this or know someone who does, think about these words: Let us not be tired in doing good, for at the right time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 Have you ever planted seeds? Veggies, flowers, trees, or melons? You hoped they would grow so you could pick them. Each seed needs time to grow. The package might have said: Plant 3 to 4 seeds at least 6 inches deep in the ground or in a pot. Place in an area away from the sun. Water every day. Seeds will sprout in 4 to 6 weeks. Shoots will...
Read MoreGod Is Forever! Forever Is a Looonnnngggg Time
Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. Psalm 90: 1 Who or what is the oldest person or thing you know? You have become acquainted with one of our Presidents who lived the longest of all other Commander-in-chiefs. President Carter lived a century of Christian service. Yes, 100 hundred years. That’s a lot of candles, right? How about great-grandparents? An old farmhouse? An uncle’s military medal? A nearby oak tree? Your parents’ first grade teacher? A hand carved wooden rocking horse? Your neighbors’ golden retriever? These are perhaps “old.” Whoever or whatever you are considering, GOD has existed far...
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If it’s in the Bible, The Pirate Preacher knows the story. Monday nights he leads a “Jesus Study” in Moore Square, Raleigh, NC. Each Sunday you will find him in the park and at the bus station helping others enjoy the abundant life Jesus promised.
The Pirate Preacher helped launch Christian Devotions Ministries and is the former CEO of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, a Christian book publishing company. He’s also a “Blessed Selling” author and Writers’ Coach.
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Jehovah Jireh: The Incredible Provider — A super Hero Graphic Novel
