God’s Faithfulness

I often marvel at people who are self-righteous. You know the type? People who look down their noses and condemn anyone who is not living their life the way that perhaps they should.

But what I wonder is, how can somebody criticize the speck in somebody’s eye when they have a beam in their own eye?

⁴⁰ A pupil is not superior to his teacher, but everyone [when he is] completely trained (readjusted, restored, set to rights, and perfected) will be like his teacher. ⁴¹ Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye but do not notice or consider the beam [of timber] that is in your own eye? ⁴² Or how can you say to your brother, Brother, allow me to take out the speck that is in your eye, when you yourself do not see the beam that is in your own eye? You actor (pretender, hypocrite)! First take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother's eye.

Luke 6:40-42 (Amplified Bible)

I am often reminded of my inadequacies as a believer. Oh, sure... there are times when I think we are flying through crystal clear skies. But then, like George of the Jungle, I find my face slammed up against a tree and wonder, “Where did that come from?” But thank God for 1^st John 1:9.

If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action].

1 John 1:9 (Amplified Bible)

God is faithful and just to forgive and cleans us when we repent and turn back toward Him. That gives my heart pause to praise Him, because of His unfailing love and faithfulness. Like the Psalmist, I have often wandered away from the path. Yet, Jesus is a Good Shepherd who leads and protects us, guiding us in the way that we should go. For that, we should praise Him for His faithfulness.

¹⁷⁵ Let me live that I may praise You, and let Your decrees help me. ¹⁷⁶ I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek, inquire for, and demand Your servant, for I do not forget Your commandments.

Psalm 119:175-176 (Amplified Bible)

Faithfulness is one of the Fruit of the Spirit. God shows it to us in great abundance. We should praise Him for His faithfulness... and live lives of faithfulness in response. This was the core thought in the following lyric, taken from our Psalms from the Pen of the Ready Writer series...

Let me live, Oh God, that i may praise You
For Your faithfulness. Your faithfulness
Let me live, Oh God, that i may praise You
For your word gives life to me

Let me walk steadfast as an example
Of Your faithfulness. Your faithfulness
Let me walk steadfast as an example
‘Till the world sees You in me

Like a poor lost lamb i have wandered astray
Seek Your servant, oh Lord. Don’t cast me away
i remember what You’ve commanded today
And i want to be faithful to You

Help me grow, Oh God, into the likeness
Of Your faithfulness. Your faithfulness
Help me grow, Oh God, into the likeness
Of what Jesus is to me

Let Your Spirit mould me in the image
Of Your faithfulness. Your faithfulness
Let Your Spirit mould me in Your image
‘Till we’re one eternally

Like a poor lost lamb i have wandered astray
Seek Your servant, oh Lord. Don’t cast me away
i remember what You’ve commanded today
And i want to be faithful to You

Let me live, Oh God, that i may praise You
For Your faithfulness. Your faithfulness
Let me live, Oh God, that i may praise You
For your word gives life to me

If we seek God for His faithfulness... should we not also live lives of faithfulness? And when people are living unrighteous lives, maybe we can show them mercy and not look down our noses at them. Rather than see some ugly drunken bum, maybe we can see a hurt soul who is trying so soothe their pain with alcohol... and maybe we can introduce them to the new wine from God that will give them true relief... true peace... true joy. Rather than seeing a loose woman living whorishly, we can see someone who needs a touch from Jesus to turn their life around.

Let us live lives that are an example of God’s faithfulness.

Dr. Shine and Dee Dee

Pretty kewl video, huh?

Perfect Peace

It is interesting that, when somebody dies, people say “Rest in Peace.” But does one truly have to die before they can experience peace?

Well, not according to the Bible.

In the Old Testament, the Prophet Isaiah tells us this...

You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You.

Isaiah 26:3 (Amplified Bible)

Yes, we can have peace while we are still living. And, since we are on the topic, there isn’t much peace if a person dies without trusting in Christ. Anyway, in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul tells the Church at Corinth (Greece) this...

Finally, brethren, farewell (rejoice)! Be strengthened (perfected, completed, made what you ought to be); be encouraged and consoled and comforted; be of the same [agreeable] mind one with another; live in peace, and [then] the God of love [Who is the Source of affection, goodwill, love, and benevolence toward men] and the Author and Promoter of peace will be with you.

2^nd Corinthians 13:11 (Amplified Bible)

Our Heavenly Father is the Author and the Promoter of peace. He is the God of love. God is love.

He who does not love has not become acquainted with God [does not and never did know Him], for God is love.

1^st John 4:8 (Amplified Bible)

Because of His great love for us, God gives us perfect and constant peace. Therefore, it is my endeavor during 2009 (and beyond, should the Lord tarry and I remain) to keep my mind on the Lord and to lean on and hope confidently in Him. That was the foundational scripture behind the following lyric, taken from the Psalms from the Pen of the Ready Writer series... “Perfect Peace.” It was written while were were living in Singapore and after a bit of naughtiness caused us to mistreat a fellow believer. After a trip to the spiritual woodshed, I realized that I had better set my mind on things above, and not on things that would get me into more trouble.

Keep my mind on Jesus
Set my focus on things above
Fill me with Your Spirit
Help me walk Lord in peace and love

Let me walk in perfect peace
Cover me, Lord, Cover me
My soul cries out for relief
Perfect peace, Lord, Perfect peace

Calm my nervous spirit
Take away all my doubts and fear
Help me focus on Jesus
Let me know He’s always near

Let me walk in perfect peace
Cover me, Lord, Cover me
My soul cries out for relief
Perfect peace, Lord, Perfect peace

The Lord is my perfect peace In times of despair
He always will send relief. He always is there

Hold me in Your bosom
Rock me gently in Your strong arms
There, beneath Your shadow
Angels keep me from all harm

Let me walk in perfect peace
Cover me, Lord, Cover me
My soul cries out for relief
Perfect peace, Lord, Perfect peace

Whether you are dealing with your own spiritual journey... or just stressed out by all of the turmoil in the world’s political, economic, and criminal aspects... seek the Lord’s perfect peace. It is cheaper than sleeping pills and much much more effective.

Worship Together

In This Edition - New Song from Matt Maher: "I Rejoice" - Easter Song: "On The Third Day" - Empty & Beautiful CD & Songbook - WorshipTogether.com LIVE Tour Update Song Spotlight I Will Rise - Chris Tomlin Free Songs I Rejoice Matt Maher Be Praised Michael Gungor Band On The Third Day Matt Maher I Will Rise Chris Tomlin Lord Of All Kristian Stanfill New Song Cafe I Rejoice with Matt Maher New Song Jukebox (LISTEN NOW) I Rejoice Matt Maher Be Praised Michael Gungor Band On The Third Day Matt Maher I Will Rise Chris Tomlin Lord Of All Kristian Stanfill New Song: "I Rejoice" Matt Maher's "I Rejoice" is this week's featured Free Sheet Music and New Song Cafe. This new song from Matt's Empty and Beautiful CD would be a great song to add to your Good Friday service this Easter season. Download the Free Sheet Music and watch the New Song Cafe! (now streaming in Flash video) Featured Easter Song: "On The Third Day" This is one of those Easter songs that never gets old. It paints a brilliant picture of Christ's death and resurrection. The lyrics take you on a journey and tell the story beautifully as the chorus sings..."On the third day, behold the King - On the third day, death has no sting - On the third day, we're forgiven and reconciled." Click here to listen, learn and download free sheet music for "On The Third Day"! Matt Maher CD & Songbook Empty & Beautiful includes songs that are both corporate and reflective; driving and soft; each one telling the story from a different perspective. Maher describes the heart the release, "The realization of our own emptiness without God is both a moment of sadness, and a window to joy, which opens to something so much bigger and more beautiful than ourselves. To lay down one's life for the Gospel in service of God and neighbor, is a reflection of the beauty of God. That is our charge as Christians, and that is where these songs came from." Get the CD and Collector's Edition Songbook in the Worship Together Store. Tour Update The WorshipTogether.com LIVE Tour is officially underway and our first few dates have been incredible. We are very excited about the opportunity to resource you and worship with you at the rest of the events over the next few weeks. Click here to see if any of the remaining dates are in a town near you - come and renew your passion!

WorshipTogether.com | PO Box 5084, Brentwood, TN 37024-5084

Did You Know?

Feel like praying now?

Another Member of Korn Comes to Christ

Remember our blog on Brian Welch leaving rock group Korn to become a born again Christian?

We read at The Dallas News Religion Blog about the change in the life of another member of that rock band.

Let’s get them all saved and we can have some great Christian rock!

Earthday Bob

This came from our friend Taylor Overbey...

Judypie on Love

It is God's intention that His people manifest love to one another, exhorting and encouraging each other. Let us hold fast to our confession of faith, and set aside the doctrines and traditions of men that divide and separate us. Determine to have the same love, and look out for not only our own interests, but also for the interests of others. Denominational walls are coming down, and we are reaching across the great divide to shake hands and learn from one another; we are not an island unto ourselves. By this shall all men know that we are His disciples, if we have love for one another.

In the name of Jesus, I pray for the Body of Christ. May our love flourish and I pray that we will love others appropriately. Help us to love one another sincerely and intelligently. May we live the life of a lover, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of; bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Philippians 1

Philippians 1 [AMP]

1PAUL AND Timothy, bond servants of Christ Jesus (the Messiah), to all the saints (God's consecrated people) in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the bishops (overseers) and deacons (assistants):

2Grace (favor and blessing) to you and [heart] peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah).

3I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.

4In every prayer of mine I always make my entreaty and petition for you all with joy (delight).

5[I thank my God] for your fellowship (your [a]sympathetic cooperation and contributions and partnership) in advancing the good news (the Gospel) from the first day [you heard it] until now.

6And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.

7It is right and appropriate for me to have this confidence and feel this way about you all, because [b]you have me in your heart and I hold you in my heart as partakers and sharers, one and all with me, of grace (God's unmerited favor and spiritual blessing). [This is true] both when I am shut up in prison and when I am out in the defense and confirmation of the good news (the Gospel).

8For God is my witness how I long for and [c]pursue you all with love, in the tender mercy of Christ Jesus [Himself]!

9And this I pray: that your love may abound yet more and more and extend to its fullest development in knowledge and all keen insight [that your love may [d]display itself in greater depth of acquaintance and more comprehensive discernment],

10So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble].

11May you abound in and be filled with the fruits of righteousness (of right standing with God and right doing) which come through Jesus Christ (the Anointed One), to the honor and praise of God [[e]that His glory may be both manifested and recognized].

12Now I want you to know and continue to rest assured, brethren, that what [has happened] to me [this imprisonment] has actually only served to advance and give a renewed impetus to the [spreading of the] good news (the Gospel).

13So much is this a fact that throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest [here] my imprisonment has become generally known to be in Christ [that I am a prisoner in His service and for Him].

14And [also] most of the brethren have derived fresh confidence in the Lord because of my chains and are much more bold to speak and publish fearlessly the Word of God [acting with more freedom and indifference to the consequences].

15Some, it is true, [actually] preach Christ (the Messiah) [for no better reason than] out of envy and rivalry (party spirit), but others are doing so out of a loyal spirit and goodwill.

16[f]The latter [proclaim Christ] out of love, because they recognize and know that I am [providentially] put here for the defense of the good news (the Gospel).

17[g]But the former preach Christ out of a party spirit, insincerely [out of no pure motive, but thinking to annoy me], supposing they are making my bondage more bitter and my chains more galling.

18But what does it matter, so long as either way, whether in pretense [for personal ends] or in all honesty [for the furtherance of the Truth], Christ is being proclaimed? And in that I [now] rejoice, yes, and I shall rejoice [hereafter] also.

19For I am well assured and indeed know that through your prayers and a [h]bountiful supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ (the Messiah) this will turn out for my preservation (for the spiritual health and [i]welfare of my own soul) and avail toward the saving work of the Gospel.

20This is in keeping with my own eager desire and persistent expectation and hope, that I shall not disgrace myself nor be put to shame in anything; but that with the utmost freedom of speech and unfailing courage, now as always heretofore, Christ (the Messiah) will be magnified and get glory and praise in this body of mine and be boldly exalted in my person, whether through (by) life or through (by) death.

21For me to live is Christ [His life in me], and to die is gain [the gain of the glory of eternity].

22If, however, it is to be life in the flesh and I am to live on here, that means fruitful service for me; so I can say nothing as to my personal preference [I cannot choose],

23But I am hard pressed between the two. My yearning desire is to depart (to be free of this world, to set forth) and be with Christ, for that is far, far better;

24But to remain in my body is more needful and essential for your sake.

25Since I am convinced of this, I know that I shall remain and stay by you all, to promote your progress and joy in believing,

26So that in me you may have abundant cause for exultation and glorying in Christ Jesus, through my coming to you again.

27Only be sure as citizens so to conduct yourselves [that] your manner of life [will be] worthy of the good news (the Gospel) of Christ, so that whether I [do] come and see you or am absent, I may hear this of you: that you are standing firm in united spirit and purpose, striving side by side and contending with a single mind for the faith of the glad tidings (the Gospel).

28And do not [for a moment] be frightened or intimidated in anything by your opponents and adversaries, for such [constancy and fearlessness] will be a clear sign (proof and seal) to them of [their impending] destruction, but [a sure token and evidence] of your deliverance and salvation, and that from God.

29For you have been granted [the privilege] for Christ's sake not only to believe in (adhere to, rely on, and trust in) Him, but also to suffer in His behalf.

30So you are engaged in the same conflict which you saw me [wage] and which you now hear to be mine [still].

Secret Place

In our blog He No Bother Me, one of the scriptures that we covered was the 91^st Psalm. This Psalm is a powerful scripture that describes the awesome protection afforded to those who dwell in the secret place of the Most High and remain under the shadow of the Almighty. It is greater protection than a platoon of soldiers or a crack team of Ninja.

You wanna see for yourself? Check this out...

¹ HE WHO dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand]. ² I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust! ³ For [then] He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. ⁴ [Then] He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings shall you trust and find refuge; His truth and His faithfulness are a shield and a buckler. ⁵ You shall not be afraid of the terror of the night, nor of the arrow (the evil plots and slanders of the wicked) that flies by day, ⁶ Nor of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor of the destruction and sudden death that surprise and lay waste at noonday. ⁷ A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not come near you. ⁸ Only a spectator shall you be [yourself inaccessible in the secret place of the Most High] as you witness the reward of the wicked. ⁹ Because you have made the Lord your refuge, and the Most High your dwelling place, ¹⁰ There shall no evil befall you, nor any plague or calamity come near your tent. ¹¹ For He will give His angels [especial] charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways [of obedience and service]. ¹² They shall bear you up on their hands, lest you dash your foot against a stone. ¹³ You shall tread upon the lion and adder; the young lion and the serpent shall you trample underfoot. ¹⁴ Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he knows and understands My name [has a personal knowledge of My mercy, love, and kindness--trusts and relies on Me, knowing I will never forsake him, no, never]. ¹⁵ He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. ¹⁶ With long life will I satisfy him and show him My salvation.

Psalm 91 (Amplified Bible)

That scripture was also the foundation for another item in our Psalms from the Pen of the Ready Writer series. We wrote Secret Place while attending an Assemblies of God camp meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Quite an interesting place for us to be... but as Psalm 139:7-12 tells us, never so far away that we can’t touch and be touched by the Spirit of God.

When my heart is tired
hurt and disappointed
i run
to the secret place

When my burdens heavy
and my body’s weary
i reach
for His warm embrace

In the secret place of the Most High
He will wipe away every tear from my eye
i am stable.
i will abide.
In the secret place of the Most High

When i have nobody
there to tell my troubles
i run
to the secret place

When death’s shadows lurking
and the world stops turning
i gaze
on His lovely face

In the secret place of the Most High
He will wipe away every tear from my eye
i am stable.
i will abide.
In the secret place of the Most High

If no one stands with me
whole world turns against me
i run
to the secret place

satan cannot touch me
nobody can harm me
when i
anchor at His base

In the secret place of the Most High
He will wipe away every tear from my eye
i am stable.
i will abide.
In the secret place of the Most High

In the 1950’s, they had bomb shelters. But in the centuries before Christ... and even to this day... we have the Secret Place of the Most High.

Dwell in it!

Epicenter

NEW YORK TIMES BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, FORMER DELTA FORCE COMMANDER, AND RENOWNED BIBLE TEACHER TO HOST CONFERENCE TO EXAMINE GLOBAL & MIDDLE EAST CRISES IN LIGHT OF BIBLE PROPHECY

“With wars and rumors of wars dominating headlines, what does the future hold?” An expected 10,000 to gather in San Diego on April 4th at Epicenter Conference for answers to this and other questions

(Washington, D.C.) – Joel C. Rosenberg, the New York Times best-selling author of Epicenter: Why The Current Rumblings in the Middle East Will Change Your Future, announced today that on April 4th he will host the 2009 Epicenter Conference to examine several rising global geopolitical and economic crises in light of Bible prophecy. Rosenberg will be joined at the conference by Lt.-General (ret.) Jerry Boykin, the former commander of the Army’s elite Delta Force and the former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence; and Pastor Chuck Smith, the renowned Bible teacher, author, radio host and prophecy expert.

“With wars and rumors of wars dominating the Middle East, the eyes of the world are riveted on Israel, Iran and their neighbors, the epicenter of the dramatic events that are shaping our world and shaking our future,” said Rosenberg, whose new non-fiction book about the Mideast – Inside The Revolution – releases March 10th from Tyndale House Publishers. “Americans are reading apocalyptic headlines out of the Middle East. They are looking for answers to questions like, Is there any chance of peace in the Middle East in the near future, or are we headed toward even more catastrophic wars? Why are Iran’s leaders saying the end of the world is near, and the way to hasten the coming of the Islamic Messiah is to annihilate the U.S. and Israel? What happens if Iran gets nuclear weapons? Why is Russia helping Iran go nuclear? How will coming events in the Middle East affect us as Americans, economically and geopolitically? Were the global crises we see unfolding today foretold thousands of years ago by the Hebrew prophets? And given the urgency of such crises, is there any hope in the world today?”

WHO: Joel C. Rosenberg, Pastor Chuck Smith, and Lt.-Gen. (ret.) Jerry Boykin

WHAT: The 2009 Epicenter Conference:Understanding Today’s Global
Crises In Light of Bible Prophecy.

WHEN: April 4, 2009 – 9:00am to 4:00pm

WHERE: Cox Arena, San Diego, and web cast gavel to gavel at www.epicenter09.com

Rosenberg, who has more than 1.5 million copies of his political thrillers and non-fiction books in print and is often a guest on CNN, Fox, MSNBC, the History Channel and other networks, noted that the emergence of a new President of the United States and a new Prime Minister in Israel – as well as upcoming national elections in Iran in June – are developments that are adding to the volatility and uncertainty regarding the future of the Middle East and how Americans will be affected. He also cited the following recent headlines to underscore the timeliness of the 2009 Epicenter Conference:

• IRAN HOLDS ENOUGH URANIUM FOR NUCLEAR BOMB – Financial Times, 2/19/09

• Israel, Iran liable to clash in 2009 over nukes, says U.S. intel chief – Haaretz, a leading Israeli newspaper, 2/14/09

• Hayden: Iran near nuke decision; Departing CIA chief says American intelligence agency Tehran appears to be nearing decision on whether to build nuclear warhead – Associated Press, 1/16/09

• Iran president says Israeli leaders face 'doomed end' – Los Angeles Times, 1/16/09

• Russia to start Iran nuclear plant by year end – Reuters, 2/5/09

• Bin Laden urges jihad against Israel – Associated Press, 1/14/09

• Obama Turns to Mideast, Offers ‘New Way’ With Muslims – Bloomberg, 1/21/09

“Wherever General Boykin, Pastor Chuck Smith and I travel – throughout the United States and around the world – we meet people who are increasingly anxious about the future of the United States, the future of Israel, and the future of the Islamic world,” said Rosenberg, who recently returned home to Washington, D.C., after four weeks traveling through Israel, Iraq, India and the Persian Gulf region. “I am honored that these two distinguished experts in military intelligence and Bible prophecy respectively will be joining me to help Americans – and all who join us via the world wide web – better understand current events not just through the lenses of geopolitics and economics, but also through the ‘third lens’ of Scripture.”

The San Diego event will be the first Epicenter Conference held in the United States. In April 2008, Rosenberg, Boykin and Smith spoke at the inaugural Epicenter Conference which was held at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem.

Background on the major speakers at conference:

• Joel C. Rosenberg – An author and former political advisor based in Washington, D.C., Rosenberg previously served as a senior aide to former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky and U.S. presidential candidate Steve Forbes. In April 2008, Rosenberg, an evangelical Christian, hosted the first Epicenter Conference in Jerusalem, an event that drew some 2,000 people from around the world to examine regional threats to Israel and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. His forthcoming non-fiction book, Inside The Revolution: How The Followers of Jihad, Jefferson & Jesus Are Battling To Dominate The Middle East And Transform The World, will be released March 10, 2009 from Tyndale House Publishers. His previous non-fiction book, Epicenter, was a New York Times best-seller, as were each of his five political thrillers, all of which were set in the Middle East. He is the co-producer of a documentary film called Epicenter. In 2006, he and his wife founded The Joshua Fund (www.joshuafund.net), a non-profit organization to educate and mobilize Christians to bless Israel and her neighbors with food, clothing, medical equipment, and other relief aid.

• Pastor Chuck Smith – A renowned Bible teacher, author of numerous books, and host of the nationally syndicated radio program The Word For Today, Pastor Chuck is the founder of Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, an evangelical congregation that draws some 25,000 people weekly in southern California. He is widely known for his passion to teach the Scriptures to lay people, his commitment to train evangelical leaders, and his deep love for the Jewish people and State of Israel. Since 1965, he and the pastors he has trained and inspired have started more than 1,200 Calvary Chapel evangelical churches throughout the U.S. and around the world. Over the years, Pastor Chuck has led numerous tours to the Holy Land. He co-hosted his first conference in Jerusalem in 1983 with then-Prime Minister Menachem Begin, and was a headliner at the inaugural Epicenter Conference in Jerusalem in April 2008.

• Lt.-General (retired) William “Jerry” Boykin – A founding member of the U.S. Army’s elite Delta Force, Boykin was part of the commando team President Carter sent into Iran in 1980 to rescue American hostages held by the Ayatollah’s followers. He later helped liberate Grenada from Soviet-backed Communists and was severely wounded in the effort. He went on to help capture Panamanian dictator Manuel Noreiga, was promoted to Commander of Delta Force, and later oversaw the training of all U.S. Special Forces at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. He was then promoted to the rank of three-star general and retired in 2007 after serving as the U.S. Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. An evangelical Christian, he is the author of Never Surrender: A Soldier's Journey to the Crossroads of Faith and Freedom. He is a popular speaker and lecturer throughout the United States, and was the keynote speaker at the inaugural Epicenter Conference in Jerusalem in April 2008.

Meditations from Judypie: Presidential Protection

Father, in Jesus’ name, we thank you for the United States and its government. We pray for the men and women who are in positions of authority – the president, representatives, senators, judges, police personnel, as well as the governors and mayors and all others who are in authority over us in any way. We pray that the Spirit of God will rest upon them. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: 1^st Timothy 2:1-3

Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.

Psalm 121:4

---

Father, by your Spirit send forth skillful and godly wisdom into the heart of our president and impart to him necessary, supernatural knowledge and discretion. Discretion will watch over him; understanding will keep him and deliver him from the way of evil and from evil men. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Proverbs 2:10-12

I will love You, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised; So shall I be saved from my enemies.

Psalm 18:1-3

---

Father, we ask that you compass the president about with men and women who make their hearts and ears attentive to godly counsel and do that which is right in your sight. We pray that the upright shall dwell in our government – men and women blameless and complete in your sight Father. We ask that the wicked be cut off and the treacherous rooted out of our government. In the name of Jesus, we thank you for answering our prayer. Amen

Scripture Meditation: Proverbs 2:21-22

I came to the world to be a Light. Anyone who puts his trust in Me will not be in darkness

John 12:46 (NLV)

---

Father, your Word declares that blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. We declare that Jesus is Lord over these United Sates of America. We receive your blessing. You are our Refuge and Stronghold in times of trouble (high cost, destitution and desperation). We pray that we shall dwell safely in this land, in the name of Jesus our Lord. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Psalm 33:12; Psalm 9:9

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Isaiah 40:31

Worship Together

New Song: "Lord Of All"

Worship leader Kristian Stanfill is the newest addition to the sixsteps records family and a fresh face here at WorshipTogether.com. His new song, "Lord Of All," declares "there is none so high and holy, King of kings the one and only, You are adored, You are the Lord of all." You can view all of the lyrics a listen to the song here. Make sure to download the Free Sheet Music this week!

Worship Together Live Tour Begins Next Week

The Worship Together LIVE Tour begins next week bringing a day of practical training and an evening worship concert to 16 cities across the country. Click here to see if we are coming to a town near you and then go reserve a place for you and your team at iTickets.com!

Attention Mini-Album

If you are into digital music and love getting your hands on new worship songs, then head on over to iTunes to get a mini-album with 6 songs from Kristian Stanfill's Attention CD including "Lord Of All", "I Need You", "Alive And Running" and "Kingdom". When the full album comes out on April 21st you can go back and upgrade to the complete collection of songs. Get it now at iTunes!

Featured Easter Song: "I Will Rise"

If you didn't get a chance to listen, download and learn this wonderful new song for Easter over the weekend - head on over to the site to get the resources you need to introduce "I Will Rise" at your church this Easter!

Seventy Times Seven

One of the most difficult aspects of the Christian life, at least for me, is the commandment to forgive those who have offended us. Granted, God has forgiven us of so much, how could we even think of holding some puny and insignificant debt against another person. Well... guess what? We do it every day! At least, I have. And as the Holy Spirit does what Ashley Cleveland sang about in Lesson of Love -- His wings provide me comfort as His light invades my sin -- I have but one alternative.

I must forgive!

Consider the parable of the man who was forgiven a great debt and yet refused his brother the same mercy for a significantly smaller debt. The wicked unforgiving servant was released from a debt he couldn’t pay, yet held a beef against his brother for a mere pittance. Jesus washed away my sins... so should I have an attitude towards my brother or my sister? I don’t think so. We are not carrying that mess into 2009!

In the parable, we see that the wicked servant was given a severe punishment for his unwillingness to show mercy to his brother (see Matthew 18:33-35). And this is not the only time that Jesus has made that point ever so clear. Take a peek at another scripture:

¹⁴ For if you forgive people their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], your heavenly Father will also forgive you. ¹⁵ But if you do not forgive others their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses.

Matthew 6:14-15 (Amplified Bible)

That scripture inspires me to dive into my prayer closet and repent for holding a single grudge or a beef against anyone. I don’t want to carry any of my sins as being unforgiven... so then I refuse to hold anyone else’s sins against them. Still... it is easier said than done. But it MUST be done!

²¹ Then Peter came up to Him and said, Lord, how many times may my brother sin against me and I forgive him and let it go? [As many as] up to seven times? ²² Jesus answered him, I tell you, not up to seven times, but seventy times seven!

Matthew 18:21-22 (Amplified Bible)

I like Mark Gershmehl’s song, How Many Times, which is answered... seventy times seven. Our song, from our Psalms from the Pen of the Ready Writer series, may not be as good as Mark’s tune. Still, it gets the point across...

Lord... i thought i could trust him
When... it seemed that i knew him
You... You know that i loved him
So, how? (How, i wonder...)
Could... he hurt me so deeply?
On... the day he betrayed me
Now... i come to You asking
What am i to do?

You say forgive
Forgive and love the way that You love me
You say forgive
Cover his sin and cast into the sea
Oh, i must forgive

She... my sister in Jesus
Once... a fellow believer
Times... we shared all our secrets
So, how? (How, i wonder...)
Could... my sister betray me?
With... her tongue she did slay me
Me... the victim of “loose lips”
Reputation gone!

Church on the corner... the
Place of my solstice... where
i go to worship... i’m
No longer welcome... Lord
This isn’t right... i’m
Ready to fight... but
You come down in Your Holy Light
And strengthen me with Your Great Might...

(the) Might to forgive
Forgive and love the way that You love me
Strength to forgive
Cover this sin and cast into the sea (Micah 7:19)
Lord, i must forgive
Help me to forgive

Though my brother sins against me seven times
i must forgive

Though he stops his ears and acts like he were blind
i will forgive

perpetually even to the end of time
i will forgive

and be like Jesus — to his sin i’ll die (Galatians 2:20)
Help me forgive

Oh Lord...
i will forgive
i will
i will forgive
help me forgive...

I have heard people partially acquiesce to God’s commandment by saying, “Well, I will forgive them... but I will never forget what they did.” Hello? A grudge is a grudge. One of the Fruit of the Spirit is longsuffering. We need to rely upon the Holy Spirit to give us longsuffering patience when dealing with the often knuckleheaded behavior of some of the people around us.

Slammed me to the ground
They hurt me, and brought my spirit down
i can’t see why i still have to love them
when i’ve suffered undeserved

Tried to kill my joy
The devil, he’s seeking to destroy
i realize i can’t fail to love them
Though my love is undeserved

If i don’t forgive them of their trespass
i won’t have the peace from God that will last

So i will suffer long --- even though provoked
In faith, keep going strong --- up against the ropes

He’s my strength and song
So, i will suffer long

Although i forgive
Forget their sin; They won’t let me live
in peace with them... i won’t cease to love them
when i suffer undeserved

Heart to reconcile
our differences; Fight to wear a smile
while facing this... Inside i’ll still love them
Though my love won’t be returned

If i don’t forgive them of their trespass
i won’t have the peace from God that will last

So i will suffer long --- even though provoked
In faith, keep going strong --- up against the ropes

He’s my strength and song
So, i will suffer long

Again... it is the power of the Holy Spirit by which we can forgive and forget. Call upon the Lord and yield to his operation in your life.

Meditations from Judypie

Father, you have given me a spirit of excellence, and in the name of Jesus I will run the race in a manner that is pleasing to you. Holy Spirit, daily you energize me to run with the Divine vision imparted to my heart. I have written the vision and, Father, I accept your appointed time for its fulfillment. I submit my thoughts, attitudes and behavior to the control of the Holy Spirit that I might walk worthy of this divine calling. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Habakkuk 2:2-3; Ephesians 4:1

Father, I thank you for the Holy Spirit who brings all things to my remembrance. As far as I am concerned, Father-God you turn to good what is meant for evil. You brought me to the position I hold today for the benefit of others. I rest in you knowing that in all things you are working for my good because I love you, and you called me according to your purpose. I will trust in you, Lord, at all times for your ways are perfect. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28; Psalm 62:8

Heavenly Father, thank you for directing and establishing my steps. Today I walk the path you blazed for me. When I walk, my steps will not be hampered; when I run, I will not waste time making wrong turns. As I walk along in the ever-brightening light of God’s favor the dawn gives way to morning splendor. Thank you Father, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Psalm 37:23; Proverbs 4:11-12,18

Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.

Psalm 121:4

He No Bother Me

You ever have one of those days when it seems that nothing is going right? I can relate. When we wrote He No Bother Me back in 1994, I saw a multi-million dollar bonus go up in smoke with the job that mysteriously vanished... I saw a relationship disintegrate before we could reach the altar... and almost lost more than that when the brake line on my vehicle mysteriously failed in the middle of heavy traffic.  What was my response to this onslaught of calamity? 

I WROTE A SONG!

Yeah, I know that Earth Wind and Fire said, “When you feel down and out... sing a song.”  However, that is going under the assumption that one actually has a melodious and/or mellifluous singing voice.  I think that the only music that I can sing is country music.  And, even then, I doubt that anyone listening can discern what country the music is from.  Sorry, just a bit of humor.  I digress.  But, seriously folks, the Bible tells us to speak to one another with songs, hymns, and spiritual songs... singing and making music in your heart to the Lord (see Ephesians 5:18-20 and Colossians 3:16). 

We see in the Gospel According to Mark that Jesus spoke to the circumstances around Him... and his words had impact upon the situation.

And He arose and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, Hush now! Be still (muzzled)! And the wind ceased (sank to rest as if exhausted by its beating) and there was [immediately] a great calm (a perfect peacefulness).

Mark 4:39 (Amplified Bible)

My song was the cumulative application of these scriptures -- and my Bible study group joined me and my electronic keyboard in shoving it right back into the devil’s face.  I was not intent on just ignoring his persecution.  Oh, no.  I wanted to get my spiritual picnic basket out and enjoy a continual feast!

All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].

Proverbs 15:15 (Amplified Bible)

Anxious thoughts and forebodings are the food of the person who worries. And meditating on worry is a type of pride. How so? You don’t want to give it to Jesus... you would rather carry it yourself. It is as if your pacing the floor all night is more effective than laying it before the throne of the Creator of the universe.  The Bible tells me that God never slumbers nor sleeps.  So then, why should both of us stay awake all night?  I am going to sleep well... and then get up and get dressed the spiritual way...

¹¹ Put on God’s whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil. ¹² For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere.

Ephesians 6:11-12 (Amplified Bible)

Now that I am rested... now that I have feasted on God’s word... and now that I am dressed in my armor, I will dwell safely and secure in the secret place of the Most High.

¹ HE WHO dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand]. ² I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust! ³ For [then] He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. ⁴ [Then] He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings shall you trust and find refuge; His truth and His faithfulness are a shield and a buckler. ⁵ You shall not be afraid of the terror of the night, nor of the arrow (the evil plots and slanders of the wicked) that flies by day, ⁶ Nor of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor of the destruction and sudden death that surprise and lay waste at noonday. ⁷ A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not come near you. ⁸ Only a spectator shall you be [yourself inaccessible in the secret place of the Most High] as you witness the reward of the wicked. ⁹ Because you have made the Lord your refuge, and the Most High your dwelling place, ¹⁰ There shall no evil befall you, nor any plague or calamity come near your tent. ¹¹ For He will give His angels [especial] charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways [of obedience and service]. ¹² They shall bear you up on their hands, lest you dash your foot against a stone. ¹³ You shall tread upon the lion and adder; the young lion and the serpent shall you trample underfoot. ¹⁴ Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he knows and understands My name [has a personal knowledge of My mercy, love, and kindness--trusts and relies on Me, knowing I will never forsake him, no, never]. ¹⁵ He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. ¹⁶ With long life will I satisfy him and show him My salvation.

Psalm 91 (Amplified Bible)

I am secure in the knowledge that satan will get what is coming to him...

Then the devil who had led them astray [deceiving and seducing them] was hurled into the fiery lake of burning brimstone, where the beast and false prophet were; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever (through the ages of the ages).

Revelation 20:10 (Amplified Bible)

And that is why he no bother me...

The devil get this wild idea
but he no bother me
he think he fill my heart with fear
but he no bother me
he try to take all my possessions
but he no bother me
he try to steal my hope of heaven
but he no bother me

i cut the devil down one evening
Upon the blood of Jesus pleading
The word -- God's promises revealing
Say, he no bother me

On the highway, he try to kill me
but i no worry man
i call on Jesus, and He hear me
so, i no worry man
The angels come, and they protect me
so, i no worry man
The Holy Spirit lead and guide me
so, i no worry man

Like Abraham i have a covenant
When storm arrive, i rise above it
i speak the name of Jesus on it
So, he no bother me

The devil don't know when he had it
but he no bother me
'Cause on my Jesus i be braggin'
so, he no bother me
Eternal life, i'm waiting on it
so, he no bother me
the devil gets eternal torment
no more he bother me

Under the wings of Jesus hiding
Stable and fixed, i am abiding
Upon the wind of faith i'm riding

So i suggest you see
Don't you join my enemy
'Cause he go down to the fire sea
where he no bother me

satan will burn
eternally
Hey!
he no bother me!