Happy Birthday Josh......................

Happy 25th Birthday to our Eldest Son, Joshua.
A man on his own. Following God's plan for his life.
I am proud of him and his achievements.
If only I had a video I could upload to go with this post. Oh yeah I can make one...Here you go. Happy 25th Josh.

Happy Birthday Mrs. Blackwell.....

Today we held funeral services for Tommy Blackwell 66yrs young. The son of Luther E. "Pee Wee" and Sybil Blackwell. They buried their last son, but also celebrates her 90th Birthday. She commented that she did not know how she could celebrate it now. I shared with her that as she celebrates here 90th here, Tommy is celebrating there.
It's midweek bible study night. We will finish up Genesis tonight. Still praying about the next Bible Study. There have been some that want me to teach thru Revelation again, I did it when I first came to Lakeview. Friday nite we will be at Broadway Lake again with the motorcycle ministry and Laborers in the Field. Come join us as we worship the Lord together and have some good food and fellowship. See you tonight in the Bible Study.
Pastor T.

concentration...

Have you ever had a day when you could not concentrate? Today was one of those days. Trying to prepare for a funeral on Wednesday and get my paperwork prepared for the end of the month and not being able to stay focused. When you think of it the loss of concentration is one of the big tools of Satan. If we lose our concentration then he can get into our minds. The old folks used to say, an idle mind / hands is the devils playground. Maybe thats why Paul advises us to pray always. Thats my thought for the day.
Pastor T.

Thoughts from Sunday..

Sunday was bring a friend to church day. Thanks to those who brought a friend to church.
A bittersweet day as Tommy Blackwell, Son of Gene and Sybil Blackwell departed this life around 10:15am. Funeral arrangements to be announced. Pray for the Blackwell family during this time.

Today's Devotional by C.H. Spurgeon. April 28

It Becomes Mutual "I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people" (2 Corinthians 6:16).
Here is a mutual interest. Each belongs to each. God is the portion of His people, and the chosen people are the portion of their God. The saints find in God their chief possession, and He reckons them to be His peculiar treasure. What a mine of comfort lies in this fact for each believer!
This happy condition of mutual interest leads to mutual consideration. God will always think of His own people, and they will always think of Him. This day my God will perform all things for me; what can I do for Him? My thoughts ought to run toward Him, for He thinketh upon me. Let me make sure that it is so and not be content with merely admitting that so it ought to be.
This, again, leads to mutual fellowship. God dwells in us, and we dwell in Him; He walks with us, and we walk with God....
Oh, for grace to treat the LORD as my God: to trust Him and to serve Him, as His Godhead deserves! Oh, that I could love, worship, adore, and obey Jehovah in spirit and in truth! This is my heart's desire. When I shall attain to it, I shall have found my heaven. LORD, help me! Be my God in helping me to know Thee as my God, for Jesus' sake.

Sundays Soldiers of the Cross sermon was on M.O.U.T not Military Operations on Urban Terrain, but Ministry Opportunities in our Urban Terrain. 1 Samuel 10th chapter. God appoints us mission opportunities and as he did with Saul, Chooses us, Anoints us, Places us. Saul was out searching for donkeys and ended up king of Israel. You never know where you will end up at the end of the day. But it will always be better when you are on mission from God.
Pastor T.

Mr. Jacob Maxwell & Ms. Amanda Bowen

Jake and Amanda preparing to go to the Prom at Hart County High School. Hair do's, tuxedo the never ending search for the right pair of Oakley's to wear with the Tux.
The flowers, the dinner and of course the mid night bowling with the church youth group. All part of the high school scene. These are memories that last.

Pastor T and Ron Whitlowe

It was good to see my cousin Ron Whitlow today in Canon Ga. He works at Kings Bay Naval Station outside Jacksonville Fla. Ron came up for a visit and we got to spend a little time together.

More music from Laborers in the Field Ministries

Laborers in the Field....

This evening Gary Welch and I went to Broadway Lake to attend the Laborers in the Field Ministry. It's a ministry outreach for anyone who wants to come and worship Christ. It is a non-denominational type of outreach where persons from different church backgrounds come together for the expressed purpose to honor the Lord Jesus Christ. Tyce Butler invited me to come and preach or sing and check out the ministry that goes on every Friday Night at 6:30pm at the Old McFalls Landing Site on Broadway Lake, Anderson, S.C..

On this night my friend and fellow Pastor, Dr. Sam Duncan gave the evening message.
2 Timothy 3:1-14 Titled, "What Time is It?"
What a great message and what a good time of fellowship. They even had chicken.

I have a few photos to post on it. The video attached is of my good friend Clayton ("not Grover") Burdette. ;) singing a man of constant sorrow.

If you are reading my blog Clayton, yes I published it. Folks from different parts of life come to this event. Its a place where people can fellowship together and witness to those who may not come to a church but will come out to the lake for food and music. Here they can hear about Jesus without fear of being stared at and condemned because of their problems.

Pray for this ministry outreach that there will be "Laborers in the field" at this event. Pastor T.

The Old Rugged Cross made the Difference!

The song says it all. The Old Rugged Cross made the difference in a life full of heartache and defeat. Life is full of bumps and hills and there have been times when I would have thrown up my hands and quit had it not been for Jesus and what he has done for me. I think back on what he went through en route to Calvary and I realize I can make it through in HIS name. I received a note from an individual this week. He mentioned that there were things going on in his family and stress that has caused him to wonder about his calling. I remember when I told my wife that God was calling me to preach. She told me, "I did not marry a preacher and I won't stay married to one." I faced all kinds of emotions and feelings. My first thought was to leave her and let her self destroying prophecy come true. Then I realized that was what Satan wanted me to do. I had to bow to the workings of God and let him be in control. I had to realize that HE had to work in her and he had a work to finish in me as well. That was 15 plus years ago. We will celebrate our 27th Anniversary in August if the Lord Tarries and allows us to live to see it. When I look back over my life I find myself in awe of what God has done. Through the pains and disappointments. I think of the words C.H. Spurgeon wrote in his evening devotional for today in reference to the wounds Jesus suffered.

“Behold how every wound of his
A precious balm distils,
Which heals the scars that sin had made,
And cures all mortal ills.
“Those wounds are mouths that preach his grace;
The ensigns of his love;
The seals of our expected bliss
In paradise above.”

I think of what my life was before I turned it over to him and I know the expected end he has for me. That's why all the more I sing. The Old Rugged Cross made the Difference for me. Jesus thank you for Calvary and dying for me that I might live and have life more abundantly. Giving me a love that will last forever. Not a temporal one like we experience with some people here, where one day they love you and cuss you the next. Oh how I long to go home to heaven but I know as the Apostle Paul, for me to live is Christ and to die is gain. Hang in there folks I know I am. HIS GRACE is Sufficient. Pastor T.

Pastor Rey and Annie Awatin

Photo of Pastor Rey and Annie Awatin while here in 2007. Sister Annies first time being here with us. Both are back on the mission field serving the Lord Jesus Christ.

Tribes in Asia for Christ

Tribes in Asia for Christ. A missions organization based in Manilla Philippines that carries missionary activities from The mountain regions of the Philippines to other Asian Nations as well.
Pastor Rey Awatin and the staff of TAC trains missionaries to serve in areas where most others can't or won't serve. Pray for Brother Rey and his wife, Sister Annie Awatin. More on TAC will be forthcoming within the next few weeks there will be a blog site available for Pastor Rey to use to communicate with us and others about the mission projects around the globe. As a friend and member of TAC I am proud to be associated with Bro Rey. More later, Pastor T.

Are YOU Ready....

Jesus is coming soon. Where will you be after HE comes?
Are YOU Ready? Contact us for more information.

Mondays Devotional

April 21, 2008 - The Power of Confession - Philippians 4:10-13

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. By Dr. Charles Stanley

Sometimes we set ourselves up for defeat by letting adversity dictate our decisions. Christianity would’ve lost a great leader and teacher if the apostle Paul had stopped serving the Lord because of his difficulties. Paul endured a shipwreck, persecution, beatings, and poverty. Instead, Paul made a bold proclamation from prison. In Philippians chapter 4:13, Paul says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Paul prepared himself to perform any service or face any trial for the Lord. His willingness was rooted in the belief that God would always be faithful. He could’ve regarded prior difficulties as a run of bad luck and chosen to give up. Instead, the apostle viewed his experiences as proof that the Father would provide what was required in any circumstance. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:12, he had learned to be content in every situation. He says God always met his physical, spiritual, and emotional needs at the right moment.

The apostle tackled each new challenge with the confidence that Christ would equip him to do the job well. Too often people ignore a new opportunity that feels unfamiliar. Never having tried it, they anticipate being unable to meet expectations. But the Lord’s call to a fresh area of service means He’s about to do good work through His child.

If a believer is willing to serve God in any capacity, he’ll make an impact for the kingdom. Remember, Paul’s proclamation is also ours. We can do all things through Christ, who’s our strength.

April 19-20 - Expanding the Church’s Horizons - Acts 1:1-8

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. Dr. Charles Stanley

The line where the sky meets the earth is called the horizon. It is the farthest point of land or water that a person can see. But, the universe extends far beyond what the eye can behold.

In a similar way, the church’s vision can be limited. God’s mandate is to bring the gospel to every nation. Some believers often confine their outreach to what they see as manageable. Sometimes what holds them back from fulfilling God’s command is their limited experiences and understanding.

In other words, the believers frequently act according to logic. Our Father calls His children to obey in faith. Rational thought might lead people to avoid missions in a foreign country because of safety concerns or a language barrier. No excuse can nullify the truth of Jesus’ statement from Luke chapter 18:27: “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God”.

The Lord expects His followers to obey when He says in Matthew chapter 28:19, “Make disciples of all the nations.” But He knows human limitations. So Acts chapter 1:8 tells us He empowers through His Spirit. The Holy Spirit provides guidance, wisdom, and strength to accomplish His will.

The church is to share the gospel. God will call individuals to fulfill this commission in different ways. All believers are to participate through prayer, giving, and action. Pray for direction and wisdom in communicating the good news of salvation to the world. The Holy Spirit will lead and empower you.

Daily Devotion

I have added to this post a daily devotion that will be placed here. Great men of God from Charles H. Spurgeon to Charles Stanley will be posted at random. I hope you enjoy the daily devotion and make it a part of your devotion plan daily. In our Basic Training Sermons we have featured the extreme importance on studying the Word of God. We must take the time to read the word of God. To forsake it causes us to be unaware and ill prepared for what will face us daily. To neglect it will make you weak and anemic in your daily battles with the enemy of your soul.
It's time Christians replace the TV with the Bible and return to the call and mission he has called us to. Until next time, Semper Fi, Pastor T

Devotion for Today - C.H. Spurgeon

“Behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.” - Mat_27:51
No mean miracle was wrought in the rending of so strong and thick a veil; but it was not intended merely as a display of power-many lessons were herein taught us. The old law of ordinances was put away, and like a worn-out vesture, rent and laid aside. When Jesus died, the sacrifices were all finished, because all fulfilled in him, and therefore the place of their presentation was marked with an evident token of decay. That rent also revealed all the hidden things of the old dispensation: the mercy-seat could now be seen, and the glory of God gleamed forth above it. By the death of our Lord Jesus we have a clear revelation of God, for he was “not as Moses, who put a veil over his face.” Life and immortality are now brought to light, and things which have been hidden since the foundation of the world are manifest in him. The annual ceremony of atonement was thus abolished. The atoning blood which was once every year sprinkled within the veil, was now offered once for all by the great High Priest, and therefore the place of the symbolical rite was broken up. No blood of bullocks or of lambs is needed now, for Jesus has entered within the veil with his own blood. Hence access to God is now permitted, and is the privilege of every believer in Christ Jesus. There is no small space laid open through which we may peer at the mercy-seat, but the rent reaches from the top to the bottom. We may come with boldness to the throne of the heavenly grace. Shall we err if we say that the opening of the Holy of Holies in this marvellous manner by our Lord’s expiring cry was the type of the opening of the gates of paradise to all the saints by virtue of the Passion? Our bleeding Lord hath the key of heaven; he openeth and no man shutteth; let us enter in with him into the heavenly places, and sit with him there till our common enemies shall be made his footstool.

Evening
“The Amen.”
- Rev_3:14
The word AMEN solemnly confirms that which went before; and Jesus is the great Confirmer; immutable, for ever is “the Amen” in all his promises. Sinner, I would comfort thee with this reflection. Jesus Christ said, “Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” If you come to him, he will say “Amen” in your soul; his promise shall be true to you. He said in the days of his flesh, “The bruised reed I will not break.” O thou poor, broken, bruised heart, if thou comest to him, he will say “Amen” to thee, and that shall be true in thy soul as in hundreds of cases in bygone years. Christian, is not this very comforting to thee also, that there is not a word which has gone out of the Saviour’s lips which he has ever retracted? The words of Jesus shall stand when heaven and earth shall pass away. If thou gettest a hold of but half a promise, thou shalt find it true. Beware of him who is called “Clip-promise,” who will destroy much of the comfort of God’s word.
Jesus is Yea and Amen in all his offices. He was a Priest to pardon and cleanse once, he is Amen as Priest still. He was a King to rule and reign for his people, and to defend them with his mighty arm, he is an Amen King, the same still. He was a Prophet of old, to foretell good things to come, his lips are most sweet, and drop with honey still-he is an Amen Prophet. He is Amen as to the merit of his blood; he is Amen as to his righteousness. That sacred robe shall remain most fair and glorious when nature shall decay. He is Amen in every single title which he bears; your Husband, never seeking a divorce; your Friend, sticking closer than a brother; your Shepherd, with you in death’s dark vale; your Help and your Deliverer; your Castle and your High Tower; the Horn of your strength, your confidence, your joy, your all in all, and your Yea and Amen in all.

The man and his message...

I spent some time today reading a book on the life of a preacher who ministered from 1933 till his death in 1965. Off and on I would read it until I almost finished the whole book. A friend of mine is wrapped up into a church that practically deifies that preacher. As I read about him and his life I was more and more taken by the way he became encased in his "calling". The author of the book told about the mans life as it was evolving through the eyes of those who witnessed his ministry. He used heliography's of the man. Yeah I asked the same thing. What is Heliography? I had to look it up in a dictionary. Anyway the short explanation is that the writer of the biography Idolizes the subject about whom they are writing. In other words they worship him and he can do no wrong. There were comments about this preacher by some that were not so flattering as well. The book was interesting as it gave details not only about the man but also about the growth of particular denominations as well as the mans on religious body that came to be and in my continued opinion still is cultish. There is an inherent danger to lifting up a man to the point of being above all others. This man, William Marion Branham, was and is considered not just a prophet but the only prophet for the end time age. As I read his story it reminded me of the story of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon religion. Full of visions and of course the "Angel". I have attempted to be fair in my discussions on this person but the more I look into it the more disturbing this becomes. For anyone to lift up a preacher to that level is as I said before, dangerous. The persons in this church, that prides itself on non denominational ism, is within itself a denomination and Branham is the leader. This is factual today even though he was killed from injuries he received in an automobile accident in 1965. The pastors of the groups that are linked to this man quote him more than anyone in the Bible. His words are trusted as even to some, as equal to scripture. It was not surprising to me that he was one of the top preachers in the early Pentecostal and Charismatic churches, having his background in early healing crusades and associates like F.F. Bosworth, Moore and Parham. I only mention this in my blog because there is that danger today. Christians should be on guard to what any preacher, pastor, spiritual leader or the like is feeding them. In every case the message should always be taken back to scripture and to the proper context of the scripture. One rule I have always followed, let scripture interpret scripture. Be ever cautious about the man and his message, make sure it is not his message but HIS message and that it is backed up by the bible. No man has a monopoly on scripture, the Bible itself says that it is of no private interpretation. Christians should make sure they are following Christ. Jesus said, follow me and I will make you fishers of men. The essence is on following Christ. I surmise the Apostle Paul put this way, follow me as I follow Christ. To follow Christ is not to lead apart from Christ or his teaching or doctrines. I am still convinced that the warning in Revelation holds true, that anyone who adds to or takes away the prophecies of this book (the Bible) will face a penalty stricter than anything imaginable.
It's an awesome responsibility to be a pastor, to preach the Word of God and to be appointed the shepherd of a flock. Just being a pastor scares me enough to be careful of what I believe about my calling is as well. Pastoring and preaching the Word of God is more than tearing down other ministries, more than trying to make a name for yourself. It is lifting up the name of Jesus Christ above all others, lifting up HIS Gospel, preaching and teaching HIS Word. The Apostle Paul gave a warning to us. The Apostle Paul wrote in Gal 1:6-9 "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: (7) Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. (8) But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. (9) As we said before, so say I now again, If any [man] preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed." Even as I have shared this scripture with some followers of this man, they turn even it, to show it as a shadow of William Marion Branhams life. A man that saw Visions, spoke to Angels, believed to have had supernatural powers granted him, should be looked at with extreme caution. Remember the New Testament advise from the Apostles. Beware of false prophets and those whom you would call and consider a prophet. Well this is enough for now. I still have about 20 pages of the book to read. However, I do not believe my opinion will change. Well all the information about him or any other person who calls themselves a prophet or self appointed apostle is something to think on or as I am fond of saying, chew on it. My advise however is to spit it out, and whatever you do don't swallow it hook line and sinker. In Christ, Pastor T

Watch and Pray!

Watch and Pray that you not be left behind when Jesus comes again. The question is still: Are You Ready?

Are You Ready?

The devotion for this morning was Hebrews 12:24. "We are come to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel." KJV. Have you come to the blood of Jesus? Have you come to that place where you have accepted Christ? Until you come to that point you cannot be "Ready". Except you be ready you will not be accepted to the marriage supper. In the words of ole Snuffy Smith, "Times a Waistin"

Boy Oh Boy... What a couple of Days...

Sorry for not posting the last two days but it has been somewhat busy. Great news on "Aunt Lou" she is being released from the hospital on Friday. God has been using this for his Glory. People are talking about how God moved in this event. God's awesome power, grace and mercy has been noticed. To God be the Glory. This Sundays service is going to be one to remember. My question to you is, are you ready to forsake all to be a Soldier of the Cross? This Sundays service in the Soldiers of the Cross series is titled "Boot Camp". I can see Chief Surrency and Senior Chief Canon now, how I remember the day.... whew.. By the way..Wednesday night we covered the 44th through the 46th Chapter of Genesis so if you're missing Bible Study?You still have time to up and get involved. I also want to welcome back to the blog page my family and friends in California. One of these days I'm gonna get over there and ride that Harley. Especially since you are occupied with the pedal versions and marathon running. Gotta go and work on Sunday's service. Pray for us as we serve Christ. More later, Semper Fi!
Pastor T.

Haven of Rest...

I spent the evening at the Haven of Rest Men's shelter. Pastor Barry Davis was unable to speak tonight and ask me to fill in. I arrived about 15 minutes early. When I walked in the door I saw two men I knew. One was a friend I had not seen for awhile and the other laid the foundation and brick work on my home ten years ago. We had a few minutes to chat prior to the service. My friend and I talked about a trip we made years ago to Sugar Mountain snow skiing. Neither of us were real successful on the powder. I remember Getting to the lift was a problem and once off it on the slope the problem was multiplied. I managed to fall every fifteen feet down the mountain until an old man about seventy skied up to me and asked. You need some help? I asked him what could I do to make it down easier. He told me to throw away the poles and get up without them, to point my toes together to slow down, to lean when turning and if necessary just sit down to stop if plowing don't work fast enough. Soon I was on my feet and down the rest of the mountain. When I got to the bottom Mark's brother asked if I had seen him. I said yeah he was fifty yards behind me coming down the mountain like I was every fifteen feet. I rode back up the mountain and skied down. I came upon Mark walking down the slope. He would push the ski's down the hill, catch up and push again. When I got to the bottom of the hill, his brother asked me again if I had seen Mark. About that time a pair of ski's slid past us. I pointed out the ski's as Marks and pointed out the man stumbling down the slope was Mark. We entered the chapel and I spoke to them about the purpose of God's call on their lives. We shared Mark 1st chapter. Jesus telling his disciples he was going to make them fishers of men. That was the purpose of our call as Christians. He called us out of different places to be fishers of men. It was exciting to see these men soak in the word of God. After the session two of the men wanted to hang around and ask questions. We shared scripture and before we knew it one hour had passed by. Out of the 30 men there I believe these two will be actively fishing as Christ called them. Just like the ski trip, we need to get up if we fall and try again. Never give up on Christ because he never gives up on us. We may stumble and fall, maybe even want to take off our ski's and walk. But is we will follow through we'll make it to where we are supposed to be. I hope to get back there soon to see their progression. More Later, Pastor T.

I had to let the Bulldawg in me out...

Oh it feels great to be a Georgia Bulldog. Out of the Orange and back into the Red and Black.

Go DAWGS...

Woof Woof Woof! Looking at all the Orange made me look up some red and black photos. Can't wait till its football time again in Athens. Pastors like football too! Remember, you have to keep your priorities right.


God first, Family second, Church third, UGA football fourth, Work....well let's not get too carried away.

God does it again....

I spent a lot of time this morning with Louise Powell, "Aunt Lou". She is 84 years young and had been diagnosed with Parkinson's and Ovarian Cancer. She has been taking Chemo for the last few months and her doctor scheduled surgery. Today it was done. Aunt Lou went through the pre- surgery events well. She was having a real good day Saturday and Sunday. This morning she was prepared to go to surgery and the staff took her to surgery finally around 10:30. We had prayer there around her bed, her sisters and friends and a couple of the Ladies of Lakeview were there as well. One person there did not want to pray and had even stated afterwards that she did not know why God was brought into this. As I think upon the statement I realized it was very possibly for her this event transpired. I believe God allows some things to happen to us as Christians to show his mercy, grace and sufficiency. I cannot help but to think of Romans Chapter 8. All things work together for good. To them that Love the Lord and are the called according to his purpose. I think back to the blind man where the scribes and pharisees ask the question of Jesus. Who sinned that this man was born blind? Him or his parents? Jesus said neither. It was done for the Glory of God to be seen. As for Aunt Lou, She was in surgery around 3 hours or so. The physicians came and spoke to her daughter, Wanda and told her all went well, he was able to get everything out and the cancer had not spread. One other tidbit of information. Just a few years ago a lady in a Mercedes Benz ran over Aunt Lou as she exited a family dollar store. Aunt Lou had to crawl out from under the Mercedes to the surprise of those who witnessed it. After some time in the Hospital and Rehabilitation she was out and about again. Praising the Lord and checking on her siblings. Praise the Lord and See what the Lord can do. It ain't Odd, It's God.
More later, Pastor T

Death Valley Day

Today I spent the afternoon with my Son's, Josh and Jake at Clemson University for the spring game. White vs Orange. Jake and I drove over to Clemson and met Josh and his friends at the stadium. I even wore Orange, can you believe it? For a Georgia Fan like me that was a real feat. Bulldogs don't do orange well. With a dose of Benedril on board, orange Clemson Pep Band shirt and Navy Cap, off we went. I can't tell you who won the game. I was just glad to spend some time with Josh and Jake at the game. I even got to go on the field. That's something I have never been able to do at Sanford Stadium. I remember when my wife was a student at Clemson, bmf-umphe years ago. We went to some games with student tickets. Man it gets hot in that stadium. This time it was cool and rather pleasant. We had a young man named Ike Boyette, an American Missionary to the Philippines with us. He came with Jake and John. He was like myself. A Georgia fan. Ike hails from the Atlanta Georgia originally. A great day was had by all. Well time to go. I gotta get out of this orange before I go into Anaphlactic shock.

T-Storms Galore

Wow, what an impressive light show God put on last night. I love to see the majestic way he shows us his creation. Big lightening bolts throughout the sky. Some looked like large electrical hands reaching out across the sky. Then the big claps of thunder. Sometimes I have to laugh as I think about those out there who hold onto the big bang theory of creation. I see one of those large flashes of lightening followed by a thunder boomer and think. Yep, God said so and BANG / Boom, it happened. Go God! Due to the electrical activity on Friday I was unable to post so consider this a Friday blog...late issued.. I went out on my front porch, after the bulk of the storm went by, and tried to take some pictures of the storms electrical power. One photo the lightening was so bright it looked like broad daylight. I mean you could see everywhere. Hopefully I will get the pictures uploaded and you can see them on the photo section to the left. Well, gotta go. Brunch is calling and I may even get to go the Clemson today with my son's to see the Tigers play their spring game. If the storms this morning will let up. If not, well let's just say I won't have to take that Benedril after all. Maybe we can go see Leatherheads instead. Just to be able to spend some time together. I can hear "Cats in the craddle", If you are old enough you understand the comment. More later, Pastor T.

If you are too busy for God you are busier than HE intended you to be.

Don't forget that Sunday starts our "Soldiers of the Cross" series. I remember when I went to boot camp in the Navy. The arrival, the rush and the haircut. Hmm I might share that in real time during this series. Josh, you got them clippers? ( You know who you are.) One Prayer is coming up too. Hey we made the web page. What a great time that will be. Check it out at www.oneprayer.com. So far the only two churches in Anderson participating is Newspring Community Church and Lakeview Baptist. I am looking forward to the series and hearing some of the teachers who will be speaking. I still have not picked out my three yet. Praying about it. God will lead me to the right speakers for us at Lakeview.
Boy, it is tough trying to figure out all the little gadgets and gizmo's that it takes to make a blog page work. I have been busy trying to figure out how to work photo uploads and prepare to place items onto this site. One thing I cannot do. I cannot let this interfere with my prayer, devotion or study time. I try to get alone and post something. But, if I miss it once in a while, well you understand. I was talking to a fellow the other day about church attendance and study time and he brought up this old excuse. He said, Well Pastor, I am just too busy to come to church. He went on to say. Sometimes I work 18 and 20 hours a day. I ask him who gave him the strength to work like that? He said, "God has blessed me". I replied, If you are too busy for God, you are busier than he intends for you to be. Take time to thank him for the strength you have and for the business he blessed you with. Don't forsake him. Scripture reminds us to not forsake the assembling of ourselves together as most me do. Take a hint from Job. He said, "The Lord gives and the Lord takes away". "Blessed be the name of the Lord". Get the message. Something to chew on. More later. Pastor T.

Whew what a week...

This has been a fast week. We are preparing for our new sermon series here at Lakeview. People are getting excited about it. "Soldiers of the Cross" Be prepared for whatever. Things are going to get interesting. Sunday night our pianist / organist, Jan who is 89 years young, came and brought a beautiful afghan for the church yard sale to support mission projects. She had made it herself. Someone asked the ladies group if we could raffle it off. They did not want to ask, "the preacher" for fear he might say no. Well the answer is NO. We don't support those kind of things. We don't support the lottery, playing poker, slot machines, or any other game that involves gambling. I had one ask me about the cake walks during the fall festival events. I explained that people receive a consolation prize of a cup cake. Cup cakes are valued at about a dollar so they are getting something for their donation. Some of course do not want their consolation prize but one is offered. If it was not for that point it would be gambling. Gambling is taking a chance with little or no chance of winning. We refer this gambling to coveting. Last time I checked we were instructed not to covet things in Exodus chapter 20. A little list called the 10 commandments. Coveting leads to other problems. It's best to avoid even the appearance of evil.
It is a beautiful afghan. I told Jan that I was going to use it to mark off the portion of the sanctuary reserved for the "Afghan" Division. For those in our area we will have a yard sale to benefit our missionaries at "Tribes in Asia for Christ". Brother Rey is today behind enemy lines in a country that will not allow Christians into minister. Traveling on foot into the region visiting those churches left behind due to war and civil unrest. When I think of what he goes through I really go, "Whew what a week!". Until next time.....

Who are you trying to be like?

Sunday Morning Worship Time. You know Sunday mornings ought to be a time when we gather together to worship God and celebrate what he is doing in our lives and the lives of others. Today we celebrated Jesus in song and in message as I shared what God laid on my heart in reference to Developing Christian Character. Jesus should be the Character we emulate. Scripture says that God has predestined us to be able to conform to the image of HIS son. It's great to know we can be like Jesus Christ. Sadly, too many times we emulate the world and it's actors. I remember a contemporary song that raised a question. What if Cartoons could get saved? I brought that up in the message today. Some people are like cartoon characters in their daily walk with Christ. People who act like: Yosemite Sam - Something happen in the church that they don't agree with they become the rowdiness, tootiness cowboys you ever seen. Fusing and sometimes cussing. Say's a lot about their character. Then you have the Foghorn Leghorn kind - "Now listen hear boy, ya goin about this all wrong.............." You know the Big Rooster that wants to run it all his way. Road Runners - stay in the road all day, speeding around really never getting anything accomplished but wasting energy. The Spiderman - Superman type. Double minded. One person one minute, another person the next. What is it the Bible says about double minded.. Yeah.. They are unstable in all their ways. We need to be like Jesus. We as born again, saved, faithful believers in Christ have the ability to be like Jesus. But to be like him we have to have a real relationship with him. Do you know Jesus well enough to be like Jesus. Not just know the historical Jesus but the REAL Jesus. How is your relationship with him today? Can you get closer to him so you can be more like him? Just a question! Chew on it awhile. More as time allows. In Christ Service I remain..

Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home

Today I had the awesome opportunity to sing and preach the Gospel of Christ to men and women at the Veterans nursing home here in Anderson. I have sang and preached there in the Past, my father in law a Korean War Veteran, (Photo: Left to Right - Jake, Leland Mitchell, Pastor T.) was in this nursing home due to Alzheimer's up until his death a couple of years ago. We had about 30 people come in, families and veterans to worship. Homer Johnson and Brother Richard came in to lead the event that occurs their every 1st Saturday at 2pm. Homer and Richard are members of Gethsemane Baptist Temple. Faithfully every month Homer has a worship service there. The veterans are walked in and wheeled in. They gather to hear gospel music and the Word of God shared. From all walks of life they come. It is great to see them singing and praising the Lord. One in particular is the Chaplain of the facility, Garnett Hanley, a decorated WW2 veteran, 101st Airborne , A D-Day Paratrooper, Purple Heart Winner, who has dedicated his life to these men. A Retired Sheriff Department Lieutenant, he has worked diligently for his fellow brothers in arms. He witnesses to them and ministers to their needs. Today he shared with us the story of a veteran at the home who recently passed away. Garnett told about witnessing to this man. A man that most people would not talk to because he was one that would just cuss them out. One afternoon about three weeks ago, Garnett shared the gospel with this man. Garnett said that he and the guy bowed their heads and the man said the sinners prayer. This guy accepted Christ as his savior. Another story was told about a man there that was 103 Years old. Garnett said that this old veteran asked him to pray that God would just take him. Garnett told him that when God was ready for him to come home he would call him. One day the Old Veteran asked him, today will you pray with me for the Lord to bring me home. Garnett told him he would. They prayed together for Gods will to be done. In fifteen minutes that 103 year old man saw Jesus face to face. His prayer was answered. Today when you kneel in prayer, would you say a prayer for these men and women. They have served their country well and pray for the people caring for them. Thank You Lord for Men like Garnett Hanley, Brother Homer and Brother Richard who give of themselves so our disabled and aged veterans may know Jesus Christ and worship him in Spirit and in Truth. Amen.

You gotta see this video..............

While at the Unleash Conference at Newspring I heard a story about a man named Pete. Chris Elrod, Lead Pastor of Compass Point Church Lakeland Fla.

Copy and paste the link into your browser. It blessed my heart.
This proves what I talk about everyday. A fact "As long as there is breath there is hope and it is found only in Jesus Christ."
Thank you Lord for Pete and his testimony.

Thanks to Chris Elrod for sharing it on You Tube.
Photo from Chriselrod.com and Compass Point Church Lakeland Florida.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=0KtwHUwTJPk

One Prayer message

As time moves along I am ready for the upcoming event called "One Prayer". My one prayer would be for God to make us more usable. As I study on this I realize that God has to be moving in our lives to make us more usable. Also our new sermon series starts next week called "Soldiers of the Cross". I hope you can make one of the services. The call has been made, God wants you. Will you respond?

Condemnation vs Conviction

Tonight we had a small meeting of the men of the church. It is the first of what I hope to be many men's meetings under the Soldiers of the Cross heading. We discussed the importance of some issues facing the church today. One topic was Condemnation vs Conviction. Scripture tells us "Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1 NASB. We are not called to be God's judge for the people. Jesus said he did not come to condemn the world.. That's because it was guilty already. No need to judge one already found guilty. Therefore who are we who judge other persons. Granted we use the word judge to frequently. When I look at an apple orchard and find a tree that has oranges on it, I am not judging the tree for what it is because I point out it has oranges instead of apples. I am just stating an observed fact. I am not condemning the tree. I know the difference between apples and oranges and don't expect to find the wrong fruit on the tree. Jesus upon leaving the temple once went to a fig tree. The tree had leaves on it and should have had fruit on it as well. Even small buds of figs. Finding none he cursed the tree, it withered and died. This is a good passage to chew on a while.
We discussed the fact that Condemnation draws persons away from God and then the fact that Conviction draws people to Christ. It's the convicting power of the Holy Ghost of God that draws people to the knowledge that they are sinners and cannot save themselves. It is that conviction of who Christ is that shows them he is the savior that they need. It is that conviction that causes them to repent of their sin and turn to God in Christ and receive forgiveness of their sins. We followed through with a conversation on what shows us we are wrong. Then turning to Exodus 20, we looked at the 10 commandments. Notice they are called the ten commandments and not the 10 suggestions. They are absolutes, they have not been done away with. Jesus said he came to fulfill them not do away with them. As we went to the first 3 commandments we shared how they are orders to be followed and not cast away or to be ignored. Chew on this for a while. Food for thought...

Why do ministry?

Here is a photo of why I do ministry. This is Gary. He lived in the neighborhood around Lakeview where I pastor. Gary had problems that were severe. He came to the services at times when he was in distress and wrapped in the grip of alcohol. We were able to share with Gary and kept visiting him and he kept coming. One night at a revival service, Gary came forward and acknowledged Christ as his savior. For 26 days he was able to stay away from the alcohol that had daily wrapped him up. Gary would pray and study. However, there was another problem he faced. One that most of us don't. A chemical imbalance and with it a deep depression. So many problems. memories and unbelieving persons came to be a problem Gary could not shake. He knew Christ had forgave him but struggled with forgiveness of other kinds. While trying to get help for his addiction he fell into a state of depression. It was more than Gary could handle. After a fight and struggle against it he committed suicide. I think of Gary when I question why I do what I do. I do ministry to reach as many of the Gary's of this world with the good news of Jesus Christ. I don't care what some people say. I believe I will see Gary again. Until that day I am going to be on the front line, standing my post and preaching the unchanging word of God. I am going to be a Soldier of Christ and on the battlefield for my Lord. If you know Christ and want to make a difference in someones life for Jesus I invite you to join us. For I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me. I look at this photo of Gary. It hangs on the wall next to my desk and in the Marine vernacular I say, "Semper Fi". I don't want to leave anyone behind. I want to be ever faithful and dedicated to the mission God has called me too.