A Weekly World Wide Word of Encouragement to those in the Ministry
PRAISE GOD IT’S MONDAY!
A WEEKLY ‘WWW (world-wide word) OF ENCOURAGEMENT’
TO THOSE IN MINISTRY
A FREE service, currently connecting with Christian leaders from 3,000 denominations and ministries, in 70 countries.
Issue No: 283 Published: 26 Mar 2007
THE MISSING LINK
Evolution theory explains how we all 'came about' in a highly scientific manner - except for one 'minor' problem, the missing link at the end of the chain between apes and man, which somewhat compromises their case. Not that you would think there was any gap in evolutionists arguments, by the way in which they promote their theory. Frequently, there are new discoveries of this 'missing link', each one of which to date has finally proven not to be the key evolutionists have been so earnestly seeking in order to prove their case.Of course, many in the church decry their efforts and so the creation versus evolution debate continues.
I am not concerned with the rights and wrongs of the debate here, but rather, wish to discuss a parallel of evolutionary theory within the church today.
For in the church, we understand and have applied the theory of bringing God's kingdom to earth but, for some reason, it hasn't yet happened. Yes, there is a still a 'missing link' in the process! A principle that has yet to be applied in order that Thy kingdom come and that God's will might be done on earth as it is in heaven, as stated in the now unfashionable Lord's Prayer that Jesus told us all to pray. (Why don't we then? But let's avoid the diversion!)
We have many 'great leaders' in the church today who have exceptional and popular ministries of influence that sway thousands and even millions. And yes, there is more than sufficient money in the church to evangelize the world, if priorities were ordered in that direction. Yet somehow, no matter how big the church grows and how seemingly effective it becomes, the establishment of God's kingdom remains as far away as it has always been. For there is a 'missing link' that we have yet to apply within the church in order to see His kingdom come.
This 'missing link' is not missing in the sense that it has not been revealed, for indeed, Jesus revealed everything to us in His person when He lived amongst us. Rather then, the problem is one of application. It remains a problem because it runs so contrary to our human understanding of success.
For the 'missing link', both in the church and our lives, is humility.
Yes, a humble people will usher the kingdom of God in, ones not seeking the limelight of human recognition and 'success' in the religious sphere. But rather, faithful saints prepared to sacrifice their lives for Jesus and to give Him all the glory for what He does through them.
There is a new church arising, not one of big names, buildings or programmes, but of a people becoming the light and life of Jesus in a dark and dying world. People helping others without seeking recognition and worldly approval for their efforts. A sacrificial people wholly motivated to be as Jesus to others. A people prepared to sacrifice their own ambitions and desires in order to build the kingdom within. For the kingdom is not a place, but people. As Jesus Himself said:
“The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you.†(Luke 17:20b-21)
May we truly develop the 'missing link' of humility in our lives today. Jesus, you are everything to me and worthy of all the glory. Hallelujah! Amen.
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FROM THE WORD
IMITATING CHRIST'S HUMILITY"If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:1-11)
"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit— just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:1-6)
SUFFERING FOR DOING GOOD
"Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For,
“Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.†Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.†But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. (1 Peter 3:8-17)
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DAVID'S DOODLINGS
HUMILITY210. It's hard to be humble when you always win. So God doesn't let that happen!
211. Learning humility in defeat trains us to remain humble in success.
212. Boasting is of the human heart, but humility is God's heart for us.
396. True humility cannot be generated in the mind, for it comes from our spirit.
397. True humility arises when confidence in God overcomes confidence in ones self.
398. Humility is a positive attribute, not a weakness.
399. False humility reflects weakness, but true humility exudes godly strength.
400. The truest expression of a godly character is reflected in humility.
Please feel free to quote these quotes. Acknowledgement of David Tait as the author would be appreciated. There are now over 1300 David sayings for you to view at ...
'africa arise' IS UNDERWAY
On Saturday we had a small 'garage sale' at our home. From small acorns, large oak trees grow! It certainly is another faith walk as we have no capital whatsoever. Really interesting and challenging!Have a look at our new website africaarise.org.nz to see what is it is all about. My huge thanks to David Harris for all his work in designing the web site for us! It is best viewed using Internet Explorer currently. I am sure you will agree that David has made a great job of it!
If you were able to support us (actually the people of Africa) financially it would sure help get the project off the ground more quickly. You can donate through the banking system on the Donations page on the new website. Bank Donations Credit Card donations however, need to be processed through our facility on the Walking With Jesus website. Credit Card Donations Please enter under the MINISTRY DONATION heading and we will ensure that all donations received are transferred to 'africa arise'
If you live in New Zealand and would be prepared to help as a Church Representative or Organiser, or in any other way, please contact me on david@africaarise.org.nz Some churches have already committed to collecting clothing and goods for us. Thanks this week to Napier Christian Fellowship for your collection.
Check out the new website at…
FROM YOU - TO ME - TO YOU
Christian greetings,I thank God for the work you are doing for Africa. I traveled to Kenya now this is my second week third week in Kenya and God has been good to me because I have experienced his presence among the fellowship I’ve met and study together.
I’ve been in the interior of Kenya and I could not access the Internet, but today I am in Nakuru town where and I will live Nakuru for Kampala tomorrow night.
Thank you so much for the good vision which God has put on your heart with your wife. Indeed this has shown me that you love Africa!! I have visited Africa Arise website, and I’ve thanked God, let honor and glory be to God. Not only this program you’ve introduced, but the inspiration word form your weekly encouragement is some thing which I can’t do away with.
I will be praying for AFRICA ARISE and WALKING WITH JESUS MINISTRIES for the vision which God has put on your heart to bring hope to the many poor and helpless Africans. Thank you!
Yours in a living hope
Moses
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Your comments to me or fellow readers are always welcomed at... david@wwj.org.nz
This is an opportunity for you to express your views, which may not be my views. But none of us have a mortgage on all the truth - except for Jesus!
CRANWELL'S CARTOON
18 When I say to a wicked man, ‘You will surely die,’ and you do not warn him or speak out to dissuade him from his evil ways in order to save his life, that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood. (Ezekiel 3:18)
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TUESDAY TEACHINGS
REVELATIONS REVELATION! (Part 4)Proceeding through the churches we now come to those of Sardis and Philadelphia. And the promises to the 'overcomers' continue to develop in a greater and greater way.
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LAUGHING AT OURSELVES
***Blessed are those who can laugh at themselves for they shall never cease to be amused****** "Those who can't laugh at themselves leave the job to others." ***
590. IN THE CEMETERY
A minister with a large family of seven children moved to a new city. He and his wife didn't want to buy a home immediately. They wanted to rent a townhouse until they could get a feel for the area and choose a home where their kids would be in good schools and they could be conveniently located.
They found plenty of rental townhouses that were large enough, but the landlords always objected to having a family of nine occupy the place.
In frustration, one day the father asked the mother to take the four youngest children and go visit the local cemetery. She was puzzled by his request, but went along. He and the other three children headed off to investigate another townhouse they had found.
The place was perfect and the father told the landlord he would take it. Then came the usual question, "I see you have children. How many are there in the family?"
The minister gave out with a deep sigh, then said, "Seven ... but four are with their dear mother in the cemetery."
He got the townhouse.
589. A MATTER OF CHOICE
A backslider suddenly began attending church faithfully on Sunday mornings instead of going fishing as was his normal habit.
The pastor was highly gratified and at the end of service one morning told him, "How wonderful it makes me feel to see you at services with your good wife!"
"Well, Preacher," said the fisherman, "Quite honestly, it's a matter of choice. I'd much rather hear your sermon than hers."
FREE DOWNLOAD: You can now download the book 'Laughing At Ourselves' in PDF format at LAUGHING AT OURSELVES
One of the most comprehensive sources of Christian Humour on the Net with 769 sermon fillers for your entertainment and use at ...
FACTS FOR FUN
LAST WEEKS QUESTION: What and when is universal children's day?ANSWER: Every day! But since 1954 The United Nations declared November 20 to be Universal Children's Day. (An parent's rights day doesn't seem to feature anywhere!)
THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: What do you call a group of turtles?
Answer Next Week.
SOME FUN FACTS375. WHY DOES ICE FLOAT?
It’s simple really. Water has a greater molecular density in a liquid form than as a solid. And that’s why ice floats. (It’s the same for an ice cube or an iceberg.)
376. WHIRLY GIRLS
Is the name of the International Association of Women Helicopter Pilots. (So much more imaginative than IAWHP would be.)
377. FIFTEENTH
A fifteenth anniversary is called a ‘quindecennial’. (No wonder it’s a name you don’t hear often. What was it again?)
A WORD PUZZLE FOR YOU
Make another word from this word using all the letters.
SIMPERS
Answer at the end of A David Musing
FREE DOWNLOAD: You can download the full version of our Trivia Book at TRULY TRIFFLING TRIVIA
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BIBLE QUESTION - BOOK OF JUDGES
11) How many men volunteered to go with Gideon?A - 32,000
B - 22,000
C - 10,000
D - 40,000
Source: www.biblequizzes.com
Heaps more fun and serious 'God Facts' are found at...
IF ONLY I'D THOUGHT OF IT!
"""OTHER'S SAYINGS TO ENLIGHTEN, AMUSE, OR BEMUSE"""!!!!!!! How ironic that the shortest sentence is "I am," and the longest sentence is "I do."
!!!!!! I've taken a vow of poverty. To annoy me, send money.
!!!!! A conservative is a liberal who got mugged.
!!!! I have wondered at times what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the US congress. (Ronald Reagan)
!!! It's no use having a good memory unless you have something good to remember.
!! What is the best lubricant for a life that's not running very smoothly?
! My mind contains many good ideas, but it is not always easy to squeeze one out.
100'S MORE TO BE FOUND AT...
MORE BIBLE RIDDLES
Thought we had done all possible Bible riddles in our last, very popular series. However, I have now found some more for you to enjoy, courtesy of Frank Schaefer of javacasa.comQ. Who in the bible had the worst childhood?
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A. Abraham.He was the son of Terah(Terror).
Lots more riddles found at...
TILL DEATH DO US PART!
109. ENDORSEMENT ANYONE?Proud and pleased as she could be, the petite young bride, Mrs. Jones, strode briskly up to the teller's cage at the bank to cash her husband's pay check for the first time.
When the teller told her the check would have to be endorsed, the bride grabbed the pen and unhesitatingly wrote on the back, "I heartily recommend my husband, Mr. Jones"
110. IMPORTANT THINGS
While attending a marriage seminar on communication, Tom and his wife Peg listened to the instructor declare, "It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other."
He addressed the men, "Can you describe your wife's favorite flower ?"
Tom leaned over, touched his wife's arm gently and whispered, "Pillsbury All-Purpose, isn't it?"
The rest of the story is not pleasant.
111. TOUCHE!
Grumbled the new groom at dinner: "Why can't you make bread like my mother does?"
Answered his bride, "Why can't you make dough like my father does?"
Us marrieds can cheer ourselves up at...
BIBLE TRIVIA
DREAMSWere often used by God to speak to His prophets and favored children. Dreams symbolized real people or events and future happenings. e.g. Josephs dream about the sheaves referring to the 7 years of plenty followed by 7 of famine.
Adapted from: '1001 Surprising Things You Should Know About The Bible' MacGregor & Prys
Lots more 'God Facts' are found at...
CHURCHSPEAK
Symbolic Meanings From NatureCLAY---------Man
DARKNESS----Sin, Satan
DEW----------Devotion
DROUGHT-----Judgement
DUST---------Natural man
FIRE----------Judgement, Testing, Purification (Sometimes Holy Spirit)
FLOOD--------Judgement
LIGHT---------God, Personal revelation we have received of God
LIGHTENING---Judgement
MOUNTAIN----Authority
MOON---------Jesus
RAIN----------Holy Spirit
RAINBOW------God's Covenant Promises
ROCK---------Jesus
SAND---------People
STARS--------Holy Spirit, Christians
STONES------Christians
SUN----------God the Father
THUNDER-----Voice of God
WATER-------Cleansing, Purification
WIND---------Holy Spirit
More terms as used in the church are found at...
DAVID'S DOWNLOAD
A REVELATION OF... THE BOOK OF RUTHIn one of the oldest books of the Bible, God reveals His plan for the Church in these end times. Unbelievable! No! For God's plan has been there from the beginning of time. He is now revealing more of it to us. Wondered about the Church and Israel?
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WAXING LYRICAL
This poem was 2 years in the writing! The inspiration came, half was written, then I got busy on other things! In the last day or two I have had some spare time, so thought to finish it. (Actually I have had more spare time during the two years but never quite got 'a round tuit'!) I hope the result is worth waiting for!MR BUMBLE (Part 3 of 4)
So at that very moment he gave up trying,
Knew he should, no longer now be flying,
From a rapid ten thousand beats a minute,
To wings folded, his heart no longer in it.
So our 'brmm-brmm bee' plummeted to the ground,
Fortunately for him, landing on a very soft mound
Of leaves gently fallen from a nearby tree,
Disaster averted, I was so thankful to see.
"Why are you down here Mr Bumble", I asked, surprised,
When suddenly it dawned - my mistake, I now realised.
You shouldn't have taken to heart what I said,
Was only theoretical, straight from my head.
Of course you can fly, everyone knows that fact,
Indeed we would rather like to get in on the act!
For God made you in a very special way,
To humble us humans, each and every day.
For when we see how well you can fly,
We realise, no matter how hard we try,
There's knowledge money can't buy,
That's of our God, up there in the sky.
"But I believed you," Mr Bumble sadly said,
"Look at me now, I could easily be dead!
Thank God for the leaves of the tree,
Now I know, He is looking after me"
"Forgive me please," I cried out loud,
Feeling foolish for being so proud,
So full of worldly knowledge is my brain,
To consider others feelings, too much strain.
More of David's poems at...
A DAVID MUSING
This week has seen 2 highlights in our lives. Firstly, our first africa arise' garage sale which produced a small contribution towards the expense we face in getting the operation underway. It was good though, to get the sales side started.Secondly, and more importantly, was Kathy's graduation for her nursing degree which she completed after several years hard study while working at the same time. It was a great occasion and she had some very proud supporters (both mothers and Kathy's auntie, her long time friend 'Heppie' and me) who clapped and cheered when her moment of glory came as she was 'capped' and then received her certificate.
The proof is in the picture! Congratulations doll! You deserved it, for you worked so hard.
Until next week...
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOU BLESS GOD.
His servant and yours
David Tait
Today's 'Word Puzzle' Answer: IMPRESS
TODAY'S 'BIBLE QUESTION' ANSWER: A - 32,000 (Judges 7:3)
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ABOUT US
WALKING WITH JESUS MINISTRIES is a non-profit, non-denominational, Bible based ministry located in Hastings, New Zealand. A ministry dedicated to developing discipleship, fostering unity amongst God’s people to achieve the Great Commission, and in doing so, preparing for Christ’s return. It is securely based upon the foundational principles of the Apostles Creed while recognising the wide and rich diversity of beliefs amongst Christians in other areas. In accordance with the Lord’s direction, materials produced by the ministry are available, free of charge, to genuine enquirers upon request. The ministry is solely funded by donations, as the Lord provides. A list of materials available (plus some fun!) is obtainable and freely downloadable from our websitewwj.org.nz or by contacting us as follows.
Walking With Jesus Ministries
290 Flaxmere Avenue
Flaxmere
Hastings
New Zealand
Phone: (06) 8799 911 International (+64) 6 8799 911
Email: enquiries@wwj.org.nz
Web: wwj.org.nz
Our role is to bless and encourage those in ministry while promoting co-operation and unity of direction amongst the body of Christ, as emphasised 3 times by Jesus in His longest prayer, immediately prior to His arrest and crucifixion. "… so that they may be one as we are one." (John 17:12, 21, 23-4) Our website is currently being developed to encourage your participation one with another, to share resources, and to enable you to promote events and items of interest to the body as a whole – and have a smile while doing it!
For comments upon and contributions to this service, please contact
david@wwj.org.nz