A four minute devotion on coping with changes in the church and world

Philippians 4 v 13 "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength" is a favorite bumper sticker Bible verse of many Christians. But is it being used in the way that Paul implied?

What caused the sudden tragic deaths of Ananias and Sapphira? What must we learn from this?

Paul once asked the young Philippian church to do everything without arguing or complaint. Are today's Christians up to the same challenge?

I love Jesus in my life; I hate the Cross that he died upon. Our need of forgiveness from Christ. Without His sacrifice, there is no salvation.

the wstboro baptist Church in Topeka kansas are planning to protest at a nine year old's funeral. it's about time that the True church spoke out fearlessly and courageously against this group.

Lots of churches experience new visitors at the turn ofn a New year. Paul's words from Philippians 1:9 give the right encouragement for any church to grow.

Christians need to remind themselves each day that Christ's Return is imminent. 2 Peter 3: 4 They will say, "Where is this 'coming' He promised? Ever since our fathers died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation."

Bitterness is faith's most formidable opponent. How faith, hope, and love conquer bitterness. Prayer of St. Francis.

True teaching is an essential part of any community that wants to grow. The same can be said for the Christian Church. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.

What are the results of our work in the Lord? A surprising answer came to me from an African email. 1 Corinthians 9:1 Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not the result of my work in the Lord?

How a funeral became a blessing after a tragic plane crash. Psalm 145: 14 The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.

How the outpouring of the Spirit on a church in America can help a village in Guatemala. Isaiah 32:15 …till the Spirit is poured upon us from on high, and the desert becomes a fertile field, and the fertile field seems like a forest.

Is love at first sight predestined by God? A tale from Scotland. Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Prayer allows us to step back from our problems and let God step in to help us. Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

In these uncertain economic times, how can our Christian faith help us? 1 John 5: 4 …for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.

Our government deplores torture against terrorists over here; but are our politicians willing to take a stand against China's continuing persecution of Christians? Deuteronomy 26:6 But the Egyptians mistreated us and made us suffer, putting us to hard labor.

Christ is our Liberator from our self-imposed prison walls. A tale from Scotland. Isaiah 61:1b He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners…

Instant communication is wonderful today, but what about intra-generational communication? Psalm 44: 1 We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us what you did in their days, in days long ago.

Preaching the Gospel is getting harder to do...in the Church, of all places! Acts 4:12 “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by whom we must be saved.”

Modern Biblical scholars are the real Bible Bashers of today. Acts 2:22 “Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know.”

Sometimes when I offend and disappoint God, I wonder if He will ever forgive me.

Hosea 14:4      I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned away from them.

Jude's remarks in the New Testament seem harsh and critical to Christian today, but does that make them unimportant or wrong? Jude 1:3 Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints.

I love the Cross of Christ, but I hate what it did to Jesus.

Galatians 6:14           May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

How Christ applied grace to His betrayer.

Matthew 26:50a         Jesus replied, "Friend, do what you came for."

Psalm 138: How a rebel kept his faith in the midst of injustice and oppression.

Psalm 138:1    I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; before the "gods" I will sing your praise.

With the stockmarket hitting a 12 year low, where should we be investing our faith?

Isaiah 43:2        When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

Heaven's Highway

This is one of those blessed verses that we all need to read and hear during uncertain times. Peter reminds us, in a cheerful way, about the grace of God and how He uses His divine power to sustain our needs.

2 Peter 1:3      His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

Taking out the garbage on cold winter nights can become an amazing experience.

Psalm 89:6      For who in the skies above can compare with the LORD? Who is like the LORD among the heavenly beings?

The season of Advent is a special time for salvation...

Luke 3:6 And all mankind will see God's salvation.

What does it mean for God to be our Sovereign Lord?

Ezekiel 17:22 "'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it; I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high and lofty mountain.

How could God let go of Jesus all of those Christmases ago?

Psalm 113:5, 6            Who is like the LORD our God, the One who sits enthroned on high, who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth?

The economic crisis and stock market meltdown makes us all feel uneasy. Where is God in these uncertain times?

 

Psalm 46:5 God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.

Correctly handling the word of truth is something that all preachers should remember. Omitting what we don't like from scripture only causes us to rewrite the Gospel and reject God's Word.

2 Timothy 2:15           Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

 

The new holocaust movie, The Boy in Striped Pyjamas, has some very important messages about raising children.

Deuteronomy 11:19   Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Sometimes, when I pray "Give us our daily bread," it reminds me of a Scottish baker I once knew.

Matthew 6:11 Give us today our daily bread.

The election of Barack Obama has brought about a new wave of hope across the world; but are we in danger of idolizing him and replacing God?

Isaiah 49:8     This is what the LORD says:” In the time of my favor I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you; I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people, to restore the land and to reassign its desolate inheritances.

 

Today is one of the most important in the history of our nation. May God bless America and our next President, whoever he turns out to be.

Jeremiah 6:16            This is what the LORD says:” Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.

 

Last night, I watched a movie that dealt with separation issues in a beautiful way – through the gift of music.

Genesis 1:4 God saw that the light was good, and He separated the light from the darkness.

How the poet Maya Angelou inspired an African American teacher from Michigan to overcome the tragic loss of her daughter by setting up an amazing school in Senegal, Africa.

John 13: 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

Infant baptism is a beautiful way of encountering God’s holiness in church. Babies not only have a right to life, they also have a right to be sanctified.

Romans 2:4    Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?

Keira Knightley perfectly plays the Duchess of Devonshire in her new movie, "The Duchess." What lessons of faithfulness can we learn from such a movie?

Nehemiah 9:33           In all that has happened to us, you have been just; you have acted faithfully, while we did wrong.

 

People believe many things about Jesus that are just not true. The Christ of their deluded minds never existed.

John 2:25       He did not need man's testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man.

 

Today is Blog Action Day around the world and this year's theme is Poverty. Bloggers from many nations are highlighting this serious issue and offering solutions.

Zephaniah 3:17          The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

 

Years ago, I saw a person actually die. He was a stranger to me, but both he and his daughter taught me an important faith lesson.

Job 38:17        Have the gates of death been shown to you? Have you seen the gates of the shadow of death?

 

The financial markets are free falling. This reminds of what is stated on our dollar bills: In God We Trust.

Psalm 98:2 The LORD has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations.

 

Autumn sunrises are beautiful to behold. They remind me of the power of God and the healing that Christ brought into the world.

Malachi 4:2    But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall.

 

Religulous the movie paints a picture of Christians being weak minded and simple. Bible stories often excite us as children, but when we become adults we realize that there’s more to the story than meets the eye. The wise man who built his house upon the rock deserves a second look.

Matthew 7:24             "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

Passing faith onto our children is a special privilege. Kids sermons on Sunday morning’s are the perfect vehicles for enriching their spiritual lives.

Proverbs 8:15             By me kings reign and rulers make laws that are just;

PS        King Egbert is on the internet. You can see some pictures of King Egbert at www.kingegbert.blogspot.com

 

Are denominations important for our spiritual journey? Are Christians dividing their loyalty between Christ and the Church?

Acts 17: 27 God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.

Do we use faith as a weapon of fear and hostility, or as an instrument of compassion and reconciliation?

2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. 

Who is the biggest sinner in the world? The honest answer may shock us.

1 Timothy 1:15           Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of whom I am the worst.

During the present economic crisis, it's time to remind ourselves that our trust is in God, and not in greed.

Psalm 77:8      Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time?

 

Our young people are often pressurized by their zealous evangelical peers. How would Jesus share the Gospel with our teenagers?

Luke 19:10     “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”

CNN are showcasing my political cartoons this weekend - why can't we stop demonizing each other during this campaigning crazy season?

1 Peter 3: 8 Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

Cartoons can be found at www.stushietoon.blogspot.com

Why is God kind to the ungrateful and wicked? What is it about grace that is so amazing?

Luke 6:35       But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.

The path of destruction that Hurricane Ike will unleash cannot be avoided. How Christians respond to the devastation will let the world know where God is in the midst of this impending disaster.

John 11:37     But some of them said, "Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?"

 

Seven years on, 9-11 still haunts me

John 11: 21  Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.

These days, it's becoming more subversive to call God :"Father;" but if it was good enough for Jesus, then why isn't it good neough for us?

John 10:32     Jesus replied, "I have shown you many good works from the Father. For which of these are you going to stone me?"

There are some great people that we get to know whose Christianity is a blessing to everyone they meet. Willie from Maybole, Scotland was a great example of this.

1 Timothy 6:6                         But godliness with contentment is great gain.

 

We're hearing more about "honor" killings these days, even in our own nation. Sadly, it's an act of fanaticism that has its roots in the Bible.

Deuteronomy 13:9     You must certainly put him to death. Your hand must be the first in putting him to death, and then the hands of all the people.

 

Our modern obsession with diets and dieting, never seem to produce results. Are we in danger of doing the same with our faith?

Romans 14:17            For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Preaching the message of judgment turns the world off. Is there something more in the Gospel that would attract the world?

Hebrews 9:27 Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment…

It's only through God's faithfulness to His Words, that we can ever be restored to His favor and love.

1 Corinthians 1:9 God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.

 

The Russian invasion of Georgia has deeply affected me. Why is God once more allowing nations to go to war?

Proverbs 22:3 A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.

We all should have spiritual mentors and heroes of faith in our Christian lives. One of mine is Scottish preacher from Bo'ness.

A short reflection on 2 Timothy 4v2.

The Olympic Games in China are about to begin, but I cannot watch any of them. China is still persecuting and imprisoning Christians, even in the city of Beijing itself.

1 Corinthians 9:24     Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.

 

I discovered real success today at the funeral of a lady who overcame hardship, and transformed her children's lives into something positive.

A short reflection on Psalm 71:20

Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will resotre my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up.

Encountering a coyote early one morning in Knoxville, TN, gave me a greater appreciation of the need for a sacred sanctuary.

A short reflection on Psalm 96 v 6.

The fatal shootings in a Knoxville Church have shocked our religious community, but we will not be defined by such a heinous act.

Psalm 105:4    Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.

 

Ever since I started watching Doctor Who as a boy, I have loved the notion of Time Travel. Nowadays, as a Christian, I am confident of placing my future in Christ's hands.

 

A reflection on Ecclesiastes 8:7 Since no man knows the future, who can tell him what is to come?

God calls all sorts of people to minister and preach the Gospel, no matter where they came from or what they have done.

A short reflection on 1 Corinthians 16:13   Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

Religious fanaticism needs to be confronted and denounced no matter where it originates or operates. Christ is the Prince of Peace and we, as Christians, have a holy calling and distinct obligation to seek reconciliation and promote His peaceable Kingdom throughout the world.

Proverbs 20:22          Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you.

 

If we accept Christ and His teaching, can we adopt a world view that all religions are equal and bring us to God?

Titus 1:9         He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

 

Pessimists like Solomon, try to negatively diminish our faith and deaden our spirits. Christ is the perfect antidote to depressing thoughts.

A short reflection on Ecclesiastes 9:5 For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing; they have no further reward, and even the memory of them is forgotten.

If we were more open to the Spirit and passionate about our beliefs, perhaps more people would be attracted to Christ.

1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not put out the Spirit's fire;

 

God helps us to overcome obstacles and can clear the way ahead in our lives, so that we may serve Him fully and faithfully. A short reflection on Isaiah 57 v 14.

Should we as Christians give up some of our sacred beliefs about Christ in order to accommodate other peoples' beliefs?

What is real Christianity and how can we find it in the world? Can we be led to Christ without Christianity? A short reflection on John 20 v 29.

Spreading the Gospel is God's way of sweetening the world. Paul describes Christian witnessing as a fragrance pleasing to God and attractive to others.

A short reflection on 2 Corinthians 2:14.

The PC(USA) is holding its General Assembly this week and I'm worried about the cultural decisions it may make. Why do we think that 21st century Christianity is any better than 1st century Christianity?

A reflection on

2 Thessalonians 2: 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.

We all have told lies in the past and have to live with the consequences. Thankfully, God never tells lies, so when we read the Bible, we can confidently believe it to be the Eternal Truth.

A story from Scotland and a short reflection on

Hebrews 6:18              God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope offered to us may be greatly encouraged.

My daughter Lauren is on a three month mission trip in Tanzania, Africa. Just north of her, are the Massai people, who have their own Christian creed.

A reflection on

1 Corinthians 1:27     But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.

We all want to change the world and make a difference in the lives of others. Last year, I came across a charitable website that enables donors to do this.

A short devotion on Psalm 112 v 9.

Just when I thought I was going to have a painfully miserable day, the Spirit surprised me through the kindness of a stranger and fellow pilgrim.

Romans 8:26      In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.

God's grace is astonishing. Even although we do not deserve it, He makes us co-heirs with Christ. A short reflection on Romans 8 v 17.

An attitude of gratitude, especially towards God, paves the way for us to be more confident about what we do, and can lead us to success.

 

A look at Hezekiah’s attitude transformation.

 

2 Chronicles32:25      But Hezekiah's heart was proud and he did not respond to the kindness shown him; therefore the LORD's wrath was on him and on Judah and Jerusalem.

Paul urges us to lead a quiet life, minding our own business, and working with our hands. It's a Christian pipe dream, because the world always invades our space. In China, a Christian businessman has been arrested for national security reasons because he was letting other Christians worship there. the crime is punishable by death.

A reflection on

1 Thessalonians 4:11             Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you.

My grandfather was a fireman in World War 2 in Britain. After working in a bombed out area, and seeing all of the devastation, he realized that his family meant everything to him.

A short reflection based upon 1 Thessalonians 3:12        May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.

In these harsh economic times, how can we maintain our faith and excel in giving to the church? A story from 19th century France shows us the way. A reflection on 2 Corinthians 8 v7.

2 Corinthians 8:7       But just as you excel in everything-in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us-see that you also excel in this grace of giving.

 

Christ's parable of the woman putting yeast in the dough reminds me of my mother baking steak pies when I was a boy.

God has fully prepared our salvation. Are we ready to take that opportunity?

Matthew 13:33           He told them still another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough."

My daughter Lauren flies out to Africa this weekend on a three month mission to help orphaned children in Tabora, Tanzania. It will be a time for all of my family to keep our hope in the Lord.

PS Lauren has her own blog page about the journey. You can find it at

http://www.theroadtoafrica.blogspot.com/

Psalm 31:24    Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.

Alexandre Dumas' famous Musketeers have been a favorite of mine since I was a boy. Their motto "All for One, and One for All" is a great message for our churches today. Christ died for all, so therefore all should live for Him.

2 Corinthians 5:14    For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therfore all died.

Some people say that the Gospels are just mere stories. Peter, however, declared that they were eye witness accounts of what truly took place in Christ's lifetime. Our challenge today is this: do we accept Peter's testimony?

 

Gospels, Gospel truth, free devotions, Bible devotions, short devotions, office devotions, Presbyterian devotions, 2 Peter, stories, storytelling, storytellers, Tolle, Eckhart Tolle, kids sermons

A reflection upon 2 Peter 1:16 We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

Dreap is an old Irish word that means to climb. In Scotland, kids dreap walls during summer. A reflection on Psalm 18 and how we depend upon God to help us overcome our troubles.

We all go through troubling times and sometimes we feel abandoned by God. During those moments of fear and despair, God is always with us, waiting for the right time to save and deliver us, comfort and embrace us.

A reflection of Psalm 13 v 2

Nature can be a terrifying and destructive force. Our faith is in God, who is above nature. When we seek Him, God enables us to find what we need. The lions of Serengeti and my daughter's mission trip to Tanzania.

 

A look at Psalm 34:10           The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.

Calvin called the wonders of creation the 'attestations of God's wisdom.' Job records these wonders as mere fringes. Both descriptions lead us towards our Creator and our hope is that one glorious  day, He will reveal even more wonders to us.

A reflection about Job 26:14        And these are but the outer fringe of his works; how faint the whisper we hear of him! Who then can understand the thunder of his power?"

We are all created equal and in the eyes of God, we are all the same. He gives us a glorious opportunity of rising out of the miry clay into the everlasting halls of happiness through the power of Jesus Christ, His Son.

A look at the name McClay and of Job 33 v 6.

Memories of summers in Scotland when I would go fishing with family and friends.

Having faith means accepting that God is in control.

A look at Psalm 33.

Mega Churches pander to themselves in ways that promotes themselves instead of the Gospel.  Small God-fearing churches serve Christ faithfully and preach the true heart of the Gospel.

A fresh look at 2 Corinthians 4:5       For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake.

Sometimes we are too zealous in our outrage at the world that we want to payback evil with evil. Payback belongs to the Lord; we are meant to love our enemies and forgive those who hurt us.

My friendship with a drug addict in Scotland, whose zeal for the Lord often got him into trouble.

A reflection on 2 Thessalonians 1:6   God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you.

Throughout history, pro-active forces have sought to diminish Christianity and eradicate its influence.

Today, Christians need to be able to express and defend their faith, especially with those who are anti-Christian.

1 John 4:3 …but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.

Oprah Winfrey is recommending a new book called "A New Earth" written by new age guru, Eckhart Tolle.

Christians should be wary of this book and its teaching because they are not the same as Christ's.

How deep is our faith commitment to Christ? Do our beliefs in Him help us to make the right decisions in our lives.

A look at Ezekiel 47.

Reflection: Going paddling in Scotland, along the beach, next to the Irish Sea.

We all need guidance and direction in our lvies, especially when we have to make tough decisions.

God helps us to make better choices through knowing and applying the sacred scriptures.

Spiritual guidance from Isaiah 30:21

Having an addiction can anihilate our ambitions. Overcoming it is a hard process, especially if we tackle our addiction on our own.

God can help us overcome our problems; we just have to surrender ourselves to Him. In doing so, we allow God to transform our lives, in order to restore our hopes and dreams. 

A look at Job 6 v 6.

Sudden death can cause us to deeply reflect upon our own mortality.

Being prepared to meet Christ face to face is the single most important event of our lives.

Revelation 22 v 7

Thsi is actually the 5th track of the album :Church of the Holy Moon"

Christian music, Christian folk, Christian ballad

Christ's people were blind to who he was: are we still the same today?

King Hezekiah is a great biblical example of faith and hope, courage and determination.

A brief look at 1 Kings 20 and Hezekiah's life

Greed makes us do follish and sinful things. Keeping Jesus to ourselves is selfish. As Christians, we're meant to share Him with other people.

A look at Luke 4:42...and how to deal with being a chocoholic!

We all need to start over from time to time. Having regrets and making mistakes can put us into a pit of despair. Jesus offers us compassion and love to lift us out and helps us to begin our lives again.

A look at Psalm 103

God does not call perfect people to perform His ministries and missions, becvause there are none to be found!

A quick look at Isaiah's call makes us realize that God prepares us for what He wants done, no matter how unworthy, unclean, or unacceptable we may feel.

How the life and specches of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. touched the hearts and minds of people aroudn the world.

A commemoration of his life and dream.

We all go through times feeling isolated, alone, and vulnerable. During those painful moments, God is there and ready to embrace and guide us out of our darkness.

A personal reflection about a birthday party in Scotland, where something sad and tragic occurred.

Spiritual envy is something that pastors and other Christian have to deal with on a regular basis.

The only way to cure this is to surrender ourselves completely to God.

A brief look at Psalm 73 and the applications it brings to our lives.

We all long for the good old days, especially when we go through busy and stressful times.

The Bible reminds us that God never changes, His words are always relevant, and His love endures forever.

God guides us always through troubled times and stressful moments. Christ is our Guiding Light who leads us to the Kingdom of heaven.

A devotional for those seeking encouragement in uncertain times.

Easter is a great celebration of Christ's resurrection and a time of renewal for everyone. Even the people who turn up twice a year to church want to feel this in their lives. It's up to us to make them feel welcome and lvoed by God.

The purpose of Life is to give it back to God, the Giver of Life.

A look at Christ dealing with the rich young man and a personal reflection about my suicide attempt that was thwarted by friends.

The Jesus Seminar controversy has caused some people to question Christ's authority.

Jesus faced the same kind of opposition to the Gospel truth in His own day.

Tuesday of Holy Week focuses upon Christ being questioned by His opponents.

Holy Week begins with Jesus overturning the money tables in the Temple at Jerusalem.

What kind of sinful things in our lives would Jesus overturn in us, in order to save us from our sins?

Second song called Liberator for my new album entitled' Church of the Holy Moon"

You can listen to it at

 

http://amiestreet.com/listen/Stushie

The story of Eutychus in Acts 20 tells of a young person who feel asleep during Paul's preaching.

Is falling asleep in church a bad thing, or is it a special time when the Lord chooses to quietly refresh our souls?

This is part of my experimental digital band. I'm trying to put together a few recordings of my own Christian songs. if I ever manage to get most of them done, I'll make a CD.

 

I'm calling the "Album" 'Home made Cookies" Apart from the guitar, all the other sounds that you hear are home made...

Sin, like slavery and racism, is insidious, and can ruin lives. The only time-tested and true remedy is the Cross of Christ.

A play about Sojourner Truth is produced in Knoxville. Geraldine Ferraro's unintentional racist remarks and Ed Spritzer's downfall are discussed.

The stars are wondrous works of God's power and love.

How the stars have remained an important link to the past to me, and a glimpse into the future.

If we had to earn our way into heaven, could we do enough good works to satisfy God?

How the grace of God works in a wee girl's life whose family are unchurched non-believers.

Helping others is an important aspect of the Christian faith, but what should we do when the people we help become co-dependent upon us?

Is there a time when we should stop helping and does God call upon us to help everybody outside of the church? Or should we focus our charitable efforts on those in need in our own faith community?

Sometimes Christians can be too judgmental and too quick to condmen others. Perhaps if we expressed the truth of the Gospel and seasoned it with grace, others might be more receptive to what we are trying to express.

How a wee Scottish spider saved one of Scotland's greatest heroes.

Perseverance and single hearted are the keys to success.

The Church's judgemental reaction to the AIDS epidemic in the 80s & 90s hurt our credibility in the eyes of the world.

If we truly want to regain the trust of those on the margins of society, we have to ask them for forgiveness.

How a Scottish teenager touched the hearts of her people with her resolute faith, and enabled them to overcome their persecutors during the Killing Times of the 17^th century.

The story of the Solway Martyrs.

A recent survey shows that Protestantism is declining in America and may soon become a minority faith.

The only way to survive is to revive.

A reflection on Joshua 7:7b when the Israelites were demoralzed after the battle of Ai.

Becoming a citizen in the United States is an honor and a privilege. Becoming a servant in God's Kingdom is a gift of grace and an even greater honor.

As a boy, I was fascinated with a watchmaker's store in Glasgow, Scotland. When I entered the store for the first time, I saw a faded picture of the watchmaker standing in Red Square, Moscow with the Kremlin behind him.

What was his intriguing secret?

The devil is the biggest snitch in the unverse. Jesus, however, is the greatest Advocate we can ever have. Who will we choose to represent us before God?

I had an amazing dream last night, which I have kept in my heart all day long. Its interpretation has given me a lot of peace.

Here's what I believe about the dream...

Friendship is a gift that everyone needs in their lives.

After witnessing an old man getting knocked over by a double decker bus in a Scottish city street, I discovered how little it takes to be a friend.

Where is God when disaster strikes? The recent spate of terrifying tornadoes in the South has devastated many victims. Where can we see God working amongst us during these troubling times?

 

Addiction is a serious issue in many people's lives, but it is not a hopeless one. With the right help and a strong faith, all things can be overcome.

How I struggled with being an alcoholic and how the Lord helped me to overcome.

Turning my horrible nightmare into a hopeful dream.

Living with loneliness and depression can be hard at this time of year.

Many people in the Bible were lonely and found God in their isolation.

Lonely people can show others how to faithfully and purely love God.

Paul ministry was effective because, in his own words, he became all things to all men.

Can we accept this challenge today and become Christian chameleons, who blend into society and influence the world?

The untimely death of Heath Ledger has shocked us because he was so talnted and successful.

He is now destined to become this generation's James Dean.

A prayer for young people all over the world.

Stocks and shares are tumbling, but perseverance will win the day.

An economic recession may be just aroudn the corner, but we're also heading into a spiritual one.

People who look to God for prosperity and success are heading down a blind alley.

Faith is a lifetime commitment, not a short term spiritual investment.

A British publisher is uriging churches to download digital hymnbooks to incorporate into worship services. Traditional hymnbooks, musical instruments and organs can all be replaced.

But won't this also alienate us from each other and God? Will our worship services become manufactured and soul-less?

Let's embrace technology, but let's also make sure it doesn't replace us!

Washing someone's feet is both an act of humility and blessing.

Looking at a clip from the 1997 movie "Entertaining Angels" - a bio-pic of Dorothy Day, who set up a homeless shelter in New York City during the Great Depression.

Seeing Christ's act of washing His disciple's feet as a true example of servanthood.

Ambition can take us down the wrong path if we become obsessed with our dreams.

How Christ responded to the ambitious request from the mother of James and John.

Using our successes to resource Christ's Kingdom.

Church growth ideas

Starting a mid week Coffee Club and Bible study really helped our church to grow.

Looking at a chapter from the Bible each week.

 

Studies can be emailed...just send a request to pastor@erinprebyterian.org

Daily devotions for busy Christians.

My daughter is going to Tanzania this summer, to work in a mission for 13 weeks with AIDS orphans.

Families of all nations will bow dow before the Lord.

Church growth ideas - Eldership - churches rise and fall upon leadership from the elders.

Making elders aware of their commitment.

Asking the congregation to encourage and support them.

King Herod died in agony because he claimed to be equal to God.

Are todays' presidential candiates in danger of doing the same, or will they acknowledge God's hand in their successes?

Praying for strong leaders. Our hope, however, remains in God.

We will be saturated with electioneering before 2008 ends, but isn't it better to live in a free, democratic society than under a fearful, despotic tyranny?

Herod's persecutions of the First Christians.

Faith and hope, peace and love will re-win the world for Christ.

Rhoda was a house servant who announced that Peter the apostle had been freed from Herod's prison. The Christians in the house didn't belvie her and said she was crazy.

Why do we find it so hard to believe ordinary people with extraordinary news? Are mega-churches all that effective, along with their prosperity teaching preachers?

God works in extaordinary ways with ordinary people.

New Year wouldn't be the same without watching a John Wayne movie. Today, I'm viewing "The Comancheros."

Peter's escape from jail in the Book of Acts is just as intriguing and entertaining.

New Year is a good day to start again. How I am thankful to God for enabling me to escape an alcohol addiction.

The First Christians knew what was important about faith. How can we become Christians first in our lives and be more worthy of their heritage?

History Channel program "The First Christians."

Benazir Bhutto may have been killed by bullets and bombs, but her faith in freedom and democracy will live on in the hearts of the Pakistani people.

Beasts like Bin Laden and his cronies are fighting a losing battle. The world will be mobilised by this outrage and the path to planetary democracy for all nations will not be hindered.

A prayer for the Pakistani people to raise up just and courageous leaders.

Christmas can be a painful and lonely time for some people. At our candleight service, we light a Blue Christmas candle for those who are grieving, hurting, or ill during the festive season. This prayer poem is recited as the blue candle is lit. It's a very meaningful and emotional time for some members in the congregation.

Blue Christmas Prayer

There’s no room at Christmas for sadness,
There’s no place for hearts that are blue.
All the world wants to hearIs a word full of cheer,
Not a sigh, not a tear, not from you.

There’s no room at Christmas for loneliness,
There’s no place for your emptiness and grief.
All the world wants is peace,
Mistletoe and Christmas trees,
Not a heartache that mars its beliefs.

There’s no room at Christmas for sickness,
There’s no place or time to be ill.
All the world wants is health,
Prosperity and wealth,
Not a pain that can spoil its goodwill.

There’s no room at Christmas for Jesus,
There’s no place for His family, too,
All the world would not share,
No one seems to really care,
A stable will just have to do.

Silence……..

Yes, there’s room at Christmas for sadness,
There’s a place in God’s heart for you.
For He knows pain and loss,
Which He felt on the Cross,
So this candle is lit here for you…
*For Christ knows what it’s like to be blue.

* light a blue candle

Stushie's Stuff is a weekday four minute devotional podcast offering spiritual encouragement and godly guidance. Hosted by Scottish pastor John Stuart of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.

4 minute Devotions for busy people M - F, all told with a Scottish accent.

In the old days, we used to give gifts to the Lord at the altar. These days, He want us to share our gifts to benfit others and spread Christ's grace everywhere.

How to make this season of gift-giving into a time of truly glorifying God.

A look at the lives of two young men - one a pastor in-between churches; the other a survivor of a horrific accident. They want to give their lives to God by serving other people.

Many people talk and write about putting Christ back into the word “Christmas,? but perhaps we should all put the word “Christ? back into the word “Christian? first.

Separation of Church and State issues.

Being a compassionate Christian to the world.

Making coffee and sweeping leaves can also be used to glorify and serve the Lord.

The simplicity of Christ's birth and first few years of His life is an example of how humility is precious in God's eyes.

How a Jules Verne story captivated the heart of a five year old and helped him to acknowledge Christ as the complete revelation of the mysteries about God.

Talking about the 1961 movie "Mysterious Island."

Paul's message to the Ephesians about Christ.

Verse of the day: Ephesians 1:9

Claude Rains was one of the best actors Hollywood ever produced. His depiction of the Invisible Man is spine-chilling.

We believe in an invisible Christ, so how can we convince the world that He exists?

The Apostle Peter's message to the young Christians in his day gives us some answers.

What does it mean to comfort one another?

Why do we call the Holy Spirit "Comforter."

How did the Holy Spirit act as Comforter in the Colorado Springs chruch shooting last weekend?

As Christians, we sometimes plow ahead with our projects and plans without really consutling the Holy Spirit.

I once did this when I was a pastor in Dunure, Scotland...it was one of my daftest notions...

Verse of the Day:

Zechariah 4:6             So he said to me, "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty.

Christ's message is a light of hope for our dark and fearful world.

As Christians, we are called to be children of Christ's light in our communities.

The shootings of innocent bystanders in the Omaha shopping mall has shocked all of us.

It makes us all ask the question: where was God in all of this and how can we trust His Sovereignty?

I just love helicopters. They might not be marvellous in everyone's eyes, but they are to me.

Miracles - marvellous in our eyes, but just normal acts of love to God.

Sometimes we take God for granted, especially when it comes to worshiping Him on Sunday mornings.

We wouldn't miss our favorite TV show for anything, but when it comes to keeping watch with the Lord for one hour of the week, we show up only when we want to.

Even some Presidential candidates seeking to win over the religious right think that their laid back approach to worship attendance will help them.

But perhaps the Lord has other ideas....

Do we have to share everything with other people? Can't we keep some things holy and sacred to God?

A commentary on the parable of the five wise and five foolish maidens.

How presiding at a funeral for a decorated air pilot caused me to write a pilot's version of Psalm 23.

This psalm has also been used by other people who are afraid of flying.

 

 

Sometimes God answers our rpayers in completely unexpected and hilarious ways.

How a bunch of pro-wrestlers helped my daughter travel across the country.

Church growth ideas.

Using Hebrews 13: 20-21 as a springboard for a mission statement.

How churches can depend upon God to equip them with everything good when doing His will.

There are many small churches across America that are struggling to exist. Some of them, however, choose to remain small, and don't seek to expand Christ's mission in the communities that they serve.

Small chruches that refuse to grow need to go. They are draining denominational resources and idolizing themselves.

Christ calls us to go out into the world to make disciples. He wants us to be effective and productive.

The new movie "The Golden Compass" is being released on December 7. Christians should be aware of its contents before choosing to see it.

It was written by Philip Pullman, an avowed atheist. The book diminishes the ministry of the church and the ultimate goal of human freedom is to kill God.

How an email from a native missionary in South India gave me a greater appreciation of the Lord's servants throughout the world.

Praying at the Thanksgiving table this year will include a prayer for those who bring faith to others all over the world.

How the dramatic conversion of a thief in Victorian London began the journey fo faith for a Scots family living in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Talking about Charles M. Sheldon's other book "Broken Earthenware."

Farmers work hard throughout their lvies. A great many of them have faith. We can learn a lot from their work ethic and faith in God.