My latest artistic creations lol:
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
November 1st
Then we had our annual Halloween HooHaa. It's an outreach we do where people can come in for FREE and play games and get candy. It's a safe alternative to trick or treating and everyone has a blast!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
sometimes....
When life gives you lemons, switch to tequila!! That's gonna be my new motto. Stolen from the fantabulous play The Drowsy Chaperone.
So for a while now the shower has not been draining properly. David had his friend come look at it and they determined it needed to be snaked. Well...yesterday they attempted to snake it. I say attempted because water started leaking into the living room.
Now he's thinking this is gonna be a huge ordeal. The plumbing, wall damage & repair didn't scare him as much as the idea of having to remove the 8' mirrors.
God is good. He got David through it. My uncle told Dave what he needed to do and he did it.
Didn't even have any major issues with the mirrors.
I asked Dave if he would have still done this if he had moved out and he said of course. I'm grateful for that and I'm proud of him for getting it done.
Now the walls need to be fixed but the worst is over.
Some mud and paint and all will be good.
So for a while now the shower has not been draining properly. David had his friend come look at it and they determined it needed to be snaked. Well...yesterday they attempted to snake it. I say attempted because water started leaking into the living room. Now he's thinking this is gonna be a huge ordeal. The plumbing, wall damage & repair didn't scare him as much as the idea of having to remove the 8' mirrors.
Didn't even have any major issues with the mirrors.
Some mud and paint and all will be good.
Friday, October 29, 2010
545 PEOPLE -- By Charlie Reese
Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them.
Have you ever wondered, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits?
Have you ever wondered, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, WHY do we have inflation and high taxes?
You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.
You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations.. The House of Representatives does.
You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.
You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.
You and I don't control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve Bank does.
One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices equates to 545 human beings out of the 300 million are directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.
I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered, but private, central bank.
I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing. I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes.
Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.
What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits.... . The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it.
The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House? Nancy Pelosi. She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.
It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million can not replace
545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts -- of incompetence and irresponsibility. I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.
If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.
If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red.
If the Army & Marines are in IRAQ, it's because they want them in IRAQ. If they do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not available to the people, it's because they want it that way.
There are no insoluble government problems.
Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like "the economy," "inflation," or "politics" that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do.
Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible.
They, and they alone, have the power.
They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses.
Provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees.
We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess!
Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper.
What you do with this article now that you have read it......... Is up to you.
Sales Tax
School Tax
Liquor Tax
Luxury Tax
Excise Taxes
Property Tax
Cigarette Tax
Medicare Tax
Inventory Tax
Real Estate Tax
Well Permit Tax
Fuel Permit Tax
Inheritance Tax
Road Usage Tax
CDL license Tax
Dog License Tax
State Income Tax
Food License Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Gross Receipts Tax
Social Security Tax
Service Charge Tax
Fishing License Tax
Federal Income Tax
Building Permit Tax
IRS Interest Charges
Hunting License Tax
Marriage License Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Personal Property Tax
Accounts Receivable Tax
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax
Telephone Usage Charge Tax
Telephone Federal Excise Tax
Telephone State and Local Tax
IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax
Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax
Gasoline Tax (currently 44.75 cents per gallon)
Utility Taxes Vehicle License Registration Tax
Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Taxes
Telephone Recurring and Nonrecurring Charges Tax
Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago, & our nation was the most prosperous in the world. We had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world, and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.
What in the hell happened? Can you spell 'politicians? ' I hope this goes around THE USA at least 100 times!!! YOU can help it get there!!!
GO AHEAD - - - BE AN AMERICAN!!!
PS.
If you do pass this on - which is entirely up to you -
please do the right thing and delete any addresses you receive with it.
Thank You
So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. Genesis 3:6
Some things that look good to eat aren't. Eve and Adam found that out when they took a chunk out of the forbidden fruit. It looked good, but it wasn't. That also could have been the case for two children who went trick or treating in Ramsey, Minnesota.
They came back with some assorted Halloween treats, $85 in cash, and something that looked like rock candy. It wasn't candy. The police said it was crystal meth -- enough of the drug to kill the children had they eaten it. As I said, there are some things that look good to eat, but aren't.
You know, the satan likes to put some pretty nice wrappings around his temptations, doesn't he? He polishes his enticements, spiffs up his persuasions, drapes them in fancy paper, pretty bows, and says, "Here, I made this just for you." That's right -- custom temptations -- exclusively for you.
Now, I don't know what particular temptation satan has picked out for you, but I do know you have a Savior who lived, died, and rose to free you from your sins. Because of Jesus, those temptations -- once taken - can't hold you forever. You can be forgiven.
I also know that our Lord sends His Holy Spirit to help each of His children see those temptations for the garbage they really are. And then, once we've seen them, He helps us avoid them. The Bible calls it walking in the Spirit.
Pastor Hersch
Have you ever wondered, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits?
Have you ever wondered, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, WHY do we have inflation and high taxes?
You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.
You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations.. The House of Representatives does.
You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.
You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.
You and I don't control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve Bank does.
One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices equates to 545 human beings out of the 300 million are directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.
I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered, but private, central bank.
I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing. I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes.
Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.
What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits.... . The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it.
The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House? Nancy Pelosi. She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.
It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million can not replace
545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts -- of incompetence and irresponsibility. I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.
If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.
If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red.
If the Army & Marines are in IRAQ, it's because they want them in IRAQ. If they do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not available to the people, it's because they want it that way.
There are no insoluble government problems.
Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like "the economy," "inflation," or "politics" that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do.
Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible.
They, and they alone, have the power.
They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses.
Provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees.
We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess!
Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper.
What you do with this article now that you have read it......... Is up to you.
Sales Tax
School Tax
Liquor Tax
Luxury Tax
Excise Taxes
Property Tax
Cigarette Tax
Medicare Tax
Inventory Tax
Real Estate Tax
Well Permit Tax
Fuel Permit Tax
Inheritance Tax
Road Usage Tax
CDL license Tax
Dog License Tax
State Income Tax
Food License Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Gross Receipts Tax
Social Security Tax
Service Charge Tax
Fishing License Tax
Federal Income Tax
Building Permit Tax
IRS Interest Charges
Hunting License Tax
Marriage License Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Personal Property Tax
Accounts Receivable Tax
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax
Telephone Usage Charge Tax
Telephone Federal Excise Tax
Telephone State and Local Tax
IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax
Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax
Gasoline Tax (currently 44.75 cents per gallon)
Utility Taxes Vehicle License Registration Tax
Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Taxes
Telephone Recurring and Nonrecurring Charges Tax
Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago, & our nation was the most prosperous in the world. We had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world, and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.
What in the hell happened? Can you spell 'politicians? ' I hope this goes around THE USA at least 100 times!!! YOU can help it get there!!!
GO AHEAD - - - BE AN AMERICAN!!!
PS.
If you do pass this on - which is entirely up to you -
please do the right thing and delete any addresses you receive with it.
Thank You
So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. Genesis 3:6
Some things that look good to eat aren't. Eve and Adam found that out when they took a chunk out of the forbidden fruit. It looked good, but it wasn't. That also could have been the case for two children who went trick or treating in Ramsey, Minnesota.
They came back with some assorted Halloween treats, $85 in cash, and something that looked like rock candy. It wasn't candy. The police said it was crystal meth -- enough of the drug to kill the children had they eaten it. As I said, there are some things that look good to eat, but aren't.
You know, the satan likes to put some pretty nice wrappings around his temptations, doesn't he? He polishes his enticements, spiffs up his persuasions, drapes them in fancy paper, pretty bows, and says, "Here, I made this just for you." That's right -- custom temptations -- exclusively for you.
Now, I don't know what particular temptation satan has picked out for you, but I do know you have a Savior who lived, died, and rose to free you from your sins. Because of Jesus, those temptations -- once taken - can't hold you forever. You can be forgiven.
I also know that our Lord sends His Holy Spirit to help each of His children see those temptations for the garbage they really are. And then, once we've seen them, He helps us avoid them. The Bible calls it walking in the Spirit.
Pastor Hersch
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
wedding cake
Here's a pic of the wedding cake I did for my cousin David and his lovely bride Amy.
Shelly
Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17
Many believers have all their spiritual armor in place, but they never use their sword. They talk about it. They study it. They compare swords with others. But they never use their sword in spiritual battle.
In fact, satan would be pleased if believers would just keep their sword in its sheath. He knows all too well the power and the authority of the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s Word.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Please read this verse again slowly. Ponder it.
God says of His own Word in Isaiah 55:11, “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” Heavy stuff.
There is power and authority in the Word of God. That is why satan doesn’t want you to use this incredible weapon God has given you.
Remember how effectively Jesus used the sword of God’s Word to defend Himself when He faced spiritual attack in the wilderness? Jesus was God. He didn’t have to stand around and deal with the devil. He could have gotten out of the situation very easily. But instead, He stood and modeled for us the right way to fight temptation: with the Word of God.
So when satan tries to attack you with temptation, fear, or doubt, or brings up past sins you’ve already confessed and of which you’ve been forgiven, remember the sword of the Spirit. Pull it out of its sheath and use it aggressively to defend yourself. Amen!
Pastor Hersch
Monday, October 25, 2010
a funny email I wanted to share
LADY'S YEARLY EXAM
I went to the doctor for my yearly physical.
I went to the doctor for my yearly physical.
The nurse started with certain basics.
"How much do you weigh?" she asked. "135," I said.
The nurse put me on the scale.
It turns out my weight is 180.
The nurse asked, "Your height?" "5 foot 4," I said.
The nurse checked and saw that I only measure 5' 2"
She then took my blood pressure and told me that it is very high.
"Of course it's high!" I screamed, 'When I came in here I
was tall and slender! Now I'm short and fat!"
She put me on Prozac.
What a bitch.
"How much do you weigh?" she asked. "135," I said.
The nurse put me on the scale.
It turns out my weight is 180.
The nurse asked, "Your height?" "5 foot 4," I said.
The nurse checked and saw that I only measure 5' 2"
She then took my blood pressure and told me that it is very high.
"Of course it's high!" I screamed, 'When I came in here I
was tall and slender! Now I'm short and fat!"
She put me on Prozac.
What a bitch.
Shelly
See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16
Are you making the most of every day? Or do you feel rushed with never enough time to get everything done?
God has given to each one of His children a measure of time to live on this earth. Every day is a gift from God… and every breath you take is from Him. He has prepared a specific plan and purpose for your life that He wants you to accomplish during the time that you have. But in order to do so, you need to be a good steward of your time and not waste it away!
Our verse for today encourages us to walk carefully—with precision, purpose, and determination. This is important because you only have one life to live, and you don’t know how long it will be. So it’s crucial to seize the day and live every moment to the fullest.
The Scripture tells us to “redeeming the time”… to use it up… not for yourself, but for the glory of God. That’s what Jesus did. He was never hurried, but lived a life of purpose and He accomplished so much. He said, “I have come to do Your will” and He prioritized His time according to what He had been called to do.
You and I must do the same thing. It’s easy to rush through life and think we don’t have enough time for everything. But the truth is the Lord has given us the time and ability to do all that He asks us to do. It’s up to us to give ourselves to the most important things in life.
You can‘t live in yesterday and you can’t live in tomorrow… you can only live today. So make it count and maximize every moment!
Pastor Hersch
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
OHH NOOO!!
OHH NOOO!!
There are witches in my mailbox. What am I to do?
I found them there this morning, doing things they shouldn't do!!
How the witches got there, I haven't got a clue.
But they won't be there much longer because I'm sending them to
YOU!!!!!!
You've been Witch Kissed!
Before the warts begin to spread, pass the kisses on instead!
I found them there this morning, doing things they shouldn't do!!
But they won't be there much longer because I'm sending them to
You've been Witch Kissed!
Friday, October 15, 2010
FRIDAY!!
I love Fridays...no clue why. Most people like the day because it's the end of the work week. I actually work weekends so thats not why I like it. Although soon I hope to work weekday mornings. Maybe it's cuz I don't get up as early. Maybe it's cuz so many crazy movies come on the scifi channel. Maybe it's cuz I enjoy church on Sundays. ::shrug:: don't know, don't care, I love weekends!!
There was a slight nip in the air this morning. I do hope winter is like last year. Bring on the freezing temps!! I can't get enough of the cold! Well the boys have PE this morning then I'm off to pick up a dining room set. It's gorgeous and FREE! Ya know what I say, if it's free, it's for me!! haha
Shelly
Those who are wise shall shine Like the brightness of the firmament, And those who turn many to righteousness Like the stars forever and ever. Daniel 12:3
I read the other day that the average American will spend 15 years in front of the television during his or her lifetime. Can you imagine 15 years of sitting in front of that box, clicking away? What a waste of life.
On the other hand, the Bible speaks of many rewards in heaven for the person who faithfully serves the Lord during his or her lifetime, and even speaks of crowns that will be given. In fact, I think we might be shocked when the awards are presented in heaven.
We may expect them to go to all the big names that we know. But just imagine if most of the awards were given to someone named Maude Firkenbinder. You hadn’t heard about her. She never pastored a church. She never recorded Christian music. She never wrote a book or stood in front of a television camera. But she used the gifts that God gave her. Maybe God called her to be a person of prayer. Maybe she labored in obscurity somewhere. But God saw her faithfulness and rewarded her openly.
Here is a thought to ponder. It is a tough one for me.
When you get to heaven, what will you have to show for your life on this earth? How much of our time was spent in a worthless way.
Did you have more passion or excitement for your career or for a sport or for your possessions than you had for the things of God?
Will it all come to nothing. Wasted hours. Wasted days. Wasted years.
Pastor Hersch
Monday, October 11, 2010
monday....
Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character;
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.
Shelly
So Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who had married his daughters, and said, “Get up, get out of this place; for the Lord will destroy this city!” But to his sons-in-law he seemed to be joking. Genesis 19:14
When you attempt to live both for God and the world, you resemble that poor, confused soldier in the Civil War who couldn’t decide what side he wanted to fight for. So he wore the coat from the Union and the pants from the Confederates. Then he marched onto the battlefield and got shot at from both sides.
If you attempt to live in both worlds, you will end up living a miserable life.
Living for both worlds—the life of compromise—is a dangerous thing. Just take a look at the life of Lot, the classic compromiser. Granted, he was a believer, but he made numerous mistakes.
Lot lived in the wicked city of Sodom and eventually became a leader in the city. But he was so bound up in sin that when he went to tell his sons-in-law that the judgment of God was coming, they laughed and thought he was joking.
There was no power in his witness, because he lived a compromised life.
Is that happening to you?
Are you getting weaker and weaker spiritually?
Do the things that once made you blush no longer shock you?
Do you find yourself becoming more and more tolerant of that which is evil and less interested in that which is spiritual?
Do you find that your words seem to have no effect on the nonbelievers you share them with?
Such is the peril of the compromiser. They don’t pull others up. Others pull them down.
Pastor Hersch
Saturday, October 9, 2010
sooo
The other day I wanted to make the boys some cookies. I had been saying I would do it for like ever. Something kept coming up!! Anywho, so I get out the cookie mix package and my bowl and the butter and go to get the eggs. Guess what, no freakin eggs! Mind you I also didn't have the van that day so I couldn't run to the store and get them. Sure I could have called David but I was determined to resolve this issue on my own...somehow..
Now I had heard somewhere that ground flax seeds can be a substitute for oil n eggs and etc. I had a big bag from Costco and pulled it out. After reading the side panel I was thrilled cuz sure enough, subbing directions include eggs. I of course did not tell the boys what I was doing. Well 2 dozen chocolate chip and 1 dozen M&M cookies later, the boys are happy. You really couldnt tell that there were no eggs. I do believe in the future I will keep the eggs and substitute the butter. I already use apple sauce in place of oil/butter in cakes and brownies n such. Oh and the taste of the cookies? I swear I think they were better!! TaTa!!
Shelly
Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Galatians 6:1
After observing the behavior of some people, you would think they have a verse in their Bible that says, “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, go and tell as many people as possible. And then ultimately go and try to drive that person away.” But this is not what Scripture tells us to do.
In Matthew 18, Jesus gave us the steps we should take when it appears someone has fallen into sin (and I emphasize the word appears).
First, we must know all the facts. When you hear something about someone, instead of talking about it, determine to go to that person and say, “I heard this about you. Is it true?” Hopefully, you can get the issue resolved immediately.
But to fail to go to someone when you know a sin is being committed is to actually cause that individual, and the church as a whole, the greatest harm. In Galatians 5:9 the Bible says, “A little leaven leavens the whole lump”
In many cases, you will find that even Christians rarely approach a sinning believer or allegedly sinning believer. Instead of seeking to help a person who possibly may have never sinned at all, they end up slandering that individual. This is wrong. If you have ever had this happen to you, then you know how painful it can be.
Remember, the devil wants to turn believers against each other. His job is to neutralize Christian’s witness. He will attack us from the outside, but many times, when that does not work, he seeks to infiltrate our ranks and divide us.
Let’s read the verse again. Notice my highlighted words. Ponder this.
Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.
Pastor Hersch
Saturday, October 2, 2010
La ♪ La ♫ La ♪ La
So, I was cleaning out some boxes last week and came across some of my CDs of Broadway Plays that I've been to. I brought them into work this morning. So far I have listened to Aida....not a good idea when going through a divorce...anywho. Now Avenue Q is playing. It's so frickin funny! Next I'll listen to Evita or Chicago. Undecided at this moment. I need to go see another play. It's been too long....
Shelly
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8
A Native American boy was talking with his grandfather. "What do you think about the world situation?" he asked. The grandfather replied, "I feel like two wolves are fighting in my heart. One is full of anger and hatred. The other is full of love, forgiveness and peace."
"Which one will win?" asked the boy.
To which the grandfather replied, "The one I feed."
Franklin Delano Roosevelt said, "Men are not prisoners of fate, but only prisoners of their own minds," and James Allen stated, "You are today where your thoughts have brought you; you will be tomorrow where your thoughts take you."
Another has said, "What the mind dwells on the body acts on." If you don't believe this, think how temptation works—first a thought that seems to come from nowhere ... we feed it and the thought begins to expand ... then one's feelings get involved ... and the more we think about it ... the more we hunger for it ... then we begin to rationalize and justify what we want to do ... and the battle is lost. It all starts in the mind.
As they say about computers: GIGO = garbage in garbage out. So it is with the mind. If we keep looking at and thinking about garbage, we will act out accordingly. But, if as the Bible says, we concentrate on thoughts that are noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable, we too, will act accordingly. It's all in the mind, for what the mind dwells on the body acts on.
When tempting thoughts knock on the door of my mind, I try to remember to pray a very simple prayer, "Jesus, help. Jesus help," until the "door knocker" goes away.
Pastor Hersch
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
heeey
So tonight I decided since I have a website I should use it fully. I am making a page dedicated to my art work and another to the baked goods I have made. They will be listed under the pages section. Enjoy :)
Shelly
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
At Calvary...
ok so while I was a senior is high school, I sang a song for a competition that I loved! To this day I can not find this song anywhere!! I'm gonna post the lyrics with the hope someone will see it and help me.
At Calvary
I scourged the back of Jesus, with thorns I crowned his head.
I cursed him and I mocked him, I longed to see him dead.
I laughed with scorn as I followed him, up the path to calvary.
I nailed his hands upon the cross, and his blood flowed at my feet.
But still he loved me, near death forgave me, by grace he saved me, from all my sins. My heart is filled with pain, as I behold the stain, his blood has made for me, at calvary.
His friends removed his lifeless form, the king of the jews was dead.
They took him to his palace, and there they placed his head.
His palace was a cold dark tomb, around which guards did tread.
And then that morn they cried "He's gone! He has risen from the dead!"
Yet still he loved me, through death forgave me, by grace he saved me from all my sins. My heart is filled with pain as I behold the stain, his blood has made for me, at calvary.
He now lives in my heart, from where he'll ne'er depart, this Christ who died for me, at calvary, at calvary.
At Calvary
I scourged the back of Jesus, with thorns I crowned his head.
I cursed him and I mocked him, I longed to see him dead.
I laughed with scorn as I followed him, up the path to calvary.
I nailed his hands upon the cross, and his blood flowed at my feet.
But still he loved me, near death forgave me, by grace he saved me, from all my sins. My heart is filled with pain, as I behold the stain, his blood has made for me, at calvary.
His friends removed his lifeless form, the king of the jews was dead.
They took him to his palace, and there they placed his head.
His palace was a cold dark tomb, around which guards did tread.
And then that morn they cried "He's gone! He has risen from the dead!"
Yet still he loved me, through death forgave me, by grace he saved me from all my sins. My heart is filled with pain as I behold the stain, his blood has made for me, at calvary.
He now lives in my heart, from where he'll ne'er depart, this Christ who died for me, at calvary, at calvary.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
So....
I'm thinking about reading again. It's been about 6 weeks since I've been able to read. I've just had way too much on my mind to focus on the pure bliss I find when I read. hmm maybe that's where I went wrong...maybe I should have been reading all along....anywho. Now the question is what to read. I have a few books I snagged from my Aunt Toni and I of course have others I haven't read but ugg, I just don't know what kind of mood I'm in. Do I want to read a classic? Or maybe that new vampire book I got months ago. Then I also picked up the last Sookie Stackhouse book eons ago...haven't even looked at it. Do I dare try to read a love story? Oh hell to the no on that. So now what am I left with. I don't do true stories. Life is craptastic enough. I did see a book that peeked my curiosity. It was about Abe Lincoln being a vampire slayer. ah well, if I ever decide I will for sure let ya know. Till then...tata!!
Shelly
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Saturday, August 7, 2010
BINGO BABY!!!
So I've been reading that book Infinite Days and it's so good! I love it. I do however hate that her soul mate is dead...oh well maybe she'll meet another in her new life.
Last night, Bingo was so much fun!!
Brody switched with Bob and loved calling out numbers. He was so stinkin cute and funny!
I call this group of ladies, the bingo cheaters! Seriously, how many times can you win???
Dave of course was quick on the clean up!
Dave & the twins & Brandon all won a hand. Brett opted to stay home. There were some neat prizes. Faith won, Sarah won, the cheating table won...a lot..Ed won, Haakon & Becki won..Linda won. When I won a game, shouted Bingo Baby as I always do, I did the unthinkable. There was one prize wrapped in a box with the following card attached "Surprise" ... "do not open the box; only the winner can see, what the surprise will be". Everyone passed over it for the fear of the unknown was too great I guess...
I opened it. And inside was a $10 bill. Moral of the story? Never judge an object(person) by the outward appearance. There just may be a splendiferous treasure inside!
Shelly
ps; please keep my dad & stepmama in your thoughts & prayers. This morning they had to put down one of their much loved pets. He has been with them a long time and they've spent the last 2 months and tons of $ trying to make him well. It's just been to no avail and he's been in pain lately so they opted to have him put to sleep.
"Every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor - it is the gift of God." Ecclesiastes 3:13
People with a 'martyr attitude' do things out of a sense of duty, not joy. They feel guilty about enjoying life. They tend to begrudge happiness to those around them. They resent it when others don't do things for them, yet they won't ask for help in case they create a sense of obligation.
The fact is, 'martyrs' don't value themselves, so they think nobody else does. That's not how God wants you to live. The Bible says there's a time to work, to play, to laugh and to enjoy life. Jesus said, 'I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.' John 10:10
You need fun and relaxation. They're not unspiritual! Without them, you become unbalanced and you open yourself to stress-related illness, mood swings and compulsive behaviours. You find yourself constantly vulnerable, driven and unable to relax.
Refuse to take on a false sense of responsibility. Don't neglect or deny your own legitimate needs. Yes, you're called to help others, but it's not wrong to do things for yourself, to receive from God, and those He sends to bless you. If somebody compliments you, accept it graciously. If they attempt to belittle you, ignore it and move on.
David said, 'You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.' Psalm 16:11 So begin to spend more time with God and His Word.
Pastor Hersch
Last night, Bingo was so much fun!!
Brody switched with Bob and loved calling out numbers. He was so stinkin cute and funny!
I call this group of ladies, the bingo cheaters! Seriously, how many times can you win???
Dave of course was quick on the clean up!
Dave & the twins & Brandon all won a hand. Brett opted to stay home. There were some neat prizes. Faith won, Sarah won, the cheating table won...a lot..Ed won, Haakon & Becki won..Linda won. When I won a game, shouted Bingo Baby as I always do, I did the unthinkable. There was one prize wrapped in a box with the following card attached "Surprise" ... "do not open the box; only the winner can see, what the surprise will be". Everyone passed over it for the fear of the unknown was too great I guess...
I opened it. And inside was a $10 bill. Moral of the story? Never judge an object(person) by the outward appearance. There just may be a splendiferous treasure inside!
Shelly
ps; please keep my dad & stepmama in your thoughts & prayers. This morning they had to put down one of their much loved pets. He has been with them a long time and they've spent the last 2 months and tons of $ trying to make him well. It's just been to no avail and he's been in pain lately so they opted to have him put to sleep.
"Every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor - it is the gift of God." Ecclesiastes 3:13
People with a 'martyr attitude' do things out of a sense of duty, not joy. They feel guilty about enjoying life. They tend to begrudge happiness to those around them. They resent it when others don't do things for them, yet they won't ask for help in case they create a sense of obligation.
The fact is, 'martyrs' don't value themselves, so they think nobody else does. That's not how God wants you to live. The Bible says there's a time to work, to play, to laugh and to enjoy life. Jesus said, 'I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.' John 10:10
You need fun and relaxation. They're not unspiritual! Without them, you become unbalanced and you open yourself to stress-related illness, mood swings and compulsive behaviours. You find yourself constantly vulnerable, driven and unable to relax.
Refuse to take on a false sense of responsibility. Don't neglect or deny your own legitimate needs. Yes, you're called to help others, but it's not wrong to do things for yourself, to receive from God, and those He sends to bless you. If somebody compliments you, accept it graciously. If they attempt to belittle you, ignore it and move on.
David said, 'You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.' Psalm 16:11 So begin to spend more time with God and His Word.
Pastor Hersch
Thursday, August 5, 2010
sleepy girl...
OK, so I'm barely awake. Spent most of the night up because I couldn't get to sleep. Couldn't shut my brain off! That's the 2nd time this week that I've been up all night.
And I couldn't sleep in because Brett was due at 9am at Aunt Toni's for a hair cut. Then after that it was a costco shopping trip. Home now, groceries put away, should nap but now I have to clean.
At 4pm is my Twilight Club and today we need the much abused dining room table. We're gonna make get well cards for one of our elderly ladies from church who is in the hospital. The girls enjoyed making thank you cards so much that I figure why not send some homemade cheer to Sarah Mackey.
I think the next time we make cards it will be for our serving men & women. And Jonathan Gogue, one of our youngest service men in boot camp. He also attends our church frequently.
Have a great day!!
Shelly
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Romans 6:1–2
Sadly, there are many believers today who live with the misconception that they must do something to earn God’s approval.
When they have had a good week and have been reading their Bibles or doing certain good deeds for the Lord, they feel that God will be pleased. But when they have had a hard week, when they have fallen, when they have sinned, they think God is not pleased with them.
Sometimes they believe they shouldn’t even go to church or read the Bible. “Why bother?” they think. “God is not pleased with me. I don’t have His favor. It would be hypocritical for me to do that.”
All the while, they don’t realize they have God’s unconditional favor and love regardless of what they do. But that is not a license to sin. It is an incentive to respond to Him in love.
If, as believers, we can truly get hold of what this means, if we can understand that it is not a license to live as we please, then it should be an incentive for us to serve the Lord, love Him, and show gratitude toward the One who loves us unconditionally, knowing us for what we are. An understanding of this truth can revolutionize our lives.
In some people’s estimation, holy living—which is keeping rules and regulations—will bring salvation. But holy living—which we are not capable of, to start with—will not bring salvation. However, salvation will produce holy living. If you are truly saved, it will result in changes in our lifestyle.
Pastor Hersch
And I couldn't sleep in because Brett was due at 9am at Aunt Toni's for a hair cut. Then after that it was a costco shopping trip. Home now, groceries put away, should nap but now I have to clean.
At 4pm is my Twilight Club and today we need the much abused dining room table. We're gonna make get well cards for one of our elderly ladies from church who is in the hospital. The girls enjoyed making thank you cards so much that I figure why not send some homemade cheer to Sarah Mackey.
I think the next time we make cards it will be for our serving men & women. And Jonathan Gogue, one of our youngest service men in boot camp. He also attends our church frequently.
Have a great day!!
Shelly
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Romans 6:1–2
Sadly, there are many believers today who live with the misconception that they must do something to earn God’s approval.
When they have had a good week and have been reading their Bibles or doing certain good deeds for the Lord, they feel that God will be pleased. But when they have had a hard week, when they have fallen, when they have sinned, they think God is not pleased with them.
Sometimes they believe they shouldn’t even go to church or read the Bible. “Why bother?” they think. “God is not pleased with me. I don’t have His favor. It would be hypocritical for me to do that.”
All the while, they don’t realize they have God’s unconditional favor and love regardless of what they do. But that is not a license to sin. It is an incentive to respond to Him in love.
If, as believers, we can truly get hold of what this means, if we can understand that it is not a license to live as we please, then it should be an incentive for us to serve the Lord, love Him, and show gratitude toward the One who loves us unconditionally, knowing us for what we are. An understanding of this truth can revolutionize our lives.
In some people’s estimation, holy living—which is keeping rules and regulations—will bring salvation. But holy living—which we are not capable of, to start with—will not bring salvation. However, salvation will produce holy living. If you are truly saved, it will result in changes in our lifestyle.
Pastor Hersch
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Lucky Me!!!!
TWILIGHT NEWS: The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2 – 11/16/12
So guess what. I'm old...lol. I did in fact win another contest. That's how I ended up with the book Infinite Days by Rebecca Maizel. As promised here's the email:
On Wed, Aug 4, 2010 at 3:05 PM, Brittney wrote:
Hey Shelly!
Yep, you entered our Words 'N Stuff sweepstakes back in July.
The book is fabulous - let me know if you like it!
Happy reading,
Brittney
--
Brittney Kleinfelter
Online Marketing, St. Martin¹s Press
175 Fifth Avenue | New York, NY 10010
Summer hours are in effect at Macmillan, and offices close at 12:30 pm on Fridays.
Infinite Days is the first book in the Vampire Queen novels and HOLY CROW it's awesome! I'm about 3 chapters in thus far and I'm loving it. It's very different. One big diff is the fact that this 500+ year old vampire wants to be human! Can you say craazzaay!! Anywho, I'm thoroughly enjoying it and look forward to reading it through as well as the next 2 books. Here's another video about the book. The acting sucks but it gives ya an idea about Infinite Days.
Shelly
The Lord your God has multiplied you, and, behold, ye are
this day as the stars of heaven for multitude. Deuteronomy 1:10
Sitting on the beach one clear night, I looked up at the sky. So
many stars, everywhere, sparkling like diamonds! Then I discovered the pale haze of the Milky Way stretching across part of the sky,
encompassing million stars or more, incomprehensible to my mind.
Whenever I observe the heavens in this way, I automatically turn to
the promises of God. Such awesome celestial lights make all His
assurances seem overwhelmingly real.
So, too, God's people must have felt loved. After all, God had
promised they would become a large nation, as vast as the number of
stars that could be seen on a clear night. When we consider that
"Father Abraham" first received this promise from God at a time when he had no children, God's faithfulness shines even brighter.
What does the Lord do for you? While taking in the dazzling display
He's placed above you, take a moment to ponder His unconditional love,
His tender care, His inner peace, and His ability to keep His promises.
Lord; Forgive us, for the times we concentrate more on our immediate tasks than on the many wonders that testify to Your care.
Thank you Jesus! Amen.
Pastor Hersch
So guess what. I'm old...lol. I did in fact win another contest. That's how I ended up with the book Infinite Days by Rebecca Maizel. As promised here's the email:
On Wed, Aug 4, 2010 at 3:05 PM, Brittney wrote:
Hey Shelly!
Yep, you entered our Words 'N Stuff sweepstakes back in July.
The book is fabulous - let me know if you like it!
Happy reading,
Brittney
--
Brittney Kleinfelter
Online Marketing, St. Martin¹s Press
175 Fifth Avenue | New York, NY 10010
Summer hours are in effect at Macmillan, and offices close at 12:30 pm on Fridays.
Infinite Days is the first book in the Vampire Queen novels and HOLY CROW it's awesome! I'm about 3 chapters in thus far and I'm loving it. It's very different. One big diff is the fact that this 500+ year old vampire wants to be human! Can you say craazzaay!! Anywho, I'm thoroughly enjoying it and look forward to reading it through as well as the next 2 books. Here's another video about the book. The acting sucks but it gives ya an idea about Infinite Days.
Shelly
The Lord your God has multiplied you, and, behold, ye are
this day as the stars of heaven for multitude. Deuteronomy 1:10
Sitting on the beach one clear night, I looked up at the sky. So
many stars, everywhere, sparkling like diamonds! Then I discovered the pale haze of the Milky Way stretching across part of the sky,
encompassing million stars or more, incomprehensible to my mind.
Whenever I observe the heavens in this way, I automatically turn to
the promises of God. Such awesome celestial lights make all His
assurances seem overwhelmingly real.
So, too, God's people must have felt loved. After all, God had
promised they would become a large nation, as vast as the number of
stars that could be seen on a clear night. When we consider that
"Father Abraham" first received this promise from God at a time when he had no children, God's faithfulness shines even brighter.
What does the Lord do for you? While taking in the dazzling display
He's placed above you, take a moment to ponder His unconditional love,
His tender care, His inner peace, and His ability to keep His promises.
Lord; Forgive us, for the times we concentrate more on our immediate tasks than on the many wonders that testify to Your care.
Thank you Jesus! Amen.
Pastor Hersch
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Here It Is...
This is a short promotional video I found on one of the blogs I follow. It's about the book I mysteriously received in the mail a little over a week ago. I started reading the book and already it's super different from other vampire books. hmmm what other series was super different?? oh yeah TWILIGHT!! ok anyway, I'm sure it's gonna be just wonderbar! Enjoy
Church was great. Jimbo gave Brett an ipod. I bought it from Brett. Now to figure it out. Doesn't seem to like my linux based laptop. Tuesday is Young Groupers. I'm starting a new skit with the teens. Will be fun! Did zumba for about 20 minutes this morning. Gonna kill me...I swear it is...lol. This Friday is bingo night at church. Fun Fun Fun!!
TaTa
Shelly
Church was great. Jimbo gave Brett an ipod. I bought it from Brett. Now to figure it out. Doesn't seem to like my linux based laptop. Tuesday is Young Groupers. I'm starting a new skit with the teens. Will be fun! Did zumba for about 20 minutes this morning. Gonna kill me...I swear it is...lol. This Friday is bingo night at church. Fun Fun Fun!!
TaTa
Shelly
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Wake Up America!
Great, great grandfathers watched as their friends died in the Civil War.
Great grandfathers watched as their friends died in WW II.
My father watched as his friends died in Vietnam.
None of them died for the Mexican Flag. Everyone died for the American flag.
Texas high school students raised a Mexican flag on a school flag pole, other students took it down. Guess who was expelled...the students who took it down.
California high school students were sent home on Cinco de Mayo, because they wore T-shirts with the American flag printed on them.
Enough is enough.
This message needs to be viewed by every American; and every American needs to stand up for America.
We've bent over to appease the America-haters long enough. I'm taking a stand.
I'm standing up because the hundreds of thousands who died fighting in wars for this country, and for the American flag.
If you agree, stand up with me. If you disagree, please let me know. I will gladly remove you from my e-mail list.
And shame on anyone who tries to make this message racist.
AMERICANS, stop giving away Your RIGHTS!
Let me make this clear! THIS IS MY COUNTRY!
This statement DOES NOT mean I'm against immigration!
YOU ARE WELCOME HERE, IN MY COUNTRY, welcome to come legally:
1. Get a sponsor!
2. Learn the LANGUAGE, as immigrants have in the past!
3. Live by OUR rules!
4. Get a job!
5. Pay YOUR Taxes!
6. No Social Security until you have earned it and paid for it!
7. NOW find a place to lay your head!
If you don't want to forward this for fear of offending someone,
then YOU'RE PART OF THE PROBLEM !
We've gone so far the other way . . . bent over backwards not to offend anyone.
Only AMERICANS seems to care when American Citizens are being offended!
WAKE UP America ! ! !
If you do not Pass this on, may your fingers cramp!
Shelly
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1st John 1:9
Mary had gone to several psychologists and psychiatrists, and even religious leaders, seeking help, but no one had been able to help her. Her problem - she was plagued with a deep sense of guilt. Mary had been sexually promiscuous as a teenager, and prior to that she had been violated by her step-father who had taken advantage of her when she was a very young girl.
All of this tormented her greatly, but no one had taken her to the Word of God to help her understand that she did not have to carry the burden of her own sin. There is forgiveness. Scripture teaches that if we confess our sins, God is waiting to forgive and cleanse us.
There are three things we need to know about confession. First, the word "confess" means, in the original Greek language, "to agree with." If I agree with God concerning my immorality, stealing, dishonesty, whatever it may be, I am saying, "Lord, I know it is sin." Second, we know from Scripture that Christ has paid the penalty for our sins by shedding His blood on the cross. And third, we must repent, which means we change our attitude toward that sin. This results in a change of action. When we do this, we have the promise that what we confess, God forgives, and He cleanses us from all unrighteousness.
When Mary understood the truth of God's promise, she surrendered all of her guilt and frustration to Jesus, who died for her, and she claimed God's forgiveness.
Only the Lord could liberate her from the darkness and gloom of Satan's kingdom and bring her into kingdom of light - the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Mary sensed God's immediate liberation and began to rejoice in the assurance of forgiveness and eternal life with Christ. She became a radiant, joyful and victorious witness for our Savior.
Pastor Hersch
Great grandfathers watched as their friends died in WW II.
My father watched as his friends died in Vietnam.
None of them died for the Mexican Flag. Everyone died for the American flag.
Texas high school students raised a Mexican flag on a school flag pole, other students took it down. Guess who was expelled...the students who took it down.
California high school students were sent home on Cinco de Mayo, because they wore T-shirts with the American flag printed on them.
Enough is enough.
This message needs to be viewed by every American; and every American needs to stand up for America.
We've bent over to appease the America-haters long enough. I'm taking a stand.
I'm standing up because the hundreds of thousands who died fighting in wars for this country, and for the American flag.
If you agree, stand up with me. If you disagree, please let me know. I will gladly remove you from my e-mail list.
And shame on anyone who tries to make this message racist.
AMERICANS, stop giving away Your RIGHTS!
Let me make this clear! THIS IS MY COUNTRY!
This statement DOES NOT mean I'm against immigration!
YOU ARE WELCOME HERE, IN MY COUNTRY, welcome to come legally:
1. Get a sponsor!
2. Learn the LANGUAGE, as immigrants have in the past!
3. Live by OUR rules!
4. Get a job!
5. Pay YOUR Taxes!
6. No Social Security until you have earned it and paid for it!
7. NOW find a place to lay your head!
If you don't want to forward this for fear of offending someone,
then YOU'RE PART OF THE PROBLEM !
We've gone so far the other way . . . bent over backwards not to offend anyone.
Only AMERICANS seems to care when American Citizens are being offended!
WAKE UP America ! ! !
If you do not Pass this on, may your fingers cramp!
Shelly
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1st John 1:9
Mary had gone to several psychologists and psychiatrists, and even religious leaders, seeking help, but no one had been able to help her. Her problem - she was plagued with a deep sense of guilt. Mary had been sexually promiscuous as a teenager, and prior to that she had been violated by her step-father who had taken advantage of her when she was a very young girl.
All of this tormented her greatly, but no one had taken her to the Word of God to help her understand that she did not have to carry the burden of her own sin. There is forgiveness. Scripture teaches that if we confess our sins, God is waiting to forgive and cleanse us.
There are three things we need to know about confession. First, the word "confess" means, in the original Greek language, "to agree with." If I agree with God concerning my immorality, stealing, dishonesty, whatever it may be, I am saying, "Lord, I know it is sin." Second, we know from Scripture that Christ has paid the penalty for our sins by shedding His blood on the cross. And third, we must repent, which means we change our attitude toward that sin. This results in a change of action. When we do this, we have the promise that what we confess, God forgives, and He cleanses us from all unrighteousness.
When Mary understood the truth of God's promise, she surrendered all of her guilt and frustration to Jesus, who died for her, and she claimed God's forgiveness.
Only the Lord could liberate her from the darkness and gloom of Satan's kingdom and bring her into kingdom of light - the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Mary sensed God's immediate liberation and began to rejoice in the assurance of forgiveness and eternal life with Christ. She became a radiant, joyful and victorious witness for our Savior.
Pastor Hersch
Friday, July 30, 2010
Friday Baby
Today is Zumba day 2. I'm gonna die! Then at 10:30 I have a friend coming over for coffee, it's a Jen day. Jennie and Zumba at 9am then Jen and coffee at 10:30am. Have I mentioned how I love having a house?? Anywho, then this afternoon I have to look into what school stuff I need for the boys. I hate that part of the school year. It's so overwhelming to me...I do believe tho that I will be signing up for Homeschool Advantage. They're having a sale right now where it's 1/2 off for the year. The boys enjoy the program so that's always a plus. Well time to dance!!
Shelly
“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” 1st John 1:8
I had to laugh when I heard the story of two men who approached the great British preacher, C. H. Spurgeon, one day and told him, “Spurgeon, we have reached sinless perfection.” “Really?” he asked.
“Yes,” they said, “We are absolutely perfect.”
Spurgeon was holding a pitcher of water at the time, and he poured it on their heads. When they began to react like any other sinners would, he found out just how perfect they were.
You see, the people who walk around claiming to have reached sinless perfection are victims of one of the most powerful yet subtle sins: pride. None of us will reach sinless perfection—not in this life.
Granted, before we were Christians, we were under the control and power of sin. We went along with whatever our sinful natures dictated.
But something dramatic happened when we we saved. We were changed, Christ changed.
The Bible says “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2nd Corinthians 5:17
That is not to say we still don’t struggle with sin and temptation. The Scripture clearly teaches that we will sin and that we will have lapses.
Although the Bible tells me I will sin, there is a difference between sinning and being sorry for it, and sinning habitually, persistently, and continually.
If someone claims to be a Christian and yet continues in sin, my question is whether that person has ever been truly saved.
Some people wonder whether such a Christian ever could lose his or her salvation. I would suggest that another question should be asked instead: Did he or she ever experience salvation to begin with?
Pastor Hersch
Shelly
“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” 1st John 1:8
I had to laugh when I heard the story of two men who approached the great British preacher, C. H. Spurgeon, one day and told him, “Spurgeon, we have reached sinless perfection.” “Really?” he asked.
“Yes,” they said, “We are absolutely perfect.”
Spurgeon was holding a pitcher of water at the time, and he poured it on their heads. When they began to react like any other sinners would, he found out just how perfect they were.
You see, the people who walk around claiming to have reached sinless perfection are victims of one of the most powerful yet subtle sins: pride. None of us will reach sinless perfection—not in this life.
Granted, before we were Christians, we were under the control and power of sin. We went along with whatever our sinful natures dictated.
But something dramatic happened when we we saved. We were changed, Christ changed.
The Bible says “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2nd Corinthians 5:17
That is not to say we still don’t struggle with sin and temptation. The Scripture clearly teaches that we will sin and that we will have lapses.
Although the Bible tells me I will sin, there is a difference between sinning and being sorry for it, and sinning habitually, persistently, and continually.
If someone claims to be a Christian and yet continues in sin, my question is whether that person has ever been truly saved.
Some people wonder whether such a Christian ever could lose his or her salvation. I would suggest that another question should be asked instead: Did he or she ever experience salvation to begin with?
Pastor Hersch
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
FREEE BOOKSSS ROCK HARD!!!
Here's a great Tupperware offer! SALE
So last week I posted on Twitter & FaceBook that I thought I received a book for free in the mail. I did. I still don't know how! I was putting books onto the newest bookshelf and decided to check out this book I had received. Thought I would see if it would be a stand alone or a series. Well not only did I discover it would be a trilogy but I got a first edition, not even available for sale yet copy!! WHAT?! I know! The copyright is August 2010. The sale for this book doesn't start until next week! I'm still confused and wondering how this happened. I of course sent a quick email to the publisher thanking them and inquiring how I came to be so blessed. I'll post their answer when it comes. How crazy is this!!
Anywho, been extremely busy dog sitting. And was working tons before that. Next week I have to get prepared to leave for a Tupperware convention the following week. Earlier this evening I pulled a weird muscle in my foot and can hardly walk now!! And Jennie and I are doing Zumba......well Zumba is killing us is more likely. It will be worth it in the end right???
TaTa!
Shelly
"Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.” Luke 17:3
On the news there was a story about an man whose house had been newly painted. Within days someone had spray-painted graffiti all over it. Who would have done something like this in his neighborhood, he wondered? He was angry and rightly so. At first he thought it was racially motivated. Someone did not like him living in their neighborhood.
He asked around hoping to find out who had spoiled his house. He found that the graffiti was painted by an eleven-year-old boy. It was nothing more than a childhood prank. What would you do if you discovered your newly-painted house covered with graffiti?
Suppose the culprit was an eleven-year-old boy? Would the police be called? Would you at least want to talk to the boy's parents? Would there be a lawsuit--after all somebody would have to pay for the damage? What would you do in that situation?
The man who was wronged could have made a big issue out of it. Instead, he decided to get to know the boy better. He was unsure of what would happen but he was willing to try. Thus a black man and a young white boy soon became friends. Instead of taking the boy and his parents to court, he decided to teach the boy about computers.
The news showed the young boy sitting at the computer in the man's house he had earlier spray-painted. The reporter asked him about the graffiti. The boy told the reporter that he was sorry for what he had done. He did not know why he had done it. "Mr. Stephens and I are friends now," he told the reporter. "He has taught me about computers."
That's somewhat of a surprise ending, isn't it? You might have expected to see the young boy scrubbing the graffiti off the man's house or giving the house a new coat of paint. You might have expected his parents to ground him for a month for his offense. But you would have never expected to see him in the man's den working on his computer.
There is a lesson here….
Pastor Hersch
So last week I posted on Twitter & FaceBook that I thought I received a book for free in the mail. I did. I still don't know how! I was putting books onto the newest bookshelf and decided to check out this book I had received. Thought I would see if it would be a stand alone or a series. Well not only did I discover it would be a trilogy but I got a first edition, not even available for sale yet copy!! WHAT?! I know! The copyright is August 2010. The sale for this book doesn't start until next week! I'm still confused and wondering how this happened. I of course sent a quick email to the publisher thanking them and inquiring how I came to be so blessed. I'll post their answer when it comes. How crazy is this!!
Anywho, been extremely busy dog sitting. And was working tons before that. Next week I have to get prepared to leave for a Tupperware convention the following week. Earlier this evening I pulled a weird muscle in my foot and can hardly walk now!! And Jennie and I are doing Zumba......well Zumba is killing us is more likely. It will be worth it in the end right???
TaTa!
Shelly
"Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.” Luke 17:3
On the news there was a story about an man whose house had been newly painted. Within days someone had spray-painted graffiti all over it. Who would have done something like this in his neighborhood, he wondered? He was angry and rightly so. At first he thought it was racially motivated. Someone did not like him living in their neighborhood.
He asked around hoping to find out who had spoiled his house. He found that the graffiti was painted by an eleven-year-old boy. It was nothing more than a childhood prank. What would you do if you discovered your newly-painted house covered with graffiti?
Suppose the culprit was an eleven-year-old boy? Would the police be called? Would you at least want to talk to the boy's parents? Would there be a lawsuit--after all somebody would have to pay for the damage? What would you do in that situation?
The man who was wronged could have made a big issue out of it. Instead, he decided to get to know the boy better. He was unsure of what would happen but he was willing to try. Thus a black man and a young white boy soon became friends. Instead of taking the boy and his parents to court, he decided to teach the boy about computers.
The news showed the young boy sitting at the computer in the man's house he had earlier spray-painted. The reporter asked him about the graffiti. The boy told the reporter that he was sorry for what he had done. He did not know why he had done it. "Mr. Stephens and I are friends now," he told the reporter. "He has taught me about computers."
That's somewhat of a surprise ending, isn't it? You might have expected to see the young boy scrubbing the graffiti off the man's house or giving the house a new coat of paint. You might have expected his parents to ground him for a month for his offense. But you would have never expected to see him in the man's den working on his computer.
There is a lesson here….
Pastor Hersch
Monday, July 26, 2010
shhh it's a secret....
Got another bookcase from Big Lots today. Somehow I don't think it will be enough.... Over the weekend I got some cute plants & a plant stand for the front of the house. Last week Dave got 4 trees free from the city and planted them in the front yard. Our house is really coming along nicely. I'll take pics tomorrow and post them.
Have a great night!
Shelly
"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,” Matthew 5:44
I find it rather easy to love those who love me. I love my parents, my wife and children, and my friends—no problem. I also find it fairly easy to love myself. Problem is, as Benjamin Franklin once pointed out: "He that falls in love with himself will have no rivals."
So we are called by the Lord to love another class of humanity: our enemies. Yet how to do it? Do we convince ourselves that our enemies actually deserve such a blessing? Impossible!
Here's the key: God loved us "while we were yet sinners." We didn't deserve salvation, but God saved us anyway. We can do likewise with those who persecute us.
I think the great writer and defender of the faith G.K. Chesterton put it perfectly: "The way to love anything is to realize that it might be lost." If we see our enemies only in terms of the hurt they've caused, we may just want to hurt back. If we see their true humanity, their likeness to ourselves, their belovedness in the eyes of God, and their essential lostness—as we too were lost—well, then how can we help but reach out in love?
Lord- This week please help me to love my enemies, and help me not only to love them and see them as You see them, but to be a blessing to them. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen.
Pastor Hersch
Have a great night!
Shelly
"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,” Matthew 5:44
I find it rather easy to love those who love me. I love my parents, my wife and children, and my friends—no problem. I also find it fairly easy to love myself. Problem is, as Benjamin Franklin once pointed out: "He that falls in love with himself will have no rivals."
So we are called by the Lord to love another class of humanity: our enemies. Yet how to do it? Do we convince ourselves that our enemies actually deserve such a blessing? Impossible!
Here's the key: God loved us "while we were yet sinners." We didn't deserve salvation, but God saved us anyway. We can do likewise with those who persecute us.
I think the great writer and defender of the faith G.K. Chesterton put it perfectly: "The way to love anything is to realize that it might be lost." If we see our enemies only in terms of the hurt they've caused, we may just want to hurt back. If we see their true humanity, their likeness to ourselves, their belovedness in the eyes of God, and their essential lostness—as we too were lost—well, then how can we help but reach out in love?
Lord- This week please help me to love my enemies, and help me not only to love them and see them as You see them, but to be a blessing to them. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen.
Pastor Hersch
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