tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18330783704212762742024-02-19T10:39:30.972-05:00Swine With PearlsA blog about catching hold of those "pearls of wisdom" from God's word when we're living in a world of slop and mud, like pigs. Especially geared towards men, it has great truths for women too!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-6866244976878880512012-08-21T22:57:00.001-04:002012-08-21T22:57:08.674-04:00The Benefit Package Devotional<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbJoLFIegAmXQzBRmw_Gvx1WegCnTeQc9og4mGDkWaKNnd_ZhkbIcnN-yWXM6ZgTkD9Y0jB7H2QnUAjgCo0M0Sqva_ukgW60BTDVFs6x1EyXjKwHSx8m6KeoNfwlbvhcCTeoCE5mDz7em/s1600/Benefits+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbJoLFIegAmXQzBRmw_Gvx1WegCnTeQc9og4mGDkWaKNnd_ZhkbIcnN-yWXM6ZgTkD9Y0jB7H2QnUAjgCo0M0Sqva_ukgW60BTDVFs6x1EyXjKwHSx8m6KeoNfwlbvhcCTeoCE5mDz7em/s320/Benefits+Cover.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.newbeginnings-cog.com/apps/webstore/products/show/3334515" target="_blank">The Benefit Package</a> is a powerful new devotional that I had the extreme honor of being a contributing author for. It officially releases to the public on September 24th, but you can get a pre-order in and save shipping and handling! That's right! After the 24th of September, this book will sell for $9.99 plus shipping (around $3 media mail), but if you act before the 24th, your copy will be sent for only $10.00 and shipping is free! Act now and get this fantastic devotional book today!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-38500674586131619322012-08-20T19:00:00.001-04:002012-08-20T19:00:32.254-04:00Back To The Street<a href="http://www.newbeginnings-cog.com/apps/podcast/podcast/show/251321#.UDLBgE8jXDg.blogger">Podcast</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-47841098713714776182012-08-06T18:06:00.001-04:002012-08-06T18:06:40.591-04:00Back To The Altar<a href="http://www.newbeginnings-cog.com/apps/podcast/podcast/show/247808#.UCA_4lBPofI.blogger">Podcast</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-13917590474514867372012-07-29T22:39:00.001-04:002012-07-29T22:39:42.613-04:00Now Abideth...Love<a href="http://www.newbeginnings-cog.com/apps/podcast/podcast/show/246150#.UBXz4jK4XZ4.blogger">Podcast</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-12147026463921158072012-07-25T21:06:00.002-04:002012-07-25T21:06:54.451-04:00Our New Welcome Video for Our Ministry Site!<a href="http://goanimate.com/videos/0Ieydfl5wke0?utm_source=embed&uid=0zUUaiDtjVbg" target="_blank">New Beginnings Welcome</a> by <a href="http://goanimate.com/user/0zUUaiDtjVbg" target="_blank">Wendon</a> on <a href='http://goanimate.com?utm_source=embed' target="_blank">GoAnimate</a><br/><iframe scrolling="no" allowTransparency="true" frameborder="0" width="400" height="258" src="http://goanimate.com/player/embed/0Ieydfl5wke0"></iframe><br/><a href="http://goanimate.com?utm_source=embed&utm_medium=link&utm_term=Video+Maker&utm_campaign=embedse" target="_blank">Video Maker</a> - Powered by GoAnimate.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-16914548106231596242012-07-23T14:53:00.001-04:002012-07-23T14:53:03.649-04:00Can you hear me now?<a href="http://crossrivermedia.blogspot.com/2012/07/can-you-hear-me-now.html#.UA2dfYlemr0.blogger">CrossRiver Media: Can you hear me now?</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-1887193115607546342012-07-17T18:26:00.001-04:002012-07-17T18:27:00.202-04:00Owww!<div><p>In case you're wondering why I haven't been blogging lately...I dropped my guitar pick Sunday, and had to finish the set using my thumb! Oh, the sacrifices and suffering of the ministry!</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJvVZYRAKx_Spo-dcigv28ARYM43iZ4ISjGGu2VOXZa6xX-WNzof52BjXEu6kCfEpxnblvxe8ZeaMZchFxruezutAY1EgDG9K8UpbwZ0e_gGDwtIVuMilAuLIQ9u86s2wOp7F27Qecaqb/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-65385198076958488842012-07-15T21:01:00.001-04:002012-07-15T21:01:34.154-04:00Now Abideth...Faith<a href="http://www.newbeginnings-cog.com/apps/podcast/podcast/show/233912#.UANnzZ8qjcY.blogger">Podcast</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-85482884426237134962012-06-10T19:14:00.001-04:002012-06-10T19:14:12.917-04:00The Legacy You Leave<a href="http://www.newbeginnings-cog.com/apps/podcast/podcast/show/233912#.T9UqGz4esZc.blogger">Podcast</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-17573566464802642302012-06-04T10:36:00.001-04:002012-06-04T10:36:08.083-04:00How Does Your Garden Grow?<a href="http://www.newbeginnings-cog.com/apps/podcast/podcast/show/232311#.T8zHxT14sM8.blogger">Podcast - new beginnings</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-18946339909089682002012-06-01T15:31:00.000-04:002012-06-01T15:31:13.050-04:00<a href="http://crossrivermedia.blogspot.com/2012/06/its-not-great-suggestion.html">It's Not 'The Great Suggestion'</a><br />
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I'm sure there's a better way to "cross" blog, but this is the only way I know how to do it. This is a guest blog I did for my publisher, CrossRiver Media. Check it out!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-81516569572873373952012-05-25T11:11:00.000-04:002012-05-25T11:11:10.961-04:00Thoughts for Memorial Day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PRpO217xjptJaLXu9uTcqXyMKyXGQ76fkEDF3hlCgTyucjgCEuqUMWwTftOrZi86EF_HFv3QWIZ2bp_drsPoWFe0tTfQI1NHSstAl4wLEP7yECOZjXORacGmQwsIQCxgAmVViGaWFE6i/s1600/Stock+Veteran+Salute.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PRpO217xjptJaLXu9uTcqXyMKyXGQ76fkEDF3hlCgTyucjgCEuqUMWwTftOrZi86EF_HFv3QWIZ2bp_drsPoWFe0tTfQI1NHSstAl4wLEP7yECOZjXORacGmQwsIQCxgAmVViGaWFE6i/s640/Stock+Veteran+Salute.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proud To Serve</td></tr>
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There are some of you who may not know that I am a veteran. I am the son of a veteran. I am the nephew of several veterans, and cousin to some too. I also have relatives who are currently serving in the Armed Forces. We have all done our part, and in some cases--still doing, to protect this country, its people, and its freedoms. We have given of our lives and received in return; poor pay, lousy benefits, questionable healthcare, and hardships. We did it without question. Our country needed us and we served. We didn't do it for the prestige. We certainly didn't do it for the money. And if the current state of Veteran's Affairs is any indication--we didn't do it for the benefits either.</div>
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However, whatever our reasons for serving, and the lack of return for our investment, we served. And we served proudly. The sound of Reveille in the mornings and Taps in the evenings still sends a rush of emotions through our souls. The image of the American flag majestically waving in the breeze as our National Anthem plays in the background makes us stand a little straighter, and lift our heads, as we place our hands on our hearts in reverence and pride. The bonds of brotherhood unite us together, from the oldest vet to the youngest buck recruit. There's a twinkle in our eye and a resonant chord in our hearts that lets us know that no matter the unit, the branch, or the conflict, we are one: a fraternity of specially qualified individuals that cannot be breached by those less worthy. It makes us special.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfW9w22VPvMxMcOv7tImiG8a-WgjricalEfhY6VbtJMAEq-GrCNAZqQAxA2xnCGd9Iq_0QyLvqzpi9kCBqFUjKtexINOo3ngcZbydKIqzqZ25rt210x5FWD-6nCEz_F7X6LK5-f4LZn4yk/s1600/defenders-of-freedom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfW9w22VPvMxMcOv7tImiG8a-WgjricalEfhY6VbtJMAEq-GrCNAZqQAxA2xnCGd9Iq_0QyLvqzpi9kCBqFUjKtexINOo3ngcZbydKIqzqZ25rt210x5FWD-6nCEz_F7X6LK5-f4LZn4yk/s320/defenders-of-freedom.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shoulder to shoulder--brother to brother</td></tr>
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But we who have survived hold no greater honor than those who did not. In peacetime and in war, we who served still take a back seat to those who served--and died in the line of duty. The old poem says it best, "All gave some, but some gave all." For those who gave their all, there can be no greater sacrifice and no greater honor. Each of us who served and lived owes an unpayable debt to those who served and perished on our behalf.</div>
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This is <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Memorial Day</u>, and it's not a time for parties and outdoor barbecues. Those things will happen, but the intent of this day is to remember. Remember those who made that ultimate sacrifice and honor them. As Americans we owe them a debt of gratitude that cannot be contained within a single weekend once a year. But this weekend is set aside to place these men and women in a place of honor that cannot be filled with any other. Jesus Himself said that there was no greater love than a man lay down his life for another. Those who died defending this great nation, its people, and its Constitution have demonstrated a love of God, country, and fellow man that cannot compare to any other. These who died are heroes. In every sense of the word they are heroes. These fallen, these proud, these honored dead.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1asreombjsTkk3I_UEeAeYLIxjgL6gK-Fnvs5QLHBl3VbVWA5olE3KN8sUxnqLigLSEv0IFUsz3Zm4jJTlPfgh6eD8vaiwbjc8PgaHwlfMX0hE7uchxfrE4W3iRUGycSXWRzwDtIqfpi9/s1600/memorial-day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1asreombjsTkk3I_UEeAeYLIxjgL6gK-Fnvs5QLHBl3VbVWA5olE3KN8sUxnqLigLSEv0IFUsz3Zm4jJTlPfgh6eD8vaiwbjc8PgaHwlfMX0hE7uchxfrE4W3iRUGycSXWRzwDtIqfpi9/s320/memorial-day.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cost of freedom--the sacrifice of love</td></tr>
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Remember them. As you grill out; as you play in the pool, or watch the game. Remember them. Honor them. Strive to live a life worthy of their sacrifice. America owes them a debt of honor; to live without freedom, pride, and honor is to disrespect the sacrifice made in the blood of America's sons and daughters. Remember...and honor them.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEPuvGsnxuBjAxfcOVUL6X9tlQpnRU6C0UNFPBwBdzZ-S9wB_SklSmFKCpo1ZwMnMOnz_ku3cGzrPIe25lQMu1qWCMYwkPYh92uXEI41JA5ltEwh6aEIPe3KTX4HprQHD8beoPVg2hs5UL/s1600/memorial-day01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEPuvGsnxuBjAxfcOVUL6X9tlQpnRU6C0UNFPBwBdzZ-S9wB_SklSmFKCpo1ZwMnMOnz_ku3cGzrPIe25lQMu1qWCMYwkPYh92uXEI41JA5ltEwh6aEIPe3KTX4HprQHD8beoPVg2hs5UL/s320/memorial-day01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On behalf of a grateful nation...</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-5608476137379252002012-04-26T14:53:00.001-04:002012-04-26T14:53:54.812-04:00How To Be A Man: Taking Out The Trash<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSsTE9rKSdItY51Vvnq4eJvxvkrgaW_zEaOZ_GddD-avaHrylQdA-dtPR3t1SYoex7zyQ3MJnBclmanGwtC_POkeLE7yo7mUEIF8twW8oQYeKmCLGR7euzjyZ9h4NWwXEC-f2r-YUKiJ5/s1600/man-taking-the-garbage-out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSsTE9rKSdItY51Vvnq4eJvxvkrgaW_zEaOZ_GddD-avaHrylQdA-dtPR3t1SYoex7zyQ3MJnBclmanGwtC_POkeLE7yo7mUEIF8twW8oQYeKmCLGR7euzjyZ9h4NWwXEC-f2r-YUKiJ5/s640/man-taking-the-garbage-out.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garbage In...Garbage Out. It's a daily chore.</td></tr>
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I have often wondered how a small family like mine (we're only four people) can produce so much trash! Our trash pickup is only once a week, and boy do we fill those bins from Monday to Monday! Each bedroom has a trash can; both bathrooms, the kitchen, and even the den have trash receptacles; but despite all of this, I still find empty pizza boxes, squished soda bottles, and used muffin wrappers piled on tables, besides chairs, and lying on the floor, constantly needing to be picked up, thrown away, and carted out to the bins for trash pickup! And that job always seems to fall firmly in my lap.<br />
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Where does it all come from? How did it get there? The short answer is the kids, amiright? But really...it's my wife and I. We do the grocery shopping...we buy all the items that come into our home, and those items leave waste that must be disposed of. Of course, we're not a "green" family, per se, but we do care about our environment and recognize our role in being good "caretakers" of what God has given us.<br />
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So, in an effort to reduce the amount of trash we generate, we look for "reduced packaging" items, reusable materials, and try to be conscious of what comes into our home. But do we make the same effort to watch what comes into our homes spiritually? As men, we are called to be the "spiritual head" of our homes. As we've discussed in previous posts, that does not mean that you rule the roost with an iron fist, beating your wife and demanding a beer. It means doing all you can to provide an environment that encourages spiritual growth and health for you spouse and children. Just as taking out the physical trash falls to us...so does taking out the spiritual trash.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSvsFkHiPG_RX1MxlJfpXT-kSYdRCGXKjOz2i9sQ-4j-qNK-nbahPXodxVwTbd0fg6Jra5erdo2BLHLDeZL8m8FJ8XH_3o__ZRaZRp3qXbTN5p9Cws7jFx0fF2af63UQ8Tf7x16N3FSRj/s1600/tv_trash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSvsFkHiPG_RX1MxlJfpXT-kSYdRCGXKjOz2i9sQ-4j-qNK-nbahPXodxVwTbd0fg6Jra5erdo2BLHLDeZL8m8FJ8XH_3o__ZRaZRp3qXbTN5p9Cws7jFx0fF2af63UQ8Tf7x16N3FSRj/s320/tv_trash.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Hey kids..do you know what time it is?"</td></tr>
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If we're going to "take out the trash", we need to know how it gets there. Probably the most prevalent and obvious source is...the 'boob tube'. Sit back and evaluate how much TV your family is watching...and what. Hey, dad...sit down with your kids and watch their cartoons with them. Is the message, characters, and behaviors of their favorite shows creating a good spiritual environment? More than likely, you might find that those "silly cartoons" are actually encouraging your kids to be disrespectful, rude, and know more about things than is appropriate for their age.<br />
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Now, I'm not trying to tell you what to watch. I wouldn't dream of giving you a list of programs to avoid--simply because I don't want you doing that to me! But I would suggest that as a parent, and as a father-the spiritual authority in your home, you need to be aware of what is coming into your home through your TV. Likewise, pay attention to the musical choices your children and teens make, as well as their video game selections. Be aware...pay attention...and take out the trash that is trying to come into you life!<br />
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Now that you've identified the source of the "trash", you need to find alternatives. I'll be the first to admit that most Christian TV is boring. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy. But, and here's a thought, do we have to replace <i>BAD TV</i> with <i>WORSE TV</i>? Do we have to replace it with TV at all? How about spending that time outdoors? Maybe take a day hike, or play a rousing game of catch...anything that will replace the bad with good, moral, spiritual, and loving family bonds!<br />
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Okay, the "kid's room" is cleaned. Now...how about your wife's domain? What can you help her with that will "clean out the trash" in her life? Approaching it delicately, maybe you could suggest that instead of spending the evening on Facebook...you and she could have a "couple's devotional", or play a couple of hands of "trash train" after the kids go to bed...or better yet, go out on a clear, cool night, snuggle up on the patio set, sipping coffee and watch the stars, concluding the evening with a genuine time of prayer together and a passionate kiss goodnight? She'll be so surprised by your sudden and genuine interest in her, that she may "swoon" in your arms!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPl2kiWPOVQwfqP73vAU9xkQ_KFbTBUsFUqvcOsYjEaVOMmRKlqypJed8ysi7BWmgNoYo4BwtNcPnWUYI6XtT9yPEPGOjgZw9zgIgR0sBbB-BrR7yUYcvdcVro6emsiOr56YOWMUAJ6d2x/s1600/scarlett+and+rhett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPl2kiWPOVQwfqP73vAU9xkQ_KFbTBUsFUqvcOsYjEaVOMmRKlqypJed8ysi7BWmgNoYo4BwtNcPnWUYI6XtT9yPEPGOjgZw9zgIgR0sBbB-BrR7yUYcvdcVro6emsiOr56YOWMUAJ6d2x/s1600/scarlett+and+rhett.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Frankly, my dear...I DO give a darn!"</td></tr>
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Alrighty then. Now that you've won "brownie points" with the wife, let's take a look at the trash in YOUR life! Where's it coming from? Those "late night" television shows that are really inappropriate for a godly, married man to be watching? Those internet sites? I won't belabor the point, since I've already dedicated a whole post to making a covenant with your eyes. But what are your alternatives?<br />
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My mother, sainted woman that she is, has told me this a hundred times, "I don't care if there's a fresh T-Bone steak at the bottom of the dust bin, it's not worth digging through the trash to get it." Find alternatives to that "trash" that seems to fill up your life. Whatever entertainment, value, or macho verification you get out of that stuff...it's just not worth it. Spiritually speaking, there is nothing greater than being the true "spiritual head" of your home and see your wife and children grow and blossom into what God wants them to be.<br />
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I know. It's tedious...it's hard...it's boring. But, like a clean home is worth the effort of getting those old, moldy bread heels out to the kitchen and out to the curb. Then a spiritually clean home is worth the effort to make decisions, even hard ones, to make sure that your home is pleasing to God. I'm not talking legalism here. I'm talking a genuine desire to serve God, and raise your family to do the same. That means "manning up" and get it done. It's time to take out the trash.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-36621062549132710152012-04-19T20:21:00.001-04:002012-04-26T15:01:28.397-04:00How To Be A Man: Never Hit A Woman!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkQ-xyp8itFJLXtOdHoPqYuUpPO8ErNROXRxwVLSehgYNAgicaGJt9xPhSGIhUTd6GrqNVo953KWTaoYp9uhqLpMiuAzthtl_ag49GHsXmQmDKj5gl7i-EoRbt2L722RVnTS8uBNiLxJdk/s1600/Domestic-Abuse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkQ-xyp8itFJLXtOdHoPqYuUpPO8ErNROXRxwVLSehgYNAgicaGJt9xPhSGIhUTd6GrqNVo953KWTaoYp9uhqLpMiuAzthtl_ag49GHsXmQmDKj5gl7i-EoRbt2L722RVnTS8uBNiLxJdk/s640/Domestic-Abuse.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Does this make you feel like a man? Huh, does it?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Don't do it. Just don't. And don't EVER say that God said it's okay for you to beat your wife. You will burn in a hell fire greater than any other! Go back and read my post on loving your wife. And if I ever find out you hit you wife...may heaven help you! Need I say more? JUST DON'T DO IT! It doesn't make you a man...it makes you a BULLY! It makes you hated by your wife, your children, your neighbors, your extended family...and it is hated by God. Get yourself in check and step back. DON'T HIT A WOMAN---EVER!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-46003262289304453672012-04-17T21:01:00.000-04:002012-04-17T21:35:23.903-04:00How To Be A Man: Take Up Your Cross<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jSxIdLNnznBhOAAAcM5nUZfK-1cMfqF0RUrl-i53iXXL7ZNJz8_GeEh5C8onGiOnjnrxQXGTo0TtZlQW0LIDDsKj_JL5otTSwOmKGHNRC3jgFb-ovRRkL2NeT3Cx1fr7CZr8u8bsSRvq/s1600/loungechaircrross.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="507" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jSxIdLNnznBhOAAAcM5nUZfK-1cMfqF0RUrl-i53iXXL7ZNJz8_GeEh5C8onGiOnjnrxQXGTo0TtZlQW0LIDDsKj_JL5otTSwOmKGHNRC3jgFb-ovRRkL2NeT3Cx1fr7CZr8u8bsSRvq/s640/loungechaircrross.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Cruci-Lounger" by LaZee Boy! Now being a Christian is easier than ever!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We're taught all our life that "real men" are tough, show no weakness, never cry, and never give up. Except when it comes to daily living for Christ. The hardship of true discipleship seems to escape us under the guise of "It's a crutch" or "Religion is only for women and children".<br />
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How is it that the toughest task in all the world is either relegated to "pansyism" or "weakness"? Or worse yet, we carry our Christianity with the same effort and care as we carry a pocket hankey--just in case. Either way, we've adopted the idea that Christianity is as easy as sitting in our recliner and popping our feet up.<br />
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Okay, I hear you saying, "Isn't Christianity supposed to be easy? Didn't Jesus say that if we take His yoke on us that our burden would be light?" Um. yeah. Remind me to visit a blog about THAT later. Anyway, while Christianity isn't meant to be UNBEARABLE...it isn't exactly EASY either.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgilAihNH3CUu6nbsWD2K6q-IAot2cLnn1ww2JF4t39Vn6t6OmOSEWRf67i8PFXMC0-XpUHvPaKAav0qPAD12h2NDuYMPtHCblkBBQBrMhimpkgbKX6isk8oKqIsC5BTpzP_ZQECwZBh72/s1600/jesus_inside_tshirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgilAihNH3CUu6nbsWD2K6q-IAot2cLnn1ww2JF4t39Vn6t6OmOSEWRf67i8PFXMC0-XpUHvPaKAav0qPAD12h2NDuYMPtHCblkBBQBrMhimpkgbKX6isk8oKqIsC5BTpzP_ZQECwZBh72/s320/jesus_inside_tshirt.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Been there, done that...got the T-Shirt!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Christianity is more than just a comfy, tagless t-shirt. It's more than your holey (holy, get it?) underwear and baggy sweats. Christianity is a lifestyle that is opposed to our natural, sinful nature. Our comfortable, "go-to" behavior is at odds with what God's Spirit wants in us! Even Paul struggled in this regard:<br />
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<i><b>Romans 7:14-15</b></i><i><b> (KJV)</b></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">14</span>For we know that the law is spiritual: <b><u>but I am carnal</u></b>, sold under sin.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">15</span><b><u>For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.</u></b></i></div>
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The internal struggle that all men (and women for that matter) endure makes it impossible for life in the Spirit to be a cake-walk. Like Paul, we KNOW what we should do, but find that we DON'T do it. And vice-versa. What we know we SHOULDN'T DO, we fall back into that old, familiar habit again and again. Where's the easy again?</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibexDwqGe2ELIVvefkzc6XToyThaoEM1jzGibH3fzIO8Q1FJtWfBH5TeEEy43eNC8GkEQjiqRYV5gyUV8ibuIY3dvas_i-9oDTqrTeQk7ZLhT4wTaiYnngzgRHHI1j4IMmE257WLIKkAkt/s1600/easy-button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibexDwqGe2ELIVvefkzc6XToyThaoEM1jzGibH3fzIO8Q1FJtWfBH5TeEEy43eNC8GkEQjiqRYV5gyUV8ibuIY3dvas_i-9oDTqrTeQk7ZLhT4wTaiYnngzgRHHI1j4IMmE257WLIKkAkt/s320/easy-button.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If only it were so...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If we war in our flesh to do right and live by the Spirit...and let's be honest for a moment, it ain't easy (see the post on making covenant with your eyes), what can we do? Paul said we should crucify the flesh (Romans 6:6) so that the "old man" is destroyed and we are "new creatures" (2 Corinthians 5:17). To put like simply...hear the words of Christ:</div>
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<i><b>Matthew 10:38</b></i><i><b> (KJV)</b></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">38</span>And <b><u>he that taketh not his cross</u></b>, and followeth after me, <b><u>is not worthy of me</u></b>.</i></div>
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Ouch! If we're NOT willing to take up our cross then we are not worthy of Christ? Okay. So...does He mean wear a cross on a necklace? Walk around town with a wood cross on our back (I actually know a guy who does this)? Walk from coast to coast with a cross on a wheel--attracting media attention? Somehow, knowing what Christ went through with His cross, I seriously doubt this is what He meant about OUR cross.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG66OC4Q-aoro0PTglsOzdNf7_wt4KnG1prDnsEMNSNn1tv6CMKqRfLbbiMli7YR_b22lEmyvGlY6o6f95kTSX66ZKUM5RlsueVshZEnXdqX1D6GZj02-r78045A1X_zSJagFcJJbyikpy/s1600/marshmallow-cross.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG66OC4Q-aoro0PTglsOzdNf7_wt4KnG1prDnsEMNSNn1tv6CMKqRfLbbiMli7YR_b22lEmyvGlY6o6f95kTSX66ZKUM5RlsueVshZEnXdqX1D6GZj02-r78045A1X_zSJagFcJJbyikpy/s1600/marshmallow-cross.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">marshmallow cross...so light, fluffy and sweet!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Being a Christian isn't something easy. It's not a "crutch" or only for women and children. It's tough. But it's worth it. It's a daily struggle, but the win at the end makes it doable. Runners don't start the race and then quit half way through. They run to win. They discipline themselves, they diet, they work out--constantly. They force themselves to push through the "I don't wannas" and the runner's "wall". They press on to the finish line. Why? To win the prize! The prize we strive for is not of this earth. It's not a t-shirt or trophy. It's not riches or fame. It's not anything that can be measured by other men. It's the joy of hearing "Well done, my good and faithful servant!"<br />
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Are you up to the challenge? Can you "man up" and face the hardship of following Christ? Will you take up your cross and bear it <i>daily</i> for the cause of the Kingdom? I can't answer that question for you, but I can tell you this. If you can't stand for Him before the world, why should He stand for you before the Father? </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-73330504589129973022012-03-22T13:53:00.002-04:002012-03-25T13:10:17.754-04:00How To Be A Man: Make Covenant With Your Eyes<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqS8fkfgOlAPnpzXvRSh_x8lg4d1jEAEBqS0i9oLj04Ni_VOT-et6I74MBEDOl8YldyyFV9omxh18ti-PALzujJA0l0a_pP3k0ufEBR9u5ezk0ZUQVkDfAac4WqDdTAXjbegdTvQxFZI6/s1600/eyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqS8fkfgOlAPnpzXvRSh_x8lg4d1jEAEBqS0i9oLj04Ni_VOT-et6I74MBEDOl8YldyyFV9omxh18ti-PALzujJA0l0a_pP3k0ufEBR9u5ezk0ZUQVkDfAac4WqDdTAXjbegdTvQxFZI6/s640/eyes.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where the eyes lead...the body follows.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Modesty. It's a HOT topic among women. They debate over the length of their skirts, the size of their hair, and the amount of makeup on their face. They disagree about most every avenue of modesty except for one thing. Men can't control their lust. So they have to take it upon themselves to keep your libido in check. They've even gone so far as to insinuate that IF they fail to keep you from lusting, then they have sinned a nearly unpardonable sin! Now...WHERE would they get that idea?<br />
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"It's the woman's fault!" Men have been saying this since...well, the beginning of time! When Adam blamed Eve for the fall of mankind, he started the ball rolling, and the buck passing. We've been blaming our sins and shortcomings on others ever since...especially our wives or women in general. Have a problem with lust? Blame the woman. Addicted to porn? Blame the women. Sexually unsatisfied? Blame your woman.<br />
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Okay, here's the deal. It's time we "man up" and take responsibility for our own sin. Here. Look at what Jesus said:<br />
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<i><i><b>Matthew 5:28 </b></i></i></div>
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<i><i><b>(KJV)</b></i></i></div>
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<i><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">28</span>But I say unto you, That <u><b>whosoever looketh</b></u> on a woman <u><b>to lust</b></u> after her <u style="font-weight: bold;">hath committed adultery </u>with her <u style="font-weight: bold;">already in his heart</u>.</i></i></div>
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Wait, what? Whoever does the looking with the intent to lust is the one who committed the sin of adultery in HIS heart? You mean, it's NOT THE WOMAN'S FAULT? Does this mean that every man is responsible for his own lusts and that it's not about how modestly the woman dresses? Well, yeah. That's kinda what Jesus is saying there. If YOU look to LUST then YOU SIN! But, what about those short skirts? What about those "painted hussies"? What about porn that's all over the internet and the sexually suggestive ads and billboards? How can we NOT LOOK? How can we NOT lust? How can we NOT sin?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sRKE3FQ1jlsSaN8-TfB2M6xlLCYBSKJr5LSRmo_2Fhkc7SJLRJTlK53LeOFVnlklozGGANI9xz9gK0oPcSivklW8rJgtdPzctgOzQWuIDsX1DE26xBwFYq31ssz9wGjt8M7wd-8SNmud/s1600/neon+sin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sRKE3FQ1jlsSaN8-TfB2M6xlLCYBSKJr5LSRmo_2Fhkc7SJLRJTlK53LeOFVnlklozGGANI9xz9gK0oPcSivklW8rJgtdPzctgOzQWuIDsX1DE26xBwFYq31ssz9wGjt8M7wd-8SNmud/s320/neon+sin.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In today's society, sin cries out for our attention like a neon sign!</td></tr>
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Good question. What can WE do to avoid committing sin through the lust of our eyes? We can't blame the women anymore. Those poor dears are running themselves frantic trying to figure out how to keep you from stumbling in sin. We can't go through life with our eyes closed at the risk of running head long into a lamp post or coffee table and scraping our shins! And we all know what THAT leads too. The temptation to take the Lord's name in vain might become greater than our temptation to lust!</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKKE80tbzmhvab8QbPw2KDyHd4r9qtU5EmXXySkMrKuW5DhMR0Wlk1OWSqTsXlDS-T6YAskk6G-a1CHhafidTzu25xlMDqQLr4N6O7W7GqdhzYttlpphyphenhyphen-qKPPVSD9PUP6DcRgRIROC4m/s1600/cantseeyou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKKE80tbzmhvab8QbPw2KDyHd4r9qtU5EmXXySkMrKuW5DhMR0Wlk1OWSqTsXlDS-T6YAskk6G-a1CHhafidTzu25xlMDqQLr4N6O7W7GqdhzYttlpphyphenhyphen-qKPPVSD9PUP6DcRgRIROC4m/s320/cantseeyou.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La la la la. I can't see you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So. We can't make temptation go away. We can't avoid looking and seeing things. But we can CHOOSE not to lust. Go back up and read that quote from Matthew again. Go ahead. I'll wait. What did He say? If WE look TO LUST..." That means we can choose how we look at things! That young woman in the next next check out lane wearing the ridiculously short Daisy Dukes? You see it, but you don't have to lust. That mammoth sized billboard announcing the appearance of a certain adult movie star at a local gentlemen's club that reveals more than necessary? Yeah. Just keep driving. That pop-up on your computer inviting you to "chat" with a woman in your town? There's a reason there's a red "X" up in the corner. Click it.<br />
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Make the choice. Don't close your eyes and pretend you don't see. Don't blame your bad decision on the woman. Don't just give in because you're a "red-blooded, American male" and that's what you do. Don't act like it's okay. It's not. It's sin. And YOU will be held accountable for YOUR OWN SIN. No excuses. No scape-goats. No one else to blame.<br />
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I hear you saying, "It's not that easy! I've been struggling with this porn addiction or this over-active libido all my life!" I know. I've walked that road myself. And I'd be lying if I said I don't still struggle with it from time to time. BUT...I've made my choice. I choose NOT to lust. I've chosen not to fall into that temptation again. I've made a covenant with my eyes. Here. Read what Job said:<br />
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<i><b>Job 31:1 (KJV)</b></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span><b><u>I</u></b> made a <b><u>covenant with mine eyes</u></b>; why then should I think upon a maid?</i></div>
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A covenant is a pact...an agreement...a contract, if you will. It means that you will do whatever it takes to fulfill your obligation to whom you made the covenant with. By covenanting with your eyes, you are making a promise that you will NOT let what they see lead you into sin. You are making a commitment to turn away from whatever temptation you eyes might behold. It means you will hold YOURSELF accountable to avoid falling into sin.</div>
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But you can't do that? Really? I thought you were a red-blooded, American male? You can do anything! Take charge of yourself! Bring your body into submission. Be A Man!</div>
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Okay, somewhere in there, I flashed back to the High School football coach. Weird. The pep talk it over and it's time to take the field. Who will win the conflict that wars within each of us? The enemy, that lustful temptation that so easily trips us up, is taunting us everywhere we turn. But we have a secret weapon...a play from the playbook our coach wrote Himself.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>Matthew 18:9</i><i><div style="display: inline !important;">
<i> (KJV)</i></div>
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<i><div style="display: inline !important;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">9</span>And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.</i></div>
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See? How simple and utterly enemy-confusing is that? If the enemy wins over you because of your eyes by what you see...then cut out the offense! Now, I'm not suggesting you pluck out your physical eye (go back about five paragraphs to read why), but you can cut off the thing that leads you into temptation. If you struggle with internet porn...get a porn blocker and let your wife set the password. Trouble with the "gentlemen's club" advertisements? Find an alternative way home. Certain movies on HBO keeping you up at night with lust? Get rid of HBO. If you cut off the venue in which the temptation gets the victory over you then there can no longer be a victory! It really IS that simple!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikiRa7vCEI0UIDSNXZyCalR3DY6XGXl7px4aIjtzS4SpEQZf8-9gpTUbiIGx3WkKkAvvHBUAA_WXu7B-zWuFaQHIjxwwnq_jE5RDkyGjyuXv-94zIp0JhkvQuTMSmJ4v4CqeIfC0p6mtSS/s1600/yes-no-buttons1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikiRa7vCEI0UIDSNXZyCalR3DY6XGXl7px4aIjtzS4SpEQZf8-9gpTUbiIGx3WkKkAvvHBUAA_WXu7B-zWuFaQHIjxwwnq_jE5RDkyGjyuXv-94zIp0JhkvQuTMSmJ4v4CqeIfC0p6mtSS/s320/yes-no-buttons1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To lust or not to lust, that IS the question! Now choose wisely.</td></tr>
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And simple is something we men understand, right? It's not brain surgery or rocket science. You just choose. Will you lust or not? Own your choice...quit blaming others, especially women, and do the right thing. Be a man...a Man of God. Make the right choice.</div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833078370421276274.post-23625108797193963882012-03-20T16:47:00.001-04:002012-03-25T13:10:39.913-04:00How To Be A Man: Love Like Christ<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86-2cxVeIaMMlRydOf_ecwqKqRtRVVxyFwdHyOT3owzSYgjfuVSldtKBk8NIG1wYgdWIx4Bs3-I52J3nDhb-XTR6XIEomn2-AmiLQvtiRASC7U-_cu4M9QoZewYoeii22QfRUlM9YG4-o/s1600/heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86-2cxVeIaMMlRydOf_ecwqKqRtRVVxyFwdHyOT3owzSYgjfuVSldtKBk8NIG1wYgdWIx4Bs3-I52J3nDhb-XTR6XIEomn2-AmiLQvtiRASC7U-_cu4M9QoZewYoeii22QfRUlM9YG4-o/s640/heart.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love takes more than words. It takes time, effort, and most of all...heart.</td></tr>
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I have been amazed, of late, at the number of women who have been told by their husbands, their families, and their churches that they are to submit to their husbands in obedience to Scripture. This same instruction is reinforced over the airways of certain television and radio programs. However, while scriptural, the implied meaning of these well-meaning souls is that the woman is a slave to her husband, his whims and needs, with no rights or respect of her own. Some even take this to an extreme that the woman is to submit to ALL men in authority over her, including her pastor, church elders, and others.<br />
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But I'm not here to talk about what that Scripture means for women, my purpose here is to show the flip side of that same passage as it pertains to men. First, let's look at the actual wording of the scripture in question:<br />
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<b><i>Ephesians 5:21-33 (KJV)</i></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">21</span>Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">22</span>Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">23</span>For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">24</span>Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">25</span>Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">26</span>That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">27</span>That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">28</span>So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">29</span>For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">30</span>For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">31</span>For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">32</span>This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">33</span>Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.</i></div>
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Now, let's review. In this paragraph that begins the whole thought process on submission by admonishing us all to submit to each other in the fear of the Lord, we see several verses devoted to how husbands AND wives are to relate to each other. Let's count them, shall we?</div>
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Commands to the Wives:</div>
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<li>Wives submit to their OWN husbands AS TO THE LORD. (emphasis mine)</li>
<li>Wives are subject to their husbands in everything, just as the CHURCH IS SUBJECT TO CHRIST!</li>
<li>Wives need to see that they reverence their husbands.</li>
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Okay. Three times in this paragraph Paul commands and reminds us that wives are to submit, be subject to, and reverence their husbands...BUT, what about the rest of that passage? Who is it talking to? Could it be---HUSBANDS? (That sounds better if you say it out loud in your best "Church Lady" voice.)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5WYJGTOZakH8taCptc-N9krTb8nxksOj7yWM3dHOU0_zUdJf280UzYi8CE02NIHsOZ3_7VyTFx3dCqMj_YrotcQgNk_IMCg7lLKBnGvSSP4Vnskcpbjyn3kngS8o4nkx1FkTrCS9O8-Mo/s1600/churchlady.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5WYJGTOZakH8taCptc-N9krTb8nxksOj7yWM3dHOU0_zUdJf280UzYi8CE02NIHsOZ3_7VyTFx3dCqMj_YrotcQgNk_IMCg7lLKBnGvSSP4Vnskcpbjyn3kngS8o4nkx1FkTrCS9O8-Mo/s320/churchlady.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Could it be...HUSBANDS?" Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm?</td></tr>
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So...what does Paul tell the husbands to do? I'm glad you asked. Let's take a look!</div>
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Commands to the Husbands:</div>
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<ol>
<li>Husbands are to be the head of the wife AS CHRIST IS THE HEAD OF THE BODY!</li>
<li>Husbands are to be the SAVIOR of the wife just as Christ is the savior of the church.</li>
<li>Husbands are to love their wives AS CHRIST LOVES, and are to GIVE THEMSELVES FOR HER! </li>
<li>Husbands are to "wash her" and "sanctify her" through the "water of the Word".</li>
<li>He is to present her as "glorious", without "spot or wrinkle", being her holiness.</li>
<li>He should love her as he loves HIS OWN BODY, nourishing and cherishing her LIKE CHRIST DOES FOR THE CHURCH.</li>
<li>He is to become "one flesh" with her--abandoning his own parents in favor of her.</li>
<li>And again, reminding men to love their wives as themselves.</li>
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Oh. Wait. The men have EIGHT commands and the women only have THREE? What happened to equality of the sexes? Why do the men have so many more then the wives? Well, the simple answer is because the Spirit, as he inspired Paul to write this, knew that men take things to the extreme. We like to read verse 22 and make sure we put our wives in their place when then dare to buck up against us and our selfish agenda.</div>
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Yeah, I said that. When we don't get what we want because our wife dares to confront us on it, we like to "Bible whip" her back into shape and remind her that her place is barefoot, pregnant, and silent in the kitchen! But a thorough reading of this later half of Ephesians 5 seems to reveal that the love we have for our wives doesn't come from her "submission" and obedience to our will and whims, but rather the opposite. Her submission and obedience comes from OUR Christ-like love for her! Christ's love is a sacrificial love, an abased love, a love that is tender, caring, and supportive!</div>
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Our love for our wives is to mirror the love Christ has for us. He GAVE HIMSELF for us. Literally. He laid down His life on a cross and died for you. When was the last time you laid down your life and died for your wife? When was the last time you laid down your own personal wants and desires in deference to her? When did you crucify your own passions and needs to lift hers up?</div>
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Christ did not come and demand our submission. He offered Himself through love, giving us His righteousness (when our own was filthy rags and would condemn us to hell) so that we could made pure and holy. Christ never "Bible whipped" us when we got out of line. Instead, He forgave us...even while on the cross where OUR sins put Him. Christ is more concerned with helping each of us reach our full potential for the Kingdom of God than in how we dress or what we eat. Are you doing everything you can to help you wife grow into the woman of God that she needs to be? Or are you more concerned with making sure she has YOUR supper on the table and YOUR beer in your hand?</div>
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How does your love for your wife reflect the love of Christ for you? Are you "washing (pouring out over)" her with the Spirit and the Word? Are you praying over her and "sanctifying (setting apart)" her to God's special purpose? Do you care for her and nourish her with your own love and adoration? No matter what she's done, do you always present her in the light of perfection...not just to others, but to yourself? Is she still held in the same awe as she was when she first walked down the aisle to your side to say "I do."? How are you loving your wife? Try loving her with the heart of Christ. You might be surprised at how her "submission", "obedience", and "reverence" increases as she sees, feels, and flows in the love that supports her and lifts her up instead of beating and holding her down.</div>
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Love like Christ.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYufZT0laYAhzuPIe1a4l4aPK_UBzQbOq1DHD3ZJpCWar5tObjA9k4q6xfwOVXckFdFf7pnByU7zWTsNlzdDCFerf2LG38fiTnWMwjFNyvVNqifCUM3hY0foLv6f_HnzMH7l18nPBZqmFU/s1600/nail-scarred-hands2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYufZT0laYAhzuPIe1a4l4aPK_UBzQbOq1DHD3ZJpCWar5tObjA9k4q6xfwOVXckFdFf7pnByU7zWTsNlzdDCFerf2LG38fiTnWMwjFNyvVNqifCUM3hY0foLv6f_HnzMH7l18nPBZqmFU/s320/nail-scarred-hands2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"...Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her."</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247509182832509470noreply@blogger.com3