Weekly Articles by Rev. Denny Smith, Founder and Director of Christian Love Ministries

Drug Addiction and Christian Recovery

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 05:26:00 +0000

One of the main reasons it has been so difficult, I believe, to find adequate and sufficient treatment over the past decade or so is due to the fact that insurance companies are requiring so much more of the individual and his or her policy. Certain limitations and coverage technicalities have allowed insurance companies to "escape" without having to pay for even a part of drug and alcohol treatment and recovery. Perhaps for this reason so many have found it easier to seek treatment from Christian organizations which deal with and manage such societal deficiencies.

As the cost for treatment for addiction and alcoholism soared in the 1980's many drug insurance companies began to create policies which did not cover entrance to a facility. Who would be filling out paper work and circle themselves or a family member as an addict or alcoholic anyways?

Addiction to alcohol or drugs is classified as an illness and is understood by the treatment community to be a disease, but many Christian leaders have found they hold the keys to answering the problem and have responded by creating Christ based recovery centers all over the United States. These centers fill a very broad spectrum of curriculum and adhere to varying ideologies and doctrines. Finding one of these centers that suits can be especially difficult.

Christian Love Ministries, in Murphy NC has offered treatment for addictions since 1986. Perhaps as an answer to receding numbers of treatment options, God called the founder of CLM to start building this treatment center in the early 1980's. Three times its Market Place thrift store would be washed away with the Hiawassee River. Many additions and building plans were created without the funding for their creation. The money simply would prove to be their right when necessity called for their implementation. Thus, the ministry has never had to take on a loan or pay off any debts since opening.

The success of Christian Love Ministries has touched the lives of 1000's of individuals over the years. Many have only been participants as volunteers, donors or as Wednesday church service leaders at the ministry. These volunteer and staff positions have been filled by just the right person at just the right time to offer an individual and unique approach to treatment at Christian Love Ministries. As a student entering the program one is met with confidence, respect and assurance that their needs will be met and filled.

Over the years a separate center for women has been planned, built and continues to thrive. Even working at their own market place in Blairsville, GA, Mary's House has been able to offer what truly lacks in the area of addiction treatment- recovery for women. Dealing with issues specific to gender has been either overlooked or ignored by many programs mistakenly as they came to fruition. An entire program geared towards women's issues is crucial to being effective on an individual level.

Post treatment care at Christian Love Ministries goes a step farther than traditional centers by including a halfway house for men and women. As addicts try to get their lives back in order, many of them have found that living with other addicts and a specific set of guidelines has become necessary. Christian Love Ministries attempts to answer specific demands on an individual level. While offering this tailored and individual treatment, CLM has become a true leader in the field of Christian Recovery.

Most of the programs which are in operation currently were not open when Christian Love Ministries answered a calling by God to help other addicts. The ministries have served to offer a tremendous amount of support and guidance to other centers as they each became self- sufficient. Many of the students that Christian Love has graduated have become drug an alcohol addictions counselors. A connection with a local community college program encourages such scholastic achievement.

If you or anyone you know has a problem or addiction to drugs and / or alcohol, you should contact one of the licensed counselors at Christian Love Ministries for help.

Christian Love Ministries Blog, April 23, 2010.

Unknowingly Cursed?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 29 May 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Have you ever “played” with a Ouija board, gone to a fortune teller, called a psychic, or drawn an “X” on your windshield when a black cat ran across the road in front of you? If so, chances are very good that the devil, or one of his demons has a hold of some kind in your soul (mind, will, emotions): “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but, rather, reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret” (Ephesians 5:11-12). Please don’t fall down laughing yet. The devil is doing his best work when he has people convinced “there’s nothing wrong with what I’m doing.” If you have taken part in any of the following you could have unknowingly cursed yourself, or others: gone to a fortune teller, had your palm read, read your horoscope in the newspaper, read Jean Dixon, etc. had your astrological chart drawn out, consulted an astrologer, had Tarot cards read over you, gone to a séance, indulged in levitation, used a medium, witch, or warlock, clairvoyant, E.S.P. practitioner, had your tea-leaves read, or coffee grounds, or bones cast to tell your fortune, called on a necromancer, cast a spell or had one cast on you, taken part in “magic,” studied voodoo or attended a black mass, seen ghosts, goblins, elves, etc., indulged in homosexuality, been involved with a religious cult, viewed or read pornography, been hypnotized, observed Halloween, been addicted to rock & roll music, been a drunk or drug addict, or any activity you wonder “is this alright/ should I be doing this?” If you, or someone you know has taken part in any of these activities, chances are good that you’ve given the right to the devil, or demons to attack and oppress you: “Neither give place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:27). There are many more occult activities than these. If you wonder if something’s wrong with what you’re doing, it is wrong.

The resources God has provided for you to use are prayer, and bodily control: “this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting” (Matthew 17:21). If that verse is missing in your Bible, you need to get yourself another Bible.

If this article applies to you there are 4 steps you need o take: (1)Confess the sin. Tell God specifically what did (see 1^st John 1:9). (2)Claim the blood of Jesus on that sin; “the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin” (1^st John 1:7b). (3) Accept forgiveness because Christ died for that sin (see 1^st John 2:2). (4) Ask God to take back the spot/place in your soul that you gave to the devil when you indulged in those activities, and beg God to claim that spot/ place for Himself: “Neither give place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:27). Ignorance is no excuse (see Ephesians 4:18). God provides the way out (see 1^st Corinthians 10:13). I’m sure you had no idea you had unknowingly cursed yourself by being involved in the above.

________________

By Reverend Denny Smith of Christian Love Ministries; Article also found in The Cherokee Scout newspaper of Murphy, NC

God Created Man

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 29 May 2009 18:55:00 +0000

“God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them” (Genesis 1:27). I was very curious to see the fossil that was in the news this week. Supposedly it was found over a year ago, and kept secret until this week. It was talked about as the “missing link” between animal and man in the evolutionary pathway. It surprised me to see that it was an animal with fur, and a long tail not much bigger than a cat. Artists drew what it must have looked like, and it greatly resembled a lemur. How in the world did this become such a big story? I praise God for science, and the many good things mankind has researched and helped us to understand our world and the lives we live, but that theory is such a big stretch. There is no missing link to be found. God created man.

Science has proven that every human descended from one common ancestor, a man that lived in the area of where Iraq is today. The Bible speaks of him as “Adam,” an ancient word that simply means “the first man.” Why is that so hard to believe? Opinions are like belly-buttons. Everybody has one. The evolutionary theory is an interesting opinion, but according to the Word of God that’s just not how it happened; “The Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there He put the man whom He had formed” (Genesis 2:7-8).

I thank God for the measure of faith He gives each human; “God has dealt to every man the measure of faith” (Romans 12:3). The word faith simply means “believing, and receiving every thing God has revealed in the Scriptures.” The smarter a person perceives themselves to be seems to make it hard for them to keep it simple. The answer to everything we need to know is right there in one book, the best selling book there has every been, or ever will be- the Bible. It means what it says. Won’t you make the decision right now to find your answers there? “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you;” (Matthew 7:7). “Search the Scriptures” (John 5:39.) “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).

____________

By Reverend Denny Smith of Christian Love Ministries; Article found in the Cherokee Scout

Every Living Thing is Suffering

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 20 May 2009 00:37:00 +0000

I try hard not to whine, but the first thought I remember having this morning was “I’m so tired of being in pain.” I’m fortunate to be alive. I broke my neck in a car-wreck thirty years ago, and I live with chronic pain. I’ve learned to thank God that I’m alive, rather than to give in to self-pity. The Bible says: “the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together” (Romans 8:22). Every living thing on this planet is suffering.

The Living Bible paraphrase of that verse says; “even the things of nature, like animals and plants suffer in sickness and death.” We have a big old daddy Canada Goose that limps terribly every step he takes, protecting and teaching the little brood of 5 hatchlings he and his mate have how to survive on planet earth. He and his wife return to our pond every year. We know it’s the same pair because of his limp. My son found a small box turtle Tuesday of this week. It’s shell was badly broken in three places where it had been injured. It’s not going to die from its injuries, but it makes me hurt to look at it, knowing that it too, lives in pain.

There’s a strange kind of comfort that comes when we realize we are not the only ones hurting: “there hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man” (1^st Corinthians 10:13). Everyone, and everything suffers. That’s why “all creation is waiting patiently and hopefully for that future day when God will resurrect His children. For on that day thorns and thistles, sin, death, and decay- the things that overcame the world against its will at God’s command- will all disappear, and the world around us will share in the glorious freedom from sin which God’s children enjoy” (Romans 8:19-21 Living Bible Paraphrase).

God’s children have always suffered. Can you imagine what the Apostle Paul must have looked like with his shirt off? “5 times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods. Once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck” (read 2 Corinthians 11:23-28). Beaten with a cat of nine tails for 39 licks usually killed a person. Paul went through that 5 times! Paul was ultimately beheaded by two Roman esquires, Ferega and Parthemius in 67 a.d. (Foxes book of Marytrs). Jerome says Peter was crucified upside down. Bartholomew was beaten, crucified, and beheaded in Albinopolis, Armenia. Andrew also was crucified. Matthew was killed with a spear by Hercanus, the king of Ethiopia.

James was thrown off the highest wall of the Temple in Jerusalem. That didn’t kill him, so a huge pole that was used to stir laundry in boiling pots was used to beat him to death. They buried him right there where he fell. The other James was crucified in Egypt during the reign of Trajun, the Roman emporer. Hebrews 11:35-38 says many were “tortured, mocked, scourged, slain with the sword and even sawn asunder (sawed in half!). Every living thing suffers. Some more than other.

How's Your Thought-Life?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 20 May 2009 00:35:00 +0000

We experienced a great tragedy in our home last week. One of our miniature horses had her baby colt in the middle of the night. It couldn’t free itself from the plastic-like sack it had been formed in for the past 11 months, and it suffocated and died. Our daughter, Brandi is the animal lover of the family, and the experience crushed her soul, bringing on uncontrollable weeping. She said: “I’ve lost so many animals!” It truly broke our hearts. Life is so hard, and a harsh reality is that suffering is a part of life we need to expect, and prepare for.

Every living thing on this planet is suffering because sin is, and suffering is, and Satan is. These three facts of life must be factored into our thinking: “Take captive every thought” (2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV). The Revised Standard version of the Bible says: “take every thought captive.” This is a matter of personal responsibility. It is up to us how we allow ourselves to think. Join me right now, and let this become your belief, and your attitude by saying: “I must take charge of my thinking!” God cares about everything we go through. He is aware of it, and He is always there to go through it with us: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5). God is faithful. We don’t know why some things happen, but we need to always remember Romans 8:28-29; “all things work together for good.” How is it going to work out for good? Because the things we go through help to make us more like Jesus all the time.

God has predestinated that we should be conformed to the image of His Son. There are only two kinds of events we face in this life- (1) caused by God, or (2) allowed by God. God doesn’t cause bad things to happen. In His wisdom He allows us to face tough situations. We need to always remember that God is not nearly as concerned with what we are going through as He is with our reaction to what we’re going through. I made a plaque for my daughter that says: “If you help God’s creatures your heart will be broken. Help God’s creatures anyway.” She’s helped baby robins, homeless cats and dogs, turtles in the road, etc. etc. Those things haven’t always turned out good, but we’ve learned a lot of good things because of going through it. Brandi decided to thank God for all the animals she still has instead of allowing herself to be crushed by the one she lost.

My twin sister committed suicide 18 years ago. Out of all the things our family has faced over the years that was by far the toughest. God gave us all what we needed to make it through that when we decided to thank God for the 40 years we had had her instead of being bitter over the years we would not have her. We must take charge of our thinking, and make ourselves be thankful for what we do have rather than being bitter over what we think we should have. We must “take captive every thought” and take responsibility for how we allow ourselves to react to what we go through in life.

UNITY

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 17:41:00 +0000

By: REV. DENNY SMITH

God’s will for you and me is unity with other children of God: “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word. That they may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You” (John 17:20-21 NKJV). This prayer of Jesus is specifically for you. Did you know that Jesus prayed for you personally? He did. He prayed that we would be united in our faith, so all the world would learn that God sent Jesus down here in the flesh. Are you “one” with all the other believers? It’s a sad commentary that the people who claim to be Christians are prejudice, and can’t get along with each other. How are they “prejudice”? By looking at other believers, other denominations, and speaking badly about them because they don’t see things the same as you do. Pay attention, and see if you find yourself speaking negatively about other Christians. If you do you should realize, “I am failing at what Jesus prayed I would do- be one with other believers.”

A major problem with the ones who claim to be the children of God is that they can’t get along with the other ones who claim to be the children of God. Do you know what the biggest problem is that missionaries face out there on the mission field? It is not that they can’t relate to, and get along with the ones they are seeking to minister to.

The problem they come home talking about is that they can’t get along with the other missionaries. They both have the same goal, helping others, teaching them about Jesus, but they refuse to get along because of petty differences. Paul says: “All the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another” (Galatians 5:14 & 15).

The biggest problem with the church is TOO MANY CHIEFS, AND NOT ENOUGH INDIANS. Jesus is supposed to be the only Chief, and He wants all His under-shepherds to get along. Whining and complaining about other Christians is not God’s will. You’ve probably heard it: “They don’t believe in speaking in tongues,” or the opposite, “they are wrong to speak in tongues,”- “they believe the rapture comes before the tribulation”, or “they don’t believe in the rapture”- “they disagree about the baptism in the Holy Ghost”- “they don’t use the King James Translation of the Bible”- “they play rock music over there”- “the women wear pants to church”-“they think the Sabbath is Saturday”-“they allow drinking alcohol”- “they don’t believe in smoking”- Waah, waah, waah.

Jesus wants unity, not division. Talk about the things we agree on, the important things like “Love one another/ bear one another’s burdens/ all who believe on Jesus will be saved” (1^st John 4:7 & Galatians 6:2 & Romans 10:13). God wants us to “be one” and live in unity.

Criticizing Others

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 02:23:00 +0000

CRITICIZING OTHERS

DENNY SMITH

If you find yourself being critical of another person you obviously think of yourself as a “superior person.” The Apostle Paul had the right attitude when he said that he was the worst sinner there ever was (see 1 Timothy 1:15). It takes God a long time to convince us of the wrong belief that if others don’t see things the way that we do they must be wrong. “Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? To his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, He shall be holden up; for God is able to make him stand. One man esteemeth one day above another; another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind” (Romans 14:4 & 5). I wish I could walk around humming and singing “Home On the Range” all of the time, but I forget to do it. The best line in that song (to me) is “Never is heard a discouraging word.” Being critical of others, speaking negatively about them is the mark of being immature in our faith. Paul said; “Let us not, therefore, judge one another any more; but judge this rather: that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way” (Romans 14:13). When I judge others and criticize them I miss the mark and become a stumbling block, hurting others, when my real desire is to help them. The core of our faith is supposed to be “Love one another” (1^st John 4:7). Colossians 3:13 says; “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any; even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” There are no good people on planet earth- “no, not one” (Romans 3:12). We waste a lot of time trying to convince others to think like we do about so many unimportant things, instead of focusing on the most important thing that because Jesus died on the cross they are forgiven period. Paul said: “I determined not to know anything among you, except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2)

Many years ago I had been studying the Book of Revelation. My Pastor had put me in the position of teaching the adults at the Wednesday evening services. I began the class one evening by saying: “Brothers and Sisters. We are going to study the Revelation. The wisest, most mature man in the class said: “Brother Denny all those prophecies in the Revelation are amazing, and good, but I don’t even understand my salvation. Can’t we study all that happened because Jesus died on the cross for our sins?” My pride was shattered. I felt like my jaws had been smacked and I had been rightly put in my place. I wrote a poem shortly after that night that says; “The more I know, the more I know that I know nothing. Little do I know.” We are supposed to demonstrate love to this dying world. Loving God, and loving others is what we should be doing (see Matthew 22:36-40). The next time you find yourself getting ready to say a critical word about others, put your hand over your mouth: “If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth” (Proverbs 30:32).

Soul Snare

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 19:54:00 +0000

Can you think of one person you know that does not have some kind of scandal in their life or family? Everyone has a skeleton in their closet somewhere. Satan, and his host of demons would be failing at their job and purpose if anyone, anywhere is spared from temptation; “The Lord looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God. They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one” (Psalm 14:2 & 3). The Apostle Paul repeated those words in Romans 3:10-12.

Everywhere you turn on planet earth traps are set. Jesus said: “It is impossible but that offenses will come; but woe unto him, through whom they come” (Luke 17:1). The word “offenses” was translated into English from the Greek word “skandalon.” Can you see where the word “scandal” came from? The word “offense” means “a trap stick, a bent sapling, a snare, a cause of displeasure or sin, an occasion to fall (of stumbling), a thing that offends” (Strong’s Concordance, Greek Dictionary word 4625.) Every human has a weakness of some kind. Do you know what yours are? The devil and his demons have a job to do. They use bait of some kind to trap us in whatever kind of situations they know we will be tricked and go after. It’s universal. Humans learn by experience. If we haven’t been through a situation for ourselves we really don’t have knowledge or understanding of it, and we can be easily trapped, or snared.

My family and I watched the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” recently. It showed a vast number of these “snares” that people get caught up in. It showed how accurate the Bible is when it says “none good, no, not one” (Romans 3:12). The devil’s goal is to “steal, kill, and destroy” (John 10:10). His job is to steal our life, to kill our body, to destroy our reputation or our influence to help others avoid the offenses that are everywhere. He is the master-trapper. He’s been at it ever since the first man was created. He knows all the traps because he invented them. I love to read the Proverbs every day. The writer said they were written down to teach people how to act, how to live in every circumstance, to help people learn to be just, and fair in everything they do, and to warn young men about many of the problems/snares they will face (read Proverbs 1:1-6). If you’ve not been trapped yet, please hear the warning to “be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary, the devil, like a roaring lion walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Your day to have a scandal has either already come, or else it’s coming.

Matthew 13:41 says; “The Son of man shall send forth His angels, and they shall gather out of His kingdom all things that offend (every trap/snare).” Jesus will gather up, and destroy every offense some day, but until He does we can’t let our guard down for a second, or we’ll be trapped and destroyed.

Written by the Reverend Denny Smith, founder of Christian Love Ministries in Murphy, NC

All is well because of Christ

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 07:46:00 +0000

ALL IS WELL BECAUSE OF CHRIST

DENNY SMITH

“Grandpa. Can you make a noise like a frog?” The old man opened one eye, squinting, looking into the excited face of the little boy. He wasn’t sure what he had heard, being awakened from his peaceful, midmorning nap. “What did you say?” he asked, opening the other eye, smiling at his grandson. “Can you make a noise like a frog?” He didn’t know exactly what to say or do, so he just said, “Why?” The little guy smiled a huge smile, and replied; “Because Grandma said that when you croak, she’s taking all of us to Hawaii!”

“It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). Several people have told me that they died, and miraculously came back to life. I remember my Mother telling me her heart stopped during surgery, and Doctor Van Gorder told her she was a miracle because she was still alive. The truth is, she didn’t die. Something happened, but it was not death. A song I love says: “Death is an appointment that we all must keep, but as a child of God we just close our eyes, and we gently fall asleep, to be carried away on angel’s wings right up to heaven’s shore, where we move right in to a mansion, there to live forevermore.” The Apostle Paul asked: “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” (1^st Corinthians 15:55). People who know the Lord don’t fear death. In fact, we look forward to it. Again, Paul said; “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. For I am in a strait between two, having a desire to depart and to be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless, to abide in the flesh is more needful for you” (Philippians 1:21 & 23). He wanted to die, but he knew people needed him around, so he could help them to know about Jesus. We are winners either way; “Whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord; whether we live, therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s” (Romans 14:8).

The moment you die, your soul goes to be with the Lord. Jesus told the thief dying beside Him on the cross; “Today shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). It is certain that all who are saved go at once into the presence of Christ: “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). Death, or life? Because of Christ either one is O.K.

Just Do the Right Thing

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 15:10:00 +0000

JUST DO THE RIGHT THING

DENNY SMITH

The Lord wants to encourage you, and to give you some directions. God says to you personally: “Let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessings if we don’t give up” (Galatians 6:9 Living Bible Paraphrase). Can you hear God saying: “Don’t get tired of doing what is right!”? There is a promise from God in that verse. Every time there is a promise there is also a condition. We must meet the demands of the condition to make it possible for the promise to come true. Encourage yourself by meditating on the fact that you will reap a harvest of blessings. That’s a wonderful thing to be looking forward to. The condition is; “if we don’t give up.” Tell yourself; “Giving up is not an option,” and settle that in your soul (mind, will, and emotions.).
Matthew chapter 24 tells us what it’s like on earth during the final days of history leading up to the Lord coming down here personally to straighten out this mess we are all living in. We are living in that time right now. The Bible says: “nation shall arise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:7-8). It goes on to say that people’s love just grows colder, and mankind gets more selfish all the time. People keep holding on to things God is telling them to “let go”- “iniquity shall abound” (Matthew 24:11). Jesus says: “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (Mt. 24:13.) That verse is not talking about the salvation of the soul. Hopefully, that is already taken care of, because people have understood that their sins are all forgiven, since Jesus died on the cross. The verse is encouraging us to hang in there, and never give up, because, if we don’t give up, Jesus will be taking care of it all, fixing everything that’s wrong. “Let us not be weary in well-doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9). God knows all about everything that is going on down here. Don’t give up. He will be straightening it out soon. Hold on. Don’t give up. Just do the right thing.

A Daily Discipline (and past articles by Reverend Smith)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 04:21:00 +0000

Click here to visit the home site of Christian Love Ministries in Murphy, NC

1/22/2009

A DAILY DISCIPLINE DENNY SMITH

There is something you should do every day of your life, and never fail to do it- “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles (schemes) of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11). One thing you can count on is the fact that the devil is going to try to “steal, kill, and destroy” (John 10:10) your life. It is a war, and always will be as long as you live. You get up and get dressed every day. Putting on the whole armor of God daily, when you first awake needs to become something you just do and never fail to do. Ephesians 6:10-20 tells you what to do to get dressed in your armor. It is easier for me to get dressed from the top down. There are 7 pieces of armor, and you must “put on” the armor. You must dress yourself. God provides the armor, but He is not going to dress you. That’s your job. “take the helmet of salvation” (Eph. 6:17).

When you do picture yourself putting on your helmet, talk to God about it. Tell Him “I take up the helmet of salvation. Because Jesus died on the cross for my sins, I have salvation.” Next put on “the breastplate of righteousness” (v. 14). Tell the Lord, “Almighty God, all my sins are forgiven, and gone because Christ died to pay for them. I am righteous, not because of anything I have done, but because of what Jesus has done.” Third, “having your loins girded about with truth” (v.14). Tell God, “Lord everything You tell me in the Bible is “truth,” for example, You may come back today according to Matthew 24:36-51. Another truth is, God wants me to live a holy life; “be ye holy, for I am holy” (1st Peter 1:16). You can talk about truth for a long time. Fourth, put on your shoes; “the gospel of peace” (v15). Tell God, “Lord, because Jesus died, I have peace, the peace of God” (see John 14:27).

Everything is alright because of Jesus, and what He did long ago.” Fifth, take up “the shield of faith” (v.16). Tell the Lord, “I know the devil is going to shoot fiery darts at me today, lies and temptations to try to kill me. I will hold up the shield of faith, so those temptations will bounce off when they hit it. Faith is, ‘believing and receiving everything God reveals in Scripture.’ When any trial or temptation comes at me, I’m going to stand on what the Bible says, things like “my God will supply all my needs” (Philippians 4:19), and “God won’t put more on me than I can bear” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Sixth is the “sword of the spirit, the Word of God”(v17). Tell God; “Lord, your word is the weapon I will fight every battle with. I will quote what the Bible says in every situation I face. You tell me “I’ll never leave you, nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). The more you study the Word, the more you can fight.

We will look at the 7th piece of armor next week “all prayer” (v.18). Check on yourself this week and make sure you put on the armor every day.

This article was posted in the Cherokee Scout newspaper; Click to find their home page...

What is God's Will?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 09:37:00 +0000

WHAT IS GOD’S WILL?

Hear audio version (click here- mp3)

DENNY SMITH

12/15/2009

Do you ever find yourself asking; “What is God’s will?” It is very simple to know if you will follow the instructions Jesus gives in John 5:39- “Search the Scriptures.” Every time you run across the phrase: “This is the will of God…” pay attention. If you truly want to know the will of God, each time you wonder about that remember 3 words that all begin with the letter “S,” salvation, sanctification, and service. Listen deep inside of your soul as the Lord Himself tells you: “The Lord is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). God doesn’t want anyone to perish, to be lost. His will is for you and me, and everyone to experience salvation.

A man asked: “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Immediately the answer came: “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved” (Acts 16:30-31). Ask yourself an honest question- do you believe in your heart in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ? A man I wrote to in prison said: “Denny, there is 18 inches between heaven and hell.” He said “I believe in my head that Jesus is the Son of God, who came to earth in the flesh, and died on the cross to pay for all my sins, but I don’t honestly believe that in my heart. There’s about 18 inches between my head and my heart. If I don’t get that belief into my heart, I will go to hell.” Romans 10:9 makes it crystal clear: “If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” The only requirement for salvation is faith to believe the gospel (which means ‘good news’) “that Christ died for our sins, according to the Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” (1st Corinthians 15:3-4). It is God’s will for you to experience “salvation.”

The second “s” is sanctification: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification” (1st Thessalonians 4:3). God wants you to live a holy life. That is impossible to do unless God, Himself gives you the ability. You will find that sanctification comes when you make the sincere commitment that “I am going to read, and obey the Scriptures.” God’s name is “Jealous” (Exodus 34:14). Sanctification is “my life set apart for God.”

The third “s” is service; “we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). God saves us, and sanctifies us so that we will be His hands and His feet, and His mouth, doing service work for Him. Finally, Jesus said: “This is the will of Him that sent me, that everyone who seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day” (John6:40).

Visit the Christian Love Ministries residential treatment center website....

NOT UNDER THE LAW

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:41:00 +0000

NOT UNDER THE LAW

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO ARTICLE!

12-7-2009

DENNY SMITH

The law of God, as expressed by the 10 commandments and all the other rules, ordinances, etc. listed in the Bible from Exodus chapter 20 are the greatest set of laws that have ever been written. Many people call it the “law of Moses.” Those laws are right, and they are good, but unfortunately there has never been one human being who has been successful at obeying them every one. The Bible is accurate when it says; “there is none that doeth good, no, not one” (Romans 3:12).

There is only one kind of person. We are all the same; “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). It doesn’t make any difference what kind of sinner you are. God doesn’t have a scale of 1 to 10 when it comes to sin. The serial killer, child molester and rapist are no worse in God’s sight than the little old ladies sitting in church with their heads together, gossiping. Sin is sin. Sin is very serious. Humans have degrees of crimes, but to God every sin is a 10 and brings on the death penalty: “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).

Every person dies eventually. Why? Because every person sins. It’s universal. It is sad to watch people trying as hard as they can to behave themselves, and perform to the high standard God expects from mankind, yet they all know there is at least one area of their life that trips them up and defeats them from being perfect. The only one that has ever, or will ever live a perfect life is Jesus Christ, who was both the Son of God, as well as being the son of Joseph and Mary. Jesus did not come to do away with all the rules of the law, He came to fulfill them (see Matthew 5:17). Jesus satisfied the just demands of a holy God and set us free from the bondage of trying to live a perfect life. Romans 6:15 says: “ye are not under the law, but under grace.”

God used the law as the standard of what is right and wrong, but it should be a relief to you to hear that “you are not under the law.” Jesus set us free from the impossible task of performing perfectly: “having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances” according to Ephesians 2:15.

Does that mean that it’s O.K. for you to do wrong? Romans 6:15 asks: “Shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.” The answer is “No.” Galatians 5:13 says we shouldn’t use these facts as “an occasion to the flesh” to go ahead and do wrong, because we are not under the law, because it leads up to Galatians 6:7- you will reap what you sow. Do your best, but realize the only reason anyone is considered righteous is because Christ died and paid for your sins.

NO WORRYING ALLOWED

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 03:58:00 +0000

NO WORRYING ALLOWED DENNY SMITH

10/30/2008

“Let not your heart be troubled” (John 14:1). I hope you know that when you read those words, God Himself is saying: “Hey you (insert your name here)- do not allow yourself to worry about anything!” I know the Bible says; “All sin” and “all come short” (see Romans 3:23)- but it means exactly what it says. Hebrews 11:6 says “without faith it is impossible to please God.” In my opinion, the most important question you can ask yourself is the one Jesus asked: “Dost thou believe on the Son of God?”(John 9:35). Many say they “believe” but Jesus said; “You will know them by their fruits” -outward, visible actions (Matthew 7:20). To “believe” means to trust in, rely upon, adhere to instructions, to have faith in a person or thing. My definition of “faith” is “believing and receiving everything God reveals in the Scriptures.” If you “believe” on the Son of God, you trust in Him. You rely upon Him for everything. You adhere to His teachings, doing what He says, not just hearing it. You believe, and receive everything He reveals to you as you read the Bible.
Have you ever really “seen” God do anything? Has He ever answered any of your prayers, or performed a deed you just know had to be Him? If so, you should know that you can trust Him. God is faithful. Everything that happens in life is either “caused” by Him, or “allowed” by Him. The bottom line is His will is going to be done- God is in control. If He is in control it is a downright impertinence to allow yourself to worry. Some people think they are more spiritual, or more observant, or meticulous, or something positive when they worry about little details they think others are overlooking, but in reality they are showing that they have little faith. It is not negative to refuse to worry. It is being obedient to the Lord. The apostle Paul said; “Be anxious (careful) for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God” (Philippians 4:6). The Living Bible Paraphrase of that verse says; “Don’t worry about anything- pray about everything.” Some say “that’s living in a fool’s paradise,” but I believe it is entering into what Jesus has available to us: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). Keep it simple. Just don’t give in to the temptation to worry for any reason. No worrying allowed.

Article in the Cherokee Scout Newspaper

CHANGE, CHANGE, CHANGE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 22:09:00 +0000

By the Reverend Denny Smith; Article in The Cherokee Scout Newspaper: 10/16/2008

Please click here to find this article on the website of Christian Love Ministries, Murphy, NC.

CHANGE, CHANGE, CHANGE

“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15). There seems to be a cloud of impending gloom and doom hanging over the entire planet. Much of America’s focus is on the upcoming Presidential election. Both candidates are shouting out the same message: “CHANGE!” That is the very message Jesus preached when He said: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). The word “repent” simply means to change.

The world has known from the beginning of time that God was there, and mankind needs to depend on Him for everything we need. Ancient man had religion. The purpose of all religion is the same: (1) to encourage people to repent/change, (2) to get people to get rid of the pollution and garbage inside of their hearts, and allow their heart to be filled with God, and (3) through the practices of their religion to develop positive character. Jesus proclaimed that the “kingdom” was “at hand.” The kingdom of God is the rule and the reign of the God of heaven over all creatures and things. When Jesus said that the kingdom was “at hand” He didn’t mean that it was going to immediately appear. He was saying it is imminent- that God is going to rule and reign regardless of what mankind does.

The kingdom of God is already here in many ways, and in many people’s lives. Don’t you know some people that are allowing God to rule and reign? That’s always been God’s goal, for humans to do God’s will instead of doing their own selfish will. Matthew 7:21 says: “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of my Father, who is in heaven.”

Jesus made it clear that the will of the Father is for mankind to “repent (change) and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15). The only ones that will go to heaven are those who do that. What is the “gospel”? First Corinthians 15:1-4 explains “the gospel- that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and he was buried, and he rose from the dead the third day.” Jesus came to earth from heaven, and died on the cross as a substitute to pay for all the sins of the world. Three days later He rose from the dead the first Easter Sunday. Romans 10:9-10 says that if you believe the gospel “in your heart” and confess with your mouth that you believe God raised Jesus from the dead you are saved. The kingdom of heaven is available to you right now. Repent, and believe the gospel.

All comments are welcomed by clicking on the "Comments" label below this message...

Welcome to Christian Love Ministries

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 22:32:00 +0000

Below are a few audio samples and press releases local to Murphy, NC. Please note that these articles may encompass topics or issues which are more generally relayed as fundamental, Christian topics. As of yet, we have not posted any class sessions from inside the center. Those messages, though not exclusively, would apply more directly to the use and abuse of mind altering substances.
Just as Christians strive for perfection daily but fall short, this site is progressing towards an extension of the life changing sessions and studies each student receives over 11 weeks upon God's mountain at Christian Love Ministries. The goal is to spread the message of hope for those suffering from addiction to drugs and/or alcohol.
We encourage you to post COMMENTS to each entry within this blog. Please let us know what you would like to hear more of and how you prefer receiving these messages. (Written, Audio, or Video- coming soon)

Mark VanderBloemen, Volunteer

info@christianloveministries.net (General or Site Related Questions)

director@christianloveministries.net (Program Specific Inquiries)
_________________________________

Our home page is: http://www.christianloveministries.net/

Thy Will Be Done

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 21:48:00 +0000

Click to listen to Rev. Smith's September 24th article.

THY WILL BE DONE DENNY SMITH

What is the will of God? In a nutshell, the will of God is for you to do His will, and not your own will. The most important part of my day each morning is when I pray; “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done” (Matthew 6:10 & Luke 11:2). God’s will for you is that you do the same thing Jesus did, lay down your life (see John 10:15 & 17). This doesn’t mean that God wants you to die physically.

Romans 12:1 reveals that God wants us to “present your body a living sacrifice, holy, and acceptable unto God.” God wants you alive. The part of us that needs to die is the disposition, the mind-set, the belief we are all born with that “I have a right to my self.” It is human nature to want to do your own will. We want what we want, and we want it right now.

Look at the many times Jesus showed us how to be: “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt” (Matthew 26:39). Jesus was facing dying on the cross, His body being mutilated beyond recognition, and His Father hiding His face, turning His back on Him when all the sins of all the world would be placed on Jesus, and would be paid for by His death on the cross: “He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world” (1st John 2:2).

The word “propitiation” is not placating a vengeful God, but rather it is satisfying the just demands of a Holy God that all sins must be paid for. Jesus said: “I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of Him that sent me” (John 6:38). In John 4:34 He said: “My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me.” In John 5:30 He said: I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father who sent me.”
Humans have a big problem- iniquity. Iniquity is “doing my own will, and going my own way.” Iniquity is “doing my own will, even if it’s something good.” It is “stubborn, personal willfulness.” Look at Matthew 7:21-23. Jesus said the only ones going to heaven are those who do the will of God.

A lot of people have done good deeds, but many of them weren’t God’s will. To those people God says: “Depart from me, ye that work iniquity. I never knew you” (Mt. 7:23). God’s will is that you do God’s will.

by the Reverend Denny Smith, Founder and Director of Christian Love Ministries, Murphy, NC

Article found in the Cherokee Scout.

Hearing God's Voice

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 10:45:00 +0000

CLICK HERE TO HEAR AN AUDIO NARRATION OF THIS WEEK'S ARTICLE BY REV. SMITH

____________________________________________________________________

Hearing God’s Voice Denny Smith

Do you know how you can tell if a person is one of God’s children? They know God’s voice , and they obey what God tells them to do: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish” (John 10:27-28).

I want to encourage you to study, and pray, and go to church concentrating for a long time on knowing God’s voice. I’ve been a believer, a child of God for 28 years now. I spent years focusing on hearing God’s voice when He speaks. In the small amount of space I have, there’s only room to list ways we hear Him, and the verses of Scripture holding the truth about it.
If you want to get better at knowing God’s voice, study the following ways He speaks to us, His sheep:
1. The Bible (2 Timothy 3:16), 2. The preacher (Jeremiah 6:17). He may be in the pulpit, on radio, T.V. magazines, newspapers, etc. 3. Dreams (Matthew 1:20), 4. Visions (Acts 9:10) Daniel, Joseph, Paul, & Peter had visions. 5. Trances/daydreams (Acts10:10, 11:5, 22:17), 6. A thought (Hebrews 8:10), 7. Nature/Creation (Romans 1:20), 8. The Holy Spirit/ the inner voice (John 14:26), 9. God’s people/other believers (Hebrews 13:2), 10. Law officials (Romans 13:1-7), 11. Our desires (Psalm 37:4), 12. Our disappointments (Proverbs 6:23), 13. Our failures (Proverbs 6:23), 14. Songs we sing (Ephesians 5:19), 15. Government decisions (Romans 13:1-7 & Psalm 75:6-10), 16. Our parents (Proverbs 1:8 & 4:1), 17. Opportunities (Proverbs 20:24), 18. Our reasoning (Ecclesiastes 8:5 & 1 Corinthians 12:10), 19. Prayers, answered and unanswered (Psalm 18:41), 20. Memories, (1 Corinthians 15:2).

How many other ways can you come up with? God is constantly speaking. He’s ceaselessly active in our lives, communicating with us, revealing His will for us. Spend time with God. Go to church. Go to Sunday School. Read your Bible, and look for a message from God in everything else that you read. God can use anything He wants to teach us, and communicate with us (see Psalm 25:12). Pray, believing that God always answers prayers. His answers are “yes”, when what you pray for happens, “no” when what you ask for doesn’t happen, and “wait a while” when nothing happens either way. Pass on this lesson to others, “do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5). God wants to use all of us to help others to know Him, and to hear His voice.

ABSTAINING FROM ALCOHOL.... A MUCH WISER CHOICE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:45:00 +0000

By RICK EDWARDSGuest Columnist
Tuesday, November 6, 2007 8:05 PM CST [video_play:300:300]-->

“I will not be brought under the power of anything” (1 Corinthians 6:12). I grew up in a very conservative, somewhat legalistic church, and I heard a lot of red-faced pulpit pounding about the awfulness of alcohol. That attitude in the pulpit quickly translated into a lot of judging in the pews. Well-meaning Christians would say, “The first thing you gotta do now that you’re following Jesus is to stop drinking.” And, “You’re not as spiritual as I am if you don’t see this issue the way that I do.” As I look back now, I overreacted. Not wanting to be legalistic, I left the subject alone. But in trying to avoid legalism on the subject of alcohol, we as a generation of believers have come dangerously close to promoting free license to drink. So we’re going to solve that right now.

All of us fall into one of three categories: Group 1: You’ve got a drinking problem. It’s way beyond, “I like Kool Aid, I like Diet Coke, I like Budweiser.” You drink because you need to, and that’s not taking you in a good direction.

Group 2: You drink for amusement. “Drinking’s not a problem for me. I really enjoy my alcohol here and there.”

Group 3: You completely abstain from alcohol. “I don’t drink at all, and I don’t allow it in our home.” I don’t know which of those three groups you’re in, but my goal both here and in my Nov. 11 message, “Wise Up About Alcohol,” is to try as best as I know how to lead you toward what I believe is the highest and best choice for the followers of Jesus.

I promise that if you come to a different conviction, I’m not going to judge you about it, but I will challenge you to defend your conviction from God’s word. If alcohol has in any way affected your life or the life of your family, I encourage you to listen to the complete message.

I believe in total abstinence because: • drunkenness is a sin, not a disease; • alcohol impairs wisdom; • alcohol is an unnecessary drug; • alcohol is destructive; • alcohol is addictive; • wisdom calls me to set it aside.

The Bible does not require total abstinence, but it recommends it as the highest and best course, filled with the greatest wisdom. It is a choice you can be most proud of when you stand before the Lord Jesus Christ.

It is a wise choice. Proverbs 20:1 says, “Wine is a mocker, and strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” You say, “But I’m not being led astray.” No, but you’re on that path. It is a loving choice. As you grow in your faith, you discern that you make choices not because of what is best for you, but by what is best for others.

The Christian life is not all about you – what you can handle, what you can control, what’s nice for you. The Christian life is for others. We don’t live to ourselves. Romans 14:15 says, “Yet if your brother is grieved because of your food, you are no longer walking in love. Do not destroy with your food the one for whom Christ died.

Therefore do not let your good be evil spoken of; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” You would never want to defend what you’re doing on the basis of what’s best for you. You would always want to make a loving choice and realize that though I might not stumble into a sinful use of this commodity, it might destroy someone else.

Perhaps you’ve heard the saying, “Kids embrace what parents tolerate.” That should concern you. Any youth pastor will tell you that the primary place where kids begin to experiment with drinking is from their parents’ supply. Total abstinence is a loving choice. Abstinence also is an edifying choice. Romans 14:19 challenges us, “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things with which one may edify another.” The application of this is, “I’m going to do the things with my life that will help you be a better follower of Jesus.” It’s a supportive choice. Romans 14:21 says, “It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine, nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak.”

You say, “Well, Rick, you’ve put me in a position where I’m not totally sure that I can go ahead drinking.” Look closely at Romans 14:23, “But he who doubts is condemned … whatever is not from faith is sin.” Now I’ve really wrecked you. As a follower of Jesus, if you’re not sure it’s right for you to drink alcohol, then it’s wrong for you to do it even if it isn’t wrong. The Bible does recommend abstinence from alcohol as the wiser choice. “Abstain from all appearance of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22). “I will not be brought under the power of anything” (1 Corinthians 6:12). “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).

You say, “Free from what?” Free from addictive patterns of sinfulness that don’t lead to the righteousness that can be found in Christ alone. Lovingly and imperfect as I am, I commend to you total abstinence as the wisest course for your life. I challenge you to lay it down at the cross, and get 100 percent free of its power and allure, for the higher and better influence of others.

Take the biblical foundation laid out in this message and be an influence for this righteous choice within the body of Christ.

Rick Edwards is pastor of First Baptist Church of Murphy.

CHRISTIANS MUST STAND UP TO ALCOHOL

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:43:00 +0000

By P.J. FULLERGuest Columnist Tuesday, September 11, 2007 8:04 PM CDT

[video_play:300:300]-->

Isaiah 28:1-8 tells us about the fate of the people of Ephraim. This was a society filled with drunkards. Alcohol abuse always starts from that first drink. It goes with the saying, “A first drink leads to another drink, another drinks leads to another drink, then the drink has the person.” Habakkuk 2:15 tells us not to give drink to our neighbors. In John 2, many have tried to prove that Jesus made alcoholic wine (wine was made, but it wasn’t the alcoholic drink). This would be a direct violation of what Habakkuk 2:15 says. Jesus knew this Scripture. Ephesians 5:18 tells us, “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” We are prohibited from getting drunk. Alcohol leads to drunkenness.

In God’s eye, a sin is a sin. It seems to reason that once we are filled with the Holy Spirit, then we should be able to see a sin for what it is. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 tell us, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the HolySpirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” Our bodies being the temple of the Holy Spirit, so why would you want to partake of alcohol, especially if you are a Christian? Can you really give God honor and glory with a glass of alcohol in your hand? Can you really say that you’re drinking alcohol for the glory of God? As a health-care giver, I have seen the end results of what alcohol does to the body. Alcohol is a toxic, mind-altering drug.

Alcohol causes ill-effects on the digestive, muscular, skeletal, nervous and circulatory systems. Alcohol causes cirrhosis of the liver, jaundice, pancreatitis, blackouts, hallucinations (seeing worms, snakes, spiders crawling on the wall or on the body), etc., and it all started with just one innocent drink. Every 30 minutes, someone in this country dies in an alcohol-related automobile crash. Alcohol leads to bondage; you become enslaved to the addiction. Alcohol leads to other addictions. Alcohol causes divorce. Alcohol causes destruction of the family. Alcohol causes poverty – socially,economically, physically, mentally and spiritually. There is nothing positive that comes from alcohol.

Proverbs 20:1 says, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” So, where does alcohol belong? Alcohol belongs in hell. Alcohol doesn’t belong in our towns or cities. So, what about the revenues? My answer to that is, “God will provide. He has in the past, He will in the present, and He will in the future.” It is time that Christians stand up for what we believe and what the Bible stands for, and quit hiding our heads in the sand. We need to see alcohol for what it is. It is against the teachings in the Bible.

If you know of someone who has an alcohol problem, then pray for them. If you have an alcohol problem, ask God to help you. If you proclaim to be a Christian and you drink alcohol, then you have a problem. You need to ask God to help you, and show you the right way. The Bible tells us we cannot serve the world and love the Lord. We either hate the world or love the Lord, or we love the world and hate the Lord. We cannot serve both.

Alcohol is of the world. Satan and his demons have used alcohol long enough to destroy God’s people. As for me, a Christian, I feel alcohol should not be served in restaurants, nor sold in convenience stores or any other stores.

The writer is a resident of Andrews

CHRISTIAN LOVE NEEDS YOUR HELP!!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:30:00 +0000

Christian Love needs your help...
I thank God for the privilege of living in Murphy and for the fact that we, as God’s people, are all traveling down the road we are together. It is amazing to me, a miracle that God has given Christian Love Ministries to the tri-state area. The ministry is helping people overcome drug/alcohol addictions by providing Christian counseling, and the best quality of professional therapy available anywhere in the world.

The program we provide is a residential, 11-week program. Our substance abuse counselors are licensed college graduates, who provide group therapy and one-on-one counseling for about 140 men and women each year. Christian Love Ministries has helped 1,426 men and women overcome their addictions since opening its doors to the public on Aug. 6, 1996. The ministry operates on donations.

No government funding has ever been accepted, because the cure for addiction we share with every person we help is a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. You can’t teach that if you accept their money. The ministry requires 16 full-time and two part-time employees to provide the services we do. It costs the ministry $3,600 to help each person we do for 11 weeks. Other treatment centers charge individuals $1,000 a day. We have 30 men and women living at the ministry right now and in two halfway houses.

We have 50 beds available, but the average occupancy stays at about 30 men and women. Our expenses are $1,360 a day. God has provided every cent needed to do this work for 21 years, but during this tough economic time, the ministry is facing a financial crisis and needs help from the public. If possible, the ministry needs the public’s help to make it through this financial slump. Every cent you can give will be spent to help people overcome their addictions. We train people to go and help other addicts after they graduate from here.

Easter Sunday, we had the first baptism for the year. Nine men and women were baptized. God’s work is being carried out here. If you can help us we need it now more than ever. Please pray and ask the Lord what you can give to help us help the people we do.

No amount would be too great, and no amount would be too small. The need is urgent. The need is real. We will be good stewards of every penny. Thank you so much for giving to the Lord.Denny SmithMurphy

The writer is founder/director of Christian Love Ministries.

Testimonies from Christian Love Ministries

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 23:22:00 +0000

Follow this link to view personal accounts of what God and Christian Love Ministries has done for individuals. This simply shows the magnitude and efficacy of this program which 21 years ago was funded by weekly yard sale proceeds. Operating in two states on a half million dollar budget today, The ministry continues to pay for far more than half of what the costs total for housing and providing treatment for 11 weeks inpatient....

Info RE: cost, entry requirements and program cirricula

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 21:58:00 +0000

Click to hear a test of audio for future broadcasts from the ministry. This audio includes a rough outline of program cirricula, entry requirements and cost.

Mark VanderBloemen, Vounteer

info@christianloveministries.net

Christian Love Ministries: CHRISTIAN LOVE MINISTRIES: NEW SITE!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 06:05:00 +0000

Christian Love Ministries: CHRISTIAN LOVE MINISTRIES: NEW SITE!

CHRISTIAN LOVE MINISTRIES: NEW SITE!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 23:25:00 +0000

Please visit our new site at http://www.christianloveministries.net/ . Christian Love Ministries is a non-profit residential treatment center for males and females. Founded in 1986 by Rev. Denny Smith, 1,400 "students" have completed the intensive, 11 week program of spiritual recovery. Cirriculum includes a balance of Bible based principles for overcoming strongholds such as addiction. We believe these strongholds are a result of evil overcoming the presence of good and God in a person.

A halfway house is available after completion of the program and has a extremely low cost of $150 per week including all utilities, provision of food, a safe environment on the grounds of the treatment center where church services and NA/ AA meetings are held, as well as access to a licensed substance abuse counselor (Mick McCloskey, MA) and the director and spiritual leader, Rev. Denny Smith.

Though secular programs typically cost $1,000 per day and last 30 days ($30k !!), Christian Love offers treatment for much less than the actual cost to house, feed and care for the individual. Current rates are about $18 per day!!! (That's $125 per week and is collected as a $1,500 program fee.... The program is 11 weeks, or approximately 3 months.)

Please email for information on the program: info@christianloveministries.net

God Bless You!

Suggested readings for our program are found at: www.christianloveministries.net/texts.aspx